Malad Summit Campground
4.5255 reviews4350 CLIFFS DRIVE
Malad Summit Campground
$20.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$40.00
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
Fees range from $20 to $80 depending on the site type. Standard non-electric sites vary in cost ($20-$40), while the group site costs $80 and includes additional charges for weekends ($40).
About this campground
Tucked away in nature's embrace, Malad Summit Campground offers an intimate escape where the gentle murmur of Mill Creek mingles with the whisper of wind through towering Douglas firs. This hidden gem provides generously-sized campsites beneath a canopy of maple trees, creating a natural sanctuary for those seeking solitude. Adventure beckons just beyond your tent flap, with hiking trails winding through the forest and ATV routes ready to explore the surrounding wilderness.
Malad Summit Campground accommodates tent and RV camping and includes a large group site.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full palette at Malad Summit, where winter transforms the landscape into a snow-kissed wonderland and summer brings blessed relief from the heat below. The dense forest canopy creates a natural air conditioning system, keeping temperatures refreshingly cool even during the warmest months. Visitors consistently praise the comfortable summer climate, making this an ideal retreat when valley temperatures soar.
ElevationPerched at 6,100 feet above sea level, Malad Summit Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where crisp, clean air fills your lungs and temperatures remain comfortable throughout the camping season. This elevated position brings the magic of seasonal snowfall in winter and delightfully cool nights perfect for campfire gatherings in summer.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral where maple trees arch overhead, their leaves creating a dancing mosaic of light and shadow across your campsite. Majestic Douglas firs stand as ancient sentinels throughout the grounds, their evergreen boughs providing year-round beauty. The star of this natural amphitheater is Mill Creek, whose crystal-clear waters provide both a stunning backdrop for your stay and a soothing soundtrack that lulls campers to sleep each night.
Geological RegionNestled within the expansive Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Malad Summit Campground showcases the remarkable biodiversity of this protected wilderness. The convergence of maple groves and coniferous forests creates a unique ecosystem where Mill Creek carves its timeless path through the landscape. This dynamic environment supports an impressive variety of plant and animal life, while winter snows and spring melts continue to shape the terrain through nature's endless cycles.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has gravel roads and parking spurs, but specific accessibility features are not detailed in the source.
Sites SizeUser reviews describe the campsites as varied in size, ranging from small to medium, with some sites large enough to accommodate hammocks and multiple tents.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are generally described as private due to the dense tree cover. Quotes include: 'Campsites are in the thick of the forest providing peace and tranquility.'
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites #3 and #13 are recommended for their privacy and proximity to the stream. Sites #9 and #10 are ideal for tents and hammocks.
Best CampsitesReviews highlight campsite #3 and the group site (#13) as top choices for their ambiance and facilities. Sites #9 and #10 are noted for their spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Varies by site type.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 125 people and features large picnic tables, a serving table, a grill, a campfire ring with benches, tent pads, and a gravel parking area.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes individual sites spaced out for privacy, one double site, and a large group site. Roads and parking spurs are gravel.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 23rd, 2025 and closes September 20th, 2025 for reservable sites. The campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served campsites are available. Visitors should check site availability with the camp host or fee tube.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to the arrival date with varying fees. Late cancellations for individual sites incur a $10 fee and loss of the first night's fee. Group sites require 14 days advance cancellation to avoid additional penalties.
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
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Malad Summit Campground provides diverse recreational activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, camping, biking, and wildlife viewing. The campground's location next to Mill Creek and nearby trails enhances its appeal for active travelers.
Hiking
Numerous trails begin near the campground. The 12-mile Summit Trail connects with Farmers Canyon, East Elkhorn, and Wright Creek trails, while Old Canyon and South Canyon trails are also within close proximity. User reviews highlight scenic hiking experiences, with one camper describing 'spectacular scenery' at the mountain openings.Fishing
Mill Creek offers opportunities to fish for cutthroat and rainbow trout. User reviews affirm the quality of fishing experiences.Biking
Biking is possible on nearby trails, offering diverse terrain for enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
The campground's dense forest setting provides opportunities for wildlife observation. One user review noted the presence of butterflies during their visit.Winter Activities
The area receives snow throughout the winter, making it potentially suitable for winter activities such as snowshoeing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not offered directly at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings. Visitors are advised to use locally sourced firewood to prevent tree pests.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include narrow gravel roads that may be difficult for larger vehicles, as well as mosquitoes during rainy periods. Wildlife caution is advised.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 26.7 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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 likely available in Malad, Idaho, approximately 14 miles away. These include hospitals, police stations, and other emergency facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 to September 20, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash or recycling facilities on-site; campers must pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresMill Creek flows through the campground, offering fishing opportunities for cutthroat and rainbow trout.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include challenges for large RVs or trailers due to tight turns and narrow roads, mosquito prevalence during certain times, and overgrown vegetation in some areas.
HostCampground hosts are generally described as friendly and helpful. Some reviews mention hosts selling firewood and providing WiFi.
Campground Map
4350 CLIFFS DRIVE
Driving directionsFrom Malad, travel north on Interstate 15 for 11 miles, to exit 22, Devil Creek Reservoir. Continue just over 3 miles north on Highway 191. Turn west and cross the highway on Forest Road 041 and continue just over 3 miles on a maintained gravel road, to the campground.
Roads leading to Malad Summit Campground include maintained gravel roads, which may create challenges for larger RVs or trailers. Multiple reviews mention challenges in maneuvering and tight turns, especially for rigs over 24 feet. The road in is described as 'extremely narrow' and potentially anxiety-inducing for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Malad (14 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The nearest supplies for groceries, fuel, and camping essentials are likely in Malad, Idaho, approximately 14 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
55 reviews
Malad Summit Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is generally well-received, with an average sentiment rating of 4.29/5. Common themes include clean facilities, friendly camp hosts, and scenic surroundings. However, some reviews highlight challenges with maneuvering trailers and mosquito prevalence during certain seasons.
Review Summaries
Based on 55 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently praise the cleanliness of the vault toilets, the scenic location next to Mill Creek, and the overall tranquility of the area. Hosts are often described as friendly and...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues raised in reviews include difficulties with trailer maneuvering due to the narrow gravel roads and perpendicular parking alignments, mosquito prevalence during wet conditions, and the absence...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing bug spray due to mosquitos, confirming whether trailers will fit at specific campsites beforehand, and packing out all trash as no disposal facilities are provided.
Based on 55 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is highly recommended for camping due to the tree cover that provides shade and cooler temperatures. Mosquito activity is noted during wet conditions, particularly in spring. Winter camping is...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Direct quotes include: 'Very secluded campground. We stayed at campsite no. 3. The camp host, Jeff, was very welcoming and helpful.' 'Vault toilets are clean and do not smell at all.' 'This little...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific highlights include campsite #9 and #10 being larger and offering space for hammocks. Campsite #3 is noted for its proximity to a creek. Reviews of the group site (#13) praise its...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not comprehensively reviewed, though gravel roads may pose challenges for mobility-impaired visitors.
Based on 55 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific feedback regarding pets was found in the source materials.
Based on 55 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025