Palisades Creek Campground
4.8015 reviewsPalisades Creek Campground, Swan Valley, Idaho
Palisades Creek Campground
$17.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$17.00
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
Fees during the main season (Late May-Early September) are $17 for single sites and $34 for double sites. No fees apply after season closure.
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil embrace of Palisades Creek Campground, where the melodic whisper of mountain waters sets the soundtrack for your alpine adventure. Perched at 5,900 feet in the heart of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, this intimate campground welcomes you with seven thoughtfully spaced sites—five single-family havens and two spacious double-family retreats. Each site comes equipped with everything you need for comfort in the wilderness: sturdy picnic tables for mountain meals, fire pits for evening gatherings under starlit skies, and convenient access to vault toilets and fresh potable water. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the timeless rhythm of creek and forest.
The campground features seven total campsites, including five single-family units and two double-family units. All sites are first-come, first-served and are located adjacent to Palisades Creek.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic tapestry of mountain seasons at Palisades Creek, where each visit paints a different portrait of wilderness beauty. Summer arrives as a gentle host, offering blissful days with temperatures hovering between 70-80°F—perfect for hiking, fishing, and lounging by the creek. As autumn approaches, crisp mornings give way to golden afternoons. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though visitors should come prepared for freezing temperatures and snow-laden weeks that turn the campground into a backcountry basecamp for the truly adventurous. Spring brings renewal, as snowmelt swells the creek and wildflowers begin their colorful emergence.
ElevationAt 5,900 feet above sea level, Palisades Creek Campground offers that perfect sweet spot of mountain elevation—high enough to escape summer's heat, yet accessible enough for comfortable camping. The crisp mountain air carries the scent of pine and wild herbs, while the elevation provides stunning vantage points of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering lodgepole pines create nature's own cathedral, their slender trunks reaching skyward while casting an ever-changing tapestry of shadows across the babbling waters of Palisades Creek. In summer, the forest floor erupts in a painter's palette of wildflowers—Indian paintbrush, lupine, and mountain asters—filling the air with delicate fragrances that mingle with the earthy scent of pine needles. The creek itself serves as both companion and entertainer, its crystal-clear waters tumbling over smooth stones, creating peaceful pools perfect for quiet contemplation. For those seeking adventure, nearby trails beckon into the rugged splendor of Palisades Backcountry, where dramatic canyon walls and hidden waterfalls await discovery.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic Palisades Creek Canyon, this campground sits at the heart of one of Caribou-Targhee National Forest's most spectacular geological features. The canyon, carved over millennia by the persistent flow of Palisades Creek, showcases nature's artistic prowess with its steep walls and diverse ecosystems. The surrounding landscape tells an ancient story written in stone and forest—from the resilient lodgepole pines that dominate the canopy to the vibrant wildflower meadows that carpet open spaces. This rugged backcountry terrain offers endless opportunities for exploration, where each trail reveals new perspectives on the raw beauty of Idaho's mountain wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features are not detailed in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe campground offers five single-family sites and two double-family sites. Parking spaces are well-situated, and the sites include sandy areas suitable for tent setup.
Sites PrivacyThe small number of sites and their arrangement along the creek provide a secluded and private feel, as described by users. One review specifically highlighted the 'secluded' atmosphere of the campground.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews recommend creek-side sites for privacy and views. Sites near the trailhead provide easy access to hiking trails.
Best CampsitesMany reviews praise sites adjacent to the creek for their beauty and tranquility, particularly the furthest site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours/day.
Check-out
Open 24 hours/day.
Stay Limit
Site usage is limited to the main operating season.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guest capacity per site not explicitly stated.
Groups
Group camping is not available at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutFive single-family sites and two double-family sites. Sites are generally creek-side, with sandy areas for tents and gravel parking spurs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen late May through early September, first-come/first-served. After season closure, open but with no fees, water, or toilets.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis; no reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not provided.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Palisades Creek Campground is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking on non-motorized trails leading to the Lower and Upper Palisades Lakes, fishing in the creek (seasonal restrictions apply), and exploring nearby Palisades Reservoir and the South Fork of the Snake River for additional fishing and boating opportunities. Winter sports such as snowmobiling are also popular in the area.
Hiking
The Palisades Creek Trail starts at the campground and provides access to non-motorized trails leading to scenic destinations like Lower and Upper Palisades Lakes, which are about 4 miles and 7.2 miles away, respectively. User reviews frequently praise the trail for its beauty and accessibility.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Palisades Creek, though it is closed from April 1 to June 30. The creek is described as a peaceful retreat, and nearby Palisades Reservoir and the South Fork of the Snake River offer opportunities for catching cutthroat trout.Boating
The nearby Palisades Reservoir and the South Fork of the Snake River provide opportunities for boating, although specific details about boat rentals or docking are not included.Wildlife viewing
The campground is nestled in a forested area with tall lodgepole pines and is surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Palisades Backcountry, making it ideal for wildlife viewing. However, specific species are not mentioned.Winter Activities
The area supports winter recreational activities such as snowmobiling.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not specifically mentioned but may be implied given the proximity to Palisades Reservoir and the Snake River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings provided at each site; firewood available for purchase.
- Quiet hours are Managed by host for quiet environment.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife hazards; fishing restricted between April 1-June 30.
Active alertsNo current alerts.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.6 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
Palisades Ranger Office - Address: 3659 East Ririe Highway Idaho Falls, ID 83401. Phone: (208) 523-1412. Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays).
Good to know
Peak season datesLate May to early September.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned in any of the provided sources.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Palisades Creek; minutes from Palisades Reservoir and South Fork of the Snake River.
Common complaints"The seasonal workers are just rude and unbearable." Other complaints include crowded parking areas and inconsistent stocking of restroom supplies near the parking lot.
HostCampground host named Nick is frequently praised for being helpful, friendly, and maintaining cleanliness. Firewood is available for purchase onsite.
Campground Map
Palisades Creek Campground, Swan Valley, Idaho
Driving directionsFrom Swan Valley go 7 miles east on US 26, then 2 miles northwest on Forest Road 255.
Accessible via paved and gravel roads. Most of the journey is on U.S. Highway 26, followed by Forest Road 255.Nearby places
Swan Valley (9 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Chevron store, approximately 6-7 minutes away, offers basic supplies at reasonable prices.
Camper Reviews
4.8
15 reviews
Palisades Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise the campground for its cleanliness, friendly host, scenic location, and proximity to excellent hiking trails. However, a few negatives include issues with seasonal workers' attitudes and crowded parking during peak times.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained vault toilets, friendly and helpful camp host, scenic sites adjacent to the creek, excellent hiking trails starting from the campground, and reliable Verizon cell phone...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Occasional issues with seasonal worker attitudes, crowded parking areas outside the campground, and potential inconsistency in toilet paper availability in vault toilets.
Based on 15 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a site, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring your own toilet paper just in case. Take advantage of the firewood sold by the camp host.
Based on 15 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is most popular during the late spring and summer months when hiking trails and fishing opportunities are most accessible. After the main season, the campground operates without water...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The camp host Nick was really friendly and welcoming. The bathrooms were spotless!' (Melissa Morejon). 2. 'Wonderful little gem, only seven sites and is first come. All sites are adjacent to the...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site A8, located right on the river, received specific praise from a reviewer who described it as 'amazing' and 'never wanted to leave.'
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not specifically addressed in user reviews, though the campground's rustic nature may pose challenges for visitors with mobility issues.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies or specific pet-related experiences are not mentioned in the available reviews.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025