Goodenough Creek Campground

4.28

110 reviews

4350 Cliffs Dr, Pocatello, ID, 83204, USA

Quick Facts

5,548 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Bureau of Land Management - Pocatello Field Office site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

5,548 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Bureau of Land Management - Pocatello Field Office site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Goodenough Creek Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The campground is free to use; no fees are associated with camping or amenities.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

208-478-6340BLM_ID_PocatelloOffice@blm.gov

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What Campers Say

4.28

Satisfactory

Based on 110 reviews

108 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulwell-maintained

Some mention

noise

"User reviews for Goodenough Creek Campground are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing its natural beauty, seclusion, and the fact that it is free to use. Many describe it as a hidden gem, though its popularity can make finding a spot challenging."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

4350 Cliffs Dr, Pocatello, ID, 83204, USA

Goodenough Creek Campground

4350 Cliffs Dr, Pocatello, ID, 83204, USA

Driving directionsFrom McCammon, cross over I-15 and go west about a mile. The road connects to Marsh Creek Road; Turn left on Marsh Creek Road and travel about a quarter mile. Take a right onto Green Road. Continue about 2 miles to the recreation area.

The road is paved until nearly reaching the campground and connects to Marsh Creek Road and Green Road. Roads are generally accessible year-round; however, some user reviews mention steep hills and narrow dirt paths leading to campsite areas.

Nearby places

McCammon (~3 miles), Lava Hot Springs (~20 minutes driving), Pocatello (~45 minutes driving)

Nearby supplies

Supplies such as groceries, camping equipment, and fuel are available in McCammon (~3 miles) and Lava Hot Springs (~20 minutes driving).

Best Time to Camp at Goodenough Creek Campground

Experience nature's ever-changing canvas throughout the year at Goodenough Creek. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-dappled paradise, where warm days invite endless hiking and cool evenings demand cozy campfires under crystal-clear skies. Autumn arrives in spectacular fashion, painting the surrounding forest in brilliant golds and crimsons that photographers dream about. Winter adventurers will find a snow-dusted wonderland perfect for those seeking solitude and pristine beauty, though seasoned campers recommend extra layers and four-season gear for the chilly nights. Spring brings its own charm as the forest awakens, though early-season visitors should prepare for muddy trails as winter's blanket melts away, revealing wildflowers and rushing creeks.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 23% in ID

Peak season June–Aug: warm days, hiking, busiest and most pleasant conditions.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Reviews: beautiful in mid-Oct, but some reports of seasonal closures starting Sept 5.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring offers trails and creek scenery but information on spring conditions is limited.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Open year-round at times but cold, occasional closures and limited services in winter.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak visitation occurs in summer (June-August) and early fall, as noted by user reviews.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round, though closures may occur seasonally, as noted in user reviews (e.g., early fall closures reported).
Current Alerts: Seasonal closures may occur (e.g., September to December, as cited in user reviews).

About Goodenough Creek Campground

Escape to the tranquil embrace of Goodenough Creek Campground, where ten thoughtfully designed sites await beneath a canopy of whispering pines. This hidden gem, lovingly maintained by the Bureau of Land Management, offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and essential comforts—all without the price tag. Choose from five intimate tent-only spots for the purist camper or five versatile RV/tent sites that welcome all adventurers. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables for memorable outdoor meals, fire rings for evening storytelling, and convenient vault toilets nearby. The real magic happens when you follow the winding trails that connect seamlessly to the vast Caribou-Targhee National Forest, opening up a world of exploration right from your tent flap.

Goodenough Creek Campground offers both tent and RV/trailer camping, with a total of 10 developed sites. Five sites are designated for tent camping, while the other five accommodate RVs or trailers.

Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's ever-changing canvas throughout the year at Goodenough Creek. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-dappled paradise, where warm days invite endless hiking and cool evenings demand cozy campfires under crystal-clear skies. Autumn arrives in spectacular fashion, painting the surrounding forest in brilliant golds and crimsons that photographers dream about. Winter adventurers will find a snow-dusted wonderland perfect for those seeking solitude and pristine beauty, though seasoned campers recommend extra layers and four-season gear for the chilly nights. Spring brings its own charm as the forest awakens, though early-season visitors should prepare for muddy trails as winter's blanket melts away, revealing wildflowers and rushing creeks.

ElevationWhile the exact elevation remains one of nature's little mysteries, campers consistently praise the campground's gentle, accessible terrain that welcomes families and first-timers alike. The approach roads do test your vehicle's mettle with some spirited inclines, adding just enough adventure to make your arrival feel earned. Once settled in, you'll find the campground itself offers comfortable, relatively level spots perfect for pitching tents or parking RVs without the usual mountain camping gymnastics.

Natural Features and SceneryGoodenough Creek isn't just a name—it's a promise delivered by nature herself. The campground cradles you in a living cathedral of towering trees, where dappled sunlight filters through branches by day and stars peek through the canopy by night. The namesake creek serves as both soundtrack and centerpiece, its melodic babbling creating the perfect white noise for deep forest sleep. Campers often find themselves mesmerized by the water's gentle journey over smooth stones, while the surrounding woodland offers endless opportunities for quiet contemplation or wildlife watching. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's where the forest invites you to become part of its timeless rhythm.

Geological RegionNestled at the gateway to the magnificent Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Goodenough Creek Campground sits in a landscape sculpted by time and water. Rolling hills clothed in dense forest create a natural amphitheater around the campground, while the creek has carved its patient path through the terrain over countless seasons. This transitional zone between managed recreation and wilderness offers campers the best of both worlds—easy access to extensive trail networks while maintaining that coveted sense of being truly away from it all. The surrounding geology tells the story of ancient forests and patient streams, creating the perfect backdrop for your own outdoor adventures.

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 Days

Guests Allowed Per Site

No specific limit mentioned in official sources, but user reviews indicate space for small groups and families.

Groups

No group camping accommodations are mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of two loops with tent sites located farther downstream and RV sites near the entrance. Sites are connected by a narrow gravel road.

Reservation PlatformsNone, as reservations are not accepted.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up only, and user reviews strongly recommend arriving early due to popularity and limited availability.

Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not accepted; all sites are first-come, first-served.

AccessibilityThe campground does not explicitly mention accessibility features, but one reviewer noted, "Paved site next to restrooms for Disabled Access," suggesting some accessible facilities are present.

Site SizeThe sites vary in size, with some accommodating tents and RVs. One reviewer noted, "Very well-designed 50' x 30' raised gravel sites." Another mentioned smaller sites: "Small sites, first come first serve... some spots are small.

PrivacyCampsites offer varying levels of privacy. Tent sites near the creek were noted for being "secluded," while other sites were described as "close to the road" or "connected (so less private).

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesArrive early to secure a spot, particularly during summer and fall. Small trailers under 20 feet are most suitable for RV sites.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Goodenough Creek Campground provides recreational opportunities such as hiking and wildlife viewing. A creek offers exploration and tranquility, and trails lead into the Caribou – Targhee National Forest trail system.

HikingHiking is a key activity, with trails described as diverse and scenic. One user noted, "Three trails leave from the campground area. Each is quite different from the other two." Another mentioned, "Two of the trails were easy, the third was a bit more challenging."

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of a moose family and large cat prints, as noted by one reviewer: "Saw a moose family and big cat prints."

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include yellow jackets during summer months, steep roads, and occasional wildlife sightings (e.g., moose and large cats).

Active AlertsSeasonal closures may occur (e.g., September to December, as cited in user reviews).

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyFire rings are provided at all campsites; campfires are allowed within designated rings.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are None explicitly stated, but user reviews suggest general awareness of noise levels due to close proximity of sites.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are in Pocatello (~45 minutes away), including hospitals, police stations, and fire departments.

Trash & RecyclingThere are no dumpsters on-site. Visitors are required to pack in and pack out their trash. This is supported by both the official description and user reviews.

Water FeaturesTent sites are located next to Goodenough Creek, and user reviews describe the sound of running water as relaxing.

Weather at Goodenough Creek Campground

Reviews

4.3

110 reviews

Satisfactory

Goodenough Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Goodenough Creek Campground are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing its natural beauty, seclusion, and the fact that it is free to use. Many describe it as a hidden gem, though its popularity can make finding a spot challenging.

Review Summaries

Based on 110 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the free status of the campground, well-maintained vault toilets, the peaceful and scenic environment, and access to trails. One reviewer remarked, "One of the best BLM...

Based on 110 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include limited availability of campsites due to high demand, the lack of water and trash services, and occasional issues with privacy at some sites. "Good luck finding a spot,"...

Based on 110 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Recommendations include arriving early to secure a campsite, bringing water and trash bags due to the lack of on-site amenities, and being prepared for limited cell service. "Arrive by mid-afternoon...

Based on 110 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate that the campground is busiest during summer and hunting season. Some closures occur in autumn, as noted by one reviewer: "Closed from September 5th to sometime in December." Winter...

Based on 110 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Beautiful free campsite! We stopped here on our drive between Grand Teton/Yellowstone National Parks and Salt Lake City." - Julia Randle "One of the most beautiful hidden gems in this county." -...

Based on 110 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite #10 by the creek is noted for its soothing ambiance, described as providing "perfect white noise." Campsite #7 was described as having space for tents and a well-placed fire ring.

Based on 110 reviews