Chaparral Campground
4.6210 reviews102 First Street East, Fairfield, ID 83327
Chaparral Campground
$6.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$6.00
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
Fees are charged from mid-May through October 31st. Single sites cost $6/night, and double sites cost $12/night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass provides a 50% discount for single campsites occupied by the pass holder. Payment must be made with cash or check.
About this campground
Escape to Chaparral Campground, where the rhythmic sounds of the South Fork Boise River create nature's perfect soundtrack for your camping adventure. This intimate, first-come-first-served gem features just 7 single sites and 3 double sites, ensuring a peaceful retreat far from the crowds. Here, you'll discover the authentic Idaho wilderness experience, where mornings begin with birdsong and evenings end with stars reflected in the gentle river currents.
Chaparral Campground caters to tent and RV campers with its mix of 7 single sites and 3 double sites. No group-specific sites, cabins, or luxury camping options such as glamping are mentioned.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations at Chaparral, where each season paints the landscape with its own unique palette. Summer brings crystal-clear skies and warm, golden days perfect for river activities and hiking. As autumn arrives, the forest erupts in amber and crimson hues while crisp air signals cozy campfire evenings. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-draped wonderland, offering solitude for the hardy adventurer. Spring's arrival brings wildflowers and the exciting rush of snowmelt feeding the river.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a pristine forest sanctuary where towering pines and firs create a natural cathedral above your campsite. The South Fork Boise River winds gracefully through the landscape, its clear waters offering glimpses of native trout and providing a refreshing respite on warm afternoons. Ancient trees filter dappled sunlight onto the forest floor, where wildflowers bloom in season and wildlife tracks tell stories of the night's visitors. This tranquil haven feels worlds away from civilization, yet remains easily accessible for your perfect forest escape.
Geological RegionNestled within the majestic Sawtooth National Forest, Chaparral Campground sits in a remarkable geological wonderland shaped by millennia of river flow and volcanic activity. The South Fork Boise River has carved its path through ancient granite formations, creating a diverse riverine ecosystem that supports everything from towering conifers to delicate riparian plants. This dynamic landscape showcases the raw beauty of Idaho's central mountains, where the forces of water and stone continue their eternal dance, creating new wonders with each passing season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information provided about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of 7 single sites and 3 double sites. Reviews highlight some sites as being "big" and suitable for both RV and tent camping.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy details are not explicitly mentioned. However, a user review suggests that "all spots [are] within walking distance to the river and outhouses," indicating proximity between sites.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor family-friendly options, sites near gentle river areas are recommended.
Best CampsitesExact site numbers not mentioned, but pull-through options near the river seem popular.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- Seasonal operation May-September
- fees apply mid-May through end of October.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Pets must be leashed or contained within campsites.
Groups
No designated group camping sites or associated details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are along the river, with single and double site configurations.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May-September, fees charged mid-May through October 31.
Reservation PlatformsPotential reservation fees apply; no platform details available.
Walk-in AvailabilityUser reports suggest that some sites are taken with equipment but not physically occupied, indicating potential first-come first-served availability.
Cancellation PolicyNo explicit details on cancellation rules provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Chaparral Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities that align with its riverside location. "Hiking, tubing, and fishing are popular activities" among campers. Additionally, picnicking and day hikes are listed as available activities in authoritative sources.
Hiking
Hiking is encouraged with trails suitable for day hikes. Specific details of trail difficulty or length are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is identified as a key activity along the South Fork of the Boise River. No additional specifics about fish types or fishing conditions are provided.Winter Activities
No information provided about winter activities.Water Sports
Aside from tubing in the river, other water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- All campfires must be attended.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include proximity to the river which may pose risks for toddlers and pets.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.9 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
Fairfield Ranger District Office (102 First Street East Fairfield, ID 83327, phone: 208-764-3202) for ranger services; nearest hospital or major emergency service unknown.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-May through October 31.
Trash and recyclingA dumpster is available on-site for trash disposal, as mentioned in a user review: "Also has a dumpster on site so you don't take your trash home." No information about recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated alongside the South Fork of the Boise River, offering easy access for tubing and fishing.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of water spigots onsite, no cooking grates on fire pits, and some sites being 'reserved' with equipment but unoccupied by people.
HostMixed reviews regarding camp host behavior; some describe hosts as friendly while others report hostility.
Campground Map
102 First Street East, Fairfield, ID 83327
Driving directionsFrom Highway 20, travel north on Forest Highway 61 (Pine-Featherville Road) approximately 30 miles to the town of Featherville. From there, travel east on Forest Road 227 approximately 3 miles to Chaparral Campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads until Featherville, after which it transitions to Forest Road 227, which is unpaved and may be seasonally contingent.Nearby places
Featherville (3 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Fairfield (approximately 33 miles, 50 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Nearest potable water is located 9 miles to the east, just outside of Baumgartner Campground gates along Forest Road #071. Additional supplies available in Featherville or Fairfield.
Camper Reviews
4.6
10 reviews
Chaparral Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Chaparral Campground generally praise its peaceful atmosphere, cleanliness, and proximity to the Boise River. Commonly mentioned highlights include clean bathrooms, family-friendly amenities, and scenic views. However, complaints include the absence of potable water, fire pit grates, and issues with site management.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
"Quiet and peaceful campground" with clean bathroom facilities. "The camp hosts were so nice and friendly that we have already made a planned trip back." Other highlights include "good spots to park...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
"No water spigots (that I saw anyway) and the fire pits didn't have grates for you to cook over." One reviewer noted long-term occupancy issues: "All sites were taken, but many were taken with just...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water supply as potable water is unavailable. Plan for alternative cooking methods, as fire pits lack grates. Arrive early to secure a site, especially during peak times.
Based on 10 reviewsSeasonal Insights
User reviews highlight that the campground is busiest during peak summer months, with reservations or early arrival recommended to secure a spot. Cleanliness and management experiences appear to vary...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"I hate to share this campground with others because I want it to be all mine ;)" "The river was gentle enough to build a small 'pool' out of rocks to keep kids and dogs from washing down."...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific observations include: "Pull-through campsites located right next to the river," and reports of long-term occupation of specific sites without active use, as noted by one reviewer.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews explicitly address accessibility features or challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed or contained within campsites. A user review praised the campground's suitability for pets: "The river was gentle enough to keep kids and dogs safe."
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025