Hawley Creek Upper Campground

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Hawley Creek Upper Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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

No fees are charged for camping at Hawley Creek Upper Campground.
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About this campground

Tucked away in a serene mountain setting, Hawley Creek Upper Campground offers an intimate escape with just 6 well-spaced campsites, each thoughtfully equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring for those memorable evening gatherings under the stars. While this rustic retreat embraces simplicity with vault toilets and no potable water (so come prepared!), it serves as your gateway to incredible adventures. Cast a line into the pristine waters of Hawley Creek or its peaceful reservoir, where fish rise to meet the morning mist. For those seeking a challenge, the spectacular 2-mile Hawley Creek Trail beckons, climbing an impressive 1,000 feet through breathtaking terrain that rewards hikers with stunning vistas and a true sense of accomplishment.
Hawley Creek Upper Campground is a dispersed camping site with 6 campsites, suitable for tent camping and picnicking.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's dramatic seasonal theater at Hawley Creek, where winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland with snow-laden trees and temperatures that can plunge to a brisk 4°F - perfect for those who find magic in frosty mornings and pristine silence. As the seasons turn, summer unveils an entirely different paradise, blessing visitors with endless blue skies and gloriously comfortable days that reach a pleasant 79°F. With minimal summer rainfall, you'll enjoy day after day of perfect camping weather, whether you're hiking the trails, fishing the creek, or simply relaxing by your evening campfire.
ElevationAdventure seekers will find their hearts racing along with the terrain at Hawley Creek, where dramatic elevation changes create both challenge and reward. The crown jewel is the Hawley Creek Trail, an exhilarating ascent that climbs 1,000 vertical feet in just 2 miles - a true test of determination that delivers increasingly spectacular views with every switchback. This significant elevation gain transforms a simple hike into an unforgettable journey through changing ecosystems and perspectives.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the diverse tapestry of the Salmon-Challis National Forest, where rolling grasslands give way to dense forest groves in a stunning display of nature's artistry. This remarkable landscape showcases the rugged beauty of Idaho's wilderness, with open meadows that dance in the mountain breeze transitioning seamlessly into shaded forest sanctuaries. The interplay of these ecosystems creates a rich habitat for wildlife and offers campers an ever-changing backdrop of natural splendor throughout their stay.
Geological RegionSalmon-Challis National Forest

Campsite details

AccessibilityNo accessibility features are mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of 6 campsites, though specific sizes of these sites are not mentioned.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels of campsites are not described in the provided information.
Total Campsites6 campsites

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Open 24 hours/day
Check-out
Open 24 hours/day
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 consists of 6 dispersed sites equipped with picnic tables and fire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from 5/15 to the end of the season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made as this campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers recreational opportunities including picnicking and fishing. The nearby Hawley Creek and reservoir provide fishing options, and there is a challenging hiking trail for enthusiasts.
Hiking
The Hawley Creek Trail, less than 2 miles long, is described as difficult due to its elevation gain of over 1000 feet. Motorized vehicles such as ATVs and motorcycles are permitted on the trail but not off-trail. Additionally, there is a spur trail connecting to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
Fishing
Fishing is available nearby in Hawley Creek and the reservoir.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings provided at each campsite.

Hazards

General hazardsRapid elevation gain on the trail can be challenging. Lack of potable water requires campers to bring their own.

Weather forecast

75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 26%

Very dry conditions, stay hydrated

Wind: 10.9 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Overcast
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Temperature Trends

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Good to know

Trash and recyclingVisitors are instructed to pack out their trash as no trash or recycling facilities are available.
Proximity to water featuresHawley Creek and its reservoir are located nearby, offering fishing opportunities.

Campground Map

Driving directionsThe Hawley Creek Campground is 8 miles southeast of Leadore. Follow Highway 29 east of Leadore, 1 and 1/4 mile, turn right on the county dirt road and go 6 miles to the junction, Forest Service Road #275. Follow road 4 and 1/2 miles east up Hawley Creek to Hawley Creek Upper Campground on the right.
The campground is accessed via a county dirt road and requires traveling 4.5 miles on Forest Service Road #275. The road and terrain may be challenging for standard vehicles.
Nearby places
Leadore: 8 miles southeast

Camper Reviews

0.0
0 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Hawley Creek Upper Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews are included in the provided materials.
Review Summaries

What Campers Love

Positive aspects mentioned in the authoritative sources include fishing opportunities, challenging hiking trails, and the presence of picnic tables and fire rings.

Common Concerns

Potential downsides based on authoritative content include the lack of potable water and trash facilities.

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers should bring their own potable water and ensure they pack out their trash. The hiking trail is challenging, so appropriate gear and preparation are recommended.

Seasonal Insights

No seasonal reviews are provided in the source materials.

Camper Quotes

No direct quotes from user reviews are included.

Site-Specific Reviews

No site-specific reviews or evaluations are provided in the materials.

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews or details regarding pet policies or experiences are included.

Last updated August 10, 2025

Campgrounds
Salmon-Challis National Forest
Hawley Creek Upper Campground