The Salmon River corridor near Shoup, Idaho sits at approximately 3,600 feet elevation within the Salmon-Challis National Forest. This remote area features steep canyon walls, rushing waters, and limited services beyond the small communities of North Fork and Salmon. Yurt accommodations and glamping options in the region typically operate from late spring through mid-fall, with some facilities closing earlier depending on weather conditions and accessibility.
What to do
River activities: Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground offers direct river access for fishing, with one visitor noting, "Not sure if you can get any closer to the river. The back of the trailer was probably less than 10 ft. to the river. Outstanding view." Guests can also arrange kayak rentals at several locations.
Fishing opportunities: River's Fork Lodge & RV Park provides immediate fishing access. According to one reviewer, "The fishing was spot on, right on the river you don't have to even drive anywhere if you don't want. They also offer kayak rentals."
Hiking exploration: The surrounding mountains offer numerous trails. A visitor at Mccart Lookout shared, "Well worth the drive and the short hike up the mountain. Beautiful views from all around the tower. Very peaceful and relaxing."
What campers like
Disconnect opportunity: Limited connectivity forces relaxation. A camper at Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground mentioned, "If you want complete solitude from the internet and TV this is the place for you to reconnect with nature."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent sanitation standards. One visitor at Travellers Rest Cabins & RV Park appreciated the "quiet clean escape" with "really nice flat grass for tents. $12 gets you campsite showers and toilets, WiFi and coin laundry."
Pet-friendly options: Several campgrounds accommodate four-legged companions. A Wagonhammer guest highlighted, "Dog friendly and there is a dog island that your fur kid can run around off leash!"
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is minimal throughout the area. One visitor noted, "No cell service (AT&T & Sprint), Poor WiFi," suggesting, "If you are a digital nomad and stay here then go to Salmon (30-minute drive), turn left, and a few blocks down on your left is the public library."
Bug awareness: Mosquitoes can be problematic in shaded areas. According to a Rombo Campground review, the area has "Extra $5 over other local campgrounds because there is water available and trash," but can be "overgrown with weeds."
Supply planning: Limited access to groceries and supplies requires preparation. One camper advised, "Nearest town with groceries etc. is in Salmon so stock up before you go."
Tips for camping with families
Child activities: Some campgrounds offer limited recreational options for younger campers. A reviewer at River's Fork Lodge mentioned, "If there was really anything they could add, would possibly be something for kids to do. Just as a family of four with a 3 and 6 year old, they can only fish so much."
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts abundant wildlife. At Sula Country Store and Resort, visitors can enjoy "children's fish lake" and observe local fauna along the Bitterroot River.
Specialty accommodations: Beyond standard tent and RV sites, yurt camping near Shoup, Idaho provides unique family-friendly options. The Mccart Lookout tower "sleeps 2 with a bed platform. Items provided are a coleman latern, a 2 burner propane stove, a wood stove for heat, a bow saw, and an axe."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV sites vary significantly between campgrounds. A Sula Country Store Resort visitor commented, "Gravel sites. Level. We are not hard to please. Just need space for dog fence. No problems checking in."
Access considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. One camper noted Rombo Campground has a "tight road, don't tow anything too big," with "minimal room for even the average size tent" and "one car per site at most of them, nowhere else to park."
Water access: Many riverside sites offer direct water access. A visitor to Sula Country Store and Resort mentioned, "Great spot. The people here are very nice. There was plenty of room for our 36' toy hauler. Dogs were happy to play in the creek."
