Big Creek Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens May 15 annually. The remote location and winter conditions typically keep the campground closed until mid-May.

About

Big Creek Campground is a remote primitive camping area in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, located at the confluence of the North and South Forks of Big Creek. This small campground features just three campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, offering a true backcountry experience. The campground provides basic amenities including a vault toilet, but campers must bring their own water as there is no potable water on site. There is also no garbage service, so visitors must pack out all trash. The campground can accommodate RVs up to 16 feet in length, though the primitive nature and remote access make it more suitable for smaller vehicles or tent camping. Big Creek Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding trails. Horse, hiker, and motorized trails extend from the campground along each creek for several miles, making it a popular destination for OHV riders and equestrians. The remote location at the end of Forest Road 097, approximately 43 miles from Challis, ensures a peaceful and uncrowded camping experience in the Idaho wilderness.

Directions

From Challis, travel approximately 15 miles north on Highway 93 to Ellis. Turn right and travel approximately 25 miles to the junction with Big Creek Road (Forest Road 097). Turn left onto Road 097. The campground is at the end of this road, approximately 3 miles.

Nearby Campgrounds