Bowns Campground

Sawtooth National Forest

<h2>Overview</h2> <p>Embrace the spirit of adventure at this first-come, first-served wilderness retreat, where spontaneity meets the great outdoors. Your journey begins the moment you arrive at the campground, where you'll claim your perfect spot among nature's bounty – no advance reservations needed, just pure exploration.</p> <p>We've made settling in seamless with modern convenience. Once you've found your ideal campsite, simply scan the on-site QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app's innovative Scan and Pay feature to complete your stay registration right from your phone.</p> <p><strong>Pro tip for the prepared traveler:</strong> Download the free Recreation.gov mobile app at https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app before you hit the road. Cell service can be spotty in these pristine wilderness areas, so having the app ready ensures a smooth check-in process when you arrive at your outdoor sanctuary.</p>

Sawtooth NRA, Stanley, ID, USA

Nestled in the pristine headwaters of the Salmon River, Chemeketan Campground offers an intimate escape into the wild heart of the Sawtooth Mountain Range. This hidden gem provides groups with an authentic backcountry experience, where towering peaks meet whispering pines and the only sounds are nature's own symphony. While amenities remain refreshingly simple—vault toilets, sturdy tables, and grills for evening cookouts—the real luxury here is the profound sense of solitude and connection with Idaho's untamed wilderness.

SAWTOOTH NRA, STANLEY, ID 83340, USA

Nestled along the pristine waters of Big Wood River at 6,800 feet, Easley Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience the raw beauty of Idaho's Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Here, where crystal-clear waters dance over smooth river stones, anglers cast their lines for native trout while hikers set off on the nearby Harriman Trail. After a day of adventure, weary travelers can soak their muscles in the nearby Easley Hot Springs, where natural thermal waters have provided respite for generations of visitors seeking solace in this mountain paradise.

SAWTOOTH, KETCHUM

Nestled along the pristine banks of the Big Wood River, Wood River Group Overnight Area beckons adventurers seeking the perfect blend of riverside serenity and mountain exploration. This hidden gem within Wood River Campground offers a coveted reservable group tent site ideal for family reunions or outdoor gatherings, plus 30 first-come, first-served single sites where spontaneous travelers can claim their piece of paradise. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, floating lazily downstream on a summer afternoon, or setting off on scenic trails that wind through ancient forests, this riverside retreat promises memories that linger long after the campfire embers fade.

3080 INDUSTRIAL WAY, MOUNTAIN HOME, ID 83647, USA

Nestled along the tranquil waters of Dog Creek in Idaho's backcountry, Dog Creek Campground invites you to unwind beneath towering ponderosa pines that whisper stories of the wilderness. This serene mountain retreat provides modern conveniences including vault toilets and fresh potable water, ensuring comfort while you disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature's rhythms.

3080 INDUSTRIAL WAY, MOUNTAIN HOME, ID, 83647, USA

Nestled along the pristine waters of the South Fork Boise River, Elks Flat Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of riverside relaxation and mountain adventure. This meticulously maintained haven serves as your gateway to endless recreation, where mornings might find you casting a line into crystal-clear waters, afternoons splashing in natural swimming holes, and evenings planning tomorrow's rafting expedition. Whether you're drawn to scenic hiking trails, prefer exploring on horseback, or seek the thrill of off-road adventures, Elks Flat positions you at the heart of Idaho's outdoor playground.

102 First Street East, Fairfield, ID, 83327

Escape to Baumgartner Campground, where natural hot springs meet pristine wilderness camping. This beloved retreat offers accommodations for every group size, from intimate single-family sites to spacious quad configurations and large group areas. Each thoughtfully designed site features essential amenities including picnic tables, fire rings for evening gatherings, utility tables for meal prep, and convenient paved parking spurs (with the charming exception of Site 100, which maintains a more rustic appeal). Modern vault toilets and seasonal drinking water ensure comfort during your stay. The crown jewel of Baumgartner is its legendary hot springs—a soothing concrete soaking pool where 101-degree mineral water provides the perfect end to adventurous days. This natural wonder is lovingly maintained with fresh water daily, creating an authentic yet accessible hot springs experience.

P.O. BOX 129, IDAHO CITY, ID 83631, USA

Nestled in the heart of the wilderness, Graham Cabin stands as a testament to the Forest Service's storied past, now transformed into an adventurer's dream retreat. This rustic mountain sanctuary beckons to those who arrive on two wheels, seek the freedom of flight, or traverse the backcountry on horseback. Here, where silence is broken only by the whisper of wind through pines and the distant call of wildlife, visitors discover a rare blend of solitude and adventure. Whether casting a line into pristine mountain waters, tracking game through ancient forests, or simply breathing in the pure mountain air, Graham Cabin offers an escape from the modern world into nature's untamed embrace.

SAWTOOTH NRA, STANLEY, ID 83340, USA

Discover your perfect mountain escape at Alturas Lake Inlet Campground, where pristine waters meet towering peaks in Idaho's breathtaking Sawtooth National Recreation Area. This lakeside haven offers family-friendly campsites tucked among evergreens, each with stunning views of either the crystal-clear lake or the babbling Alturas Creek. Wake up to mountain reflections on the water, spend your days at the inviting swim beach, and explore endless recreational adventures right from your tent flap.

P.O BOX 129, IDAHO CITY, ID 83631, USA

Step back in time at Atlanta Cabin, a lovingly preserved 1933 treasure nestled within the Atlanta Ranger Station Historic District. This charming historic retreat seamlessly blends yesteryear's rustic appeal with today's modern comforts, featuring full plumbing, electricity, and cozy heating. Here, you'll discover the perfect balance between wilderness adventure and comfortable accommodation, all while being surrounded by the breathtaking natural splendor of Idaho's high country.

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Welcome to Pine Campground Boat Ramp, your gateway to the pristine waters of Anderson Ranch Reservoir. This well-appointed launch site offers everything water enthusiasts need for a perfect day on the lake. The sturdy concrete boat ramp provides smooth, reliable access to the reservoir, while thoughtful amenities including a convenient boat dock, clean restroom facilities, a fire ring for evening gatherings, and a shaded picnic table create an ideal basecamp for your aquatic adventures.

Sawtooth National Forest

Discover a pristine camping retreat where modern convenience meets natural tranquility. This well-maintained site features an innovative scan-and-pay system, making your check-in process seamless and contactless. Every corner reflects careful attention to cleanliness and upkeep, ensuring your outdoor experience begins in comfort.

Sawtooth National Forest

Discover your perfect outdoor escape at this hidden gem, where adventure meets tranquility. Whether you're seeking a peaceful weekend retreat or an action-packed family vacation, this campground offers the ideal basecamp for exploring nature's wonders. With spacious sites nestled among towering trees and modern amenities that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, you'll find the perfect balance between comfort and wilderness immersion.

HWY 75 8 MILES NORTH OF KETCHUM, Ketchum, ID 83340, USA

Nestled alongside the rushing waters of Big Wood River, North Fork Campground invites adventurers into the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. This intimate mountain retreat features 27 thoughtfully spaced campsites connected by well-maintained gravel roads and convenient parking spurs. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear river, exploring scenic hiking trails, pedaling through mountain paths, or quietly observing the abundant wildlife, North Fork delivers an authentic wilderness experience. Essential amenities include fresh drinking water and clean vault toilets, while the absence of hookups preserves the site's natural character and peaceful ambiance.

Sawtooth National Forest

Discover your perfect basecamp where tranquil waters meet endless horizons. This serene campground offers an ideal retreat for families, adventurers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape into nature's embrace.

102 First Street East Fairfield, ID 83327

Escape to Willow Creek Transfer Camp, where four spacious camping units await beneath towering pines. Recently transformed through extensive renovations in 2021-2022, this equestrian-friendly haven offers modern restrooms, sturdy picnic tables, warming fire rings, and convenient utility tables for your outdoor dining pleasure. Horse enthusiasts will appreciate the well-maintained corrals complete with hay racks and a thoughtfully designed ADA-accessible loading ramp, making this the perfect basecamp for riders exploring the surrounding wilderness trails.

State Highway 20, Anderson Ranch Reservoir East Shore, Idaho

Tucked along the eastern shores of Anderson Ranch Reservoir, Pine Campground offers an intimate escape with just seven secluded sites nestled beneath towering pines. This hidden gem draws anglers from across the region who come to test their skills against feisty smallmouth bass, silvery kokanee salmon, and rainbow trout that thrive in the waters below the dam. When you're not casting a line, the reservoir's glassy surface beckons waterskiers to carve through its pristine waters. Each campsite features a shaded picnic table where you can share the day's catch and stories under a canopy of evergreens. As autumn gives way to winter, the landscape transforms into a snowmobiler's paradise, with meticulously groomed trails winding through the frozen forest just north of the campground.

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Tucked away in the heart of Sawtooth National Forest, Five Points Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience with seven intimate campsites nestled along the babbling waters of Five Points Creek. This primitive campground beckons those seeking solitude and simplicity, providing basic restroom facilities while maintaining the raw beauty of the wilderness. Just a short journey away, the therapeutic waters of Worswick hot springs await weary adventurers. While you'll need to bring your own drinking water, the reward is an unspoiled camping experience far from the crowds.

Sawtooth National Forest

Nestled along the babbling waters of East Fork Baker Creek, this secluded primitive campground offers an authentic wilderness escape for those seeking solitude and simplicity. With essential amenities including vault toilets and sturdy fire rings, adventurers can settle in for nights under star-filled skies while their horses graze peacefully nearby. This equestrian-friendly haven welcomes riders and pack animals, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the surrounding backcountry trails on horseback or foot.

Boise National Forest

Nestled along the sparkling shores of Anderson Ranch Reservoir, Curlew Creek Campground beckons water enthusiasts and anglers alike with its intimate collection of 9 overnight camping sites and 18 day-use areas. Here, the rhythmic lapping of waves against the shore sets the soundtrack for days filled with boating adventures and waterskiing thrills. Just below the dam, fly fishing enthusiasts cast their lines into pristine waters where rainbow trout lurk in the cool depths, making this hidden gem a favorite among those who know where to find the best catches in Idaho's backcountry.

102 First Street East, Fairfield, ID 83327

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.

102 First Street East Fairfield, ID 83327

Tucked away in the shadow of Soldier Mountain Ski Area, Pioneer Campground offers an intimate escape where the whispers of Soldier Creek provide a natural soundtrack to your outdoor adventure. This thoughtfully designed campground features five well-appointed units nestled among the trees, creating perfect havens for both solitary seekers and social gatherings. The entire campground transforms beautifully into a private retreat for groups of up to 50 people, making it an ideal basecamp for family reunions, outdoor clubs, or corporate retreats seeking to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature.

102 First Street East Fairfield, ID 83327

Escape the summer heat at Big Hole, a beloved riverside sanctuary where the crystal-clear waters of the South Fork Boise River have carved out nature's perfect swimming pool. This popular day-use area draws families and adventure seekers alike to its refreshing swimming hole, where the river's gentle current creates an ideal spot for cooling off after a morning of fishing. With convenient parking and restroom facilities, Big Hole offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and accessibility for your riverside adventure.

Willow Creek Campground, Fairfield Ranger District, 102 First Street East Fairfield, ID 83327

Tucked away in nature's embrace, Willow Creek Campground offers an intimate escape with just six thoughtfully designed sites. Following a comprehensive renovation in 2021, this hidden gem now features modern amenities including a new vault toilet and upgraded site furniture, all while preserving its authentic rustic charm. The reimagined layout creates a perfect balance between privacy and community, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a genuine connection with the outdoors.

Canyon Campground, Fairfield Ranger District, Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho

Tucked away along the gentle banks of Big Smoky Creek, Canyon Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just 7 individual campsites and 3 group sites. This hidden gem serves as a perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts, where the sound of rushing water mingles with birdsong each morning. Whether you arrive on foot, horseback, or with fishing rod in hand, you'll find everything you need for a comfortable stay: sturdy picnic tables beneath towering trees, fire rings for evening gatherings, clean restrooms, fresh potable water, and even dedicated horse corrals with a convenient stock loading station for equestrian adventurers.

32 miles north of Fairfield, Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho

Nestled in the heart of the Sawtooth National Forest, Bear Creek Transfer Camp beckons equestrian adventurers with six thoughtfully equipped campsites designed for riders and their horses. Each site comes complete with sturdy picnic tables for evening meals under the stars, fire rings perfect for storytelling sessions, and essential amenities including corrals, mangers, and convenient loading ramps for your equine companions. While the campground maintains a rustic charm with its single vault restroom and no potable water on-site, fresh stock water flows just 150 yards north at the pristine Bear Creek, ensuring your horses stay well-hydrated after a day on the trails.

Abbott Campground, South Fork, Boise River

Escape to Abbott Campground, where nine peaceful campsites await beneath a canopy of ancient pines along the South Fork of the Boise River. This hidden gem offers the perfect blend of primitive camping and river adventure, with seven single sites and two spacious double sites designed for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience. Each site comes equipped with the essentials—sturdy picnic tables, convenient utility tables, and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Modern vault toilets ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness feel. Adventure seekers will love the easy river access for refreshing tubing excursions and prime fishing spots, while a charming footbridge opens up exploration opportunities into the scenic Abbott Gulch area. No reservations required—just show up and claim your piece of riverside paradise.

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Tucked away along the pristine waters of the South Fork Boise River, Bird Creek Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This intimate, first-come, first-served campground features just five units—four single sites and one double—creating a peaceful retreat where the modern world feels wonderfully distant. True to its primitive nature, Bird Creek provides an off-the-grid sanctuary where campers can reconnect with nature's rhythms and find respite from the daily hustle.

Near Atlanta, Idaho, along Middle Fork of Boise River

Tucked along the pristine waters of the Middle Fork of the Boise River, Riverside Campground offers an intimate escape with just 11 secluded sites. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to the majestic Sawtooth Wilderness, while keeping you within a stone's throw of the historic mining town of Atlanta, Idaho. Here, the gentle murmur of the river becomes your constant companion as you settle into one of Idaho's most peaceful mountain retreats.

Queens River Campground, near Atlanta, Idaho

Tucked away near the historic mining town of Atlanta, Idaho, Queens River Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape where the rushing waters of the Middle Fork Boise River serve as your soundtrack. This intimate, rustic retreat provides just the essentials—allowing you to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature. Adventure beckons from your tent flap, with pristine trails leading directly into the legendary Sawtooth Wilderness, where granite peaks pierce the sky and alpine meadows stretch beyond the horizon.

End of Deer Creek Rd. No. 097

Tucked away at the end of Deer Creek Road, this hidden gem serves as your gateway to adventure on the Deer Creek Trail No. 158 and Kinsey Creek Trail No. 319. As one of the Ketchum Ranger District's best-kept secrets, Deer Creek Trailhead offers a peaceful escape from the crowds, complete with essential amenities including a vault toilet and interpretive signage that brings the local landscape to life. What makes this spot truly special is its access to some of the only narrow-track OHV trails (under 50 inches) in the entire district—a rare find for riders seeking technical challenges through pristine forest terrain.

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Sawtooth National Forest

Boise National Forest

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32 miles north of Fairfield, Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho

Queens River Campground, near Atlanta, Idaho

Canyon Campground, Fairfield Ranger District, Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho

102 First Street East Fairfield, ID 83327

3080 INDUSTRIAL WAY, MOUNTAIN HOME, ID 83647, USA

State Highway 20, Anderson Ranch Reservoir East Shore, Idaho

Willow Creek Campground, Fairfield Ranger District, 102 First Street East Fairfield, ID 83327

102 First Street East, Fairfield, ID 83327

Abbott Campground, South Fork, Boise River

102 First Street East Fairfield, ID 83327

102 First Street East, Fairfield, ID, 83327

102 First Street East Fairfield, ID 83327

P.O BOX 129, IDAHO CITY, ID 83631, USA

End of Deer Creek Rd. No. 097

SAWTOOTH NRA, STANLEY, ID 83340, USA

Near Atlanta, Idaho, along Middle Fork of Boise River

Wasatch Cache National Forest, 50 FR422, Kamas, UT, 84036

Nestled along the pristine western shores of Smith and Morehouse Reservoir, this beloved mountain retreat offers an authentic Uinta Mountains experience in northeastern Utah. Adventure seekers and nature lovers flock to this scenic sanctuary where crystal-clear waters meet towering forests, creating the perfect basecamp for fishing expeditions, peaceful kayaking sessions, and explorations along winding mountain trails. The campground's enduring popularity stems from its perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness charm.

MANTI-LASAL

Escape to Warner Lake Campground, where crystal-clear mountain waters meet towering aspens in the heart of the La Sal Mountains. At this alpine retreat, your days unfold with peaceful mornings casting a line into the lake, afternoons paddling across its glassy surface, and evenings on scenic trails that wind through forests alive with birdsong. Here, the views stretch endlessly across mountain peaks and valleys, creating a backdrop that transforms from emerald green in summer to brilliant gold in fall.

Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Dugway, UT 84022

Escape to Upper Narrows Campground, where a mile-long stretch of pristine wilderness awaits your discovery. This hidden gem offers authentic primitive camping with six intimate single sites and one spacious group area, perfect for gathering under starlit skies. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings for evening storytelling, while convenient vault toilets ensure basic comfort. True to its back-to-nature appeal, visitors should come prepared with their own water supply, embracing the self-sufficient spirit of desert camping.

Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, FR 021, Payson, UT 84651

Tucked away along the spectacular Nebo Loop Scenic Byway, Maple Bench Campground offers an intimate escape where dramatic canyon views and profound tranquility converge. This hidden gem invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the rhythms of nature in a peaceful mountain setting that feels worlds away from everyday life.

Aspen Grove Campground, Soldier Creek Dam, Strawberry Reservoir, UT

Nestled alongside the sparkling waters of Strawberry Reservoir, Aspen Grove Campground offers a perfect mountain escape for outdoor enthusiasts. This well-appointed seasonal campground features thoughtfully designed amenities including smooth paved roads and camping spurs, sturdy cement pads for level setup, picnic tables for memorable outdoor meals, and fire circles where stories and s'mores are shared under starlit skies. Operated by experienced concessionaires who ensure a quality camping experience, Aspen Grove provides direct access to one of Utah's premier water recreation destinations.

ALBION BASIN RD, ALTA, UT 84092, USA

Perched at a breathtaking 9,500 feet in the heart of Little Cottonwood Canyon, Albion Basin Campground offers an alpine escape where white pines and quaking aspens frame your mountain adventure. Wake to the possibility of spotting majestic moose grazing in wildflower meadows or mountain goats navigating rocky outcrops above your tent. This high-altitude haven serves as your basecamp for exploring scenic hiking trails and immersing yourself in nature's grand spectacle, including the celebrated annual wildflower displays that transform the basin into a natural kaleidoscope each summer.

HC 70 BOX 15, Torrey, UT, 84775, USA

Nestled within the enchanting Fruita Historic District of Capitol Reef National Park, the Group Campsite offers an oasis of comfort beneath a canopy of shade trees. Picture your group gathering on the expansive grassy lawn, surrounded by centuries-old orchards while towering red rock cliffs paint the horizon. This isn't just a place to pitch your tent—it's a gateway to adventure, complete with sheltered picnic pavilions perfect for evening meals, modern flush toilets, and fresh drinking water. The gentle rustle of fruit tree leaves mingles with distant canyon echoes, creating a soundtrack for unforgettable memories.

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Escape to the raw beauty of Cathedral Campground, where six primitive sites offer an authentic wilderness experience in the heart of Capitol Reef's remote Cathedral Valley. Each site comes equipped with the essentials—a sturdy picnic table and fire grate for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. While you'll find a pit toilet for convenience, this back-to-basics destination embraces simplicity: bring your own water, pack out what you pack in, and secure your food from curious wildlife. It's camping as it was meant to be—just you, your gear, and the magnificent desert landscape.

HC 70 BOX 15

Discover your desert oasis at Fruita Campground, where 71 thoughtfully positioned sites await beneath the shade of century-old fruit trees. This beloved basecamp in Capitol Reef National Park features 65 reservable sites during peak season, each offering a rare blend of desert adventure and pastoral comfort. Modern amenities include RV dump stations, fresh water fill stations, and fully accessible sites near well-maintained restrooms, ensuring comfort meets conservation in this extraordinary setting.

115 West Canyon Road, Ferron, UT, 84523

Tucked away in the shadows of towering canyon walls, Lower Little Bear Campground offers a serene escape along the banks of Huntington Creek. This hidden gem along the Huntington Canyon National Scenic Byway beckons those seeking authentic wilderness experiences beyond the typical campground hustle. Each site features thoughtfully placed graveled parking spurs, sturdy picnic tables, pedestal grills perfect for evening cookouts, and fire rings surrounded by welcoming benches for gathering under starlit skies. While embracing a more rustic camping experience without on-site water or restrooms, this intimate retreat rewards visitors with unparalleled tranquility and direct access to nature's doorstep.