Ice Springs Campground
4.3711 reviewsIce Springs Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
No fees are required for this site.
About this campground
Nestled along the banks of Fall Creek, Ice Springs Campground offers an intimate escape with just three secluded campsites overlooking the sparkling waters of Anderson Ranch Reservoir. This hidden gem beckons outdoor enthusiasts with premier fishing spots, pristine boating waters, and endless opportunities for watersports adventures. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite provides the perfect basecamp, complete with a crackling campfire ring for evening stories, a convenient grill for lakeside dining, a sturdy picnic table for gathering, and clean vault toilet facilities nearby.
The campground is small, with only three campsites, and offers basic accommodations, ideal for tent camping. No specific provisions for RVs, group camping, or cabins are mentioned.
Historical SignificanceThe landscape surrounding Ice Springs tells a powerful story of nature's resilience. In 2012, wildfire swept through this region, dramatically reshaping the environment and leaving its mark on the forest. Today, visitors witness nature's remarkable recovery firsthand, as new growth emerges among the remnants of the past, creating a unique tapestry that speaks to both destruction and renewal.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of changing seasons at Ice Springs, where each time of year paints the landscape differently. Winter transforms the campground into a quiet wonderland, with temperatures dipping below freezing and blankets of snow up to 6 inches deep creating a serene, crystalline world. As spring melts into summer, the campground truly comes alive—perfect camping weather arrives from late May through early September, bringing sun-drenched days with temperatures dancing between a comfortable 68°F and 85°F. With less than 0.2 inches of rain during peak season, you'll enjoy endless blue skies and star-filled nights.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryIce Springs Campground showcases the rugged beauty of Idaho's mountain wilderness, where Fall Creek tumbles toward the expansive Anderson Ranch Reservoir below. The surrounding peaks frame breathtaking vistas that change with every shift of light, while the reservoir's deep blue waters stretch toward distant ridgelines. Though touched by the 2012 wildfire, the landscape has evolved into a fascinating study of ecological regeneration, where new life springs from charred earth and wildlife has returned to reclaim their mountain home.
Geological RegionPerched within the majestic Boise National Forest, Ice Springs occupies a stunning corner of Idaho's mountainous heartland where Fall Creek carves its path to Anderson Ranch Reservoir. This dynamic landscape tells geological stories millions of years in the making, from ancient mountain formation to the more recent chapter written by the 2012 wildfire. The result is a compelling terrain where forest, water, and stone converge to create an outdoor playground unlike any other.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details about accessibility options are mentioned in the sources.
Sites SizeUser reviews note that the campground offers 'plenty of room.' One group of 18 people managed to set up 8 tents, a badminton court, and park multiple cars and trailers across two spaces.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews suggest a good level of privacy, with one stating, 'you don't have to be right on top of each other.'
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider bringing a high-clearance vehicle to access creek-side campsites. Arrive early during peak season due to limited site availability.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight the campsites close to the creek for their natural beauty and proximity to water, but the access road to these is steep and rocky.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
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Groups
No details about group-specific camping accommodations are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features three defined campsites. Some sites are close to the creek, while others are accessible via a short, steep, and rocky road.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen mid-May through end of September unless closed by snow.
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is first-come, first-served as the site does not accept reservations.
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ice Springs Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and waterskiing in the nearby Anderson Ranch Reservoir. Hiking is promoted as a key activity, with trails leading to Dog Mountain and Horse Ranch Mountain or shorter hikes to Bear Hole Trailhead. OHV trail riding and mountain biking are also supported. Scenic drives and picnicking are other options for visitors.
Hiking
The nearby Camp Creek trailhead leads to trails extending north past Dog Mountain to Horse Ranch Mountain, spanning approximately 17 miles. A shorter hike can be arranged by setting up a shuttle at Bear Hole Trailhead.Fishing
Anderson Ranch Reservoir offers good fishing opportunities, particularly for smallmouth bass and kokanee.Biking
Mountain biking and E-biking are listed as available activities at the campground.Boating
The Anderson Ranch Reservoir supports boating, waterskiing, and the use of personal watercraft.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Boating and waterskiing are available, contributing to the water sports opportunities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires and grills may be restricted during burn bans, as noted by users.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsThe dirt road leading to some campsites is described as 'VERY rocky and steep,' which could pose challenges for vehicles. Additionally, the wildfire of 2012 may have left lingering risks related to altered landscapes.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo specific mention of trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Fall Creek and close to Anderson Ranch Reservoir, a popular spot for fishing, boating, and watersports.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight the absence of potable water and the poor condition of roads within the campground, including potholes and uneven terrain. Complaints also include the lack of promised restroom installations and cleanliness issues with existing vault toilets.
Hostnull
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Mountain Home, Idaho, travel 21 miles northeast on State Highway 20 until the turnoff of Forest Service (FS) road 134 road towards Anderson Ranch Dam. At the Dam, turn right and travel northeast along FS road 120 until you pass Castle Creek Campground. At the junction of FS 120 and 123 roads, continue north along FS road 123 approximately 7 miles to Ice Springs Campground. There is also another route if preferred. From Mountain Home, Idaho, travel northeast along State Highway 20 for 32 miles to the Forest Highway 61 turnoff. Take the Highway 61 to Pine, Idaho, approximately 18 miles. From the intersection at Pine, turn south on the FS road 128 and continue until you get to the junction of FS road 113. At the intersection of the FS 113, 120 and 123 roads, turn north and follow the FS road 123 north approximately 7 miles to Ice Springs Campground.
The access roads include both paved and unpaved sections. One route features more paved road and is less narrow, making it preferable for some. The dirt road leading to some campsites is described in reviews as 'VERY rocky and steep,' which may pose challenges for standard SUVs.Nearby places
Mountain Home (21-32 miles depending on route), Pine (approximately 18 miles from intersection to campground).
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.4
11 reviews
Ice Springs Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Ice Springs Campground are generally positive, emphasizing the scenic location, proximity to a creek, and suitability for group camping. Some complaints include uneven ground, potholes, and varying bathroom conditions. The campground's 'roomy' sites and peaceful ambiance are recurring highlights.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praise the spaciousness of the campsites, the scenic setting near a creek, and the proximity to outdoor activities like hunting, boating, and ATV trails. One user described it as their...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Several users pointed out issues such as the lack of potable water, uneven and rocky ground making tent setups uncomfortable, and poorly maintained restroom facilities. One review attributes these...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Groups are advised to choose sites carefully due to differences in terrain. Setting up near the creek is possible but may require a high-clearance vehicle due to rocky access roads. Campers should...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Most reviews suggest the campground is best enjoyed in late summer and early fall, with the creek and surrounding trails being particular draws. Conditions during hunting season are also noted as...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Great place family camps there a lot.' (Craig Stubbs, 2020) 2. 'Quiet nice area to camp. Wind in trees, sound of creek.' (Dawn George, 2016) 3. 'Lots of room for campers and wall tents but no...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites near the creek are described as beautiful but challenging to access due to rocky and steep roads. No specific site numbers are provided.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features or experiences.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews discuss pet policies or experiences.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025