Curlew Creek Campground
4.4110 reviewsCurlew Creek Campground
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fee information appears unclear to some visitors. One user review notes a $5 nightly fee.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Nestled along the sparkling shores of Anderson Ranch Reservoir, Curlew Creek Campground beckons water enthusiasts and anglers alike with its intimate collection of 9 overnight camping sites and 18 day-use areas. Here, the rhythmic lapping of waves against the shore sets the soundtrack for days filled with boating adventures and waterskiing thrills. Just below the dam, fly fishing enthusiasts cast their lines into pristine waters where rainbow trout lurk in the cool depths, making this hidden gem a favorite among those who know where to find the best catches in Idaho's backcountry.
Curlew Creek Campground accommodates various camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late May through September, Curlew Creek transforms into a sun-drenched playground where early summer temperatures climb into the comfortable 70s, perfect for lazy afternoons by the water. As the season bookends approach, Mother Nature adds her dramatic flair with crisp mornings that may flirt with freezing temperatures, reminding visitors to pack layers for those magical dawn fishing expeditions. The campground's seasonal schedule dances with the snowmelt, ensuring visitors arrive when the landscape is at its most accessible and inviting.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by the verdant embrace of Boise National Forest, Curlew Creek Campground serves as a natural amphitheater where towering pines frame stunning reservoir views. The landscape tells a story of water meeting wilderness, where the engineered beauty of Anderson Ranch Reservoir harmonizes with the untamed forest that has stood sentinel here for centuries. Morning mist often drifts across the water's surface while eagles soar overhead, creating moments of pure wilderness magic.
Geological RegionPerched within the rugged terrain of Boise National Forest, Curlew Creek Campground occupies a prime position along Anderson Ranch Reservoir's scenic shoreline. This corner of Idaho showcases the dramatic interplay between ancient forest ecosystems and modern water recreation, where geological forces have carved out a landscape perfect for both adventure and relaxation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are described in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe campground offers 9 overnight camping sites and 18 day-use sites. No further information about individual site sizes is provided.
Sites PrivacyThere is no detailed information about the privacy level of the campsites. However, some users mention the campground being crowded.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonEnd of May (snow dependent) - End of September (snow dependent)
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground appears to operate on a first-come, first-served basis, as no reservation system was mentioned.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Curlew Creek Campground offers a variety of water-based activities, including motorized and non-motorized boating, fishing, and waterskiing. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and scenic viewing.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities include smallmouth bass and Kokanee salmon in the reservoir, as well as fly fishing for rainbow trout below the dam. 'Try your luck at fly fishing for rainbow trout just below the dam.'Boating
The campground provides access to motorized and non-motorized boating. The boat ramp is described as being easily accessible and remaining in the water for a long time: 'Good boat ramp that stays in the lake a long time.'Wildlife viewing
Scenic viewing is mentioned as an activity, which may include opportunities for wildlife observation, although no specific wildlife species are noted.Water Sports
Waterskiing is a popular water sport activity here.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes appear to be a significant issue, with one review mentioning mosquitoes "breeding in the 4 feet of grass on every campsite." Overflowing dumpsters and potential lack of toilet paper in restrooms are also notable concerns.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services should be sought from Mountain Home, as it is the nearest major population center.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available, but user reviews report issues with overflowing dumpsters: 'Dumpsters were overflowing and very ripe!' Trash cans are mentioned as present at the campground, but recycling facilities are not specifically noted.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Anderson Ranch Reservoir, with access to a boat ramp and opportunities for a range of water activities.
Common complaintsCommon issues include mosquitoes, cleanliness of restrooms, and trash management.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Mountain Home, Idaho, travel east on Highway 20 for 35 miles to the turnoff for Pine/Featherville (Forest Highway 61). Travel north on Highway 61 approximately 14 miles.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, with the final stretch on Forest Highway 61. However, some reviews note that the road within the campground is "a bit rough," which could pose challenges for certain vehicles.Nearby places
Mountain Home (approximately 49 miles, roughly 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Specific locations for supplies are not listed in the provided material, but Mountain Home, the nearest city, may have groceries, fuel, and camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.4
10 reviews
Curlew Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Curlew Creek Campground are mixed, with some praising the beauty and accessibility of the area, and others criticizing the maintenance and overcrowding issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight the beautiful scenery, clear water, and suitability for both day trips and weekend camping. One user notes, 'Clean, easy access for launching, parking, and camping.'...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative comments focus on overflowing dumpsters, mosquitoes, and disturbances from boats launching at night. A review states, 'Crowded and trash everywhere. Dumpsters were overflowing and very ripe!...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own toilet paper for using the vaulted toilets and prepare for mosquitoes by bringing repellents. One review highlights, 'Make sure you have toilet paper if wanting to use the vaulted...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that maintenance issues, such as overflowing dumpsters, could be more significant during peak summer months due to increased crowding. Positive comments on the clear water and scenery...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'What a beautiful place to camp! Water was clear and cool. Highly recommend!'
2. 'Crowded and trash everywhere. Dumpsters were overflowing and very ripe!'
3. 'Nice place to fish at Curlew boat...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews are not detailed, but the campground includes 9 overnight sites and 18 day-use sites. Users recommend the boat dock area for fishing.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews explicitly address accessibility features.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground seems pet-friendly, as noted in one review: 'There are tables and firepits all around and seems pet friendly.'
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025