Timber Creek Campground
03 reviewsTimber Creek Campground
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
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
"Campsites are $5 per night per single unit, with a 50% discount available for Interagency Senior and Access Recreation Pass holders for sites occupied by the pass holder." Payment is accepted via cash or check.
About this campground
Nestled deep within a pristine forest where two babbling creeks converge, Timber Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This intimate 12-site retreat embraces the raw beauty of nature, where towering conifers create a natural cathedral and the rustic atmosphere invites you to disconnect from the modern world. Perfect for family reunions or group adventures, the open layout encourages community while the surrounding wilderness provides endless exploration opportunities.
Timber Creek Campground offers rustic camping accommodations in a heavily wooded setting with 12 combined-use sites that can accommodate tents and smaller RVs. Equestrian facilities are limited to a horse hitch rail and unloading ramp.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 8,000 feet, Timber Creek experiences the dramatic moods of mountain weather, from crisp morning mists to afternoon thundershowers that refresh the forest. The campground awakens each year on May 20th as wildflowers begin their alpine dance, remaining open through September 30th when golden aspens signal autumn's arrival. Summer nights require warm layers as temperatures dip deliciously cool, perfect for campfire gatherings under star-studded skies.
ElevationAt 8,000 feet above sea level, Timber Creek Campground sits in that sweet spot where the air is refreshingly thin and the views stretch endlessly. This high-altitude haven offers cooler temperatures and that distinctive mountain atmosphere where every breath feels cleaner and every sunrise more spectacular.
Natural Features and SceneryTwo crystalline creeks frame this enchanting campground, their gentle music providing nature's soundtrack to your stay. Majestic mixed conifers—including stately pines, firs, and spruces—create a living tapestry of greens that shift with the changing light. The journey here is half the adventure, winding through scenic mountain roads dotted with hidden dispersed camping spots that tempt you to explore further into this untamed landscape.
Geological RegionTimber Creek Campground rests within the magnificent expanse of the Salmon-Challis National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of rugged beauty. The twin creeks that embrace the campground have carved their paths through millennia, creating a lush riparian corridor amidst the mixed conifer forest that characterizes this remarkable region of central Idaho's wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes one accessible vault toilet. However, the rugged and narrow roads leading to the campground may pose challenges for some visitors with mobility issues.
Sites SizeParking aprons measure 13' x 33' and are composed of dirt and rock. Low overhanging branches may restrict larger RV access.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is heavily wooded, but user reviews mention that there is little privacy between campsites due to the layout.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
16 Days
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutOne large and one small loop.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 20th through September 30th (weather dependent).
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in AvailabilityYes, all sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Timber Creek Campground provides opportunities for various outdoor activities including picnicking, fishing, horseback riding, and OHV road riding. The surrounding area offers scenic views and dispersed camping along the drive to the campground.
Fishing
Fishing is available in nearby rivers and streams. Notable catches include Rainbow, Brook, and Bull trout, with a catch-and-release policy in place for some species.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, and the campground is open seasonally between May 20 and September 30.Water Sports
No water sports, such as kayaking or canoeing, are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed following forest regulations.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity requires safe food storage. The road to the campground has potholes and low overhanging branches, which can pose challenges for vehicles.
Active alertsNo potable water available for the summer of 2025.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates on a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy, meaning there are no dedicated trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresFlanked by two creeks, nearby Mill Creek Lake.
Common complaints"The main road entering the canyon needs some attention (lots of rain-related potholes)." — User reviews. Minimal privacy between sites.
Hostnull
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Mackay, take US Highway 93 south of Mackay 7 miles to the Pass Creek Road. Turn left on the Pass Creek Road. Follow this road 28 miles to the Little Lost/Pahsimeroi Road. Turn left on the Little Lost/Pahsimeroi Road. Follow this road 0.2 miles to the Sawmill Canyon Road. Turn right on the Sawmill Canyon Road and follow this road to the Timber Creek Road. Turn left on the Timber Creek Road and follow this road to the Timber Creek Campground Road. Turn left on this road and follow it to the campground.
"The road to the campground is gravel and single-lane with turnouts, and the drive is expected to take about 2.5 hours due to road conditions. Bring a spare tire and tools." The entrance to the canyon has rain-related potholes, making it challenging for some vehicles.Nearby places
Mackay, 35 miles.
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Timber Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the rustic charm and scenic beauty of Timber Creek Campground, as well as its clean facilities and spacious sites. However, the challenging access road and reduced tree cover due to disease or storm damage are commonly mentioned drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
- 'Spacious sites, plenty of room for tents and extra vehicles.'
- 'Bathrooms were cleaned every day from camp hosts.'
- Scenic drive to the campground, with dispersed camping opportunities along the...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- 'The main road entering the canyon needs some attention (lots of rain-related potholes).'
- Low overhanging branches and the narrow roadway can make access difficult for larger vehicles.
- 'Some of...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring cash or checks for the $5 nightly fee as no card payment options are available.
- Prepare for a long drive through gravel roads; ensure your vehicle has a spare tire and tools.
- Practice...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews are generally positive during the summer months, but access challenges are exacerbated during or following rain due to potholes on the road.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms were cleaned every day from camp hosts.'
2. 'Spacious sites, plenty of room for tents and extra vehicles.'
3. 'The main road entering the canyon needs some attention.'
Based on 3 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite numbers are reviewed in detail, but several users mention that the sites are spacious and suitable for tents and extra vehicles.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific feedback from users with disabilities, though the accessible vault toilet is a noted feature.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews mention pet policies or pet-related experiences.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025