Explore
/
United States
/
Idaho
/
Challis Field Office

The best camping in Challis Field Office, ID

83% (3)

Popular ways to camp

Snag sold-out campsites.

Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.

See the best spots in one place.

Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.

Book with confidence.

Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Matt

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountains Hideaway Campground

Tammy was a great host. She answered all my questions in a timely manner. Even tho the property was closed for the season she allowed me to stay last minute. Helped to make for a smooth road trip. The property was clean and quiet.

Jeff

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Camp Badger

Exactly as described. Read the reviews, you'll know what you're in for. Solid night.

Nate

September 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cactus River Ranch RV

We loved everything about our stay at Cactus River Ranch! The setting along the river was lovely, everything was clean, the bathrooms and showers were great, and having laundry was a huge plus. We’ll definitely be back!

Kay

September 2025

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Cactus River Ranch RV

The campground was small, clean and quiet, and located off the main road but close to Salmon. Jessica and her husband are great hosts. Jessica responded quickly to any questions we had. We highly recommend the campground!!

Grace

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cactus River Ranch RV

This was my families first ever camper trip. This was the perfect spot for us. It had every luxury like a shower and WiFi but felt private and was perfect for my toddler and baby with no cars in sight. The stars at night were incredible and the sound of the river felt like a dream. The host was super responsive. There were even two dogs on property that were very friendly and played fetch with us.

Jennifer

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Cactus River Ranch RV

We loved Brandon and Jessica’s place. Well maintained, small and quiet, right on the river. Beautiful accommodations. We were able to ride our mountain bikes right from our camp site - what a bonus. We will be returning next year.

Diana

September 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Cactus River Ranch RV

Great camping spot ! The cool. weather at night and the sounds of the river nearby was so relaxing 🏕️🫶🏼

Douglas

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

1 night at Cactus River Ranch RV

Jessica has a very nice site, and she was extremely flexible when our situation changed. Great host!

Kathleen

August 2025

28 ft travel trailer

1 night at Cactus River Ranch RV

Beautiful location. Very clean. Bathrooms look new.

crash288s5

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cactus River Ranch RV

Tent camped right on the Salmon, in tremendous privacy, with no atv's ripping in an out. Nothing but the sound of the river, horses living their best lives and coyotes yelling at each other occasionally. Easy access to town, Lake Williams, and miles and miles of the Salmon. All that AND two clean bathrooms and a laundry room. Each site also had it's own wooden picnic table and fire ring. The tent camp site was thoughtfully leveled and had wood chips around the table which helped tremendously on keeping the dust down. We couldn't have been more content.

Mike

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Breathtaking beaverhead basecamp

Awesome site. Super sweat people. Would stay again!

Kelli

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Cactus River Ranch RV

We enjoyed a peaceful night rooftop tent camping on Jessica’s land. The Salmon River is stunning and we loved cooking with a view of ospreys diving for fish on the river. The bathroom and showers are pristine as well. We will definitely stay here again.

Eric

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cactus River Ranch RV

This place absolutely rocked. Right on the river. Excellent bathroom and showers. Camp host was so cool. You have to check this out

Roger

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cactus River Ranch RV

Nice spot, tucked away right on the river. Showers were great and very clean, nice to be able to get a good hot shower in a clean bathroom while out traveling. Would definitely stay again.

Annie

August 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Cactus River Ranch RV

I would not hesitate to book this site! It was absolutely perfect in every way! The owners are very friendly too!

Shawn

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lemhi River Natural Area Camping

Water was a must and was easy to reach. Perfect stop along our way.

Nicole

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Cactus River Ranch RV

Great tent camping spot! Right on river and peaceful. Restroom and shower were super nice and convenient.

Liz

August 2025

30 ft travel trailer

6 nights at Cactus River Ranch RV

What a great little campground right on the Salmon River surrounded by hills and farm fields. While it wasn't "private" camping - there are 3 hook-up spots and a couple of dry camps - it was pretty darn close. We stayed 6 nights and the campground was only full one of those nights. There is a bathhouse (with private showers and flushing toilets) and the area is spotless. We watched eagles and osprey soaring over the river and put our kayak in right at the camp to float into town. Jessica was a great hostess. She stopped by a couple of times to check on us and responded to a texted question I had, but otherwise left us alone. The campsite is close enough to town to be able to run in for groceries and ice cream, but far enough out that it's definitely camping. There is hiking very near by and Williams Lake is just up the road. I highly recommend Cactus River Campground. Thank you, Jessica for a great stay.

Andrew

August 2025

43 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to Cactus River Ranch RV

We arrived with our 43’ fifth wheel and found the driveway a little bit tight, but made it into our spot and loved the stay! Power was strong and clean, water was as well. Great restroom facilities for those who need them. Dogs loved the river, the night sky was beautiful. Stay here if you can!!!

Lee

July 2025

26 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Cactus River Ranch RV

It was easy to find and perfectly located next to a river and close enough to a town with gas and places to eat. I would highly recommend this place for a quiet place to relax and enjoy your whole camping experience.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Top-rated campgrounds

Cactus River Ranch RV

96%

(97)

42mi from Challis Field Office · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Salmon, ID

Currently, the property has 3 full RV hook-up with water, 30-50 amp power and septic (Site #1 - 30 amp, Site #2 - 50 & 30 amp, Site #3 - 50 & 30 amp). There is also 1 campsite for either a vehicle or tent, with access to complete bathhouse and shower facilities. Cactus River Ranch is located 12 minutes outside of Salmon, Idaho along the Salmon River. The sites have river front views with your own private river access. Hiking and mountain biking options are available right out the back door up Henry's Creek trail. Amazing fly fishing or bird watching location! Williams Lake is located 6 miles up the road and offers a variety of recreation activities including fishing, swimming, paddle-boarding, canoeing, or sight seeing. If you are looking for an area that is out of town, THIS IS IT!! We also have overnight stalls available for horses. Please make sure RV tanks are empty in order to hook up to septic. No RV dump station on site. With the river location, we get very windy conditions along the river corridor. Awnings can easily become damaged during these conditions. Please take notice and consider putting awnings away so that they don't get damaged. Along the same lines, please don't have campfires if the winds are high. Make sure your dogs are on a leash. We have mules on the property that DO NOT like dogs. This is for the safety of your dog. No fireworks on the premises. We do have a couple small trash cans that get dumped on Thursdays...that being said....we are NOT a dump. If trash cans are full or you have large items, please haul your trash to Lemhi County Landfill. They are open Monday-Friday: 7am-5:15pm and have dumpsters open on the weekend.

Breathtaking beaverhead basecamp

97%

(29)

50mi from Challis Field Office · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Salmon, ID

Learn more about this land:Flat spot, decently private with a babbling ditch and view of the beaverhead mountains. Outhouse available complete with new toilet seat. All the delicious well water you can handle. Also, access to a slide in camper with a little wood stove and a propane cooktop. Available upon request.

Salmon Gypsy B&B & Mini-Donkey Ranch

100%

(11)

29mi from Challis Field Office · 2 sites · Lodging · Salmon, ID

Located on Idaho's Salmon River outside Salmon, ID, the Salmon Gypsy B and B and Mini-Donkey Ranch is two acres of heaven. The gypsy wagon is only 2 miles from the famous Goldbug Hot Springs trailhead. Enjoy the peace of this area just across the river from a working cattle ranch, 2.5 miles from the local bar and grill, 23 miles north to Salmon, and 35 miles south to Challis in the lovely unincorporated area of Elk Bend, Idaho. Enjoy hiking, rafting, fishing, biking, horseback riding and a visit with our mini-donkeys!

Camp Badger

90%

(15)

47mi from Challis Field Office · 1 site · RV · Leadore, ID

Gilmore Idaho is a old silver mining town that was active between the 1880's and abandon in the 1930's after the power plant caught on fire. Gilmore is a legitimate ghost town that contains old buildings, mines, cemetery, etc. Gilmore, Idaho still has numerous old buildings and mines, there is so much to explore!Learn more about this land:Gilmore Idaho is a old silver mining town that was created in the 1880's and abandon in the 1930's after the power plant caught on fire. Gilmore is a legitimate ghost town that contains old buildings, mines, cemetery, etc. Gilmore, Idaho still has numerous old buildings, mines, and mining equipment. There is so much to explore in Gilmore! BUT you must not enter any of the old buildings, or any private property.The campsite is primitive and contains a small dirt pad, fire pit, and a tent pad.Gilmore Idaho is roughly 130 mins away from Idaho Falls. The Birch Creek Charcoal Kilns are roughly 20 mins away, and Meadow Lake and Meadow Lake Campground are roughly 5 miles away on a dirt road (on top of the mountain). The Meadow Lake Campground is only open for 2 months out of the year due to the snowfall (its on top of a mountain), so this campsite (Camp Badger) is a great place to camp if you can not find a spot at the campground.Camp Badger is the only campsite available within the Gilmore town site.

Mountains Hideaway Campground

50%

(3)

49mi from Challis Field Office · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Salmon, ID

Mountains Hideaway Campground: A Minimalist Oasis in the High Desert Tucked behind Off the Beaten Path Saddlery in Salmon, Idaho, Mountains Hideaway Campground offers simple, dry camping with wide-open skies and mountain views—just minutes from town. 🌾 Note: This is high desert terrain. Grass is dry mid-to-late summer through fall. Not a lush green lawn—just honest Idaho beauty. What You’ll Find Here 🛖 Dry Camping Simplicity No water or electric hookups—just a level space for your RV or tent, room to breathe, and the freedom to create your own experience. 🌌 Open Skies With no tall trees or light pollution, this is a stargazer’s dream. Bring a blanket and enjoy the Milky Way above you. 🛍 Convenient Location Steps from a locally owned store offering western apparel, snacks, gifts, and more. Campers can use the indoor bathroom during store hours and visit with friendly locals. 🔥 Shared Firepit Relax and unwind around our communal firepit (weather permitting). Great for marshmallows and conversation. 🎠 Small Play Area Located beside Tent Site 1 and across from several RV sites—a cozy space for little ones to play while you relax nearby. 🐾 Pet-Friendly Bring your well-behaved pets! There’s room to roam, sniff, and explore. 🗑 Trash Cans for Bagged Trash Available next to the store building for camper use. Please bag all trash and keep the space clean for everyone. Amenities 🚽 24/7 Portable Toilet 🚿 Showers during store hours – $5 (towel rental $1) 💧 Potable water access (bring your own containers) Nearby Adventures 🎣 Salmon River – fish, float, or relax by the water 📜 Sacajawea Center – local history, Lewis & Clark info 🛶 Rafting Tours – whitewater or scenic floats 💦 Hot Springs – nearby soaking spots to unwind 🥾 Hiking Trails – explore the rugged Lemhi Valley This is a dry camping site: no hookups, no individual fire rings, and no green lawns. But if you love peace, stars, and rustic charm—it’s perfect. 💬 Ask about our monthly rates, which include free shower use. Secure your spot and embrace the beauty of the simple life at Mountains Hideaway Campground. 🏕️🌄

Lemhi River Natural Area Camping

100%

(6)

49mi from Challis Field Office · 1 site · Tent, RV · Salmon, ID

Welcome to our serene retreat along the picturesque Lemhi River. Situated on five acres downstream from a magnificent river restoration project, our property offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Cast your line into the pristine waters of the Lemhi River and enjoy the thrill of fishing in one of nature's finest playgrounds. As night falls, marvel at the brilliance of the star-studded sky and listen to the soothing sounds of the surrounding wilderness. With direct access to BLM land, adventure awaits just beyond our doorstep. Lace-up your hiking boots or hop on your mountain bike to explore the scenic trails that wind through the rugged terrain. For a relaxing escape, take a short drive to Sharkey Hot Springs and immerse yourself in the rejuvenating waters. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or seeking adventure in the great outdoors, our unique property along the Lemhi River offers the perfect retreat for your next getaway.

The best camping in Challis Field Office, ID guide

Overview

About

Challis Field Office offers wild lands, wild views, and wild adventures for even the pickiest of explorers. Hiking the trails to the scenic overlook of Mt. Caleb is sure to get you going, or pop on down to the Big Lost River for some shore-fire relaxing, rafting, and fishing. Big game hunters and anglers are going to go bananas over the opportunities here! The crystal clear Salmon River Canyon in particular offers trout and salmon fishing that will make you giddy! This is THE place for that record catch. Offroaders and history buffs will dig the ghost town of Bayshore, but the real wild time is your comfy sleeping bag around the fire at one of Challis’ campgrounds at the end of your adventure filled day.

83%

3 ratings · 2 reviews

Recommends

· July 2025

Stunning Views

37 ft travel trailer · With pets ·

Joe T. Fallini Campground

This place has some absolutely beautiful views! If you like water activities, i.e., fishing, boating, swimming, paddle boarding, etc, then you will love this place. James was an amazing host! Very friendly and helped in any way he could. It was very much appreciated. They have restrooms but no showers, a dump station, and a boat ramp on site. Sites were pretty level. Water and electricity hookup. Also, lots of hiking trails found on All trails app

Angela H.

2 reviews

October 2017

Herd Lake Campsite & Overlook

We stayed at Herd Lake for the 2017 eclipse. The single campsite below the overlook was full, but the local BLM rangers told us it was fine to camp at the overlook which has it's own pit toilet. What a beautiful spot! Herd lake is about as secluded as you could want, and sits right on the edge of the Jim McClure Wilderness. There are trails from the overlook that run around the edge of the lake and up the surrounding peaks. We woke up every morning to the beauty of the Idaho high desert and spent the days exploring the wilderness before watching a breathtaking sunset every night! The eclipse was phenomenal and, Herd Lake was a wonderful place to stay!