Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site
4.6348 reviews721 E Main Ave, Challis, ID, 83226
Quick Facts
Price
$3 - $25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
26 campsites
Season
Open from May 1 to S...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyElectric
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$3 - $25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
26 campsites
Season
Open from May 1 to S...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyElectric
Get DirectionsJoe 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...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$55.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider208-879-6200BLM_ID_ChallisOffice@blm.gov
What Campers Say
4.63
Top-Rated
Based on 48 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."
Fees & Passes at Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site
$3 - $25/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Electric/Hookup Site
With electric/water hookups
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: Information not specified in authoritative sources.
Cancellation: Scan and Pay system does not allow refunds, modifications, or cancellations. Late cancellations incu...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Challis Field Office website.
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.
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 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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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, parking, drinking water, picnic area, pit toilets, and trails are mentioned as available.
Sites SizeThe campground accommodates various sizes including RVs and tents. Examples include 'large RV sites' and tent-specific areas with 'room for multiple tents.'
Sites 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 CampsitesChoose Chukkar Loop for mature trees. Grouse Loop near water is ideal for swimming.
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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 are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutPaved roads and loops (e.g., Grouse and Chukkar). Sites are pull-through or back-in.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to September 30 for reservations. First-come, first-served availability June 20-21, 2025.
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.
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
Dump station
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
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.).
Hiking
Hiking 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).Fishing
Fishing 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.Swimming
Swimming 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.Boating
Boating 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 viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted as an activity, but specific species or best areas for viewing are not mentioned.Winter Activities
Ice fishing is specifically mentioned as a popular winter activity.Water Sports
Jet skiing, water skiing, and sailing are mentioned as water sports activities.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits available at campsites; detailed fire policies not specified.
- Quiet hours are Information unavailable.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential danger from snakes (e.g., prickly pear fields). Windy conditions noted in user reviews.
Weather at Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site
29
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services likely located in Mackay (6 miles) or Challis, Idaho.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are mentioned as unavailable at certain times. For example: 'Still no water or trash service' (Margaret Cawelti, May).
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Mackay Reservoir with boat ramps and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsMixed reviews on camp hosts, from friendly to abrasive. Limited shade at some sites, particularly in Grouse Loop.
HostHosts are present, experiences vary from helpful to unfriendly.
Campground Map
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.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
48 reviews
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 48 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 48 reviewsShow more
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 48 reviewsPro 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 48 reviewsSeasonal 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 48 reviewsCamper 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 48 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites on the Grouse Loop are closer to water but lack shade compared to Chukkar Loop.
Based on 48 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific user reviews address accessibility, but official descriptions note accessible features like restrooms and trails.
Based on 48 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but one user noted a camp host complaining about dogs (Margaret Cawelti).
Based on 48 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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