Copper Creek Campground
4.5215 reviewsCopper Creek Campground, Forest Rt. 2517, near Moyie River, ID
Copper Creek Campground
$0.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
$15 per night during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day) when water is available. No fees during non-peak season when water is turned off. An additional vehicle fee is $5 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount for single campsites occupied by the pass holder. Payment is cash or check only.
About this campground
Nestled in a tranquil grove where towering cedars and pines create a natural cathedral, Copper Creek Campground offers an intimate escape with just 15 thoughtfully placed campsites. The gentle murmur of the adjacent Moyie River provides a soothing soundtrack to your stay, while three specially designed wheelchair-accessible sites ensure everyone can experience this riverside sanctuary. With fresh mountain water on tap and well-maintained vault toilets, you'll find comfort in simplicity. Just moments away, the thundering cascade of Copper Falls beckons hikers and anglers alike to explore this pristine corner of wilderness.
Copper Creek Campground primarily caters to campers looking for tent and RV-less camping experiences. It offers sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets in a scenic riverfront setting. Reviews are mixed in terms of suitability for RVs; while it has no pull-through sites or hookups, some RV campers have used the campground successfully.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this specific site remains unwritten, the land speaks its own ancient story through the towering old-growth trees and the endless flow of the Moyie River.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of mountain seasons at Copper Creek. Summer days unfold in perfect comfort, with temperatures dancing between 60°F and 80°F, while evenings bring that crisp mountain air that makes campfire gatherings memorable. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a tapestry of gold and amber. Winter transforms the landscape into a wonderland, with weekly snowfalls averaging nearly 6 inches creating a pristine blanket of white. Bundle up when temperatures plunge to a bracing 10°F – perfect for those seeking a true winter wilderness experience.
ElevationPerched at 2,500 feet above sea level, Copper Creek Campground delivers that perfect mountain atmosphere where the air feels cleaner and the stars shine brighter. This elevation gifts visitors with naturally cooler temperatures and that invigorating mountain air that makes every breath feel refreshing.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Moyie River serves as your constant companion, its crystal-clear waters weaving through a landscape dominated by ancient cedars and stately pines. A short 2-mile journey leads adventurers to the spectacular Copper Falls Interpretive Loop Trail, where nature's power is on full display. Anglers will discover their own paradise here, with the river teeming with Rainbow, Brook, and Cutthroat trout, alongside the elusive Mountain Whitefish. Every sunrise filters through the forest canopy, creating magical moments that define the camping experience.
Geological RegionCopper Creek Campground sits within the vast embrace of Kaniksu National Forest, where millennia of geological forces have carved out a perfect riverside retreat. The campground's location along the Moyie River showcases the region's dynamic geology, from the water-sculpted riverbanks to the dramatic Copper Falls nearby. This corner of the forest represents the meeting point of water and woodland, where dense stands of cedar and pine create intimate groves perfect for those seeking connection with the natural world.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes 3 accessible sites and accessible vault toilets. Wheelchair-friendly facilities are present.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and some are located adjacent to the Moyie River.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels. Some reviews mention campsites being clustered with little privacy, while others describe the sites as large and secluded. One reviewer noted, 'Most are very private.'
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the river are recommended for better views and serenity. For more privacy, avoid campsites near the camp host area.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days.
Groups
There is no mention of designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized with 15 sites, including accessible units, equipped with tables, grills, and potable water spigots. Some sites are closer to the Moyie River, offering scenic views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 26 through September 10, depending on weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsNot available - sites are not reservable.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 15 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. User reviews indicate the campground can fill quickly, especially during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policies mentioned. Sites are first-come, first-served only.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Copper Creek Campground provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, picnicking, and scenery viewing. The Copper Falls Trail is a popular day hike located 2 miles from the campground, featuring an interpretive loop. Fishing access to the Moyie River offers catches such as Rainbow, Brook, and Cutthroat trout, as well as Mountain Whitefish. Reviewers frequently mention the campground’s scenic beauty and peaceful environment.
Hiking
The Copper Falls Trail is located about 2 miles from the campground and features a 1-mile interpretive loop. This trail is described as an 'easy must hike' by users.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Moyie River, with opportunities to catch Rainbow, Brook, Cutthroat trout, and Mountain Whitefish. Reviewers praise the area for its fishing access.Wildlife viewing
Copper Creek Campground is surrounded by dense forests and is a scenic area adjacent to the Moyie River, offering wildlife viewing opportunities.Winter Activities
The campground does not specifically offer winter activities, but its year-round accessibility may allow for activities such as hiking in winter conditions.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire policies are unclear; no official statements referenced. Users should contact Bonners Ferry Ranger District for updated regulations.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters (bears, etc.), river hazards, and challenging access road conditions during heavy rain or snow.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 17%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Bonners Ferry: Bonners Ferry Ranger District, 6286 Main Street Bonners Ferry, ID 83805, Phone: (208) 267-5561; Emergency hospital services located in Bonners Ferry.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned in the source materials; campers are expected to follow a pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Moyie River with a nearby fishing access point. Copper Falls is 2 miles away, offering additional water-related scenery.
Common complaintsUser reviews cite occasional noise from off-road vehicles and close proximity of sites leading to reduced privacy as drawbacks. Additional complaints mention unfriendly or unaccommodating camp hosts.
HostUser reviews provide mixed impressions. Some note very friendly and helpful hosts, while others complain about rude or overly strict hosts.
Campground Map
Copper Creek Campground, Forest Rt. 2517, near Moyie River, ID
Driving directionsFrom Bonners Ferry, ID, take US Rt. 95 north for 29.8 miles to campground sign (Forest Rt. 2517). Turn right onto Rt. 2517 and go 0.7 miles to another campground sign. Turn right into campground. Note: Forest Rt. 2517 is a dirt, single-lane road with turnouts.
The campground is accessible via a dirt road (Forest Rt. 2517) that is single-lane with turnouts. This road condition may require caution, especially during inclement weather or for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Bonners Ferry, ID: approximately 29.8 miles (33 minutes)
Eastport, ID: approximately 0.5 miles (2 minutes)
Canadian border: approximately 1 mile (3 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Fuel and RV waste station available at Chevron gas station, North end of Bonners Ferry, ID. Nearest ice available at the duty-free store for $4/bag (user review). Additional supplies likely in Bonners Ferry.
Camper Reviews
4.5
15 reviews
Copper Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews describe Copper Creek Campground as clean, scenic, and peaceful, with well-maintained facilities. However, some reviewers note issues like noise disturbances from ATVs and difficulties with camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praise the campground's natural beauty, spacious and clean sites, and proximity to Copper Falls Trail. Positive remarks include 'perfect place to stay near the border,' 'hosts keep...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include noise disturbances from ATVs, lack of privacy between campsites, and negative interactions with camp hosts. One reviewer stated, 'Camp hosts threatened other campers as well.'
Based on 15 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users suggest bringing plenty of ice if dry camping and avoiding campsites near the camp host for more privacy. Visiting Copper Falls Trail, located 1.5 miles away, is highly recommended.
Based on 15 reviewsSeasonal Insights
During peak season, some users noted crowded conditions due to RVs and ATVs. Off-peak season reviews highlight the campground's tranquility and free usage when water is off.
Based on 15 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Probably the nicest U.S. Forest Service Campground I have ever been to.'
2. 'Hosts do a really good job. Definitely will camp again.'
3. 'Cleanest toilets I've ever seen in a campground.'
4. 'If...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews suggest avoiding sites near the camp host for more privacy and choosing riverfront sites for scenic views.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground includes 3 accessible campsites and wheelchair-friendly vault toilets. Reviews do not specifically address experiences of users with disabilities.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must remain on a leash. No specific pet-related amenities are mentioned in reviews.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025