Mosquito Flat Reservoir Campground

4.36

18 reviews

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

7,180 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

11 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Salmon-Challis National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,180 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

11 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Salmon-Challis National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Mosquito Flat Reservoir Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

There is no fee to use this campground.

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

4.36

Recommended

Based on 18 reviews

13 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulcleanlake

"The campground has mixed reviews. Some users praise its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and peace, while others express concerns about road conditions and accessibility for larger RVs."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Mosquito Flat Reservoir Campground

44.5179, -114.4336

Driving directionsFrom Challis, turn west on Main Street from Highway 93. Continue until the pavement ends, and stay right on the dirt road leading to the Custer Motorway (Forest Road 070). Follow the Custer Motorway for 13 miles to the junction with Pine Summit Road (080). Turn right onto Pine Summit Road (080) and travel over Pine Summit for 4 miles to the junction with Mosquito Flat Road (091). Turn left at the junction, and the Mosquito Flat Reservoir and Campground are approximately 1/2 mile ahead.

Road access is via dirt roads, with some narrow sections and switchbacks. According to user reviews, the road leading to the campground is narrow, with challenges for larger RVs and trailers. One reviewer noted: 'RV/CAMPER BEWARE: if you have anything longer than a 24' you have to cross a creek and you will drag due to the uphill right after the crossing.' Another mentioned, 'The road is extremely narrow and the switchbacks are widened out, but again the road is narrow and makes pulling a trailer to this reservoir dangerous.'

Nearby places

Challis: Approximately 17.1 miles (approximately 30-40 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Camping necessities such as potable water and waste stations are not available on-site but can be accessed in Challis. The Cenex gas station offers a waste station for a fee, and the Land of the Yankee Fork Interpretive Center provides a free waste station with potable water.

Best Time to Camp at Mosquito Flat Reservoir Campground

From June through October, this high-altitude haven transforms into a perfect mountain escape where warm summer days give way to crisp, star-filled nights. The campground's seasonal rhythm follows the mountain's lead—opening its gates as wildflowers bloom in early summer and closing as autumn's first snows dust the peaks. Summer visitors bask in comfortable daytime temperatures ideal for hiking and fishing, while evenings bring that refreshing mountain chill that makes campfire gatherings all the more inviting. Spring arrives late at this elevation, and winter comes early, making the prime camping months a precious window for outdoor enthusiasts seeking that perfect balance of warm days and cool nights.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open June–Oct and popular in summer; fishing and scenic enjoyment noted in reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.0 / 5

Open through Oct 15; fall visits possible but season short at this elevation.

Spring(Mar-May)

Not recommended

Campground closed until June 1; spring season not available.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed in winter; winter conditions and access limit visits.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 1 to October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open seasonally from June 1 to October 15.

About Mosquito Flat Reservoir Campground

High in the rugged wilderness of the Salmon-Challis National Forest, Mosquito Flat Reservoir Campground offers an authentic backcountry experience just outside Challis, Idaho. This intimate campground features 11 thoughtfully placed sites across three distinct camping areas, each offering its own perspective of the shimmering reservoir below. Here, simplicity reigns supreme—each site comes equipped with the camping essentials: a sturdy picnic table and fire ring where stories are shared under starlit skies. True to its wilderness character, this is a 'pack it in, pack it out' destination without water hookups or garbage service, encouraging a deeper connection with the natural world. Despite its rustic nature, the campground welcomes RVs and trailers up to 32 feet, and vault toilets provide necessary amenities for your mountain adventure.

Mosquito Flat Reservoir Campground primarily caters to tent and combined camping sites, accommodating both primitive and modern camping needs. It does not have RV-exclusive sites, though it does allow RVs up to 32 feet in certain sections.

Weather and SeasonsFrom June through October, this high-altitude haven transforms into a perfect mountain escape where warm summer days give way to crisp, star-filled nights. The campground's seasonal rhythm follows the mountain's lead—opening its gates as wildflowers bloom in early summer and closing as autumn's first snows dust the peaks. Summer visitors bask in comfortable daytime temperatures ideal for hiking and fishing, while evenings bring that refreshing mountain chill that makes campfire gatherings all the more inviting. Spring arrives late at this elevation, and winter comes early, making the prime camping months a precious window for outdoor enthusiasts seeking that perfect balance of warm days and cool nights.

ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,180 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary delivers the crisp, clean air and refreshing temperatures that only high-altitude camping can provide. Here, the thin mountain air carries the scent of pine and the promise of adventure.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through a cathedral of lodgepole pines, their tall, straight trunks creating natural corridors through the forest. Beneath this evergreen canopy, soft grass carpets the forest floor, inviting barefoot morning walks to the water's edge. The centerpiece of this mountain tableau is the pristine 25-acre Mosquito Flat Reservoir, its mirror-like surface reflecting the surrounding peaks and sky. Visitors consistently praise this hidden gem—one camper called it a 'gorgeous little campground on a beautiful lake,' while families return year after year for what another described as a 'beautiful and peaceful' retreat perfect for 'fishing, family fun, swimming, and camping.' Whether you're casting a line at dawn, watching afternoon clouds drift across the water, or counting stars from your campsite, the scenery here creates memories that last long after you've packed up your tent.

Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of the Salmon-Challis National Forest, this campground occupies a special pocket of Idaho's mountainous heartland. The landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient geological forces created the perfect basin for Mosquito Flat Reservoir. Today, mature lodgepole pine forests dominate the terrain, their presence indicating the area's recovery from historic wildfires that once swept through these mountains. At 7,180 feet elevation, you're camping in a true subalpine environment where the forest meets the sky, offering expansive views of the surrounding peaks that define this corner of central Idaho's rugged wilderness.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

16 days maximum

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not explicitly stated

Groups

No specific group sites 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 is divided into three sections: a first section with five sites overlooking the reservoir, a second section with four sites in a heavily wooded area, and a third section with two open sites near the reservoir's shoreline.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; sites are on a first-come, first-served basis.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll 11 campsites are first-come, first-served. User reviews suggest the area does not receive heavy visitation, so availability may be good.

Cancellation PolicyReservations are not available at this site.

AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair accessible. No additional information about other accessibility features is provided.

Site SizeThe campground accommodates motorhomes and trailers up to 32 feet in length.

PrivacyThe campground is divided into three sections with varying levels of privacy. The first section overlooks the reservoir and offers views of the mountains. The second section is heavily wooded, providing more privacy, while the third section is open and situated along the shore of the reservoir.

Total Campsites11 campsites

Recommended SitesFor better views, choose campsites in the first section overlooking the reservoir. Section two provides more shade and is heavily wooded.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Mosquito Flat Reservoir Campground offers recreational opportunities like fishing and picnicking. The nearby Yankee Fork Trail provides access to the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, offering additional outdoor activities for hiking enthusiasts.

HikingAlthough the campground itself does not have hiking trails, the nearby Yankee Fork Trail (#147) provides access to the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, offering opportunities for extended hikes.

FishingFishing is a popular activity at Mosquito Flat Reservoir. Fish species include trout. Types of fishing supported include wade, shore, float tube, fly, spin, and bait fishing.

BoatingBoating activities are supported, with both power boating and non-motorized options available. A boat ramp and carry-down access are provided.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRoad access can be challenging for larger vehicles due to narrow sections, creek crossings, and switchbacks. User Shellie Jensen warned, 'RV/CAMPER BEWARE: if you have anything longer than a 24' you have to cross a creek and you will drag.'

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

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted in designated fire rings at each site.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are in Challis, Idaho. This includes a hospital and police station.

Trash & RecyclingThere are no garbage or recycling services on site. Campers are expected to follow a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to the 25-acre Mosquito Flat Reservoir. Activities include fishing for rainbow trout and enjoying views of the water.

Weather at Mosquito Flat Reservoir Campground

Reviews

4.4

18 reviews

Recommended

Mosquito Flat Reservoir Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground has mixed reviews. Some users praise its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and peace, while others express concerns about road conditions and accessibility for larger RVs.

Review Summaries

Based on 18 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains, and its appeal as a peaceful getaway. Brent Lane described it as a 'gorgeous little...

Based on 18 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback includes issues with the narrow road leading to the campground and the difficulty of navigating the creek crossing with larger RVs. Shellie Jensen said, 'if you have anything longer...

Based on 18 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring their own water and be prepared for the 'pack it in, pack it out' policy. Those with larger RVs should exercise caution due to the challenging road conditions. Shellie...

Based on 18 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest that the campground is popular in the summer months, with highlights of fishing and scenic enjoyment. Winter visits are less common due to accessibility challenges and weather...

Based on 18 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. Brent Lane: 'Gorgeous little campground on a beautiful lake. Fish were jumping pretty good on our ride thru. Looks like a great place to set up camp!' 2. Shellie Jensen: 'The lake is incredibly...

Based on 18 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The campground is divided into three sections. The first section offers views of the reservoir and mountains, the second is heavily wooded, and the third is open and along the shore. Larger RVs are...

Based on 18 reviews