Lower Penstemon
Open for the 2026 season. The campground operates from late May through October. Reservations available through Recreation.gov; unreserved sites are first-come, first-served. No potable water is available on site.
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.
Fireworks and Spark Arrestor Order 04-2021-01
Prohibited by this order: Possessing, discharging, or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device. 36 CFR §261.52(t)Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order as described…
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.
About
Lower Penstemon Campground occupies a scenic location along Rock Creek Road in the South Hills of southern Idaho's Sawtooth National Forest. At 6,600 feet elevation, the campground sits within a mixed conifer and aspen forest that provides partial shade to most sites. Summer wildflowers dot the surrounding landscape, and wildlife frequent the area. The campground offers 6-7 standard nonelectric single-family sites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Two double vault toilets serve campers. Potable water is not available; campers must bring their own supply. Rock Creek flows along the campground boundary, offering good trout fishing opportunities. The surrounding area features an extensive network of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, including Third Fork, Pike Mountain, Rim View, and Porcupine Spring trails. OHV trails also crisscross the region, though recreational OHV riding is prohibited within the campground itself. Some sites are ADA accessible, and the campground enforces a 14-night stay limit within any 28-day period.
Directions
From Twin Falls, go east 8 miles on ID-50 and US-30 to Hansen. From Hansen, travel south 27 miles on Rock Creek Road (County Road G-3/Forest Road 515). The road becomes Forest Road 515 as you enter national forest land.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $8 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 30ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 30ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (208) 678-0430 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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