Thompson Flat
4.3635 reviews2306 Hiland Ave, Burley, ID, 83318, USA
Thompson Flat
$8.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly rates vary based on site type and season. Individual sites range from $8-$16, while group sites are $50 per night.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Idaho's Albion Mountain Range, Thompson Flat Campground beckons adventurers with its stunning wildflower meadows, pristine alpine lakes, and miles of scenic trails. This mountain sanctuary offers a perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness, with both reservable sites for planners and first-come, first-served spots for spontaneous explorers seeking refuge among the peaks.
Thompson Flat Campground supports primitive camping with no water, electricity, or sewer hookups. Tent, RV, and group camping are available. "Group Standard Nonelectric" sites accommodate up to 64 people.
Historical SignificanceStep into the rich tapestry of Idaho's past at Thompson Flat, where the nearby Mount Harrison Lookout stands as a sentinel of forest service history, complete with interpretive displays that tell the story of early fire watchers. The campground serves as a gateway to the legendary City of Rocks, where pioneer wagons once rolled along the California Trail, leaving their marks—and sometimes their names—carved into ancient stone spires.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the high country at Thompson Flat. Summer visitors are rewarded with surprisingly comfortable temperatures even in July's peak heat, while autumn paints the landscape in brilliant golds and crimsons. Winter's grip can linger here—snow often blankets the ground until Independence Day, creating a unique alpine experience where spring wildflowers might bloom alongside melting snowfields.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,400 feet above sea level, Thompson Flat offers a true high-altitude escape where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly, and summer temperatures provide blessed relief from valley heat. This alpine setting means cooler nights perfect for campfires and clear days ideal for mountain adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 8,400 feet, Thompson Flat unfolds as a natural amphitheater where wildflower-studded meadows meet towering stands of pine and fir. The campground rests in a peaceful clearing where summer brings explosions of lupine, paintbrush, and mountain daisies, all framed by the majestic eastern slopes of Mount Harrison rising dramatically against the sky.
Geological RegionThompson Flat claims its spectacular setting within southern Idaho's Albion Mountain Range, a geological wonderland where ancient granite peaks pierce the sky. Here, glacial forces have carved out gentle meadows now carpeted with wildflowers, while stately pines and firs create a natural cathedral. The commanding presence of Mount Harrison's eastern face provides an ever-changing backdrop of light and shadow throughout the day.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are accessible. Gravel roads and parking spurs may challenge campers with mobility restrictions.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and spacious, offering plenty of room for campers, as per Michelle Ekins (2020). However, some slants and tight spaces may pose challenges for larger rigs (30'+), as noted by Corey House (2022).
Sites PrivacySites provide good separation between neighbors. "Large space between campsites" was highlighted by Joyce A H (2020). Loop A and Loop C are noted for privacy.
Total Campsites28 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor large rigs, spots like 2 may not be suitable due to slanting driveways. Loop C is noted for first-come availability, while A and B loops appear reserved for group sites.
Best CampsitesGroup sites are noted for their spaciousness. Loop C is recommended for first-come, first-served campers, and spot 4 is praised for privacy and access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in policies begin at reservation start date
- specific time is not mentioned.
Check-out
- Check-out policies require vacating by the reservation's end date
- specific time is not mentioned.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific details provided about maximum guests per site for individual campsites.
Groups
Three group sites are available, accommodating between 40 to 64 people. Reservations are required for these sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes three group sites accommodating 40-64 people, four reservable single and double units, and 17 single-family sites available on a first-come basis.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season begins July 13 and ends September 30 (reservable dates). Campground may be snow-covered and closed until after July 4.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, its app, or the contact center.
Walk-in Availability17 single-family campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis while group sites must be reserved.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before the scheduled arrival. Fees include a $10 cancellation fee, reservation fees, any prior change fees, and forfeiture of the first night's use fee for late cancellations. Late cancellations begin at midnight the day before the arrival date for individual sites and 14 calendar days for group sites.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Thompson Flat offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, horseback riding, biking, and wildlife viewing. Lake Cleveland, located two miles away, features options for fishing and canoeing. The campground is situated near several trails for mountain biking, hiking, and off-road vehicles.
Hiking
Multiple trails are available in the area, including access to Twin Lakes and scenic routes near Lake Cleveland. "Beautiful hiking trails" are noted by Robin Johnson (2020).Fishing
Fishing is available at nearby Lake Cleveland, which is described as "gorgeous" by Janalee Jensen (2020). Specific types of fish are not mentioned.Biking
Mountain biking is supported in the area, including lift-served biking opportunities at the Pomerelle Ski Area during weekends.Boating
Boating activities, such as canoeing, are available at Lake Cleveland, located two miles away from the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are praised by visitors like Tony Malliris (2018), who mentions "lots of wildlife to see."Winter Activities
Winter activities are available at the nearby Pomerelle Ski Area, offering skiing and snowboarding.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing and kayaking are supported at Lake Cleveland, with users describing it as "really pretty and good for kayaking" (John W, 2020).Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours are No specific mention of quiet hours.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include steep and winding roads unsuitable for motorhomes, rowdy crowds on occasion, and dust from traffic.
Active alertsNo running water is currently available, and vault toilets may lack supplies. Visitors are advised to check with the Minidoka District Office for updates.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 71%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 10.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
Closest emergency services are likely in Burley, ID, which includes hospitals, police stations, and other services. Specific details are missing.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 13, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo specific trash or recycling facilities are mentioned in the authoritative content or user reviews. Campers are advised to pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresLake Cleveland is two miles away, offering fishing, canoeing, and hiking opportunities.
Common complaintsReviews frequently mention the lack of water, poorly maintained vault toilets, and issues with campsite reservations not being enforced or respected.
HostA campground host is mentioned but reviews indicate they may not always be present.
Campground Map
2306 Hiland Ave, Burley, ID, 83318, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 84, take exit 216 and follow State Highway 77 south for approximately 18 miles, through the towns of Declo and Albion, to Howell Canyon Road. Turn west at the Pomerelle Ski Area sign and drive seven miles up the canyon on Howell Canyon Road. The road is steep and winding; watch for the campground entrance sign on the right.
The road to the campground is steep and winding, making it challenging for large vehicles such as motorhomes. The use of engine brakes is highly recommended when descending.Nearby places
Declo (Approx. 18 miles), Albion (Approx. 18 miles), Burley, ID (Approx. 23 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be procured in nearby cities such as Declo, Albion, and Burley, ID. Information on specific stores or locations is missing.
Camper Reviews
4.4
35 reviews
Thompson Flat is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty and spacious sites but point out significant issues with maintenance, including unclean vault toilets and reservation enforcement problems. The average sentiment for camping reviews is 4.142.
Review Summaries
Based on 35 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors frequently praise the campground's tranquility, scenic views, and proximity to Lake Cleveland. "Love this campground!" states Megan Godley (2021). "Beautiful hiking trails and Lake Cleveland...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of water, poorly maintained vault toilets, and confusion with reserved sites. "Bathrooms were awful... feces and bugs EVERYWHERE!" expressed Monica R (2022)....
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Make reservations in advance. Bring your own water and toilet paper, as amenities are limited. Loop C is recommended for first-come, first-served sites, according to David Smeeth (2023).
Based on 35 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall is highly recommended for visiting due to the changing leaves and cooler temperatures. Summer reviews indicate comfortable weather but note potential maintenance issues with vault toilets.
Based on 35 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Love this campground!" (Megan Godley, 2021); "There is a section of campgrounds that can be reserved and another that is first come. I recommend making a reservation." (Courtney Peterson, 2023);...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 19 (Loop C) is noted for its slanted driveway, making leveling difficult for larger trailers, while Site 20 is praised for its privacy (Joyce A H, 2020). Loop A sites often face issues with...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Vault toilets are accessible, but gravel roads may pose challenges for campers with mobility restrictions. No additional accessibility features were noted in user reviews.
Based on 35 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific data on pet policies or experiences was provided in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Based on 35 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025