North Fork Campground - St. Charles Canyon
4.1671 reviewsAUD & DI CAMPGROUNDS HC82 BOX 1158, DUCK CREEK, UT 84762, USA
North Fork Campground - St. Charles Canyon
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group tent sites are available at $75 per night during peak seasons (May 30 - September 06). Rates do not include taxes, incremental charges, or discounts.
About this campground
Tucked away in the enchanting depths of St. Charles Canyon, North Fork Campground invites you into a world where towering conifers create a natural cathedral overhead. The melodic sounds of St. Charles Creek weave through the campground, providing a soothing soundtrack to your outdoor adventure. This well-appointed retreat features thoughtfully designed accessible group sites perfect for gatherings, along with essential amenities including vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings where stories and s'mores come to life under starlit skies.
North Fork Campground offers group tent-only camping with accessible sites for up to 50 guests. It does not support RV camping or cabin accommodations. Sites are large, private, and surrounded by dense forests.
Historical SignificanceJust a short journey from camp lies the magnificent Minnetonka Cave, a subterranean wonder that has captivated visitors for generations. Expert guides lead you through this underground palace, where nature has spent millennia crafting spectacular formations. The cave's discovery and exploration tell the story of Idaho's pioneering spirit and the region's commitment to preserving its natural treasures for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms North Fork into an outdoor paradise, with comfortable temperatures that make hiking, fishing, and exploration pure joy. As autumn arrives, the forest becomes a tapestry of changing colors. Winter blankets the canyon in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for those seeking solitude and the crisp beauty of Idaho's frozen landscapes. The changing seasons each bring their own magic to this mountain sanctuary.
ElevationCradled within the mountainous embrace of southern Idaho, North Fork sits at an elevation that offers the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere. The surrounding peaks create a natural amphitheater, providing cooler temperatures in summer and that crisp mountain air that makes every breath feel refreshing and pure.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient conifers stretch skyward, their mixed-growth patterns creating a rich tapestry of greens and textures. St. Charles Creek dances gently through the campground, its crystal-clear waters reflecting dappled sunlight by day and moonbeams by night. Adventure beckons with the stunning turquoise waters of Bear Lake nearby and the underground marvels of Minnetonka Cave, where nine spectacular rooms showcase nature's artistic prowess through stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations.
Geological RegionNorth Fork Campground claims its home in the breathtaking St. Charles Canyon of southern Idaho, where geological forces have sculpted a landscape of remarkable beauty. This corner of the Gem State showcases nature's artistry through dramatic canyon walls, verdant mixed-growth conifer forests, and the life-giving waters of St. Charles Creek. The proximity to Bear Lake adds another dimension to the region's geological diversity, offering visitors a complete Rocky Mountain experience.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited. Vault toilets are not wheelchair-friendly, and user reviews cite challenges with wheelchair access to main areas such as tables and fire pits.
Sites SizeThe group site features at least 10 tent spots, with tent pads described as large and level. Sites are nestled among large pine trees, offering privacy.
Sites PrivacySites are notably private, surrounded by dense trees and shrubs. However, some user reviews note crowding during busy periods.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGroup site GS1 is praised for seclusion and accessibility for trailers. Sites 11 and 13 offer the best views.
Best CampsitesSites 11 and 13 are highlighted for their views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time details are not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time details are not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights is permitted.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites can accommodate a maximum of 50 guests.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 50 guests, subdivided into five smaller sites. It features at least 10 tent spots, potable water, and vault toilets within walking distance.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe group site consists of five smaller sites, and gravel roads and parking spurs are present.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season starts May 30, 2025, and closes September 06, 2026. Peak seasons are detailed with specific dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, including via their website and app.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability exists, but visitors must check for specific site openings and restrictions via the facility host or Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the date of arrival, subject to a $10 cancellation fee, reservation fees paid, and forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee when late. Late cancellations for group sites apply from 14 days before check-in.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to the North Fork Campground enjoy hiking, fishing, biking, and hunting. North Fork Trail connects to the Highline Trail, a 55-mile path for motorcycles, horses, hikers, and mountain bikers. Bear Lake offers swimming and fishing opportunities, while Minnetonka Cave provides guided tours. Wildlife viewing is common, with deer and hummingbirds frequently spotted.
Hiking
"North Fork Trail, which has a trailhead within the campground, is open to motorcycles, horses, hikers and mountain bikers and connects with the Highline Trail, a 55-mile path along the backbone of the surrounding Wasatch Mountains."Fishing
"The Idaho Department of Fish and Game manages the river fisheries, providing excellent fishing most of the year, including in St. Charles Creek."Swimming
Swimming is available at Bear Lake’s North Beach, located 12 miles away.Biking
Mountain biking is permitted on trails such as North Fork Trail, connecting to the Highline Trail. Terrain varies from gentle paths to rigorous mountain trails.Boating
Boating opportunities are available at Bear Lake State Park Marina, featuring a seven-lane boat ramp and boat rentals.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is common, with deer and hummingbirds noted by users. Recommended viewing areas include sites near water bodies and dense forest areas.Beach activities
Beach activities such as sunbathing and swimming are popular at Bear Lake’s North Beach.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the area’s weather data suggest snow might enable activities such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.Water Sports
Activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding might be feasible at Bear Lake State Park Marina, though not explicitly confirmed in provided data.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings are provided, but firewood should be obtained locally and burned onsite to avoid tree pests.
- Quiet hours and noise policies are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife hazards include bears (camp host warnings noted). Mosquitoes are a recurring nuisance in summer months.
Active alertsNo cell phone service and road noise are noted. Potential seasonal bear activity.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
No explicit mention was made in the source material about hospitals or ranger stations. Emergency services proximity is null.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 30, 2025 - September 06, 2026
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available on-site. Users are reminded to pack out trash upon departure to maintain site cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresSt. Charles Creek flows through the campground. Bear Lake is 12 miles away, offering swimming and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsMany user reviews cite issues with the camp host, Paula, regarding dogs, rule enforcement, and excessive monitoring.
HostThe camp host, Paula, has received mixed reviews. Positive feedback emphasizes cleanliness and helpfulness, while negative reviews highlight overly strict rule enforcement.
Campground Map
AUD & DI CAMPGROUNDS HC82 BOX 1158, DUCK CREEK, UT 84762, USA
Driving directionsFrom Garden City, Utah, take Highway 89 north to St. Charles, Idaho. Drive west from St. Charles along Forest Road 412 for 8.1 miles, then turn right and follow the dirt road a short distance to the campground.
The roads to the campground include Forest Road 412 and a short dirt spur. Roads and parking spurs are gravel, and limited parking can accommodate small pop-up trailers but not large trailers. Seasonal accessibility and no cell phone service are important factors to consider.Nearby places
Garden City, Utah (approximately 30 miles)
St. Charles, Idaho (8.1 miles)
Bear Lake State Park Marina (20 miles)
Minnetonka Cave (short distance)
Bear Lake's North Beach (12 miles).
Nearby supplies
Bear Lake State Park Marina is 20 miles away and offers a general store, fuel, and camping supplies. A small grocery store is noted as being approximately 7 minutes away but not named or explicitly connected to the North Fork Campground.
Camper Reviews
4.2
71 reviews
North Fork Campground - St. Charles Canyon is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are polarizing, with strong praise for facilities, cleanliness, and the natural beauty contrasted by numerous complaints about the camp host, Paula, described as aggressive and disruptive by some, while others commend her for cleanliness and helpfulness.
Review Summaries
Based on 71 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlight the campground's clean and well-maintained vault toilets, private and spacious sites surrounded by trees, and proximity to activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.
Based on 71 reviewsCommon Concerns
Recurring complaints focus on the camp host’s behavior, described as overly intrusive and confrontational. Noise from nearby highways and generators is also noted. Other issues include mosquitoes,...
Based on 71 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellant during summer months. For privacy, select sites farther from highways and communal areas. Be prepared for rain conditions with waterproof gear.
Based on 71 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews emphasize mosquitoes and rain, while fall reviews highlight peace and quiet. Winter usability is not directly mentioned.
Based on 71 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Do not camp here! The camp host Paula is a nightmare. Worst place to bring a dog if you have one." - User review. "Great host, Beautiful campground." - User review.
Based on 71 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site GS1 is praised for its large tent pads and secluded location. Users recommend Sites 11 or 13 for best views.
Based on 71 reviewsAccessibility Features
"I'm in a manual wheelchair and it is not very wheelchair friendly to get up to the main table and fire pit area." - User review.
Based on 71 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed reviews on pet policies; some users describe hostility toward pet owners, while others appreciate the pet-friendly environment.
Based on 71 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025