How much does camping cost at Hawley Creek Lower Campground?

Camping fees at Hawley Creek Lower Campground range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Hawley Creek Lower Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Hawley Creek Lower Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

What is the best time to visit Hawley Creek Lower Campground?

Hawley Creek Lower Campground is open null. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Hawley Creek Lower Campground?

Hawley Creek Lower Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Hawley Creek Lower Campground?

Fire policies at Hawley Creek Lower Campground: null. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Hawley Creek Lower Campground have?

Hawley Creek Lower Campground has 4 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Hawley Creek Lower Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Hawley Creek Lower Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What activities can I do at Hawley Creek Lower Campground?

Popular activities at Hawley Creek Lower Campground include Hiking, Fishing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Hawley Creek Lower Campground

5.00

7 reviews

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Peace & QuietFishing

Featured in:Fall Camping Idaho Fishing Idaho Hiking Camping Idaho +6 more

Quick Facts

6,732 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Open season starts M...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Set up an alert →Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,732 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Open season starts M...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Set up an alert →Official Website

Get Directions

Hawley Creek Lower Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The campground has no fees associated with its use, making it a cost-free option for visitors.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

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

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What Campers Say

5.00

Top-Rated

Based on 7 reviews

5 Google reviews

Most mentioned

location

"Users generally praised the campground for its fishing opportunities and quiet environment, with one user calling it 'the greatest place in Idaho to fish and camp.'"

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Campground Map

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Hawley Creek Lower Campground

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Nearby places

Leadore, 8 miles southeast

Nearby supplies

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Best Time to Camp at Hawley Creek Lower Campground

Summer brings the most reliable access and pleasant conditions at this elevation. Daytime highs typically reach the mid-60s to mid-70s, while nights drop into the 30s and 40s. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Late spring sees comfortable temperatures and dry air, though snow lingers into May some years. Winter is harsh, with deep snow and frigid temperatures making the campground inaccessible.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open from May 15; fishing and hiking are available and well-liked in summer.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season starts May 15.
Current Alerts: null

About Hawley Creek Lower Campground

Hawley Creek Lower Campground sits at 6,732 feet in the Salmon-Challis National Forest near Leadore, offering four primitive sites for campers seeking quiet and good fishing. The campground provides access to Hawley Creek and a nearby reservoir, plus a spur trail that connects to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. No amenities, no fees, no crowds.

The campground primarily supports dispersed camping with 4 sites available for use. No details are provided about other accommodations such as RV or group camping.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable access and pleasant conditions at this elevation. Daytime highs typically reach the mid-60s to mid-70s, while nights drop into the 30s and 40s. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Late spring sees comfortable temperatures and dry air, though snow lingers into May some years. Winter is harsh, with deep snow and frigid temperatures making the campground inaccessible.

ElevationPrepare for a heart-pumping adventure on the Hawley Creek Trail, where ambitious hikers conquer more than 1,000 feet of elevation gain in under two miles. This steep ascent challenges even seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, rewarding their efforts with increasingly spectacular views as they climb higher into the mountain landscape. Each switchback brings a new perspective, making the demanding trek an unforgettable test of endurance and determination.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a transitional zone where rolling grasslands meet mountain terrain. Hawley Creek runs through the area, and a reservoir sits nearby. Elevation changes reveal open meadows at higher points, with streams carving ribbons of riparian habitat through the landscape. The forest's varied topography includes gentle meadows and steeper mountain slopes, with the dramatic geology of central Idaho visible in the ridges and valleys.

Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of the Salmon-Challis National Forest, this campground showcases the remarkable geological diversity of central Idaho. The landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient forces carved valleys and lifted peaks to create today's dramatic terrain. Rolling grasslands carpet the higher elevations, while life-giving streams have etched their paths through the terrain, creating ribbons of riparian habitat. The forest's varied topography includes everything from gentle meadows to challenging mountain slopes, with hidden reservoirs tucked into natural basins throughout the region.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Open 24 hours/day.

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

Null

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutFour primitive sites, dispersed layout. No description of spacing or terrain between sites.

Reservation Platformsnull

Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cancellation Policynull

Site SizeSites are not described in terms of size.

PrivacyPrivacy levels for the campsites are not described.

Total Campsites4 campsites

Recommended Sitesnull

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers fishing in Hawley Creek and the nearby reservoir, with hunting and picnicking available. The Hawley Creek Trail, less than 2 miles long, is a challenging hike with an elevation gain of over 1,000 feet and connects to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. Motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail but not off-trail. Reviews emphasize the area's rich history and the quality of fishing.

Hiking

Fishing

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsElevation gain on trails and lack of potable water may pose challenges. Users should plan for frigid conditions during the winter.

Active Alertsnull

Weather at Hawley Creek Lower Campground

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources

5.0

7 reviews

Top-Rated

Hawley Creek Lower Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Users generally praised the campground for its fishing opportunities and quiet environment, with one user calling it 'the greatest place in Idaho to fish and camp.'

Review Summaries

Based on 7 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback predominantly mentions excellent fishing opportunities and the natural beauty of the location. The site's connection to local history is also appreciated.

Based on 7 reviews