North Fork (Id)
HWY 75 8 MILES NORTH OF KETCHUM, Ketchum, ID 83340, USA
North Fork (Id)
$22.00 - $44.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees depend on season and site type. Standard nonelectric sites are $22/day for first-come-first-served, increasing to $44/day during the peak...
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Standard Site Fee$22.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$22.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider928-537-8888camping@rrmofa.com
About this campground
Nestled alongside the rushing waters of Big Wood River, North Fork Campground invites adventurers into the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. This intimate mountain retreat features 27 thoughtfully spaced campsites connected by well-maintained gravel roads and convenient parking spurs. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear river, exploring scenic hiking trails, pedaling through mountain paths, or quietly observing the abundant wildlife, North Fork delivers an authentic wilderness experience. Essential amenities include fresh drinking water and clean vault toilets, while the absence of hookups preserves the site's natural character and peaceful ambiance.
North Fork Campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences. Family sites are available, some of which are first-come, first-served, while others can be reserved. Tent camping, RV camping, and sites with pull-through access are offered. No cabins or glamping options are available.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms North Fork into a cool mountain sanctuary where daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 78Β°F before dropping to a crisp 40Β°F under star-filled skies. The campground typically awakens from its winter slumber in late May, welcoming visitors through mid-September, though Mother Nature ultimately decides the exact opening and closing dates. These refreshing temperatures provide the perfect escape from summer heat, making every adventure more enjoyable.
ElevationPerched at 6,300 feet above sea level, North Fork Campground offers a true high-country experience where the air is crisp, the nights are cool, and the mountain atmosphere invigorates every breath. This elevated setting creates an ideal summer climate that keeps temperatures refreshingly mild, even during the warmest months, while surrounding peaks frame spectacular views in every direction.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of quaking aspens creates a natural canopy above the campground, their leaves dancing in the mountain breeze and painting shadows across the forest floor. Towering pines add their evergreen presence to this woodland tapestry, while summer brings bursts of colorful wildflowers that carpet the meadows. Along the riverbank, graceful willows and native grasses sway gently, creating a serene buffer between campsites and the melodic Big Wood River that provides both a soothing soundtrack and stunning backdrop to your mountain getaway.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic landscape of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, North Fork Campground serves as your basecamp for exploring one of Idaho's most spectacular mountain regions. The Big Wood River carves its path through this rugged terrain, creating a ribbon of life that sustains the surrounding forests of aspen and pine. This diverse ecosystem encompasses soaring mountain peaks, babbling streams, and an extensive network of trails that reveal the area's geological wonders and natural beauty at every turn.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has gravel roads and parking spurs, which may provide limited accessibility for those with mobility challenges. Specific accessibility features were not detailed in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campsites vary in size, accommodating everything from small tents to larger RVs and trailers. Some double sites are available and can accommodate multiple vehicles and camping units.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are generally well-spaced, offering good privacy. However, some sites closer to the road may experience less privacy due to proximity to traffic. Reviewers noted that "the campsites are spaced apart to provide visual and noise separation."
Total Campsites27 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSelect sites closer to Big Wood River to minimize highway noise. Double sites are ideal for larger groups or multiple vehicles.
Best CampsitesSites #21 and #22 are praised for excellent river proximity and tranquil ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum permitted stay is 10 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single camping unit per site for standard family sites. Double sites allow up to two camping units.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are laid out in loops. Some are pull-through for RVs; others are more secluded for tents and smaller vehicles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 23 - September 18 (reservable), September 19 - September 30 (first-come-first-served), closed outside these windows.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov online, mobile app, or phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served availability offered during September and May shoulder seasons. Sites must be booked in person; phone inquiries about availability are discouraged.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations allowed anytime before scheduled arrival with a $10 cancellation fee + forfeiture of reservation fees. Late cancellations (within 24 hours for individual sites) incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The North Fork Campground offers a plethora of recreational activities. Popular options include hiking, biking, fishing, tubing, and wildlife viewing. The Harriman Trail runs alongside the campground, providing access to additional trails leading to lakes, canyons, and high-country fishing spots. The nearby Big Wood River is well-loved for fly-fishing opportunities and tubing. 'The Harriman trail was great for the beginners in our group,' one reviewer noted, highlighting the diverse trail experiences.
Hiking
The Harriman Trail, a 20-mile multi-use trail, passes through the campground. It connects to several other trails leading to lakes, canyons, and high-country fishing areas, offering varying levels of difficulty.Fishing
Fly-fishing is a major draw, with opportunities to catch rainbow, brown, and brook trout in the Big Wood River. Some reviewers highlighted their success with fishing, such as one who caught 'two nice rainbows' with a fly rod.Swimming
While there is no designated swimming area in the campground, the Big Wood River offers spots for wading and tubing. Easley Hot Springs, located 6 miles north, also provides a swimming pool.Biking
Biking is highly recommended, especially along the Harriman Trail. The trail offers beginner-friendly sections as well as more advanced routes around Galena Lodge.Wildlife viewing
Common wildlife sightings include snowshoe hares and other local fauna. Many reviewers enjoyed the natural setting and the chance to see wildlife.Water Sports
Tubing is a popular water-based activity on the Big Wood River, with several areas offering easy access for this recreational option.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are restricted to designated fire pits. Firewood bundles are available for $10.
- Quiet hours enforced, typically between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of bears necessitates proper food storage. Mosquitoes prevalent during summer mornings and evenings near water.
Weather forecast
27
Β°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Sawtooth National Recreation Area Visitor Center (0.5 miles) provides area information and RV dump station; Blaine County Hospital (~15 minutes in Ketchum).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 18, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available on-site. Recycling facilities were not mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresCampground lies adjacent to Big Wood River. Sites #21 and #22 have direct river access.
Common complaintsSome users report highway noise and occasional site size discrepancies for large RVs.
HostHosts are noted for their friendliness and helpfulness. Jane, Carl, and Rich were mentioned specifically as excellent hosts.
Campground Map
HWY 75 8 MILES NORTH OF KETCHUM, Ketchum, ID 83340, USA
Driving directionsFrom Ketchum, Idaho, travel approximately 8 miles north on Highway 75. Campground is on the west side of the road.
Roads and parking spurs are gravel. Roads are accessible but lack pavement. Seasonal changes may affect road quality; travelers are advised to call ahead for weather-related closures.Nearby places
Ketchum (8 miles, ~15 minutes), Sun Valley (~20 minutes), Stanley (~1 hour), Redfish Lake (~1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies available in Ketchum (~15 minutes). Easley Hot Springs (6 miles) offers showers and small store for essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.6
90 reviews
North Fork (Id) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews for North Fork Campground are highly positive, with frequent praise for the friendly and helpful camp hosts, clean facilities, and serene natural surroundings. Some concerns about road noise and the size of certain campsites were noted, but these did not significantly detract from the experience for most visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 90 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly praised aspects include the cleanliness of the facilities, the helpfulness of the camp hosts, and the proximity to recreational opportunities such as the Harriman Trail and Big Wood River....
Based on 90 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns include occasional road noise, limited cell service, and some sites being smaller than expected for larger RVs or trailers. A few users mentioned difficulties with the reservation system.
Based on 90 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend choosing campsites closer to the river to minimize road noise and enjoy the soothing sound of flowing water. Bringing mosquito repellent during summer months and preparing for no...
Based on 90 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season, with most reviews highlighting the comfortable temperatures, recreational opportunities, and vibrant natural scenery.
Based on 90 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The pit toilet bathrooms are probably cleaner than your bathroom at home.' 2. 'The Harriman trail was great for the beginners in our group.' 3. 'The camp host was the absolute friendliest and...
Based on 90 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites near the river, such as #22, are highly recommended for their proximity to water and added privacy. Some sites, like #18, received mixed feedback due to their size and configuration.
Based on 90 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific feedback from users with disabilities was noted; most comments focused on general site accessibility.
Based on 90 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, and several reviewers mentioned bringing their dogs along for the trip. 'It was a quick stroll to the river to let the dogs swim,' one user remarked.
Based on 90 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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