Castle Creek Campground
4.699 reviewsCastle Creek Campground, Milepost 14, Highway 14, east of Grangeville, Idaho
Quick Facts
Price
$12/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
9 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$12/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
9 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsCastle Creek Campground
$12.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The camping fee is $12 per night. An additional $3 is charged for each extra vehicle.
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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$12.00
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USFS
ProviderWhat Campers Say
4.69
Top-Rated
Based on 9 reviews
16 Google reviews
Most mentioned
waterbeachsites
Some mention
noise
"User reviews generally highlight the natural beauty of the campground and its proximity to the Clearwater River. While the campground's rustic charm is appreciated, the lack of trash services and potential noise from the nearby highway are noted downsides."
Fees & Passes at Castle Creek Campground
$12/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: No limit specified for consecutive nights.
Cancellation: Reservations are not applicable as all sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Prices verified August 10, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests website.
Best Time to Camp at Castle Creek Campground
Castle Creek transforms with each passing season, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for riverside relaxation and family adventures in the crystal-clear waters. Spring and autumn paint the landscape with moderate temperatures and crisp, clear skies ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. Winter cloaks the campground in snow, potentially limiting access but creating a serene wonderland for those prepared for cold-weather camping. The summer months shine as the prime season, when the river comes alive with swimmers, anglers, and nature lovers seeking refreshment in the mountain waters.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
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
- Operating Season: Open year-round, but accessibility may be limited due to snow.
- Current Alerts: Currently, potable water is unavailable, and seasonal snow may limit access.
About Castle Creek Campground
Tucked away along the pristine waters of the South Fork Clearwater River, Castle Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into Idaho's wilderness with just 9 secluded campsites. This first-come, first-served gem welcomes both tent campers and RV adventurers seeking simplicity and solitude. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and access to vault toilets, embodying the true spirit of back-to-basics camping. As a pack-it-in, pack-it-out destination without potable water or garbage services, Castle Creek appeals to self-sufficient outdoor enthusiasts who value pristine natural settings over modern conveniences.
Castle Creek Campground is a first-come, first-served facility designed to accommodate RVs, trailers, and tent campers. Its small size (9 sites) contributes to its quiet and rustic atmosphere.
Weather and SeasonsCastle Creek transforms with each passing season, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for riverside relaxation and family adventures in the crystal-clear waters. Spring and autumn paint the landscape with moderate temperatures and crisp, clear skies ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. Winter cloaks the campground in snow, potentially limiting access but creating a serene wonderland for those prepared for cold-weather camping. The summer months shine as the prime season, when the river comes alive with swimmers, anglers, and nature lovers seeking refreshment in the mountain waters.
ElevationNestled within the mountainous terrain of north-central Idaho, Castle Creek Campground sits at an elevation that provides refreshing mountain air and cooler temperatures than the valleys below. While the exact elevation remains unspecified, the campground's mountain setting ensures dramatic topography and the invigorating atmosphere that comes with higher altitude camping.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic pine trees tower overhead, creating a natural cathedral that filters sunlight into gentle, dappled patterns across the forest floor. The South Fork Clearwater River flows alongside the campground, its pristine waters providing both a soothing soundtrack and endless opportunities for riverside contemplation. This riparian paradise attracts diverse wildlife, from deer browsing in the early morning mist to birds filling the air with their songs. The tranquil atmosphere invites visitors to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the rhythms of nature.
Geological RegionCastle Creek Campground rests within the spectacular Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of dramatic mountains and deep river valleys. The South Fork Clearwater River has carved its course through this rugged terrain over millennia, creating the lush riparian corridor that defines the campground today. Towering pines dominate the forest canopy, their roots anchored in soil enriched by centuries of forest cycles. This mountainous region showcases the raw beauty of Idaho's wilderness, where geological time is written in every ridge and river bend.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features for campers with disabilities are mentioned in the provided information.
Sites SizeEach of the 9 sites provides enough room for RVs and trailers, but there are no specific measurements or size descriptions.
Sites PrivacySome user reviews note varying site privacy, such as Brenda's comment: 'Most spots have private beach,' while others describe the sites as being in close proximity to each other.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 6 is recommended for its privacy and access to the river. Families with children may find this site ideal for water activities.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time provided.
Check-out
No specific check-out time provided.
Stay Limit
No limit specified for consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limit mentioned.
Groups
There is no information about designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 9 units with picnic tables and fire pits, situated along the river.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but accessibility may be limited due to snow.
Reservation PlatformsNone. All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not applicable as all sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers outdoor activities primarily focused on fishing. It is located along the South Fork of the Clearwater River, providing opportunities to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Fishing
Fishing is a key activity at this campground. Brenda noted catching trout, although 'only 2 were edible sizes,' and added that trout were caught using spoons and super duper lures.Winter Activities
The campground is open year-round but may not be accessible in snowy conditions.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policies provided.
- Quiet hours are No quiet hours specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include the busy Highway 14 running adjacent to the campground, wildlife encounters, and water hazards from the river. Additionally, snow during winter months can limit accessibility.
Active alertsCurrently, potable water is unavailable, and seasonal snow may limit access.
Weather at Castle Creek Campground
44
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Grangeville, Idaho.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingGarbage services are not available on-site, and visitors must pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located right on the South Fork of the Clearwater River, offering fishing and other river-based recreation.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention noise from the busy highway, disputes over first-come sites, and campers leaving RVs without occupying them as required. Lack of garbage services is also a recurring concern.
HostUser reviews mention a camp host named Mark who is attentive and keeps the campground clean.
Campground Map
Castle Creek Campground, Milepost 14, Highway 14, east of Grangeville, Idaho
Driving directionsFrom the east end of Grangeville, head south on the Grangeville Salmon Road and turn left at the drive-in theater toward the small town Mt. Idaho. Continue on the Mt. Idaho Grade, and toward Elk City on Hwy 14. Castle Creek Campground is located at Mile Post 14 on Hwy 14.
The campground is accessible via a paved road. It is located on Highway 14 and can be reached easily from Grangeville. Seasonal snow may make access challenging during winter months.Nearby places
Grangeville is 14 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Supplies including groceries, fuel, and camping gear are available in Grangeville, which is approximately 14 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.7
9 reviews
Castle Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally highlight the natural beauty of the campground and its proximity to the Clearwater River. While the campground's rustic charm is appreciated, the lack of trash services and potential noise from the nearby highway are noted downsides.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently mention the beautiful natural surroundings, such as the Clearwater River and large pine trees. Brenda described it as 'beautiful,' and Robert appreciated the 'huge pine trees.' The...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Key complaints include the noise from the adjacent highway ('the busy loud highway next door,' as Brenda noted) and the issue of campers reserving spots without occupying them ('lots of...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend securing sites early, especially on weekends, due to its first-come-first-served policy. Brenda suggests following the rules and occupying reserved spots immediately.
Based on 9 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summers are popular for fishing and family activities in the river’s shallow waters. However, snow may render the campground inaccessible in winter, as noted in the site description.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
-'Really cool quiet place. The pine trees are so huge!' - Robert. 'Right along the river which is very accessible.' - Robert. 'Most spots have private beach.' - Brenda. 'Kids had a great time in the...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Brenda identified Site 6 as the best site due to its location and private beach.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention policies or experiences related to pets.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated August 10, 2025
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