Grouse Campground
4.4834 reviews102 LAKE STREET, P.O.BOX 1026, MCCALL, ID, 83638, USA
Grouse Campground
$10.00 - $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
Site rates are $15 per night for standard non-electric sites during peak season, and $10 for lower-tier sites. Additional fees may apply for reservations made online, through the contact center, or in-person. Discounts for seniors and pass holders limited to recreation use fees.
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About this campground
Escape to Grouse Campground, where the tranquil shores of Goose Lake meet the majestic Salmon River Mountains just 16 miles from McCall, Idaho. This serene mountain retreat combines modern conveniences with pristine wilderness, featuring well-maintained vault toilets, fresh drinking water, and smooth gravel roads that wind through towering evergreens. Launch your canoe or kayak from the convenient boat ramp for early morning paddles across mirror-like waters, cast a line for native trout, or explore miles of scenic trails on foot or horseback. Whether you're seeking solitude beneath star-filled skies or adventure in Idaho's backcountry, Grouse Campground delivers an authentic mountain experience.
Grouse Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and first-come, first-served sites. It also offers accessible single and double-family sites.
Historical SignificanceWhile Grouse Campground's recorded history may be modest, these lands have long served as a gateway to Idaho's wilderness heritage, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have found respite and renewal in the shadow of the Salmon River Mountains.
Weather and SeasonsAt this mountain elevation, expect refreshingly cool mornings that give way to pleasantly warm afternoons throughout summer, with temperatures that provide welcome relief from valley heat. Evening brings crisp mountain air perfect for campfire gatherings. While the lakeside location creates ideal conditions for wildlife viewing and water activities, visitors should note that seasonal mosquito populations thrive near the water during peak summer months—pack your insect repellent to ensure maximum comfort during your stay.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,500 feet above sea level in the heart of the Salmon River Mountains, Grouse Campground offers that perfect high-country atmosphere where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and every breath feels like pure mountain medicine.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an alpine wonderland where towering Engelmann spruce and lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral around your campsite, their branches filtering golden sunlight into dappled patterns on the forest floor. At 6,500 feet elevation, Grouse Campground showcases the Salmon River Mountains in all their glory, with Goose Lake serving as a sparkling centerpiece that reflects surrounding peaks and passing clouds. Come summer, the understory explodes with vibrant wildflowers—Indian paintbrush, lupine, and mountain asters—transforming the landscape into nature's own impressionist painting.
Geological RegionGrouse Campground sits within the dramatic Salmon River Mountain range, a geological masterpiece sculpted over millennia at 6,500 feet elevation. This remarkable landscape supports a thriving ecosystem of Engelmann spruce and lodgepole pines that provide natural shelter and partial shade throughout the campground. The volcanic and granitic origins of these mountains have created the perfect conditions for diverse plant life, including spectacular summer wildflower displays that carpet meadows and forest clearings in a rainbow of alpine blooms.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAll campsites are accessible. The campground includes accessible pit toilets and a horse-unloading ramp.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size; however, specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacySites are described as quiet and secluded with plenty of room between spots. However, some sites may lack adequate space for tent setup according to reviewers.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for sites near the lake for better views. Reviews recommend avoiding late-night arrivals due to road challenges.
Best CampsitesSites 019 and 020 have received positive reviews for their amenities and proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number not specified.
Groups
Group sites are not explicitly described in the source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutGravel roads and parking spurs. Sites include fire pits and picnic tables.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from July 1st to September 15th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, through the app, or by scanning on-site QR codes using the Scan and Pay feature.
Walk-in AvailabilityApproximately half of the sites are first-come, first-served as per user reviews. The Scan and Pay system allows payment on-site for these sites.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (starting midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Grouse Campground offers various recreational activities including canoeing, kayaking, fishing for rainbow and brook trout, hiking, horseback riding, dirt biking, biking, boating, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Goose Lake and trails like Granite Mountain Lookout and Goose Creek Falls provides diverse outdoor opportunities.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are available nearby, including Granite Mountain Lookout and Goose Creek Falls. These trails offer varying difficulty levels and scenic views.Fishing
Fishing is available in Goose Lake, primarily for rainbow and brook trout. However, reviewers note mixed experiences, with some finding better fishing in nearby creeks.Swimming
Swimming is available at Goose Lake and noted by users who described enjoying splashing around near the boat ramp.Biking
Brundage Mountain Resort offers lift-served mountain biking opportunities adjacent to the campground.Boating
Goose Lake is a no-wake lake allowing non-motorized boating like canoeing and kayaking. Docking facilities are available.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include free-range cattle and occasional visits by bears. Campers emphasize the importance of securing food at night.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described, but the elevation of 6,500 feet and nearby Brundage Mountain Resort may offer potential snow sports opportunities.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are mentioned as popular activities on Goose Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire bans may apply. Fires should only be built in designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquito swarms are mentioned in several reviews. Bears have been reported near campsites, emphasizing the need for secure food storage.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services are located in McCall, Idaho (16 miles away). Specific details about nearby hospitals or police stations are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1st through September 15th.
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates on a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy, so campers must bring garbage bags and take their trash with them.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the shores of Goose Lake, suitable for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews highlight mosquito issues, challenging road access, lack of tent pads, and uneven ground in certain campsites.
HostThe camp host, Jill, receives glowing praise for her friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness.
Campground Map
102 LAKE STREET, P.O.BOX 1026, MCCALL, ID, 83638, USA
Driving directionsFrom McCall, Idaho, travel north on Highway 55 for 5 miles to Goose Lake Road/Brundage Mountain Resort Road/Forest Road 257. Turn right and travel up the winding two-lane paved road approximately 4 miles, where the roadway turns to a gravel surface. Travel another 6.5 miles to the Grouse Campground turnoff and continue to the campground.
The road access is challenging, involving a winding two-lane paved road transitioning to a gravel dirt road for the last 6.5 miles. User reviews note that the road is washboarded and steep in places, particularly difficult at night. For example, Scott Jones mentions: '6.5 mile dirt/gravel/washboard road in. At night DON’T miss the quick right turn into the campground just past the creek and cattle bridge.'Nearby places
McCall, Idaho (16 miles, approximately 30-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available in McCall, Idaho, which is 16 miles away. Specific supply locations are not detailed.
Camper Reviews
4.5
34 reviews
Grouse Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users consistently describe Grouse Campground as peaceful, scenic, and well-maintained, with a welcoming camp host and clean facilities. However, road conditions, mosquitoes, and difficulty in tent setup are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's cleanliness, scenic views, proximity to Goose Lake, well-maintained vault toilets, and a friendly, knowledgeable camp host named Jill. Reviewers also...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include swarms of mosquitoes, challenging road conditions leading to the campground, and the lack of established tent pads making setup difficult.
Based on 34 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing mosquito repellent, downloading the Recreation.gov app for payment, securing food due to bear activity, and preparing for uneven tent setups. Arriving early or mid-week...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season for camping at Grouse Campground, with reviews highlighting the abundance of wildflowers, wildlife, and recreational activities. However, this period also sees...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Great spot. Be advised, 6.5 mile dirt/gravel/washboard road in.' - Scott Jones
- 'Most sites are good... next time if it’s dark we will spend the night at the boat ramp as you will most likely...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews include:
- Site 019: Clean vault toilets, mosquito issues, scenic views. Rated 3 by PAM B.
- Site 014: General cleanliness, some campers ignoring fire bans. Rated 3 by ANICA...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are frequently praised, with all campsites being accessible and vault toilets designed for ease of use.
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet reviews are not explicitly provided, but the campground's pet policy and rural setting suggest it is pet-friendly.
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025