Chinook
Chinook
$10.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fist come first served pay and scan QR code on app .
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
ProviderAbout this campground
Nestled deep within the evergreen embrace of Idaho's wilderness, this tranquil campground offers an authentic forest retreat along the pristine waters of the Sis River. Here, towering pines and firs create a natural cathedral where campers can disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's timeless rhythms.
Chinook Campground offers basic camping options suitable for tents or smaller setups. There are no advanced amenities like RV hookups or glamping accommodations.
Historical SignificanceThis area has long served as a corridor for wildlife and a gathering place for those seeking solitude in the mountains. The surrounding Payette National Forest preserves centuries of natural heritage, from ancient forest groves to the timeless flow of the Sis River that has carved its path through these mountains for millennia.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Idaho's mountain climate, from crisp spring mornings filled with birdsong to warm summer days perfect for river adventures. Fall transforms the forest into a tapestry of golden larches and rustling aspens, while winter brings a peaceful blanket of snow to this high-elevation sanctuary.
ElevationPerched at 5,650 feet above sea level, the campground sits in the sweet spot of Idaho's mountain elevations—high enough to escape summer's heat but accessible throughout the camping season. This elevation brings cooler temperatures, crystal-clear air, and spectacular star-filled nights far from city lights.
Natural Features and SceneryThe melodic Sisesh River serves as the campground's centerpiece, its clear mountain waters providing both a soothing soundtrack and endless opportunities for streamside relaxation. Magnificent old-growth conifers tower overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dappled patterns across the forest floor, while native wildflowers paint splashes of color throughout the understory in summer months.
Geological RegionSet within the vast expanse of Payette National Forest, this campground occupies a prime location along the Sisesh River corridor at 5,650 feet elevation. The surrounding landscape showcases the rugged beauty of Idaho's central mountains, where ancient granite peaks rise above dense coniferous forests and pristine waterways carve their paths through valleys shaped by millennia of geological forces.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeEach site is standard-sized, as no specific variations in site size are noted.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not detailed, but user reviews indicate a low number of campers, suggesting a relatively private experience: "Not a lot of neighbors, so the camp was basically ours."
Total Campsites9 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides several recreational opportunities that appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. It serves as a starting point for hiking trails like the Secesh River Trail #080 and the Loon Lake Trail #081, which form part of the Loon Lake Loop. Other notable activities include fly fishing and mountain biking. The proximity to the historic town of Warren and Burgdorf Hot Springs adds further exploration options.
Hiking
The campground directly connects to the Secesh River Trail #080 and the Loon Lake Trail #081, forming part of the Loon Lake Loop. These trails are popular for hiking and offer scenic views.Fishing
Fly fishing is highlighted as a key activity near the Secesh River.Biking
Mountain biking is mentioned as an available activity, but no specific details about trails or terrain are provided.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed in the available information.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
32
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are likely McCall.
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash receptacles at the campground. Visitors must pack out all trash.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom McCall, follow the Warren Wagon Road (21) north for 36 miles. Turn right at the Chinook Campground sign and follow Forest Road #378 for one mile to the campground.
The campground is accessible through paved roads until Warren Wagon Road (21), followed by the unpaved Forest Road #378 for the last mile. Seasonal road conditions may apply.Nearby places
McCall: approximately 36 miles.
Nearby supplies
null
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Chinook has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is generally well-received, with users appreciating its secluded setting, proximity to the river, and basic amenities. It is particularly noted for its peaceful atmosphere and suitability for those seeking a rustic camping experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
- "There is plenty of space, gorgeous river, and I slept amazingly." - "Outhouses available and campsite picnic tables." - "Not a lot of neighbors, so the camp was basically ours."
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some minor complaints include the presence of mosquitoes, for which one user recommended bug spray.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring bug spray and long pants or long sleeves for mosquito protection. - Download the Recreation.gov app before arriving due to limited cell service.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Seasonal trends are not explicitly outlined, but potable water availability is noted as being from June to September.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "This was a 10/10 experience, I loved it and I think you will too!" 2. "A nice camping spot along the IDBDR... by the river with a water source & a crapper." 3. "The bridge was a nice addition you...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite reviews or recommendations by number are available.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not discussed in the user reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews mention pet policies or experiences.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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