Mccrea Bridge
4.3874 reviewsYALE-KILGORE ROAD
Quick Facts
6,200 ftPrice
$25 - $50/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
35 campsites
Season
Open May 23 - Septem...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
6,200 ftPrice
$25 - $50/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
35 campsites
Season
Open May 23 - Septem...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsMccrea Bridge
$25.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates by season vary from $25 to $50 per night for standard non-electric sites during peak season.
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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$25.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider208-558-7658eddyls@mindspring.com
What Campers Say
4.38
Recommended
Based on 74 reviews
78 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewscleanspaciouswater
Some mention
noise
"User reviews highlight both positive and negative aspects of the campground. While many commend the cleanliness, spacious sites, and helpful camp hosts, others criticize issues such as garbage overflow, noise from nearby roads, and occasional host demeanor."
Fees & Passes at Mccrea Bridge
$25 - $50/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights total at this campground within rolling 30 days.
Cancellation: Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations or no-shows result in forfeiting the fir...
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 Mccrea Bridge
Summer transforms McCrea Bridge into an outdoor paradise, where crisp mornings give way to pleasantly warm afternoons. With temperatures dancing between a refreshing 50°F at daybreak and comfortable 76°F peaks, you'll find the perfect conditions for any adventure. The typically dry weather means more time under blue skies, though savvy visitors know that late summer brings lower water levels—creating intimate coves and revealing hidden shorelines perfect for exploration.
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 21, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open May 23 - September 21 (peak season), closed out of season.
- Current Alerts: No reservoir access past August due to irrigation-related water level recession.
About Mccrea Bridge
Perched along the pristine shores of Island Park Reservoir at 6,200 feet, McCrea Bridge Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its crystalline waters and mountain vistas. This high-altitude haven serves as your gateway to world-class fishing, exhilarating water sports, and countless trails that wind through the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. Whether you're casting a line at dawn or paddling into the sunset, this Idaho gem offers the perfect basecamp for adventures that stretch all the way to Yellowstone's doorstep.
McCrea Bridge Campground supports a variety of camping experiences, including single and double sites for RV and tent setups. Some sites are first-come, first-serve, while others are reservable.
Historical SignificanceYour campsite rests within the ancient Henry's Fork Caldera, where volcanic forces once shaped this dramatic landscape millions of years ago. Today, historic trails crisscross the region, including segments of the legendary Nez Perce Trail—a pathway that tells stories of courage and survival—and the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, where adventurers traverse the backbone of America. Every step here connects you to both geological wonders and human history.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms McCrea Bridge into an outdoor paradise, where crisp mornings give way to pleasantly warm afternoons. With temperatures dancing between a refreshing 50°F at daybreak and comfortable 76°F peaks, you'll find the perfect conditions for any adventure. The typically dry weather means more time under blue skies, though savvy visitors know that late summer brings lower water levels—creating intimate coves and revealing hidden shorelines perfect for exploration.
ElevationAt 6,200 feet above sea level, McCrea Bridge offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat. This elevated perch delivers naturally air-conditioned nights perfect for sleeping under the stars, while days remain pleasantly cool even when the valleys below swelter. The high-altitude setting means you'll breathe crisp, pine-scented air and enjoy temperatures that make hiking, biking, and water activities comfortable throughout the summer season.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral around your campsite, their slender trunks reaching skyward like nature's own pillars. Between these forest sentinels, sun-dappled meadows burst with summer wildflowers—splashes of purple lupine, golden balsamroot, and delicate mountain asters. Keep your camera ready for wildlife encounters: majestic moose wade through marshy areas at dawn, bald eagles soar overhead scanning for fish, black bears forage in distant meadows, and elegant Sandhill cranes perform their ancient dances along the water's edge.
Geological RegionWelcome to the Island Park Caldera, where ancient volcanic forces created one of the world's largest calderas—a massive basin formed by a supervolcanic eruption 1.3 million years ago. This geological wonderland now cradles dense forests of lodgepole pines that thrive in the volcanic soil, while expansive meadows paint the landscape with seasonal wildflowers. The remnants of this fiery past have transformed into a serene wilderness where volcanic legacy meets vibrant life, creating an ecosystem found nowhere else on Earth.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySome campsites have stairs connecting parking spurs to site pads, which may affect accessibility. Other accessibility features are not detailed.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating both large RVs and tents. "Sites were more than adequate for us to park our RV and truck without unhooking the truck," stated one user.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a mix of private, shaded sites and more open, sunny spots. One reviewer noted, "Nice campgrounds, mostly secluded so we had some privacy."
Total Campsites35 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReserve waterside sites on A loop for proximity to water activities; quieter sites recommended away from road.
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Standard check-in time is 14:00 (2 PM).
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 (noon).
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights total at this campground within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific limit information given.
Groups
No details are provided about designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites laid out in loops (A and B). A loop offers waterside sites, while B loop is reservable.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 - September 21 (peak season), closed out of season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations or no-shows result in forfeiting the first night's fees plus additional processing charges.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
McCrea Bridge Campground offers a variety of recreational activities. Boating, canoeing, and fishing are popular on Island Park Reservoir, though water levels drop by August, restricting access. The nearby Henry's Fork is renowned for fly fishing, with anglers catching rainbow, cutthroat, brook trout, and Kokanee salmon. Hiking, biking, horseback riding, and ATVing are also available, with trails like the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail nearby. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with moose, bald eagles, and Sandhill cranes often seen. One user shared, "We saw lots of pelicans, herons, jumping fish, and bald eagles."
Hiking
Hiking trails are abundant, including the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and the Nez Perce Trail. Trails vary in length and difficulty, offering options for all skill levels.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight in the area. Henry's Fork is considered one of the best fly-fishing streams in the nation, where anglers can catch rainbow, brook trout, and Kokanee salmon. However, one user noted river conditions: "The river was very murky," making it less ideal for fly fishing during some seasons.Biking
Biking opportunities are available with multiple trails in the area. Users have noted bike-friendly trails nearby.Boating
Boating access is available through a public boat ramp within the campground. Non-motorized watercraft can enjoy a motor-free zone under McCrea Bridge, which one user described as "a quiet, motor-free (wake-free) zone."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as moose, bald eagles, Sandhill cranes, and pelicans are frequently spotted. "We saw a cow moose as well," noted one user. Another mentioned seeing "lots of pelicans, herons, jumping fish, and bald eagles."Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing are not mentioned.Water Sports
Water skiing and canoeing are popular on Island Park Reservoir, although access is limited later in the summer due to water level changes.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within provided fire rings. Firewood available for purchase.
- Quiet hours are From 10 PM onwards.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack and grizzly bears present in the area; wildlife viewing requires caution.
Active alertsNo reservoir access past August due to irrigation-related water level recession.
Weather at Mccrea Bridge
23
°F
Dec 6
Saturday
Moderate snow fall
Precipitation: 1.2%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 94%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Very Light Snow - (1.20% chance)
Light flurries possible
Moderate snow fall
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital or medical services are not specified.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 21, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available but users have noted issues with overflowing garbage bins. "The garbage bins were small and routinely full," mentioned one user. Recycling facilities are not detailed.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Island Park Reservoir with boating and fishing opportunities. Late summer sees reduced water levels.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby roads and traffic. Overflowing trash bins reported in reviews. Hosts' behavior criticized in some cases.
HostHosts vary in reviews; some praised for cleanliness and helpfulness, others noted as rude or overly strict.
Campground Map
YALE-KILGORE ROAD
Driving directionsFrom West Yellowstone, Montana, take Highway 20 south for 27 miles. Turn west at Elk Creek Service Station and travel 2 miles to the campground entrance.
A paved road accesses the campground; however, interior roads and parking spurs are gravel. Seasonal water level recedes in late summer affecting reservoir access.Nearby places
Island Park (2 miles), Harriman State Park (14 miles), Henry's Lake State Park (16 miles), West Yellowstone (29 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest gas station is 2 miles away at Elk Creek Service Station
stores nearby provide groceries and supplies.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
74 reviews
Mccrea Bridge is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight both positive and negative aspects of the campground. While many commend the cleanliness, spacious sites, and helpful camp hosts, others criticize issues such as garbage overflow, noise from nearby roads, and occasional host demeanor.
Review Summaries
Based on 74 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the cleanliness of the campground and vault toilets, the helpfulness of camp hosts, and the scenic and spacious sites. "Our campsite was so nice and clean!" wrote one user....
Based on 74 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include overflowing garbage bins, noise from trucks and ATVs, and occasional rude behavior from some hosts. "The garbage bins were small and routinely full," noted one reviewer. Another...
Based on 74 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early for first-come, first-serve sites in the A loop. Consider bringing earplugs for noise, especially if staying near the road. If needing reliable cell service, note that coverage is...
Based on 74 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Visitors note that water levels in the reservoir recede by August, limiting boating access. Summer months see increased traffic noise, but also lush greenery and wildlife. Early autumn (post-Labor...
Based on 74 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Very clean campground with great spots for tents." "The vault toilet was shockingly clean." "Lots of trees, plenty of room for large RVs." "Serene campground in a remote area with gorgeous scenery."
Based on 74 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 16: Excellent water access and afternoon shade; Site 5: Peaceful with beautiful views; Site 8: Spacious with good accessibility but some road noise; Site 12: Level with room for large RVs; Site...
Based on 74 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews do not detail extensive accessibility features but note that some campsites have stairs, which could be a challenge for those with mobility issues.
Based on 74 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pet policies or experiences with pets at the campground.
Based on 74 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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