Hawley Creek Lower Campground

Star5.00
7 reviews
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Peace & QuietFishing

Quick Facts

6,732 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Open season starts M...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Salmon-Challis National Forest site

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Hawley Creek Lower Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The campground has no fees associated with its use, making it a cost-free option for visitors.
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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What Campers Say

5.00

Top-Rated

Based on 7 reviews

5 Google reviews

Most mentioned

location

"Users generally praised the campground for its fishing opportunities and quiet environment, with one user calling it 'the greatest place in Idaho to fish and camp.'"

Read all reviews

Campground Map

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Hawley Creek Lower Campground

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Driving directionsFollow Highway 29 east of Leadore, 1 1/4 mile, turn right on the county dirt road and go 6 miles to the junction, Forest Service Road #275. Follow road 4 miles east up Hawley Creek.
"The campground is accessible via a county dirt road and Forest Service Road #275. Users should be prepared for unpaved roads, and seasonal accessibility may be impacted by weather."
Nearby places
Leadore, 8 miles southeast
Nearby supplies
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Best Time to Camp at Hawley Creek Lower Campground

Winter transforms this mountain retreat into a crystalline wonderland, where snow blankets the landscape and temperatures plunge into truly frigid territory. As late spring emerges, the campground undergoes a dramatic metamorphosis—comfortable temperatures replace the chill, and dry, crisp air creates perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Summer visitors can expect gloriously rain-free days under azure skies, making it an ideal season for extended camping trips and trail exploration.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open season starts May 15; fishing, hiking and access are best in summer.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Likely excellent: quiet, scenic, continued fishing; no seasonal complaints noted.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Late-spring access noted; site emerges as snow melts but early spring likely inaccessible.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Open season begins May 15; winters are snowy and frigid, implying limited access.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season starts May 15.
  • Current Alerts: null

About Hawley Creek Lower Campground

Tucked away in the rugged wilderness, Hawley Creek Lower Campground offers an authentic backcountry experience with four secluded camping sites perfect for those seeking solitude. While you'll need to bring your own water, modern restrooms provide a touch of comfort in this remote setting. Cast your line into the pristine waters of Hawley Creek or the nearby reservoir, where trout dance beneath the surface. Adventure seekers will discover a hidden spur trail that connects to the legendary Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, opening up endless exploration possibilities. The designated trails welcome ATV and motorcycle enthusiasts, adding an extra dimension of excitement to your wilderness escape.
The campground primarily supports dispersed camping with 4 sites available for use. No details are provided about other accommodations such as RV or group camping.
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Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers fishing in Hawley Creek and the nearby reservoir, with hunting and picnicking available. The Hawley Creek Trail, less than 2 miles long, is a challenging hike with an elevation gain of over 1,000 feet and connects to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. Motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail but not off-trail. Reviews emphasize the area's rich history and the quality of fishing.
HikingThe Hawley Creek Trail is less than 2 miles long but is described as difficult due to a steep elevation gain of over 1,000 feet. The trail opens into grasslands at the top and features a spur to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
FishingFishing opportunities are available in Hawley Creek and a reservoir. This activity is highlighted as a major draw by users, with one review describing it as 'the greatest place in Idaho to fish.'
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsElevation gain on trails and lack of potable water may pose challenges. Users should plan for frigid conditions during the winter.
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Weather at Hawley Creek Lower Campground

Reviews

5.0
7 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Hawley Creek Lower Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally praised the campground for its fishing opportunities and quiet environment, with one user calling it 'the greatest place in Idaho to fish and camp.'
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback predominantly mentions excellent fishing opportunities and the natural beauty of the location. The site's connection to local history is also appreciated.
Based on 7 reviews

Common Concerns

No common complaints were explicitly stated in the provided user reviews.
Based on 7 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

No specific tips or recommendations were provided by users.
Based on 7 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No specific seasonal trends were noted in user reviews.
Based on 7 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'To me it is the greatest place in Idaho to fish and camp.'
Based on 7 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

There are no site-specific reviews detailing individual campsite experiences.
Based on 7 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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