Emerald Creek Campground
4.3814 reviews222 S. 7th, Suite #1 St. Maries, ID 83861
Emerald Creek Campground
$5.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Single Site: $10/night (includes two vehicles); additional vehicle: $5/night (maximum three vehicles per site). Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to single campsites only. Reservations may also incur fees.
About this campground
Nestled among towering conifers, Emerald Creek Campground offers 18 thoughtfully designed campsites where modern convenience meets wilderness tranquility. Each site comes equipped with pedestal grills, sturdy picnic tables, and stone-ringed fire pits perfect for evening gatherings under starlit skies. The campground's vault toilets and hand-pump water system provide essential amenities while preserving the authentic outdoor experience. What truly sets this gem apart is its gateway location to the world-famous Garnet Digging Area, where families can hunt for precious star garnets just minutes from their tent or RV. Seasoned campers consistently praise the campground's immaculate maintenance and peaceful atmosphere, with sites spacious enough for smaller RVs yet intimate enough to feel like your own private forest retreat.
Emerald Creek Campground features 17 combined campsites suitable for tents and smaller RVs, with one pull-through site available. No primitive or group camping options are explicitly noted.
Historical SignificanceStep into geological history at Emerald Creek, home to one of Earth's rarest treasures. This extraordinary location stands as one of only two places on the planet—alongside a remote region in India—where star garnets form naturally in the ancient creek beds. Visitors can purchase permits and try their hand at sluicing for these distinctive purple gems, with all equipment provided on-site. The tradition of garnet hunting here spans generations, creating a unique cultural experience where geology meets adventure.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Emerald Creek brings classic mountain weather—warm, sun-drenched days perfect for garnet hunting, followed by refreshingly cool evenings around the campfire. While the season typically remains dry, occasional afternoon thunderstorms sweep through, bringing the sweet scent of rain-washed pine. Pack your bug spray for mid-summer adventures, as mosquitoes thrive in the lush forest environment, and yellowjackets make their presence known during picnic hours. The moderate temperatures and low humidity create ideal conditions for both active exploration and lazy afternoons reading in the shade.
ElevationPerched at 2,900 feet above sea level, the campground sits in that sweet spot of mountain elevation—high enough to escape summer's most oppressive heat, yet low enough to remain comfortably accessible and enjoyable for campers of all ages and fitness levels.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to filtered sunlight dancing through a cathedral of Douglas fir and Lodgepole pine, their ancient trunks creating natural privacy screens between campsites. The dense forest canopy provides welcome shade during warm afternoons and transforms into a symphony of whispers when evening breezes arrive. Just a short walk away, Emerald Creek reveals its magical secret—purple-tinged sand that sparkles with microscopic garnets, evidence of the geological wonders hidden beneath this pristine wilderness.
Geological RegionEmerald Creek Campground rests within a remarkable geological wonderland, surrounded by stands of majestic Douglas fir and Lodgepole pine that have witnessed centuries of Earth's history. This unique corner of Idaho holds an extraordinary distinction as one of only two locations worldwide—the other being in India—where the rare star garnet forms. These precious gems, created by specific geological conditions found nowhere else, make this forest more than just a beautiful camping destination; it's a window into our planet's most exclusive mineral treasures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available.
Sites SizeSites are reported to be fairly flat, requiring minimal leveling for parking.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer good privacy, as they are well-shaded and spread out within a mixed conifer forest.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near the gravel road for less noise. Check for bees before choosing a site.
Best CampsitesNo specific site numbers provided; user reviews highlight privacy and deep forest surroundings in all spots.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay permitted is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Two vehicles included per site
- maximum three vehicles.
Groups
No group camping sites are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout with shaded spots offering privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen week before Memorial Day weekend through mid-September, weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations available.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served; user reviews note the campground 'never seems to be overcrowded.'
Cancellation PolicyNo details on cancellation policy provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Emerald Creek Campground provides opportunities for picnicking, wildlife viewing, and fishing in nearby streams. The Garnet Digging Area nearby is a unique recreational activity where visitors can dig for star garnets.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in nearby rivers and streams.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities exist, and user reviews mention observing cows and bees near the campground.Winter Activities
No winter activities like skiing or snowshoeing are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or canoeing are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits and pedestal grills.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned; user reviews describe the site as generally quiet.
Hazards
General hazardsInsects such as mosquitos and yellowjackets are prominent in mid-summer. Logging truck noise may be heard in spots near the gravel road.
Active alertsSite is currently closed. Potable water has not been available since 2022.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.8 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
Closest emergency services are likely accessible through the Information Center at St. Joe Ranger District, St. Maries Office.
Good to know
Peak season datesWeek before Memorial Day weekend through mid-September.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNot directly on a creek, but a nearby creek contains garnet-bearing sand.
Common complaintsLack of potable water and insect nuisances (mosquitos, yellowjackets).
HostNo host information provided.
Campground Map
222 S. 7th, Suite #1 St. Maries, ID 83861
Driving directionsDrive 25 miles south of St. Maries on State Highway 3, then turn right on Road #447. Travel approximately 6 miles to the Emerald Creek Campground. Alternatively, in Fernwood, ID, take State Rt. 3 south 4 miles to campground sign (Forest Rt. 447). Turn right at sign onto Rt. 447 and go 3.2 miles to 'Y' intersection. Bear left and go 1.7 miles to campground on left. NOTE: Forest Route becomes gravel after 0.3 miles.
The route to the campground includes a mix of paved and gravel roads. "Exceptionally remote with excellent gravel roads into the park area" was a user review description. Forest Rt. 447 becomes gravel after 0.3 miles.Nearby places
St. Maries (25 miles, approx. travel time not provided), Fernwood (approx. 4 miles, travel time not specified)
Nearby supplies
Gas, ice, water, and food can be found at a mom-and-pop store near Bechtel Mountain, accessible by taking the logging truck path to HWY 3 and turning left at the next exit (per user review).
Camper Reviews
4.4
14 reviews
Emerald Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews provide a mixed but generally positive perspective on Emerald Creek Campground. Highlights include its privacy, cleanliness, and close proximity to the Garnet Digging Area. Some users note issues with insects, like mosquitoes and yellowjackets, especially in the summer.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Common positive feedback includes the campground's privacy, cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and shaded spots. Users particularly appreciate the sturdy picnic tables, fire pits, and grills...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Mosquitos and yellowjackets are reported as significant nuisances during midsummer. A few users also mention the lack of potable water and limited activities beyond garnet digging.
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing bug repellent due to prolific mosquitoes and checking campsites for bees before settling. Visitors also suggest exploring nearby attractions, like Betchel Mountain and the...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently mention insect issues, including mosquitoes and bees. The campground is noted for being quieter and less crowded during spring and late summer.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Exceptionally remote with excellent gravel roads into the park area." - Patricia Norcom. "Mosquitos were really bad in the middle of July." - J. "Super clean, the sites are spread out; it's a...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground has only one pull-through RV site, which is highly preferred but often occupied due to its first-come, first-served policy. Back-in sites are available for smaller trailers, tents, and...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair-friendly, providing accessibility for campers with disabilities.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No information or user reviews specifically address pet policies or pet-friendly features.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025