Mcdonald Flat Campground
00 reviewMcdonald Flat 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 stated for reserving campsites at McDonald Flat Campground.
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About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of Panther Creek, McDonald Flat Campground offers an intimate escape into Idaho's wilderness with just six secluded campsites. At 5,400 feet elevation, this hidden gem welcomes adventurers seeking solitude and world-class trout fishing. The campground's modest size creates a peaceful atmosphere where the sound of rushing creek water serves as nature's soundtrack. Though compact, the facility thoughtfully accommodates trailers up to 20 feet, making it accessible for those who prefer a few creature comforts while exploring the backcountry.
Mcdonald Flat Campground accommodates tent camping and trailer camping up to a maximum trailer length of 20 feet. The campground consists of 6 campsites along Panther Creek, offering a primitive camping experience.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of McDonald Flat may be sparse, the land tells its own timeless story through ancient pines and the ever-flowing waters of Panther Creek. This quiet corner of the Salmon-Challis National Forest has long served as a refuge for those seeking connection with the natural world, from early trappers and prospectors to modern-day outdoor enthusiasts.
Weather and SeasonsMcDonald Flat transforms dramatically with the seasons, offering visitors distinctly different experiences throughout the year. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for casting lines into Panther Creek or exploring nearby trails, with comfortable temperatures that invite evening campfire gatherings. As autumn arrives, crisp mountain air and changing foliage create a photographer's paradise. Winter blankets the campground in deep snow, turning the landscape into a pristine wonderland while temperatures plunge well below freezing. Spring emerges with wildflower blooms and snowmelt that swells the creek, creating ideal conditions for eager anglers.
ElevationPerched at 5,400 feet above sea level, McDonald Flat occupies that sweet spot where mountain air stays refreshingly cool even during summer's peak. This mid-elevation setting offers the best of both worlds: accessible enough to avoid extreme alpine conditions, yet high enough to escape the valley heat. The altitude creates perfect sleeping weather on summer nights and delivers spectacular star-gazing opportunities through the thin, clear mountain air. Visitors often find the elevation provides natural relief from allergies while offering commanding views of the surrounding peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Salmon-Challis National Forest embraces McDonald Flat in a tapestry of towering conifers, creating a natural cathedral of pine and fir. Panther Creek serves as the campground's centerpiece, its crystal-clear waters tumbling over smooth river rocks while providing habitat for native trout. Morning mist often rises from the creek, filtering through shafts of sunlight that pierce the forest canopy. Wildlife frequently visits the area, with deer browsing at dawn and dusk, while the observant camper might spot black bears foraging in distant meadows or hear the haunting call of elk echoing through the valleys.
Geological RegionMcDonald Flat rests within the rugged heart of the Salmon-Challis National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape of peaks, valleys, and rushing waterways. At 5,400 feet along Panther Creek, the campground showcases the region's characteristic granite formations weathered smooth by millennia of mountain streams. This corner of Idaho's wilderness represents millions of years of geological history, from volcanic activity to glacial carving, resulting in the spectacular mountainous terrain that defines the area today. The surrounding peaks tell stories of tectonic upheaval and erosion, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information available about accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate a maximum trailer length of 20 feet.
Sites PrivacyNo specific information available about campsite privacy.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommendations for specific sites are not provided.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsite ratings or popularity not mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours/day
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
No information available about group camping.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains 6 sites positioned along Panther Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open seasonally starting 5/25.
Reservation PlatformsReservation platforms not mentioned.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information regarding walk-up/first-come-first-served availability is provided.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not provided in the source materials.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Mcdonald Flat Campground can enjoy fishing in Panther Creek, a notable feature mentioned in the campground description. Picnicking is also available and categorized under single picnicking sites. Other recreational opportunities are not detailed.
Fishing
Fishing is an available activity with opportunities to catch 'wily trout' in Panther Creek as described in the campground details.Winter Activities
No information available about winter activities.Water Sports
No information available about non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policies mentioned.
- Quiet hours are No information regarding quiet hours.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards likely include wildlife and cold weather conditions during the off-season.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned in the source information.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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Temperature Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Salmon, located 24 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not explicitly provided.
Trash and recyclingNo information provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresSituated along Panther Creek.
Common complaintsNo common complaints have been reported.
HostHost details are not mentioned.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Salmon, go 24 miles west on Forest Road 030, and south on FR 055.
Road access to McDonald Flat Campground requires navigating Forest Road 030 and FR 055, which may involve unpaved sections. Seasonal closures are possible.Nearby places
Salmon (24 miles, approximately 30-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely available in Salmon, 24 miles away, which includes groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Mcdonald Flat Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are not available.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
No user reviews available to highlight positive aspects.
Common Concerns
No user reviews available to identify common complaints.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
No user reviews available to provide tips or recommendations.
Seasonal Insights
No user reviews available to analyze seasonal trends.
Camper Quotes
No user reviews available to extract direct quotes.
Site-Specific Reviews
No user reviews available to identify site-specific insights.
Accessibility Features
No user reviews available relating to accessibility.
Pet-Friendly Features
No user reviews available discussing pet policies or experiences.
Last updated August 10, 2025