Buttermilk

About

Buttermilk Campground occupies a lodgepole pine forest on the western shore of Island Park Reservoir in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. At 6,200 feet elevation, the campground provides partial shade in some sites while others are more open near the reservoir's edge. The 55 sites include a mix of single-family, double-family, and group camping options, with paved access roads and gravel interior loops accommodating RVs up to 50 feet. One site offers 15-amp electric hookups. Island Park Reservoir draws anglers for kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout fishing, with a concrete boat ramp and docks located between the group and family camping areas. The nearby Henry's Fork is considered one of the finest fly-fishing streams in the country. Beyond fishing, visitors enjoy boating, waterskiing, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Moose, bald eagles, and sandhill cranes are frequently spotted in the area. The campground lies within easy reach of several notable destinations: Mesa Falls Scenic Byway (13 miles south), Harriman State Park (15 miles south), and Yellowstone National Park's west entrance (29 miles north). The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and Nez Perce Trail traverse the region, and Big Springs offers a scenic three-hour float trip.

Directions

From West Yellowstone, MT, take Highway 20 south for approximately 25 miles. From Ashton, ID, take Highway 20 north for approximately 27 miles. Turn west onto Kilgore-Yale Road #030 (across from Elk Creek Gas Station) and go about 2 miles to Buttermilk Loop Road #126. Continue approximately 3 miles to the campground sign. The road splits ahead with the boat ramp and group area on the left and single loops to the right.