HARDSCRABBLE CAMPGROUND
Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates from late spring through fall, weather dependent. Access via Forest Road 698 may be limited by snow and road conditions in winter and early spring.
Weed Free Hay Order 04-2021-03
Prohibited by this order: Possessing, storing, or transporting non-pelletized hay, straw, or mulch in the Intermountain Region, unless it is certified as weed free by the state where the product originated.
Explosives and Exploding Target Order 04-2021-02
This order prohibits the use of explosives and exploding targets on National Forest System lands within the Intermountain Region.
Atlanta Area Roads 268M & 268MX1 Closure
The purpose of this order is to protect public health, safety and natural resources along two short roadways associated with the community of Atlanta's transfer station.
Granite Creek Seasonal Road Closure for Snowmobile Grooming
National Forest System Road 327 (also known as Granite Creek-Rabbit Creek Road) is closed to wheeled motorized vehicles beginning near its junction with Hwy. 21 and ending at the North Fork Boise River bridge near Deer Park.
Lava Fire Road Closure
Updated closure of National Forest System Road 625, and portions of NFSRs 653 and 624 due to safety hazards resulting from the 2024 Lava Fire. These routes are closed to motorized and mechanized travel, but open to foot and livestock use.
Public Safety Occupancy and Use on all Boise National Forest Lands
This Order applies to all National Forest System lands and roads within the Boise National Forest for purposes of public health and safety.
Flat Fire GNA Salvage Road and Trail Closure
The purpose of this Order is to protect public safety during timber operations near the Flat Fire burn area. These will be in effect from June 20 through December 31, 2025.
Lowman Ranger District Dispersed Camping Area Closure
The purpose of this Order is to protect undeveloped campsites along portions of Highway 21 and National Forest System Roads 582 and 524 from overuse and to let highly impacted areas to recover.
William Pogue and Roaring River Trail Closure Order
Portions of the William Pogue and Roaring River Trails are closed.
South Fork Salmon Road Closure
This order prohibits motor vehicles on the South Fork Salmon River Road having more than 10,000 lbs on the steering axle and tire width less than nine inches, or more than 300 lbs per inch of tire on all axles, from March 15th through June 1st annually.
Rainbow Basin Occupancy and Use
The purpose of this Order is to protect natural resources values and public health and safety within Rainbow Basin.
Grimes Creek Area Closure
The purpose of this Order is to protect public health and safety and natural resources.
Occupancy and Use
Details camping stay restrictions for more than 14 days during any 30-day period throughout the year.
Wilson Creek Trail System Temporary Closure to Motor Vehicle Use
The purpose of this Order is to protect big game during critical life stages.
About
Hardscrabble Campground offers an intimate riverside camping experience in Boise National Forest, with just six campsites nestled along the Middle Fork Payette River. Located approximately 12 miles north of Crouch, Idaho on Forest Road 698, this small campground sits at an elevation of 3,215 feet and is one of five campgrounds along the Middle Fork Payette River corridor. The setting provides direct access to the river for fishing, wading, and enjoying the sounds of rushing water. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations available. Three of the six sites can accommodate small to medium RVs up to 30 feet in length, while the remaining sites are better suited for tent camping. Each campsite features a picnic table and fire pit with grill. Vault toilets are provided, but there is no potable water available, so campers must bring an adequate water supply. Trash service is not provided, and visitors are expected to pack out all garbage. The location provides access to fishing opportunities on the Middle Fork Payette River and proximity to trails in the surrounding Boise National Forest. The campground's small size creates a quiet, peaceful atmosphere perfect for those seeking a more secluded forest camping experience away from larger, busier campgrounds.
Directions
From Crouch, Idaho, travel north on Forest Road 698 (Middle Fork Payette River Road) for approximately 12 miles. The campground is located along the road on the right.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 - $12 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 30ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 30ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
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