Upper O'Brien Campground

Star4.50
6 reviews
Upper O'Brien Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The Recreation Use Fee for staying at the campground includes the $20 nightly rate mentioned in user reviews. However, further breakdowns of any...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
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$20.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
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About this campground

Escape the crowds and discover your own riverside retreat at Upper O'Brien Campground, where the gentle murmur of the Salmon River becomes your personal soundtrack. This hidden gem welcomes adventurers on a first-come, first-served basis, rewarding those who venture off the beaten path with unparalleled tranquility and pristine natural beauty.
The Upper O'Brien Campground caters to traditional campers with basic facilities and a rustic environment.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsEarly spring at Upper O'Brien brings a dramatic landscape of transition, with crisp mountain air and temperatures that dance between winter's last whispers and spring's first promises. Mid-March temperatures typically range from frosty 21°F mornings to pleasant 39°F afternoons, creating perfect conditions for cozy campfires and invigorating hikes. While lingering snow and freezing conditions may challenge early-season visitors, the reward is having this riverside paradise virtually to yourself.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a natural amphitheater where towering trees create a living canopy overhead, their branches perfectly positioned for hammock lounging and afternoon daydreams. The Salmon River flows mere steps from your campsite, its crystal-clear waters beckoning anglers and offering a constant, soothing melody. Previous visitors rave about the abundance of riverside spots perfect for casting a line or simply soaking your feet after a day of exploration. The thoughtfully spaced campsites nestle among mature trees, providing both shade and privacy while maintaining easy access to the water's edge.
Geological Regionnull
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Campsite details

Sites SizeSites are fairly level and appear to be spacious enough for standard camping setups.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as quiet and rarely full, which may allow for a greater sense of solitude and privacy.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutnull
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov mobile app
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is first-come, first-served only, and does not accept advanced reservations.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for most changes. Late cancellations will incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's reservation fee.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The Upper O'Brien Campground offers a serene environment, perfect for relaxation and light outdoor activities. Proximity to the Salmon River provides opportunities for fishing and possibly riverside enjoyment, though the range of structured activities may be limited by the campground's remote and less-visited nature.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available along the Salmon River. A reviewer mentioned, "Great campsites. Many trees to set up a hammock or go fishing in the river."
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • null
  • Quiet hours are null

Hazards

General hazardsnull
Active alertsnull

Weather forecast

35
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 38%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 11.1 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

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Good to know

Peak season datesnull
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located adjacent to the Salmon River, providing opportunities for fishing and scenic water views.
Common complaintsSome user reviews highlight outdated and poorly maintained toilets as a common issue.
Host"There is no host on-site." (Flying Dutchman).

Campground Map

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Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews

4.5
6 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Upper O'Brien Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, visitors to Upper O'Brien Campground appreciate its tranquil setting next to the Salmon River and the sense of solitude. The campground's basic amenities and remote location make it suitable for those seeking a more rustic camping experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors frequently mention the campground's serene and quiet environment, its proximity to the Salmon River, and well-shaded sites with many trees. Ernest Kyed highlights, "Very pleasant, right next...
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Based on 6 reviews

Common Concerns

The primary complaint is the poor condition of the single pit toilet, described as having crumbling floors and holes in the walls. The lack of a camp host and the general need for maintenance were...
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Based on 6 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend being prepared with all necessary supplies due to the remote location and absence of an on-site camp store or host. Ernest Kyed advises caution for RV users, stating, "The entrance...
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Based on 6 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews do not provide detailed seasonal insights, but the campground's remote nature and its location next to a river suggest that spring and summer might be the most pleasant times to visit.
Based on 6 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Very pleasant, right next to the Salmon River... rarely full." - Ernest Kyed 2. "There is only one pit toilet which looks to be original to the campground... the floors are crumbling, holes in...
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Based on 6 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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