Warm River

Star4.32
35 reviews
TARGHEE NATIONAL FOREST
Warm River
$25.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $25 to $100 depending on site type and season. Extra vehicle fees ($7 per vehicle) and weekend premiums for group sites ($100...
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Standard Site Fee$31.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$131.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
208-558-7658

About this campground

Nestled in the heart of Idaho's Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Warm River Campground offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for families seeking an authentic outdoor experience. Here, the gentle current of the namesake river invites lazy afternoon tubing sessions, while anglers cast their lines in pursuit of native trout. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or organizing a group gathering, this riverside retreat serves as your gateway to pristine trails, hidden natural springs, and the untamed beauty of southwestern Idaho.
Warm River Campground offers multiple types of camping accommodations, including tent-only sites, standard non-electric, standard electric, and a large group site capable of hosting up to 100 guests.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Warm River welcomes visitors with pleasantly mild mountain weather, where daytime temperatures hover around a comfortable 63°F before cooling to crisp 41°F evenings perfect for campfire stories. The riverside location creates an ideal habitat for mosquitos, so pack your repellent and embrace this small price for paradise. These temperate conditions make every day ideal for exploration, whether you're hiking forest trails or floating down the river's gentle current.
ElevationPerched at 5,200 feet above sea level, Warm River Campground offers a sweet spot in the mountains where summer heat gives way to refreshing coolness. This elevation creates an alpine microclimate that keeps temperatures comfortable even during peak summer months, ensuring restful nights and energizing mornings in the crisp mountain air.
Natural Features and SceneryThe languid waters of Warm River wind through your campsite like nature's own lazy river, its gentle current reflecting dappled sunlight filtered through canopies of willow and pine. These natural umbrellas provide welcome patches of shade throughout the grounds, creating intimate camping spots that feel worlds away from civilization. Beyond your tent flap, a wonderland awaits: discover hidden hot springs bubbling from the earth, cascading waterfalls that thunder through ancient rock formations, and scenic trails that reveal the forest's most closely guarded secrets.
Geological RegionWarm River Campground sits within the vast wilderness tapestry of Caribou-Targhee National Forest in southwestern Idaho, where geological forces have crafted a landscape of remarkable diversity. This region tells a story written in slow-moving rivers that have carved their paths through millennia, dense willow thickets that thrive in the moist river valleys, and towering pine forests that stretch toward mountain peaks. It's a place where the ancient rhythms of water and stone continue their patient work, creating an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThere is a single accessible campsite available, but reviews express concern over its early reservation and limited availability.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally described as level and adequate for tent camping. Specific site sizes, such as standard, tent-only, and group sites, are provided in official sources.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some reviews noting lack of shade or proximity to other campsites leading to less secluded experiences.
Total Campsites38 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent sites often require parking separately and carrying gear to the site. River-adjacent sites offer better views but come with mosquito concerns. Sites with electricity are recommended for families seeking convenience.
Best CampsitesHighly-rated campsites include sites near the river for scenic views and proximity to outdoor activities.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights per visit or within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The limit is 8 people per campsite.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 100 guests, making it suitable for large gatherings or events.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites are organized into loops and include tent-only sites, standard electric sites, and group sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 9th through September 28th, closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-in sites may be available, but availability is subject to demand during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled ahead of arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur a fee equal to the first night’s rate. Changes cost $10 per site if dates are outside the original reservation range.

Accomodation available

GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups

Activities you can enjoy

Warm River Campground offers a variety of recreational activities centered around its natural surroundings. Guests can enjoy river tubing, fishing for various trout species, hiking, biking trails, and horseback riding. Nearby attractions add more variety, including natural springs and waterfalls.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are available leading to scenic destinations like natural springs and waterfalls. Some trails also follow old railroad lines and tunnels. User reviews reflect that these trails offer enjoyable outdoor experiences.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Warm River. Anglers can catch whitefish, brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout.
Swimming
River tubing is highly popular and is described as family-friendly with slow-moving, shallow waters.
Biking
Biking trails are available, and some riders have reported enjoying routes extending to Island Park and Mesa Falls.
Boating
Boating activities are somewhat limited, but the river tubing serves as an alternative water-based recreation.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is enhanced by the surrounding forests and proximity to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
Winter Activities
No winter activities are directly referenced.
Water Sports
River tubing is the primary water sport offered at Warm River Campground.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are permitted but must be contained within designated fire pits.

Hazards

General hazardsMosquito prevalence, proximity to bear activity, and potential for cold windy weather during off-peak times.
Active alertsBear activity has led to temporary closures of campsites in previous seasons. Campers are warned to exercise caution and adhere to wildlife guidelines.

Weather forecast

31
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Humidity: 49%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 6 mph

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Closest emergency services likely include a hospital or clinic in Ashton, Idaho, approximately 9 miles away.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 9th through September 28th.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available on-site, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated directly along Warm River, which provides opportunities for tubing and fishing.
Common complaintsFrequent issues include overcrowding at campsites, mosquitoes, limited shade, and bathroom cleanliness.
HostHosts are generally praised for their friendliness and maintenance of the campground. Some user reviews specifically mention hosts as a highlight of their stay.

Campground Map

TARGHEE NATIONAL FOREST
Driving directionsFrom Ashton, Idaho, travel northeast on Highway 47 to Warm River. Turn right onto Fish Creek Road and continue 1/4-mile to the campground entrance.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from Ashton, Idaho. It is located 1/4-mile off Fish Creek Road after turning from Highway 47.
Nearby places
Ashton (9 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Island Park (distance unknown)
Yellowstone National Park (approximately 2 hours drive)
Grand Teton National Park (approximately 2 hours drive).
Nearby supplies
Gas and grocery services are available in Ashton, Idaho, 9 miles away. Additional supplies might be available in nearby Island Park.

Camper Reviews

4.3
35 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Warm River is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Warm River Campground are mixed, with the campground receiving praise for its clean facilities, scenic beauty, and friendly hosts. However, issues like mosquito prevalence, lack of cell service, overcrowding at individual sites, and bear activity have been reported.
Review Summaries
Based on 35 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the cleanliness of bathrooms, scenic surroundings, friendly hosts, and the availability of recreational activities like tubing, hiking, and fishing.
Based on 35 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include mosquito prevalence, overcrowding at campsites, lack of cell phone service, issues with reservations being double-booked, and occasional bear activity leading to site...
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Based on 35 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing mosquito repellent, reserving sites early especially accessible ones, and exploring nearby attractions such as Mesa Falls and Island Park. Some suggest checking reservation...
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Based on 35 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are highly favored for activities like tubing and fishing, but mosquito activity peaks during this time. Weather conditions in late spring and early fall are ideal for camping due to...
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Based on 35 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Probably the cleanest bathrooms I've ever used at a campground." "Great camp hosts this year (2023)." "The Warm River is wonderful for family tubing down the river." "Mosquitoes were a big issue...
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Based on 35 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific sites like #015 and #019 in the Tent Loop are mentioned positively for their proximity to the river and shaded areas. Negative feedback includes site #018 having no shade and being close to...
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Based on 35 reviews

Accessibility Features

There is significant frustration over the limited availability of accessible sites. One user stressed the need for more accessible options, noting that the single accessible site is always booked...
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Based on 35 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but reviews do not provide extensive information on pet-related amenities or experiences.
Based on 35 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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