Spruce Tree Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates late May through late September, with exact dates dependent on snow and road conditions.

About

Spruce Tree Campground offers a remote wilderness camping experience in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, situated at the beginning of the wild portion of the St. Joe Wild and Scenic River. This small, rustic facility features 9 campsites designed for visitors seeking solitude and access to pristine natural areas. The campground is located deep in the forest, accessible via Red Ives Road #218, approximately 39 miles east of Avery, Idaho, or from the Montana side via Little Joe Road. The campground provides basic amenities including vault toilets and a hand-pump for potable water, typically available from June through September during peak season. A strict pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy is enforced, requiring campers to remove all trash. The surrounding area offers exceptional fishing opportunities in wild cutthroat trout waters, and the campground serves as a trailhead for St. Joe River Trail #48, which leads deeper into the wilderness. Due to its remote location and elevation, Spruce Tree Campground operates seasonally from late May through late September, with exact dates dependent on snow conditions and road accessibility. The campground charges $15 per night during peak season when water is available, and $12 per night during non-peak times when water is turned off. Each site accommodates two vehicles, with a third vehicle allowed for an additional $5 per night.

Directions

From Avery, Idaho take the St. Joe River Road (Forest Highway 50) 39 miles east to Red Ives Road #218. Proceed 12 miles on Red Ives Road #218 to the campground entrance. From St. Regis, Montana take the Little Joe Road #282 to the Idaho border where it becomes the St. Joe River Road (Forest Highway 50)/Gold Creek Road #388. Turn left onto Red Ives Road #218 and proceed 12 miles to the campground entrance.

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