Map showing campground location near Macks Inn, Idaho

Buffalo Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Reservable sites and electric hookups make Buffalo Campground a practical base for exploring the Island Park area, with one loop offering shore power for RVs up to 55 feet. The campground sits within a dense lodgepole pine forest, which means limited direct sunlight at most sites. Highway noise is a real factor here. Campers consistently mention hearing traffic, including engine braking from trucks overnight, so light sleepers should plan accordingly.

The Buffalo River runs within roughly 50 yards of some sites, giving anglers and paddlers quick water access without direct riverbank frontage or river views from camp. Fishing is a recurring draw, and the nearby Henry's Fork is known regionally for trout. Sites are spacious and have generally received positive marks for cleanliness, with flush and pit toilets available on-site. Reviewers note that theft has occurred, so securing gear overnight is worth taking seriously.

Brodie B. describes the campground as "pleasant clean and spacious," and notes bug spray as a necessity during his May visit. Most loops require advance reservations, though two operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A dump station is located just south of the campground. Campers with rigs taller than standard should watch for low-hanging branches on entry. The season runs May through September. Those wanting a different setup can look at Box Canyon nearby, or browse campsites near Targhee National Forest for a broader range of options.

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Map & DirectionsBuffalo Campground is located in Idaho near Macks Inn

Public Campground

Directions

In Island Park, ID, from intersection of Koeger/A2 and US Rt. 20, take Rt. 20 south 1.8 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign into campground.

Coordinates

44.42621691 N
111.36855782 W

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Connectivity

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Excellent Coverage
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Excellent Coverage
Verified by 18 users
Last on 8/1/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 3 users
Last on 8/1/26

Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
Verified by 17 users
Last on 8/1/26
Verizon5G
Excellent Coverage
Verified by 18 users
Last on 8/1/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 3 users
Last on 8/1/26

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Phone Service
Reservable
Drinking Water
Electric Hookups
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Sanitary Dump
Pull-Through Sites
50 Amp Hookups
Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Reservations

+18774446777

Drive Time

1 hr 10 min from Idaho Falls, ID
1 hr 53 min from Pocatello, ID
2 hrs 3 min from Bozeman, MT
2 hrs 45 min from Helena, MT

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Reviews6 Camper Reviews - Buffalo Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

3.5

out of 5

6 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the spacious sites and clean facilities including flush toilets and electric hookups. However, some campers noted concerns about highway noise and nighttime disturbances that may affect those seeking a quiet camping experience.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Brodie B.

Guide

Reviewed May. 23, 2026

True Rating 3.5

Pleasant clean and spacious. My first time ever using shore power which is a nice perk. The campground is situated in a dense lodgepole pine forest. Not a ton of sunlight but enough to be thankful for. Easy access to river from our spot 50 yds. No views of the river nor spots close to riverbank. Also, I very much dislike hearing the highway traffic noise and it’s definitely a part of the experience. No troubles so far from host. Bring bug spray, they’ve been a nuisance.

SiteC15

Month of VisitMay

Mike B.

Scout

Reviewed Sep. 17, 2024

Great stop on our way to Yellowstone

Great campsites, with plenty of space. Water and toilets are close by and clean. Plenty of access to the river. Nice mature trees throughout.

Month of VisitJuly

Guy S.

Scout

Reviewed Sep. 25, 2022

Nice NFS CAMPGROUND

Easy in and out for 32’ 5th wheel, watch trees overhead. Central water, no dump but one just south.

SiteB11

Month of VisitSeptember

Don S.

Scout

Reviewed Sep. 3, 2021

Camping on a Highway

Ok, came in late Thursday; Labor Day weekend and haven’t seen the rest of the camp yet but the site is at a HORRIBLE location if you want peace and quiet. It’s right on the highway so you hear 18 wheelers (using engine their break) ALL NIGHT LONG. Thought camping was about seeing and hearing nature. Got 3 nights here and not sure when I’m going sleep.

I would avoid!

SiteB2B

Month of VisitSeptember

Rosemarie M.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 30, 2021

Stolen items at our site

Nice spot stayed in loop c site 4 however strange people wandering around at night camp host says yup lockdown every think after fishing poles and tackle was stole when we were sleeping

Sitec 4

Month of VisitJune

Marty C.

Guide

Reviewed Feb. 10, 2021

Fantastic Forest Service Campground

This is a large Forest Service Campground on the banks of the Buffalo River. There are flush and pit toilets. One Loop offers electric hookups. Two of the loops are first come first served and all the remaining loops are by advance reservation. Located only 20 miles west of Yellowstone National Park it is amazing at this Campground rarely fils up. There are numerous restaurants and services located nearby. The Buffalo River features great fishing and canoeing.

Buffalo Campground is located close to the Henry Fork River, a world-renowned trout fishing River.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Buffalo Campground?

Buffalo Campground offers a variety of amenities to enhance your camping experience. The campground features both flush toilets and pit toilets throughout the different loops. One loop provides electric hookups for those needing power. Water is centrally available, though there is no dump station on-site (one is located just south of the campground). The campground sits on the banks of the Buffalo River, providing excellent water access. Sites include plenty of space between neighbors and are shaded by mature trees, creating a natural forest setting.

Where is Buffalo Campground located in Island Park, Idaho?

Buffalo Campground is a Forest Service campground situated along the banks of the Buffalo River in Island Park, Idaho. It's conveniently located about 20 miles west of Yellowstone National Park, making it an excellent base for exploring the park. The campground is positioned adjacent to a highway, which provides easy access but may create some traffic noise at certain sites.

How are the reviews for Buffalo Campground?

Buffalo Campground receives mixed reviews. Many campers appreciate the spacious sites, mature trees, clean facilities, and proximity to the Buffalo River. The campground's location near Yellowstone National Park is considered a major advantage. However, some visitors note drawbacks including highway noise affecting sites near the road, with truck traffic being particularly noticeable at night. There have also been isolated reports of security concerns, so taking standard camping precautions with valuables is advisable. Overall, the experience largely depends on which loop and site you select within the campground.

Is there a map available for Buffalo Campground?

Yes, Buffalo Campground has a map available that shows the various loops and campsite locations. The campground is organized into several distinct loops, including Loop C which contains site 4 and other marked sites. Some loops are available by reservation only, while two loops operate on a first-come, first-served basis. For the most current and detailed map, check with the Forest Service website, contact the ranger district office, or ask the campground host upon arrival. Maps are especially helpful for identifying sites further from highway noise and closer to the Buffalo River.

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