Big Springs - Caribou
4.2646 reviews4350 CLIFFS DRIVE
Big Springs - Caribou
$20.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard nonelectric sites are $20-$40 per night, group sites are $80 per night with an additional $40 for weekends, equestrian sites are $20 per night. A $5 fee is charged for extra vehicles.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Idaho's mountain country, Big Springs Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover its tranquil embrace along the babbling waters of Pebble Creek. This versatile mountain retreat caters to every camping style—from intimate single sites perfect for couples seeking solitude, to spacious double sites ideal for families, and dedicated group areas where friends can gather under starlit skies. Horse lovers will find a warm welcome with specialized equestrian facilities, making this a true basecamp for mounted adventures. Days here unfold with the gentle rhythm of fly fishing in crystal-clear waters, exploring winding forest trails, and venturing to the nearby therapeutic waters of Lava Hot Springs for a perfect blend of wilderness and relaxation.
Big Springs Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including primitive, RV, tent, and equestrian camping. Group camping is available, with sites supporting up to 175 people.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Big Springs into an alpine paradise where comfortable 70°F days invite endless outdoor exploration, while crisp 40°F nights demand cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags. The mountain climate brings refreshing afternoon breezes and spectacular star-gazing opportunities through generally clear skies. As seasons shift, dramatic cloud formations paint the sky, and winter's approach dusts the landscape with pristine snow, creating a wonderland for those brave enough to experience the campground's quieter months. This high-altitude haven offers the perfect escape from sweltering valley heat, with nature's air conditioning keeping campers comfortable throughout the peak season.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 6,500 feet above sea level, Big Springs Campground offers more than just camping—it's an invitation to touch the sky. At this elevation, the air carries a crystalline quality that sharpens every vista and deepens every breath. Mountain peaks stretch across the horizon while cooling alpine breezes whisper through the trees, creating nature's perfect climate control system. This lofty position rewards early risers with spectacular sunrises and treats evening gatherers to alpenglow performances that paint the surrounding peaks in shades of rose and gold.
Natural Features and SceneryBig Springs reveals two distinct personalities through its thoughtfully designed camping loops. Loop A invites you into a cathedral of towering Douglas firs, where dappled sunlight filters through ancient branches and creates a naturally air-conditioned sanctuary perfect for afternoon naps in hammocks. Meanwhile, Loop B dances to a different tune among graceful aspen groves that shimmer like nature's wind chimes, their leaves creating a gentle symphony with every breeze. Throughout both areas, the understory bursts with character—silvery sagebrush releases its distinctive aroma after summer rains, native grasses sway in mountain breezes, and seasonal wildflowers paint splashes of purple, yellow, and crimson across the landscape, creating an ever-changing canvas that delights photographers and nature lovers alike.
Geological RegionCarved by time and shaped by the persistent flow of Pebble Creek, this 6,500-foot mountain sanctuary showcases nature's architectural diversity. The campground straddles two distinct ecosystems—the sturdy Douglas fir forests of Loop A stand as ancient sentinels, their thick trunks telling stories of centuries past, while Loop B's delicate aspen colonies dance in communal groves, their interconnected root systems creating one of nature's most fascinating phenomena. Between these forested realms, the high-altitude meadows burst with life as sagebrush mingles with native grasses, and summer brings an explosion of wildflowers that transform the landscape into a living impressionist painting. This unique convergence of forest, creek, and meadow creates a geological tapestry that captures the essence of Idaho's diverse mountain ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome campsites have stairs between parking spurs and site pads, and picnic shelters are available in Loop B. The group site accommodates up to 175 people with a shelter and tables.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, including single, double, and group sites that can host up to 175 people. Large sites are noted to be available.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at campsites varies, with Loop A offering partial shade from Douglas firs and Loop B situated among aspens providing limited shade. Some sites are noted to be secluded while others are closer together.
Total Campsites175 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites in Loop A offer more shade from Douglas fir trees, while Loop B has picnic shelters but less shade. Sites near Pebble Creek provide tranquil natural settings.
Best CampsitesSites near Pebble Creek, such as #27 and #29, are highly regarded for their views and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights during a visit, applicable all year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single sites allow 1 vehicle, double sites allow 2 vehicles, and triple sites allow 3 vehicles.
Groups
The group site can host up to 175 people and includes a shelter, tables, a campfire ring, grills, and parking.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into Loops A and B, with a mix of single, double, group, and equestrian sites. Loop A is heavily shaded, while Loop B offers picnic shelters and limited shade.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates seasonally, opening May 23, 2025, and closing September 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov, through their app, or phone contact.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available; visitors must check with the campground host or use the onsite fee tube for payment.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies along with forfeiture of the reservation fee and first night's use fee for late cancellations.
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
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Big Springs Campground offers a range of outdoor activities tailored to nature enthusiasts. Highlights include hiking and biking trails, fishing in Pebble Creek, and wildlife viewing. The Big Springs Nature Trail provides an easy walk along the creek, while the multi-use Boundary Trail accommodates hiking, biking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicles. Nearby attractions like Lava Hot Springs offer additional recreational opportunities.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity at the campground, with trails ranging from easy walks like the Big Springs Nature Trail to more challenging multi-use trails such as the Boundary Trail. Reviewers have noted, 'Love the hiking trails,' and 'The nature hike to Big Springs was the perfect length (20 minutes round trip).'Fishing
Pebble Creek offers cutthroat and rainbow trout fishing. One reviewer commented, 'Pebble Creek offers great fishing opportunities.'Biking
Biking trails are available, with the Boundary Trail accommodating biking alongside other activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible at the campground, with sightings of local flora and fauna enhancing the natural experience.Winter Activities
Winter activities information is unavailable.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Open fire pits are available at each campsite; visitors are encouraged to source and burn firewood locally to prevent pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife encounters and narrow dirt roads with limited sight distances. Sagebrush in tent areas may be restrictive for setup.
Active alertsRoad access to the campground may close due to snow runoff and wet conditions until mid-August.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Closest emergency services are in Lava Hot Springs, approximately 16 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 20, 2025
Trash and recyclingPack-it-in/pack-it-out policy applies, and no specific trash or recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresPebble Creek runs through the campground, offering opportunities for fishing and wading.
Common complaintsMultiple reviews mention challenges with camp hosts being unwelcoming or inconsistent in fee communications, difficulties with road conditions, and limitations on space for tent camping due to sagebrush.
HostCampground is managed by Pinnacle Parks LLC, with hosts providing security and selling firewood.
Campground Map
4350 CLIFFS DRIVE
Driving directionsJust east of Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, look for 'Pebble Area' sign and turn left onto Blaser Highway/Old Highway 30. Go north on the paved highway 9 miles to Pebble Creek Road, known locally as Mike's Place or Whiskey Mike's. Turn left across railroad tracks on gravel Forest Road 036. Travel about 7 miles to the campground.
Pebble Creek Road is a narrow single-lane dirt road with limited sight distance, not suitable for very large RVs that require overhead clearance due to their height and limited turning capacity. A truck with a trailer of the same length may manage due to a tighter turning radius.Nearby places
Lava Hot Springs: 16 miles
Nearby supplies
Closest grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel services are available in Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, approximately 16 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
46 reviews
Big Springs - Caribou is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Big Springs Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment of 4.0 for campground-specific experiences. Positive highlights include the peaceful environment, helpful camp host, and the variety of recreational opportunities, while complaints often focus on interactions with the camp host and road conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 46 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the campground's natural beauty, privacy, proximity to the creek, and clean facilities. 'Beautiful campground with both single and double campsites,' wrote one user. Another stated,...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include challenging road conditions, disputes with camp hosts, and limitations on ATV usage within the campground. Several reviewers mentioned conflicts with the camp host, including...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend choosing campsites near the creek for better views and privacy. Several users emphasized the importance of adhering to the 5mph speed limit to reduce dust. Others suggested avoiding...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season for camping at Big Springs Campground, with reviews frequently highlighting the creek and hiking opportunities. Winter reviews are less common, and no specific...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Great place to camp! Lovely nature trail with incredible views over the floodplain.' - Chrys
- 'We love Big Springs Campground. The camp hosts were very helpful.' - Lauren E
- 'Campground is...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #27 was noted as spacious with proximity to the creek. Site #023 received positive remarks for its cleanliness and proximity to trails. Site #031 was frequently mentioned for its group site...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Some campers noted accessibility challenges due to stairs at certain sites and worn site markings. Specific reviews addressing accessibility include: 'Our 12-man tent wouldn't fit on the tent site,...
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Pet-Friendly Features
Limited information is available regarding pet policies, but no specific complaints or praises regarding pet accommodations were found.
Based on 46 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025