Scout Mountain Campground
4.3790 reviews4350 CLIFFS DRIVE
Scout Mountain Campground
$20.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$60.00
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
Facility rates vary by season and site type. Peak season rates for standard nonelectric sites range from $20 to $60 per night. Group sites are available for $80 with an additional $40 per weekend.
About this campground
Perched high in the mountains just 13 miles south of Pocatello, Idaho, Scout Mountain Campground beckons adventurers to its stunning alpine setting at 6,900 feet. This mountain sanctuary offers visitors a perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness, where panoramic vistas stretch across the landscape and wildlife roams freely through the forest. Whether you're seeking challenging mountain bike trails, peaceful hiking paths, or simply a front-row seat to nature's morning chorus of birdsong, Scout Mountain delivers an authentic Idaho mountain experience.
Scout Mountain Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, offering single, double, and triple individual sites as well as a large group site for up to 100 people. The campground is suitable for tent camping, car camping, and midsize RVs or toy haulers.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Scout Mountain into an outdoor paradise, with comfortable daytime temperatures averaging 54°F that invite exploration while crisp 33°F nights guarantee perfect sleeping weather under star-filled skies. From May through August, the mountain enjoys its finest weather, when clear blue skies dominate and moderate precipitation keeps the wildflowers blooming and the forest fresh. These ideal conditions create the perfect backdrop for your mountain adventures.
ElevationAt 6,900 feet above sea level, Scout Mountain Campground offers a refreshing escape from the heat of the valleys below. This lofty perch rewards visitors with crisp mountain air, naturally cooler temperatures, and breathtaking panoramic views that seem to stretch forever across the Idaho landscape. The elevation creates a unique microclimate where alpine meadows meet mountain forests.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living tapestry of Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, and quaking aspen that creates a natural cathedral of dappled sunlight and gentle shade. During summer months, the forest floor erupts in a painter's palette of wildflowers, while the trees echo with the cheerful calls of Western Scrub-Jays and the brilliant flash of Mountain Bluebirds. Lucky visitors might even catch a glimpse of a majestic moose wandering through the shadows, a reminder of the wild heart that beats within these mountains.
Geological RegionScout Mountain Campground crowns the majestic Bannock Mountain Range, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape now clothed in verdant forests. Here, Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, and aspen groves create a mosaic of textures and colors across the mountainside, their canopy providing welcome shade while allowing glimpses of the sky above. In summer, carpets of wildflowers paint the understory in brilliant hues, creating a natural garden that changes with each passing week of the season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityScout Mountain Campground is accessible by paved roads with switchbacks, making it manageable for RVs despite narrow roads in certain areas. The group site accommodates up to 100 people but does not offer specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites vary from single, double, triple, to one large group site accommodating up to 100 people. Individual sites cater to small and midsize campers/toy haulers, and group sites are dense with trees ideal for hammocks.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at sites varies; non-reservable sites are described as "very wooded and secluded," while reservable ones are noted for their social camping setup. Many reviewers appreciated the privacy of their spots.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites on the non-reservable side are more wooded and secluded, suitable for hammock camping. Reservable sites offer less privacy but more social camping opportunities.
Best CampsitesSite #004 is highly rated for shade and privacy. Group site #028 is praised for its large firepit and eating area.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 2:00 PM.
Check-out
By noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Single sites accommodate 1 vehicle
- double sites accommodate 2 vehicles
- triple sites accommodate 3 vehicles.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 100 people, featuring picnic and serving tables, grills, and a large campfire ring with benches. However, reviews indicate challenges such as limited flat spots for tents and insufficient bathroom facilities for large groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground organized into loops (A, B, C, D). Loops A, B, and C are reserved; Loop D offers first-come-first-served sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 23 to September 20 (reservable from June 25 onwards).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov. On-site payment options are available via fee tubes for first-come, first-served sites.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available. Visitors can check with the campground host or determine site availability directly.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 service fee applies for cancellations and changes. Late cancellations for individual sites incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's 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
Activities you can enjoy
Scout Mountain Campground offers a wide range of recreational activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking is highlighted as the most popular activity, with trails such as the East Fork Mink Creek Trail and Crestline Trail accessible nearby. Wildlife viewing is another key attraction, with bird species like the Mountain Bluebird and Calliope Hummingbirds often spotted. "Wildlife viewing and hiking opportunities are excellent," one user remarked. Dirt biking and mountain biking are also prevalent, adding to the diversity of activities.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound with trails such as the paved 1-mile Scout Mountain Nature Trail looping the campground and leading to overlooks. The East Fork Mink Creek Trail starts within the site, and the nearby Crestline Trail offers more advanced options. "Lots of trails nearby for dirt biking/hiking," noted one reviewer.Biking
Mountain biking and dirt biking are popular, with trails nearby providing varied terrain. "Tons of trails nearby for dirt biking / hiking," one reviewer shared.Wildlife viewing
Scout Mountain is part of the Mink Creek area, a renowned spot for birding and wildlife viewing. Common sightings include the Western Scrub-Jay, Mountain Bluebird, and Calliope Hummingbirds. "You could hear cows in the distance, squirrels all over the place, & a baby chipmunk running around," described one user.Winter Activities
During the winter, Mink Creek Nordic Center (approximately 5 miles away) offers groomed cross-country ski trails.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not listed among the activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted within designated rings only. Firewood available for purchase on-site.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSome sites produce excessive sap output impacting campers and pets. Overgrown roads with branches may damage vehicles. Wildlife caution is encouraged.
Active alertsSeasonal closures occur during winter and construction periods. Visitors should confirm availability beforehand.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Light drizzle
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
Pocatello has emergency services including hospitals and police stations within 13 miles. The area is managed by Pinnacle Parks LLC, and for facility-specific information, visitors can call 208-757-3999.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 20.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available; campers must pack out their garbage, which some reviewers found inconvenient.
Proximity to water featuresNo major water bodies nearby; water spigots are available within the campground.
Common complaintsComplaints include inadequate trash facilities, noisy generators by hosts, and narrow roads.
HostMixed reviews about campground hosts; some are praised for friendliness while others criticized for rude behavior and noise (e.g., running generators).
Campground Map
4350 CLIFFS DRIVE
Driving directionsTake I-15 to exit 63 south of Pocatello. Follow the brown Mink Creek Recreation Area signs to Bannock Highway for 2 miles. Turn left up the canyon. Go 4.5 miles to the East Fork Mink Creek road and turn left. Go 5.3 miles up East Fork Mink Creek road to the campground.
The road to the campground is paved and has a few switchbacks; RVs should have no trouble accessing the facility. However, some reviews mention that narrow roads and overgrown branches can make access challenging for larger RVs and trailers.Nearby places
Pocatello (13 miles
approximately 25 minutes drive), Cherry Springs Nature Area (6 miles), Mink Creek Nordic Center (5 miles).
Nearby supplies
Pocatello (13 miles) offers grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel stations. A water spigot is available within the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.4
90 reviews
Scout Mountain Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Scout Mountain Campground are generally positive, with an average campground-specific sentiment of 4.13. Highlights include the natural beauty, clean facilities, and privacy of campsites, though some reviewers cite issues with the camp host and maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 90 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers frequently praise the lush, green forest, abundance of wildflowers, and spacious campsites. "This place is magical. I have never seen such a lush, green forest," shared one reviewer. Another...
Based on 90 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback often centers around the camp host's behavior, narrow and overgrown roads, and lack of trash facilities. "The new host has clearly never worked a day in customer service," one...
Based on 90 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray for mosquitoes and flies, research sap output when selecting sites, and be prepared to pack out your trash. "I'd advise you to research the sap output before you go," one camper...
Based on 90 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer months are preferred for lush greenery and wildflowers, while winter activities are available at nearby Mink Creek Nordic Center.
Based on 90 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The bathrooms are clean and there are water spickets scattered around." "Been camping here for over 30 years. It is beautiful." "Scout Mountain Campground is magical."
Based on 90 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 003 received mixed reviews, with one camper appreciating its space and privacy but criticizing the overgrowth for larger rigs. Site 028 was noted for its excellent group amenities but lacked...
Based on 90 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is not explicitly mentioned, though paved roads and proximity to facilities may offer some benefits.
Based on 90 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, though one reviewer noted challenges with sap affecting their dog’s paws, making them return home early.
Based on 90 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025