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Map showing campground location near Murphy, Idaho
Camper submitted image from Silver City CampgroundView 14 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Murphy, Idaho

Silver City Campground

3 ReviewsAdd Review

Part of BLM Land managed by the Owyhee Field Office, Silver City Campground sits adjacent to the historic mining town of Silver City, with sites positioned directly next to Jordan Creek. The free campground operates seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day and requires navigating narrow, winding dirt roads to reach the remote location.

Campers share the area with local cattle that roam freely through town, and reviewers note the possibility of livestock waste at campsites. The creek provides a water source, though some visitors choose to bring their own drinking water due to the area's mining history. Access involves a lengthy drive on rough roads, but the campground's proximity to 1890s-era buildings and mine shafts offers a glimpse into Idaho's mining past. For additional options, campers can explore campgrounds around Murphy or consider Succor Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping for a different setting.

Reservation Info

This site is seasonally closed from the first snowfall until Memorial Weekend. Please contact Owyhee County at 208-495-1154 for more information.

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Location

Public Campground

Silver City Campground is located in Idaho

Detail location of campground

Directions

70 miles southwest of Boise in the Owyhee Mountains; From Highway 78 near Murphy, turn south at the Silver City sign. From Jordan Valley on Highway 95 near Sheaville, turn off to Silver City.

Address

Owyhee Field Office
ID

Coordinates

43.00888889 N
116.7247222 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Tent Cabin
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the free creek-side camping and unique desert-mountain scenery accessible via winding dirt roads. Several guests reported cattle roaming the historic town area which may impact campsite cleanliness.

W
Reviewed Aug. 14, 2020

Nostalgic

I would go back if I'm ever here again. The drive back there takes a little while and the roads are narrow. Cows all over the town. The historical buildings date back to the 1890's and earlier. I talked to a local and he said the town is on a historical register. Feels like I took a time machine back to the old west. Check out the cemetery and the mine shafts behind the church. All the streets are public land so you can wander around, just don't stare into people's windows. Hard to believe people live there. People stay there as a summer cabin thing. The camping is not secluded at all. Lots of cows in town. There may be poop at your campsite. I didn't drink the creek water. I don't know if it's safe, so but err'd on the side of caution due to the towns mining history.

  • Review photo of Silver City Campground by Will B., August 14, 2020
  • Review photo of Silver City Campground by Will B., August 14, 2020
  • Review photo of Silver City Campground by Will B., August 14, 2020
  • (5) View All
Tanny M.
Reviewed Jun. 30, 2016

Central Idaho's Hidden Gem.

Thoroughly enjoyed camping in this area. Amazingly enough, we didn't run into a whole lot of other people while camping, only in the actual town. Getting there is interesting down a winding dirt road, but worth the trip to find all the trees in the middle of a desert. The landscape is this breathtaking mix of trees and rock formations and sagebrush. We hiked all over and climbed on the rocks. Had a good time getting coffee in town in the morning.

  • Review photo of Silver City Campground by Tanny M., June 30, 2016
  • Review photo of Silver City Campground by Tanny M., June 30, 2016
  • Review photo of Silver City Campground by Tanny M., June 30, 2016
  • (5) View All
Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Silver City Campground from Murphy, Idaho?

Silver City Campground is accessible via a winding dirt road from Murphy, Idaho. The journey involves narrow roads that take some time to navigate. While the exact distance isn't specified, be prepared for a scenic but somewhat lengthy drive that requires careful driving due to the road conditions. The trip is absolutely worth it, though, as the unique destination and historic setting make for a memorable camping experience.

Where is Silver City Campground located in Idaho?

Silver City Campground is located in the Owyhee Mountains of southwestern Idaho. It sits right on the edge of the historic mining town of Silver City, an area known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings. The campground is surrounded by a unique landscape that features trees amid desert terrain, creating a picturesque setting that contrasts with the typical Idaho desert environment.

Is there free camping available near Silver City, Idaho?

Yes, free camping is available right on the edge of Silver City. These campsites are located next to a creek, offering a pleasant setting without any fees. This makes Silver City an attractive option for budget-conscious campers looking to explore this historic mining area and the surrounding Owyhee Mountains.

What facilities and amenities are available at Silver City Campground?

Silver City Campground offers basic amenities with campsites situated next to a creek. The campground is primitive in nature, focusing more on the historic surroundings than modern conveniences. Visitors can explore the nearby historic town with buildings dating back to the 1890s and earlier, which is registered as a historical site. The area is known for its unique landscape featuring trees amid desert terrain. Expect to see cattle roaming freely throughout the town, adding to the authentic western experience.

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