Mink Creek Group Site Campground
4.8712 reviews4350 CLIFFS DRIVE
Mink Creek Group Site Campground
$40.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Rates are $80.00 per night during the peak season and $40.00 per night during non-peak season. An additional $40.00 weekend fee applies during peak season. Displayed rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Bannock Mountain Range, just a scenic 12-mile drive from Pocatello, Mink Creek Group Site Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of wilderness adventure and modern convenience. This beloved destination has earned its reputation among groups and families who return year after year, drawn by its thoughtfully designed accessible facilities and the tranquil beauty of its mountain setting. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout outing, or gathering of friends, this highly-rated campground provides the ideal basecamp for creating lasting memories in southeastern Idaho's stunning backcountry.
The campground is designed as a group site accommodating a range of setups, including tents, RVs, and trailer camping.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Mink Creek transforms into a summer paradise where warm days give way to cool mountain evenings perfect for campfire stories. The moderate temperatures during these months create ideal conditions for hiking, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventures. As autumn arrives, the aspens paint the mountainsides in brilliant golds before winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow. While the colder months bring freezing temperatures and a hushed, snow-covered wonderland, the campground's peak season remains those glorious summer months when wildflowers bloom and the creek runs full with snowmelt.
Natural Features and SceneryThe gentle murmur of Mink Creek provides a soothing soundtrack to your stay, as its crystal-clear waters wind through a majestic grove of towering ponderosa pines that offer both shade and shelter. The surrounding mountainsides create a natural amphitheater adorned with stands of quaking aspens that shimmer in the breeze and evergreen pines that perfume the air with their distinctive scent. This diverse ecosystem attracts an enchanting array of birdlife – watch for the brilliant flash of Mountain Bluebirds darting between branches or catch sight of tiny Calliope Hummingbirds, North America's smallest birds, as they hover near wildflowers. The interplay of water, forest, and mountain creates a living landscape that changes with each passing hour, from misty mornings to golden sunsets.
Geological RegionThe Bannock Mountain Range of southeastern Idaho serves as a dramatic backdrop for this exceptional camping experience, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of rugged beauty and ecological diversity. Here, groves of stately ponderosa pines stand sentinel alongside dancing aspens, creating a tapestry of textures and colors that shifts with the seasons. This unique mountain ecosystem supports a remarkable variety of birdlife, making it a paradise for nature photographers and birdwatchers eager to spot everything from the iridescent Mountain Bluebird to the jewel-like Calliope Hummingbird among the forest canopy.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include paved roads for easy access by RVs and cars, an accessible picnic pavilion, and two accessible vault toilets.
Sites SizeThe group site accommodates up to 200 people and provides ample space for tents, RVs, and other camping setups.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews have consistently described the site as 'quiet and private' with ample parking space.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for large gatherings or wedding venues, as it includes a 40x80-foot pavilion, 12 picnic tables, and electrical outlets.
Best CampsitesThe single group site is highly praised for its layout and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 200 people per group site.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 200 people and includes features like a pavilion, parking area, and other amenities suitable for large gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle group site featuring paved parking area, picnic pavilion, fire pit, and vault toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 24 and closes October 31, with peak season running from May 24 to September 7.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Recreation.gov or by contacting the facility at 208-757-3999.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited information available; advance reservations are recommended as 'reservations fill up fast' per user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations within 14 days of arrival forfeit the first night’s recreation use fee. Changes to reservation dates outside original dates incur a $10 fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground supports a variety of recreational activities, particularly birding, wildlife viewing, and trail-based activities accessible from the site. The West Fork Mink Creek Trail is particularly popular for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Hiking
The West Fork Mink Creek Trail begins just outside the campground and is frequented by hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Additional trails include Corral Creek Trail and Valve House Trail, which reviewers have praised for their accessibility and scenic views.Biking
Mountain biking is supported on nearby trails such as the West Fork Mink Creek Trail.Wildlife viewing
The site is known for its rich birdlife, including species such as Western Scrub-Jay, Juniper Titmouse, Bushtit, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Mountain Bluebird, Green-tailed Spotted Towhees, and Calliope Hummingbirds. Wildlife viewing is a favored activity among visitors.Winter Activities
Winter activities include groomed cross-country ski trails at the nearby Mink Creek Nordic Center.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within the large fire ring provided at the site.
Hazards
General hazardsNo firewood available, pack-it-out garbage policy; potential wildlife interactions due to forest location.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
The campground is located within 12 miles of Pocatello, ID, which provides access to hospitals, police stations, and other emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 24, 2025 - September 7, 2025.
Trash and recyclingGarbage service is not provided, and campers must adhere to a pack-it-in/pack-it-out policy.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated along Mink Creek, which adds to its natural appeal.
Common complaintsLimited availability due to high popularity; firewood and garbage service not provided.
HostCampground hosts are available and supplemented by periodic sheriff patrols.
Campground Map
4350 CLIFFS DRIVE
Driving directionsTake exit 63 off I-15 just south of Pocatello. Follow the brown 'Mink Creek Recreation Area' signs to Bannock Highway for 2 miles, then turn left up Mink Creek Canyon. Go 7 miles south on Bannock Highway, past Bannock Guard Station, to the campground.
The road to the campground is paved, allowing easy access for RVs and cars.Nearby places
Pocatello (12 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Pocatello, ID, approximately 12 miles away, offers groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.9
12 reviews
Mink Creek Group Site Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's spacious layout, excellent amenities, and suitability for large gatherings. The site's accessibility and cleanliness are frequently praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the well-maintained facilities, ample parking, and amenities such as the pavilion with electricity and night lighting. Users also appreciated features like security from a...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users noted fast-filling reservations and the lack of on-site garbage service and firewood availability.
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include booking reservations early due to high demand and bringing your own firewood and garbage disposal solutions.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground sees high praise during warmer months for group gatherings and weddings. Winter reviews are less frequent but highlight proximity to the nearby Nordic Center for skiing.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms, drinking fountain, covered picnic tables, grills, and a Creek are available for use.' - Joseph Seidel
2. 'Approximately 30 minutes from Pocatello and the forest service has done a...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight the group's pavilion as a key feature, with some noting its suitability for weddings and large gatherings.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground has been praised for its accessible features, including paved roads, accessible vault toilets, and a pavilion with night lighting.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews related to pet policies or experiences are available.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025