Calamity
4.5082 reviewsTARGHEE
Quick Facts
5,700 ftPrice
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
45 campsites
Season
Open May 23 - Septem...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
5,700 ftPrice
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
45 campsites
Season
Open May 23 - Septem...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsCalamity
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rates are $20/night for standard non-electric sites. Fees do not include taxes, discounts, or incremental charges. An additional $8 fee...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
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$20.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider208-270-0150 OR 541-351-1182
What Campers Say
4.50
Top-Rated
Based on 82 reviews
140 Google reviews
Most mentioned
sceneryprivacysites
"User reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty, proximity to Palisades Reservoir, and a wide range of outdoor activities. However, common complaints include maintenance issues, such as unclean toilets, and occasional noise disturbances from other campers."
Fees & Passes at Calamity
$20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Changes to reservations cost $10 per reserved site and late cancellations incur both a $10 fee and f...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Aud & Di Campground Services website.
Best Time to Camp at Calamity
Summer transforms Calamity into a mountain paradise, with July and August bringing ideal conditions for camping and water recreation. The reservoir's refreshing 62°F waters offer a perfect respite from warm afternoons. While the peak season attracts its share of mosquitoes—a testament to the area's thriving ecosystem—savvy campers come prepared and find the minor inconvenience far outweighed by the spectacular setting and endless outdoor opportunities.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - September 6, 2025 (Peak Season).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open May 23 - September 6. Reservations available June 24 to September 6.
- Current Alerts: No active alerts are specified.
About Calamity
Perched at the northern gateway to the magnificent Palisades Reservoir, Calamity Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its three thoughtfully designed camping loops. Each loop offers its own character, from intimate, secluded sites tucked among the trees to more open areas perfect for gathering with friends and family. This scenic mountain retreat provides the perfect basecamp for adventures both on the water and in the surrounding wilderness.
Calamity Campground provides a range of camping options across its three loops, accommodating both tent and RV campers. Some loops are entirely dedicated to specific types of camping, such as Loop C being tent-only.
Historical SignificanceThe untold stories of this land await discovery by curious visitors exploring the shores of Palisades Reservoir and the surrounding wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Calamity into a mountain paradise, with July and August bringing ideal conditions for camping and water recreation. The reservoir's refreshing 62°F waters offer a perfect respite from warm afternoons. While the peak season attracts its share of mosquitoes—a testament to the area's thriving ecosystem—savvy campers come prepared and find the minor inconvenience far outweighed by the spectacular setting and endless outdoor opportunities.
ElevationAt 5,700 feet above sea level, Calamity Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer heat. This elevated perch not only provides naturally cooler temperatures but also serves up breathtaking panoramic views of Palisades Reservoir stretching into the distance. The crisp mountain air and expansive vistas remind visitors why high-country camping creates such unforgettable memories.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry is on full display at Calamity, where the campground cascades down a scenic hillside overlooking the sparkling waters of Palisades Reservoir. A diverse tapestry of lodgepole pine, spruce, and fir mingles with stands of quaking aspen and mountain maple, creating a rich forest mosaic that transforms with the seasons. Come summer, the understory erupts in a painter's palette of wildflowers, their vibrant blooms adding splashes of color to the green canopy above.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic Snake River drainage, Calamity Campground occupies a privileged position at the northern reaches of Palisades Reservoir. This stunning landscape showcases the region's geological diversity through its varied forest communities—towering lodgepole pines stand sentinel alongside graceful spruce and fir, while groves of aspen and maple add texture and seasonal color. The hillside topography creates natural amphitheaters of scenery, where summer wildflowers carpet the forest floor and frame postcard-perfect views of the reservoir below.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySome campsites require walking down stairs, which may pose accessibility challenges. One reviewer noted, 'Possible accessibility issues, as you have to walk down stairs from where you park.' (User: REGGIE S).
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size; some are small and suitable only for tents or small RVs, while others can accommodate large RVs and multiple vehicles. For example, site A5 has room for 'two medium tents,' while site B13 is 'great for an RV, only room for one small tent.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Many campsites are described as private due to vegetation and spacing. Site-specific feedback includes comments such as 'great privacy' (User: BEN B) and 'all sites are secluded and pretty private' (User: JOLENE F).
Total Campsites45 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor tent users, avoid loops A and B due to coarse gravel pads. Choose Loop C for proper tent pads. RV users should opt for Loop A or B where sites like B8 and A13 provide privacy and proximity to the reservoir.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 p.m.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 12:00 p.m.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Unspecified in official data.
Groups
No specific group sites were mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree loops (A, B, C) with varying amenities. Loop A and B cater more to RVs; Loop C focuses on tent camping.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 - September 6. Reservations available June 24 to September 6.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly mentioned, though user reviews indicate occasional availability to change reservations on-site.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations cost $10 per reserved site and late cancellations incur both a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee. Reservations may be canceled anytime before the arrival date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
This campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Recreation options include boating, water skiing, canoeing, fishing, swimming, hiking, and biking. Wildlife viewing is also a notable highlight. 'Palisades Reservoir offers excellent boating, water skiing, swimming, and canoeing. Lake and shore fishing are very popular here, with wild and stocked cutthroat trout as the predominant species.' (Authoritative Source).
Hiking
The Palisades Creek Trail, located nearby, is a key attraction for hikers. The trail leads to Upper Palisades Lake and offers expansive views of Swan Valley. Another local trail, Big Elk Creek Trail, is accessible from the nearby Big Elk Campground and provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.Fishing
Fishing is a highly popular activity at Palisades Reservoir and the Snake River. The lake features wild and stocked cutthroat trout, kokanee salmon, brown trout, and Mackinaw trout. In the words of one user: 'Our grandkids caught their limit fishing and we saw a bald eagle sweep down and catch a fish.' (User: Brad McBride).Swimming
Swimming is available in Palisades Reservoir. However, one user mentioned that the water temperature in early July was about 62°F, so be prepared for cooler water. 'The hotter the day, the better the water feels.' (User: Heather S).Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are available on the Palisades Creek Trail and Big Elk Creek Trail. These trails are shared with hikers and horseback riders.Boating
The campground features a boat ramp and large parking area for boating activities. Palisades Reservoir is ideal for water skiing, tubing, and canoeing. As one reviewer noted: 'The reservoir is huge, and we had plenty of space for surfing and tubing. Beautiful scenery.' (User: Amy Lucas).Wildlife viewing
Opportunities for wildlife viewing include spotting bald eagles and other local species. 'We saw a bald eagle sweep down and catch a fish.' (User: Brad McBride).Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were identified in the source materials.Water Sports
Water skiing, canoeing, and tubing are popular water sports at Palisades Reservoir. 'The reservoir is huge, and we had plenty of space for surfing and tubing.' (User: Amy Lucas).Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased on-site.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are commonly reported as a nuisance. Reservoir areas are rocky and may present challenges for swimmers. Hosts enforce rules but some user reviews complain of poor handling of reservations.
Active alertsNo active alerts are specified.
Weather at Calamity
31
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely found in Idaho Falls, which is 55 miles away. Specifics about hospitals or ranger stations are unavailable.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 6, 2025 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available. No specific details about recycling facilities were mentioned in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresClose proximity to Palisades Reservoir, which offers boating, swimming, fishing, and water skiing opportunities. A boat ramp is located on-site.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include: tents incompatible with gravel pads, noisy neighbors, full bathrooms during peak seasons, and poor enforcement of quiet hours.
HostHosts are described as friendly and resourceful in many reviews, ensuring smooth stays by assisting guests with huckleberry picking and managing occupied sites.
Campground Map
TARGHEE
Driving directionsFrom Idaho Falls, Idaho, travel on Hwy. 26 for approximately 50 miles. Turn right off of Hwy. 26, (just before ascending grade to the top of the dam) and go ¼ mile, turn right and cross the river following signs to the campground. Distance is approximately 5 miles.
"The campground is accessible via 4 miles of graded road. User reviews suggest, 'The 4 miles of graded road rattles a few things around, but otherwise no problem. It keeps the place a little out of the way for most and that's just the way I like it.'"Nearby places
Idaho Falls - 55 miles (approximately 1 hour drive)
Swan Valley - null
Jackson Hole - null.
Nearby supplies
Includes firewood available for purchase from campground hosts. Swan Valley offers nearby markets (like a 'beer cave') for additional supplies, but precise distances or details are missing.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
82 reviews
Calamity is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty, proximity to Palisades Reservoir, and a wide range of outdoor activities. However, common complaints include maintenance issues, such as unclean toilets, and occasional noise disturbances from other campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 82 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the beautiful scenery, excellent fishing opportunities, and the variety of activities available. One user described it as 'a great hidden gem of a campground' (User: Kyle...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include unclean toilets, crowded conditions during peak times, and lack of enforcement of quiet hours. 'Extremely loud and busy campground over the weekend during the summer.' (User: Katy...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent, as mosquitoes can be a significant problem. If tent camping, choose Loop C as it is more suitable for tents. For boating, arrive early as the boat ramp can get crowded.
Based on 82 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busier during summer weekends, and some facilities, such as toilets, may suffer from overcrowding and delayed maintenance. Mosquito activity is higher in warmer months.
Based on 82 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Calamity is misnamed. Should have been beautifully serene or slice of paradise.' (User: Laurie Soliday). 2. 'This will be the place we go for many years to come.' (User: Amanda Godfrey).
Based on 82 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
1. Site C1: 'Tiny, barely any space from fire pit to tent.' (User: Aaron Clayson). 2. Site A5: 'Room for two medium tents.' (User: Amy Lucas). 3. Site B8: 'Close to bathroom, campfire site down...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Users noted accessibility challenges with some sites requiring stairs: 'You have to walk down stairs from where you park.' (User: REGGIE S).
Based on 82 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific information about pet-related policies or experiences was provided.
Based on 82 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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