Grandview Campground (Idaho)
4.6173 reviewsMesa Falls Scenic Byway, Ashton, ID, 83420, USA
Grandview Campground (Idaho)
$31.00 - $62.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$62.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
During peak season (May 23 - September 21), rates are $31 per night for single sites and $62 per night for double sites. No booking is available during the off-season (September 21 - May 22). An additional $7 fee is charged on-site for each extra vehicle.
About this campground
Tucked away in Idaho's pristine backcountry, Grandview Campground offers an intimate escape where the thundering cascade of Lower Mesa Falls provides nature's soundtrack. This peaceful retreat features seven single sites and two double sites, each equipped with electric hookups for modern convenience. Here, adventurers find themselves perfectly positioned to explore scenic trails, witness spectacular waterfalls, and encounter the remarkable wildlife that calls this wilderness home.
Grandview Campground offers a mix of camping options, including RV and tent sites. Each site is equipped with electric hookups, and there are no water or sewer hookups.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground itself may be relatively modern, it serves as your gateway to the timeless Mesa Falls—natural monuments that have shaped this landscape and inspired visitors for generations. These cascading waters stand as enduring landmarks in Idaho's backcountry heritage.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Grandview welcomes visitors to experience Idaho's vibrant summer season. While many days bring brilliant blue skies perfect for outdoor adventures, the lush environment also attracts mosquitoes and creates humid conditions that remind you you're in living, breathing wilderness. As autumn approaches, the landscape transforms before winter's snow blanket arrives, closing the campground until spring's return awakens the forest once more.
ElevationNestled at a comfortable mountain elevation that offers refreshing summer temperatures and stunning vistas across the Idaho wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to a symphony of wilderness at Grandview, where meadows burst with seasonal wildflowers and the nearby roar of Lower Mesa Falls creates a constant reminder of nature's power. This serene sanctuary attracts an impressive cast of wildlife characters—from majestic moose browsing through morning mist to black bears foraging in distant meadows. Eagles soar overhead while osprey dive for fish, and lucky visitors might spot elusive martens or hear coyotes calling under starlit skies. Deer and elk move through the shadows at dawn and dusk, while cheerful marmots sun themselves on rocky outcrops.
Geological RegionGrandview Campground sits along the spectacular Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, where the Henry's Fork of the Snake River has carved a dramatic passage through ancient volcanic rock. The star attractions—Lower Mesa Falls plunging 85 feet and Upper Mesa Falls cascading 110 feet—showcase the raw geological forces that shaped this corner of Idaho. Spring and summer transform the surrounding landscape into a botanical wonderland of wildflowers, while the diverse terrain supports an extraordinary variety of wildlife. From soaring eagles and fishing osprey to wandering moose and bears, elusive martens and vocal coyotes, plus abundant deer, elk, and marmots, this protected ecosystem offers wildlife viewing opportunities that rival any in the Northwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features accessible trails and walkways to nearby attractions like the Upper Mesa Falls overlook, which has paved paths suitable for most visitors.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious and well-separated, with one user noting 'plenty of space for 2 RVs' at campsite #1 and another mentioning 'large sites with trees separating each spot for privacy.'
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer a high degree of privacy, with several reviews mentioning the separation between sites due to trees. One user described the sites as 'very private and well spaced out.'
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #5 is recommended for its privacy, shade, and proximity to trails. Site #8 is noted for its spacious layout and Starlink compatibility.
Best CampsitesCampsites #2 and #8 were highlighted by users for their exceptional views and features. Site #2 is described as having an outstanding waterfall view just 30 feet away.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM local time (as per reservation rules).
Check-out
Check-out time not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. You may stay up to 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated.
Groups
The campground features two double sites suitable for groups, but no explicit limits on the number of people or vehicles were mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 7 single sites and 2 double sites, all back-in with electric hookups. Sites are separated by trees for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is May 23 - September 21. Closed during the off-season (September 21 - May 22).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or through their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews suggest that all sites are reservable and no first-come, first-serve sites are available despite conflicting information on the website. This caused frustration for visitors who arrived expecting walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (within 1 calendar day before check-in) will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to reservation dates outside the original stay incur a $10 fee.
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
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Grandview Campground offers a range of recreational activities including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. It is located near Mesa Falls, which provides scenic walkways and overlooks, as well as an interpretive center. Visitors can also explore nearby trails, participate in fishing, and enjoy water-based activities at attractions such as Harriman State Park and Island Park Reservoir.
Hiking
The campground provides access to several hiking trails, including the Lower Mesa Falls trail and an abandoned railroad trail leading to West Yellowstone. Trails vary in difficulty; one user mentioned that the nearby hike to Henry's Fork is challenging on the return climb.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available nearby at Harriman State Park, which is renowned for Blue Ribbon trout fishing (fly fishing, catch and release).Biking
An abandoned railroad bed serves as a trail for biking from Bear Gulch parking lot to West Yellowstone, Montana. Additional biking trails are accessible in the area.Boating
Boating activities are available at nearby Island Park Reservoir and Henry's Lake, which feature boat ramps and fish cleaning stations.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including moose, bear, deer, elk, marmots, coyotes, martens, eagles, and osprey. Seasonal wildflowers add to the scenic experience.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Upper Mesa Falls Interpretive Center provides educational insights into the area’s natural features and wildlife.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing and other winter activities may be accessible in nearby areas, but no specific details were provided for this campground.Water Sports
Water-based recreational activities such as boating and fishing are accessible at nearby reservoirs and lakes.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits and campfire rings are available at all sites. Firewood is sold on-site for $6 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and biting flies were frequently mentioned by users as a major nuisance. Wildlife such as bears may occasionally be spotted, requiring campers to maintain safety precautions.
Active alertsNo active alerts were reported.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 12.8 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
Closest emergency services are available in Ashton, approximately 13 miles away. Specific hospitals or police stations were not mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 21 (2025).
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided, but no specific information about recycling facilities was found.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Lower Mesa Falls and within a mile of Upper Mesa Falls. Trails and overlooks provide access to these features.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention issues with website misinformation about first-come, first-serve availability, mosquitoes, and sometimes unhelpful campground hosts.
HostMultiple reviews praise hosts such as Kim for their hospitality, cleanliness, and helpfulness. Hosts are noted for providing maps and area information, and maintaining spotless vault toilets.
Campground Map
Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, Ashton, ID, 83420, USA
Driving directionsFrom Ashton, Idaho, head east out on ID-47 (Mesa Falls Scenic Byway). Stay on the main road - it will make one big curve and head north, then cross Warm River (don't turn right onto the Fish Creek Road). Turn left at the Lower Mesa Falls Overlook. The campground is to the left with the overlook parking area to the right.
The campground is accessible via the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, a paved and well-maintained road. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain were mentioned.Nearby places
Ashton (13 miles, 20 minutes)
Harriman State Park (11 miles, 15 minutes)
Yellowstone National Park (around 60 miles, 1 hour drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies can be found in Ashton, which is 13 miles from the campground. RV dump stations are available at the Ashton Visitor Center for $5.
Camper Reviews
4.6
73 reviews
Grandview Campground (Idaho) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Grandview Campground are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the cleanliness, peaceful environment, and proximity to Mesa Falls. Many campers praised the camp hosts for their friendliness and dedication. Several reviews note the campground's privacy and its suitability for relaxing or unplugging from technology.
Review Summaries
Based on 73 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, friendly and helpful camp hosts, proximity to scenic attractions like Mesa Falls, spacious and private campsites, and well-maintained amenities including electric hookups and vault...
Based on 73 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Mosquitoes and biting flies, lack of water and sewer hookups, occasional mismanagement of reservations, and the charge for electric hookups even for tent campers.
Based on 73 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Book early due to high demand; bring mosquito repellent; visit Upper Mesa Falls for a $5 donation; pack for spotty or no cell service; firewood is available for $6 per bundle; enjoy the peace and...
Based on 73 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the abundance of mosquitoes but praise the cleanliness and scenic beauty. Fall reviews emphasize the foliage and peaceful environment. Winter reviews are sparse and mostly...
Based on 73 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Vault toilets were spotless and smelled great.'
2. 'Kim, the host, kept the bathrooms perfectly clean.'
3. 'The picnic area and tent pad looked like a zen garden and even said welcome.'
4....
Based on 73 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #2: Stunning waterfall views and clean bathrooms.
Campsite #8: Excellent accommodations and Starlink availability.
Campsite #1: Spacious, suitable for 2 RVs and a tent pad.
Campsite #4:...
Based on 73 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible trails and walkways are available, particularly at Upper Mesa Falls. However, no explicit reviews from individuals with disabilities were noted.
Based on 73 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and must be kept on a lead. Reviewers with dogs appreciated the campground's quiet environment and ample space for pets to roam.
Based on 73 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025