How much does camping cost at Timber Creek Campground?

Camping fees at Timber Creek Campground range from $5/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Timber Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Timber Creek Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Yes, all sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can I see photos of campsites at Timber Creek Campground before I book?

Yes! Timber Creek Campground has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Timber Creek Campground?

Timber Creek Campground is open null. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Timber Creek Campground?

Timber Creek Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Timber Creek Campground?

Fire policies at Timber Creek Campground: Campfires are allowed following forest regulations.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Timber Creek Campground have?

Timber Creek Campground has 12 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Timber Creek Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Timber Creek Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Timber Creek Campground?

Timber Creek Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Timber Creek Campground?

Popular activities at Timber Creek Campground include Fishing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Timber Creek Campground

3.56

18 reviews

Featured in:Tent Camping Idaho

Quick Facts

8,000 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

12 campsites

Season

May 20th through Sep...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

8,000 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

12 campsites

Season

May 20th through Sep...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Timber Creek Campground

$5.00 - $5.00 / night

Campsite Fees

"Campsites are $5 per night per single unit, with a 50% discount available for Interagency Senior and Access Recreation Pass holders for sites...

Standard Site Fee$5.00

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USFS

Provider

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I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Timber Creek Campground

44.3980, -113.4094

Nearby places

Mackay, 35 miles.

Nearby supplies

null

Driving directionsFrom Mackay, take US Highway 93 south of Mackay 7 miles to the Pass Creek Road. Turn left on the Pass Creek Road. Follow this road 28 miles to the Little Lost/Pahsimeroi Road. Turn left on the Little Lost/Pahsimeroi Road. Follow this road 0.2 miles to the Sawmill Canyon Road. Turn right on the Sawmill Canyon Road and follow this road to the Timber Creek Road. Turn left on the Timber Creek Road and follow this road to the Timber Creek Campground Road. Turn left on this road and follow it to the campground.

"The road to the campground is gravel and single-lane with turnouts, and the drive is expected to take about 2.5 hours due to road conditions. Bring a spare tire and tools." The entrance to the canyon has rain-related potholes, making it challenging for some vehicles.

Weather at Timber Creek Campground

Current alert: No potable water available for the summer of 2025.

Best Time to Camp at Timber Creek Campground

Summer brings daytime highs of 60–80°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s. Wildflowers peak from late June through July, and creeks warm enough for wading by midsummer. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so plan hikes for mornings. The season runs May 20–September 30, with long daylight hours making summer the best window for fishing and hiking.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open in summer; daytime 60–80°F, wildflowers peak late June–July, creeks wadeable by midsummer.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: May 20th through September 30th (weather dependent).

About Timber Creek Campground

Timber Creek Campground sits at 8,000 feet in the Salmon-Challis National Forest near Mackay, where two creeks converge in a mixed conifer forest. The campground has 12 sites with vault toilets and potable water, charging $5 per night (cash or check only). Access requires navigating a long gravel road with potholes, so bring a spare tire.

Timber Creek Campground offers rustic camping accommodations in a heavily wooded setting with 12 combined-use sites that can accommodate tents and smaller RVs. Equestrian facilities are limited to a horse hitch rail and unloading ramp.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs of 60–80°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s. Wildflowers peak from late June through July, and creeks warm enough for wading by midsummer. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so plan hikes for mornings. The season runs May 20–September 30, with long daylight hours making summer the best window for fishing and hiking.

ElevationAt 8,000 feet above sea level, Timber Creek Campground sits in that sweet spot where the air is refreshingly thin and the views stretch endlessly. This high-altitude haven offers cooler temperatures and that distinctive mountain atmosphere where every breath feels cleaner and every sunrise more spectacular.

Natural Features and SceneryTwo creeks frame the campground, carving through a riparian corridor surrounded by pines, firs, and spruces. The elevation provides cooler mountain air, and the drive in passes dispersed camping spots along scenic canyon roads. Recent tree disease or storm damage has reduced canopy cover in some areas, so shade varies across the campground.

Geological RegionTimber Creek Campground rests within the magnificent expanse of the Salmon-Challis National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of rugged beauty. The twin creeks that embrace the campground have carved their paths through millennia, creating a lush riparian corridor amidst the mixed conifer forest that characterizes this remarkable region of central Idaho's wilderness.

Scenic ViewsScenic views, with mixed conifer trees and water features.

Lodging & AccommodationsOnly camping accommodations are available; there is no lodge or hotel-style lodging.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

16 Days

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutTwo loops. One large, one small. With dirt and rock parking aprons measuring 13' x 33'. Low-hanging branches may limit larger RVs. The heavily wooded setting provides little privacy between sites due to the open layout, which some campers appreciate for group camping.

Reservation Platformsnull

Walk-in AvailabilityYes, all sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cancellation Policynull

AccessibilityThe campground includes one accessible vault toilet. However, the rugged and narrow roads leading to the campground may pose challenges for some visitors with mobility issues.

Site SizeParking aprons measure 13' x 33' and are composed of dirt and rock. Low overhanging branches may restrict larger RV access.

PrivacyThe campground is heavily wooded, but user reviews mention that there is little privacy between campsites due to the layout.

Total Campsites12 campsites

Recommended Sitesnull

Amenities available

Timber Creek Campground offers a rustic camping experience with 12 sites in a heavily wooded area featuring mixed conifer trees. Amenities include 2 faucets that provide potable water during summer months, one accessible vault toilet, and a horse hitch rail with an unloading ramp. Notably, potable water will not be available in the summer of 2025. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a grill.

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Timber Creek Campground provides opportunities for various outdoor activities including picnicking, fishing, horseback riding, and OHV road riding. The surrounding area offers scenic views and dispersed camping along the drive to the campground.

Fishing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity requires safe food storage. The road to the campground has potholes and low overhanging branches, which can pose challenges for vehicles.

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

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at Timber Creek Campground.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed following forest regulations.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are null

Trash & RecyclingThe campground operates on a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy, meaning there are no dedicated trash or recycling facilities.

Water FeaturesFlanked by two creeks, nearby Mill Creek Lake.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is not mentioned in the provided information, and user reviews do not address this aspect.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.6

18 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Timber Creek Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the rustic charm and scenic beauty of Timber Creek Campground, as well as its clean facilities and spacious sites. However, the challenging access road and reduced tree cover due to disease or storm damage are commonly mentioned drawbacks.

Review Summaries

Based on 18 reviews

What Campers Love

- 'Spacious sites, plenty of room for tents and extra vehicles.' - 'Bathrooms were cleaned every day from camp hosts.' - Scenic drive to the campground, with dispersed camping opportunities along the...

Based on 18 reviews

Common Concerns

- 'The main road entering the canyon needs some attention (lots of rain-related potholes).' - Low overhanging branches and the narrow roadway can make access difficult for larger vehicles. - 'Some of...

Based on 18 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific campsite numbers are reviewed in detail, but several users mention that the sites are spacious and suitable for tents and extra vehicles.

Based on 18 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Bring cash or checks for the $5 nightly fee as no card payment options are available. - Prepare for a long drive through gravel roads; ensure your vehicle has a spare tire and tools. - Practice...

Based on 18 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews are generally positive during the summer months, but access challenges are exacerbated during or following rain due to potholes on the road.

Based on 18 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Bathrooms were cleaned every day from camp hosts.' 2. 'Spacious sites, plenty of room for tents and extra vehicles.' 3. 'The main road entering the canyon needs some attention.'

Based on 18 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific feedback from users with disabilities, though the accessible vault toilet is a noted feature.

Based on 18 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews mention pet policies or pet-related experiences.

Based on 18 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Anglers after Rainbow, Brook, and Bull trout will find good water nearby, and the spacious sites handle a tent plus extra vehicles easily. At $5 a night, seniors with an Interagency Pass pay just $2.50.

Skip if

No potable water on-site for summer 2025 means hauling everything in. The pothole-heavy gravel access road and low-hanging branches also make this a rough trip for larger RVs or trailers.

Nearby Campgrounds

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3.6

(8)

Mill Creek Trailhead & Campground

Mill Creek Trailhead & Campground sits at 7,231 feet in the Salmon-Challis National Forest near Mackay, offering six primitive sites for $5 per night. The campground hugs Mill Creek in a quiet forest setting with vault toilets, a hitching rail, and unloading ramp. No potable water. Visitors consistently praise its cleanliness and lack of crowds.

$5.00 - $5.00 / night

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Meadow Lake Campground

PO Box 180 Ranger Street, Leadore, ID 83464, USA

Meadow Lake Campground sits at 9,160 feet in Salmon-Challis National Forest, a high-elevation alpine site near Leadore with lake access for fishing and boating. Operated by the Forest Service, this small campground offers tent and RV sites plus group options, with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Visitors come for the alpine scenery and trailhead access, though the lack of a camp host means maintenance and noise enforcement can be inconsistent.

$15.00 - $30.00 / night

Less Visited

2.1

(20)

Big Eightmile Campground/Trailhead

Big Eightmile Creek, 14 miles west of Leadore, Idaho

Big Eightmile Campground sits at 7,546 feet along Big Eightmile Creek in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, offering 10 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. The campground provides access to hiking and biking trails through creek canyons and forested terrain. Fair warning: multiple reviewers report the access road is rough enough to damage vehicles and trailers, so scout it first without your rig or plan to creep in at 5 mph.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Less Visited

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(7)

Hawley Creek Lower Campground

null

Hawley Creek Lower Campground sits at 6,732 feet in the Salmon-Challis National Forest near Leadore, offering four primitive sites for campers seeking quiet and good fishing. The campground provides access to Hawley Creek and a nearby reservoir, plus a spur trail that connects to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. No amenities, no fees, no crowds.

4 campsites

Primitive

34.649 km

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Less Visited

3.6

(7)

Reservoir Creek Campground

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Reservoir Creek Campground sits at 6,886 feet in the Salmon-Challis National Forest with just two primitive sites. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and access to a vault toilet. There's no water, no trash service, and fees are unknown. Reviews average 5.0 stars from seven campers.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Less Visited

0.0

(3)

Morse Creek Campground

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Three primitive sites sit along Morse Creek in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, about 20 minutes from Challis on a rough access road. At 6,365 feet, this is one of the smallest developed campgrounds you'll find: one site fits a small camper, one is tent-only, and the third (on the edge of the clearing) also accommodates a small camper. There's no cell service and no water. Reviews warn that the road requires high clearance and includes a stream crossing.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

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Campgrounds

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Timber Creek Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Timber Creek Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

**SUMMER 2024- THERE WILL BE NO WATER AT TIMBER CREEK CAMPGROUND** The Timber Creek Campground has 12 camp units in a wooded setting, with two creeks flowing on either side of it.  Two faucets provide potable water in the summer months.  There is also one accessible vault toilet, a horse hitch rail and unloading ramp. Nearby areas of interest include Mill Creek Lake, and Timber Creek ATV trail.

About the campground

The elevation is 8,000 ft. The campground, located in a stand of mixed conifer trees beside Timber Creek, is composed of one large and one small loop. Although no horse facilities are located in or near the campground, a stock loading platform is found in the smaller loop near a gate in a fence surrounding the campground. The campground is well-suited for large gatherings. It is heavily wooded but has little privacy between most camping sites. The campground, pack it in, pack it out, has a rustic and wilderness feel. The drive to campground is scenic with dispersed camping possible along the way. This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques.

Seasons & access

Open May 20 through September 30 - weather dependent

Facilities

Open May 20 through September 30 - weather dependent Rate and Maximum Stay Permitted Rate: $5 per day Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 16 Challis National Forest 231 Campground Site Configuration No. RV Sites: 0 Open Sites: Yes No. Tent Sites: 0 Wooded Sites: Yes No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 12 Total Sites: 12 No. Tables on Sites: 12 Tent Pads: No No. Grilles on Sites: 12 Equestrian Camping: No RV Information Hookups: No No. RV Pull Throughs: 3 Waste Station: No Average Parking Apron Size: 13' X 33' Comments: The parking aprons are dirt and rock. Low overhanging branches may limit RV parking at some camping sites. Facilities Flush Toilets: No Hot Showers: No Vaults: Yes Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: No Public Phone: No Playground: No No. Water Spigots (non-site): 2 No. Threaded: 0

RV information

The parking aprons are dirt and rock. Low overhanging branches may limit RV parking at some camping sites.

Directions

From Mackay, ID, take US Rt. 93 south 7.3 miles to Forest Access/Pass Creek sign (3900W). Turn left onto 3900W (gravel) and go 22.1 miles to a "Y" intersection. Bear left and go 6.6 miles to an intersection. Turn left and go 0.3 miles to Sawmill Canyon sign. Bear right at sign and go 13.8 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign and go 0.5 miles to campground. NOTE: 3900W becomes Forest Rt. 122 after 4.8 miles. The road is gravel and often single-lane with turnouts. Because of the road surface expect total drive to take 2.5 hours. Also because of the road surface, bring spare tire and tire changing tools.

National Forest: Challis National Forest
Ranger District: Lost River
Elevation: 8000
Rate: $5 per day
Maximum Stay: 16
Open Season: 5/20 – 09/30