Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site

4.60

152 reviews

721 E Main Ave, Challis, ID, 83226

Family FriendlySummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Idaho Boating Camping Idaho Family-Friendly Campgrounds Idaho +2 more

Quick Facts

6,109 ft

Price

$3 - $25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

Open from May 1 to S...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Challis Field Office site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

6,109 ft

Price

$3 - $25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

Open from May 1 to S...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Challis Field Office site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site

$3.00 - $25.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees vary by season and site type. Tent sites are $3.00-$6.00; RV electric sites range from $9.00-$24.00; group shelter fee is $25.00. Fees are used...

Standard Site Fee$6.00

Hookup Site Fee$24.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$25.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

208-879-6200BLM_ID_ChallisOffice@blm.gov

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What Campers Say

4.60

Top-Rated

Based on 152 reviews

160 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanspacioushookups

"The campground receives generally positive feedback, with an average sentiment of 4.52 for campground-specific reviews. Common themes include cleanliness, beautiful views, and reasonable pricing. However, there are mixed opinions about camp hosts."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

721 E Main Ave, Challis, ID, 83226

Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site

721 E Main Ave, Challis, ID, 83226

Driving directionsTravel north from Mackay on Highway 93 for approximately 6 miles. The site is on the west side of the highway and has a view of the spectacular Mt. McCaleb in the Lost River Range.

Accessible via paved roads from Highway 93. Easy access for vehicles, including RVs. No seasonal closures mentioned.

Nearby places

Mackay (6 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Challis (approximately 45 minutes).

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies available in Mackay (6 miles), a small town offering essentials like fuel and groceries.

Best Time to Camp at Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site

Experience the dramatic beauty of Idaho's mountain climate, where summer days dawn crystal clear and dry, perfect for outdoor adventures, while crisp mountain air keeps even the warmest afternoons comfortable. The valley location creates its own microclimate, with characteristic breezes that whisper through the campground, carrying the scent of sage and pine. As autumn arrives, golden light bathes the landscape, and winter transforms the area into a snow-dusted wonderland, reminding visitors why shoulder seasons offer their own unique magic for those prepared for cooler temperatures.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 23% in ID

Peak season May–Sep; summer offers boating, swimming and warm weather recreation.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

May and September popular with cooler temps and reports of better fishing in shoulder season.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Open starting May 1; early/late spring shoulder visits noted but water/utilities may vary early season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground is closed for reservations outside May 1–Sep 30; winter camping not supported.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 1 to September 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 1 to September 30 for reservations. First-come, first-served availability June 20-21, 2025.

About Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site

Nestled along the sparkling shores of Mackay Reservoir, Joe T. Fallini Campground offers an idyllic escape with 26 thoughtfully placed campsites that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape. Whether you're rolling in with an RV to enjoy full hookups or pitching a tent under the stars, you'll find modern amenities including clean restrooms, fresh drinking water, and shaded picnic areas perfect for lakeside meals. Days here unfold with endless possibilities—cast a line into the reservoir's productive waters, explore scenic hiking trails that wind through the surrounding mountains, launch your boat for a day on the water, or simply settle in for some of Idaho's most spectacular stargazing as darkness reveals a pristine night sky unmarred by city lights.

The Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site accommodates a variety of camping types, including tent camping, RV camping with full hookups, and group shelters. Specific site types include 'Tent Only Nonelectric,' 'RV Electric,' and 'Group Shelter Nonelectric.'

Historical SignificanceThis cherished campground honors the legacy of Joseph T. Fallini, who served as Idaho's BLM State Director from 1959 to 1970 and championed the belief that public lands should be accessible havens for outdoor recreation. Fallini's vision helped shape Idaho's approach to conservation and recreation, ensuring that places like this remain open for generations to discover the restorative power of nature. His dedication to preserving these wild spaces while making them welcoming to visitors lives on in every sunrise reflected on the reservoir's surface.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Idaho's mountain climate, where summer days dawn crystal clear and dry, perfect for outdoor adventures, while crisp mountain air keeps even the warmest afternoons comfortable. The valley location creates its own microclimate, with characteristic breezes that whisper through the campground, carrying the scent of sage and pine. As autumn arrives, golden light bathes the landscape, and winter transforms the area into a snow-dusted wonderland, reminding visitors why shoulder seasons offer their own unique magic for those prepared for cooler temperatures.

ElevationCradled in a dramatic valley where towering mountain ranges converge, the campground occupies a unique position in Idaho's varied topography. The surrounding peaks create a natural amphitheater that shelters the campground while offering ever-changing vistas as light and shadow play across the mountainsides throughout the day. This valley setting provides the perfect balance—accessible enough for comfortable camping yet surrounded by the rugged beauty that defines Idaho's backcountry.

Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be captivated by a landscape where the majestic Lost River Range rises to the east like ancient sentinels, while the distinctive Knob Mountains frame the western horizon. At the heart of it all, Mackay Reservoir stretches out in a mirror of blue, reflecting the imposing silhouette of Mt. McCaleb and creating a photographer's paradise at every turn. The interplay of water, mountain, and sky creates an ever-changing canvas—from misty mornings when the reservoir appears to merge with the clouds, to brilliant afternoons when every ridge and peak stands in sharp relief against an impossibly blue sky.

Geological RegionPositioned at the confluence of two distinct mountain ranges, the campground occupies a geological crossroads where the ancient Lost River Range meets the rugged Knob Mountains. Mackay Reservoir, a jewel created by human engineering working in harmony with natural topography, fills the valley between these ranges, creating a unique ecosystem where mountain and water environments merge. This dramatic setting tells the story of millions of years of geological forces—from tectonic uplift to glacial carving—that have sculpted one of Idaho's most scenic camping destinations.

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Not explicitly stated.

Check-out

Not explicitly stated.

Stay Limit

Information not specified in authoritative sources.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not explicitly stated.

Groups

Group shelters are available and cost $25 per night. No additional details provided about group capacities.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutPaved roads and loops (e.g., Grouse and Chukkar). Sites are pull-through or back-in.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov mobile app or website.

Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable June 20-21, 2025. Sites during this period are first-come, first-served without reservation options.

Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay system does not allow refunds, modifications, or cancellations. Late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first night’s fees.

AccessibilityAccessible campsites, parking, drinking water, picnic area, pit toilets, and trails are mentioned as available.

Site SizeThe campground accommodates various sizes including RVs and tents. Examples include 'large RV sites' and tent-specific areas with 'room for multiple tents.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. One review mentioned the campground being packed but still having 'plenty of space,' while others noted open areas with limited shade.

Total Campsites26 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose Chukkar Loop for mature trees. Grouse Loop near water is ideal for swimming.

Amenities available

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site offers diverse activities including boating, fishing, camping, picnicking, hiking, wildlife viewing, nature walking, and stargazing. Recreational highlights include the boat ramp for water sports such as jet skiing and sailing, as well as ice fishing in winter. User reviews elaborate: 'Great place for fishing and camping' (Oded Paz), and 'fishing was subpar' during late July (Michelle F.).

HikingHiking opportunities are mentioned, though specifics about trail lengths or difficulty are not detailed in source materials. A user review noted 'great hiking trails, well maintained' (Tim Osking).

FishingFishing is popular at the site, with one user catching 'a monstrous 26" 4+ lbs Rainbow Trout' (Oded Paz). Another user enjoyed fly fishing and caught rainbow trout (Andrea Kabobel). However, fishing quality appears seasonal, with mixed reviews in late summer.

SwimmingSwimming is possible in the reservoir. A user described it as 'fun to swim in' despite subpar fishing conditions (Michelle F.). Safety measures are not mentioned.

BoatingBoating activities are supported by a boat ramp and opportunities for jet skiing, water skiing, sailing, and non-motorized boating. A user noted: 'Boat launch right in campground' (Greg S).

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is highlighted as an activity, but specific species or best areas for viewing are not mentioned.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential danger from snakes (e.g., prickly pear fields). Windy conditions noted in user reviews.

Fire PolicyFire pits available at campsites; detailed fire policies not specified.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Information unavailable.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services likely located in Mackay (6 miles) or Challis, Idaho.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities are mentioned as unavailable at certain times. For example: 'Still no water or trash service' (Margaret Cawelti, May).

Water FeaturesAdjacent to Mackay Reservoir with boat ramps and fishing opportunities.

Camp HostHosts are present, experiences vary from helpful to unfriendly.

Weather at Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site

Reviews

4.6

152 reviews

Top-Rated

Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground receives generally positive feedback, with an average sentiment of 4.52 for campground-specific reviews. Common themes include cleanliness, beautiful views, and reasonable pricing. However, there are mixed opinions about camp hosts.

Review Summaries

Based on 152 reviews

What Campers Love

Positives highlighted include the campground being 'clean and spacious' with 'beautiful views,' full hookups, and a variety of recreational activities. Users appreciated amenities like fire pits,...

Based on 152 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include issues with certain camp hosts being rude ('Camp host a grumpy old bear' - Margaret Cawelti), limited shade, and poor fishing in late summer.

Based on 152 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own trash bags as trash services may not always be available. Visit during cooler months to avoid the summer heat and take advantage of better fishing conditions in May.

Based on 152 reviews

Seasonal Insights

May and September are popular times, with reports of better fishing and cooler weather. July can be hot with less shade, and October is quieter with fewer visitors.

Based on 152 reviews

Camper Quotes

'This full hookup campground sits on the edge of the Mackay Reservoir with 360° views of the beautiful Lost River mountain range' (Mountain Woman). 'Bathrooms and camping spots on site' (Andrea...

Based on 152 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites on the Grouse Loop are closer to water but lack shade compared to Chukkar Loop.

Based on 152 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user reviews address accessibility, but official descriptions note accessible features like restrooms and trails.

Based on 152 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but one user noted a camp host complaining about dogs (Margaret Cawelti).

Based on 152 reviews

0 review

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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