Mcclendon Spring Campground
4.3315 reviewsMcclendon Spring Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are explicitly stated for this campground. It is suggested in user reviews that the campground is free ('Nice, out of the way free camping...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider208-677-6600BLM_ID_BurleyOffice@blm.gov
About this campground
Tucked into the rugged embrace of the Cotterel Mountains, McClendon Spring Campground beckons adventurers seeking solitude in Idaho's high desert. Just 5 miles northwest of Malta, this intimate, semi-developed sanctuary carries whispers of the past—once a vital respite for weary California Trail emigrants pushing westward toward their dreams. Today, hunters track upland birds and deer through the same sagebrush-dotted landscape, while modern travelers discover a rare commodity: profound silence broken only by wind through the canyons. Here, where expansive vistas stretch to the horizon, visitors find space to breathe deeply and reconnect with the raw beauty of the American West.
McClendon Spring Campground is a semi-developed BLM-managed site offering a combination of primitive camping with limited facilities.
Historical SignificanceLong before wagon wheels carved ruts into this landscape, Indigenous peoples recognized the spring's life-giving importance in this arid realm. The California Trail later transformed McClendon Spring into a crucial waypoint where thousands of emigrants paused to water their oxen and gather strength for the journey ahead. Picture the scene: dust-covered pioneers filling water barrels, children splashing in the precious spring, dreams of golden California temporarily set aside for the simple relief of fresh water. These layered histories—Native American heritage intertwined with westward expansion stories—infuse the campground with a palpable sense of time's passage.
Weather and SeasonsThe high desert plays by its own rules at McClendon Spring, painting dramatic contrasts between scorching days and startlingly cold nights. Summer visitors should prepare for nature's extremes—blazing afternoon sun gives way to evenings that demand warm layers, while biting insects emerge to claim their territory near stagnant water sources. Spring awakens the landscape with wildflowers and comfortable temperatures, making it prime time for exploration. Fall brings crisp air and golden light perfect for photography, as the desert settles into its most hospitable mood. This unforgiving yet beautiful climate shapes every experience, reminding visitors they've entered a landscape that demands respect.
ElevationPerched at moderate altitude in Idaho's high-desert country, the campground offers the characteristic thin, dry air that sharpens distant views and intensifies both sunshine and starlight. While specific elevation markers remain unrecorded, visitors will notice the landscape's elevated position through cooler mornings and the expansive sight lines typical of mountain desert environments.
Natural Features and SceneryDawn breaks spectacularly over McClendon Spring, painting the Cotterel Mountains in shades of rose and gold while deer emerge from hidden draws to graze. This rugged high-desert canvas unfolds in every direction—weathered peaks, vast sagebrush seas, and sky that seems impossibly wide. Free-range cattle occasionally wander through like ghosts of the Old West, while overhead, raptors ride thermal currents. As darkness falls, the show continues: with minimal light pollution, the Milky Way blazes across the sky in a display that leaves city dwellers speechless. It's a landscape that rewards patience—sit still long enough, and the desert reveals its subtle magic.
Geological RegionThe ancient Cotterel Mountains cradle McClendon Spring in their weathered embrace, showcasing millions of years of geological drama etched in stone. This rugged, semi-developed outpost sits within striking distance of the famous City of Rocks, where granite spires create a natural sculpture garden. The high-desert terrain tells its own story through exposed rock faces, hidden springs, and ecosystems perfectly adapted to extremes. Upland bird habitats thrive in the varied topography, while mule deer navigate ancient game trails between mountain mahogany groves. It's a landscape shaped by time, weather, and the patient work of erosion—a geological masterpiece hiding in plain sight.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were noted in the sources, but user reviews indicate that the rugged terrain and uneven dirt roads may pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeSites appear to vary slightly, but the campground is described as small with approximately 4-5 sites, a few of which are larger and can accommodate groups or trailers.
Sites PrivacyReviews suggest that the sites provide some privacy, but the campground's small size means close proximity to other campers during peak use.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose the largest site at the entrance for the best views, especially if camping with a group. Avoid visiting in summer to minimize exposure to insects and stagnant water.
Best CampsitesThe 'biggest site' is highlighted as offering stunning views, making it a prime choice for campers.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
There is a 2-week stay limit according to user reviews ('free with state sticker, 2 week stay').
Groups
No explicit group sites are mentioned, but one site is noted as suitable for larger groups with multiple tents or trailers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 4-5 primitive sites. The layout includes a pit toilet, fire pits at some sites, and picnic tables, though the area is described as small and not suitable for large groups or extensive stays.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; reservations are not accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is entirely first-come, first-served, as reservations are not accepted.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not available; the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
This campground serves as a peaceful retreat offering opportunities for nature observation and solitude. Activities include hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the scenic views. The area is also popular for upland bird and deer hunting.
Hiking
The surrounding Cotterel Mountains offer trails for hiking, though specific trail details are not provided. The terrain is described as rugged.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer and free-range cattle are frequently mentioned. The area also offers bird-watching opportunities.Winter Activities
Winters are likely unsuitable for camping due to high desert weather extremes, but no specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports are not applicable to this semi-primitive campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies are provided.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include uneven, gravel roads with deep potholes, making access challenging for low-clearance vehicles, large RVs, or trailers. Summer visitors may also encounter a high density of insects, stagnant water, and intense weather conditions.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 19 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely in Malta, approximately 5 miles away. Specific emergency service locations are not listed.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned in the sources, so it is recommended campers pack out their waste.
Proximity to water featuresNo significant water features are mentioned in the provided data.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include the poor condition of the access road ('deep potholes'), the abundance of insects during summer months, and the lack of leveled sites, which can be challenging for trailers.
HostReviews suggest that the campground is informally maintained ('young women tending the grounds') but no official host information is available.
Campground Map
Driving directionsLocated approximately 5 miles northwest of Malta, Idaho. Follow signs from Highway 77 west of Malta.
The road to the campground is gravel and described as uneven, with deep potholes in places, making it unsuitable for vehicles with low ground clearance, such as cars with a lower body. Reviewers noted that navigating this road is challenging for larger RVs (e.g., 30' RVs) or fifth-wheel trailers due to dips and potholes.Nearby places
Malta (approximately 5 miles)
Declo (distance unspecified)
Albion (distance unspecified)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including fuel, groceries, and camping essentials, are likely available in Malta, which is the nearest town, approximately 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
15 reviews
Mcclendon Spring Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight McClendon Spring Campground as a serene and picturesque location, appreciated for its solitude and natural beauty. Common themes include the peaceful atmosphere, well-maintained pit toilet, and rugged access road.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
- Scenic views and beautiful sunsets
- Quiet and peaceful environment
- Clean and well-maintained pit toilet
- Large sites suitable for groups
- Free camping
- Opportunities for solitude and...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Rugged and uneven dirt road with large potholes
- Lack of shade at certain sites
- Presence of bugs in summer months, particularly in stagnant water areas
- Limited facilities and amenities
Based on 15 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring a high-clearance vehicle for navigating the rough dirt road.
- Visit during spring or fall to avoid extreme weather and bugs.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Pack out all trash due...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer: High temperatures, bugs, and stagnant water are noted downsides.
Spring/Fall: Users recommend visiting during these seasons for more comfortable weather and fewer insects.
Winter: No reviews...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "This place is magical. It's a place where time stops." - nat bell
2. "Amazing camp spot. Lots of space. Crazy views and sunrise." - Christine Folz
3. "The dirt road that leads to this campground...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site near the entrance is ideal for large groups with trailers or multiple tents.
- The largest site offers a beautiful view, according to Deena M.
- Leveling challenges for trailers at certain...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No explicit reviews mention accessibility, but rugged terrain and uneven roads suggest challenges for those with mobility limitations.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviews mention ample space for dogs to roam freely. "Quite a bit of space for our dog to run around." - Siarrah Jayde
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025