Wildhorse Campground
4.3114 reviews, Copper Basin Road, Trail Creek Road, Wildhorse Creek Road
Quick Facts
7,400 ftPrice
$10/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
11 campsites
Season
Seasonal operation f...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
7,400 ftPrice
$10/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
11 campsites
Season
Seasonal operation f...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsWildhorse Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$10 per night for overnight use at a single campsite. Payments must be made in cash or check. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
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$10.00
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USFS
Provider208-524-7500, None provided
What Campers Say
4.31
Recommended
Based on 14 reviews
32 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewssceneryquietpeaceful
Some mention
crowded
"User reviews for Wildhorse Campground are mixed but generally positive, with frequent mentions of the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. Complaints often focus on overcrowding, road conditions, and limited facilities such as drinking water and power."
Fees & Passes at Wildhorse Campground
$10/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 16 nights.
Cancellation: No reservation system; sites are first-come first-serve.
Prices verified August 10, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Challis National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Wildhorse Campground
Open from late May through September, Wildhorse Campground experiences the full spectrum of mountain weather. Early season visitors should pack warm layers for crisp, frosty mornings that give way to brilliant sunny days. Summer brings comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and exploring, though afternoon thundershowers occasionally roll through to refresh the forest. As autumn approaches, cool evenings return, painting the Aspens gold and reminding guests to bring that extra fleece.
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
- Peak Season: , Summer season from Memorial Day through Labor Day.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Seasonal operation from May 22 through September 30.
- Current Alerts: None mentioned.
About Wildhorse Campground
Nestled within a pristine forest sanctuary, Wildhorse Campground offers an intimate escape with just 13 thoughtfully spaced campsites beneath a canopy of towering Lodgepole pines. This tranquil retreat embraces visitors with its hushed atmosphere, where sunlight filters through a mixed forest of conifers and shimmering Aspens. Each generously separated site provides a private haven in nature, while the surrounding Copper Basin's dramatic peaks create a stunning backdrop for your wilderness adventure.
The Wildhorse Campground offers a range of camping options in its 13 sites. The campground primarily caters to tent and RV campers, with no specialized accommodations such as cabins or glamping available.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this pristine corner of wilderness remains unwritten, the ancient pines and weathered peaks speak of countless seasons watching over this peaceful valley. Today's visitors become part of an ongoing story of those who seek solitude and connection in these timeless mountains.
Weather and SeasonsOpen from late May through September, Wildhorse Campground experiences the full spectrum of mountain weather. Early season visitors should pack warm layers for crisp, frosty mornings that give way to brilliant sunny days. Summer brings comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and exploring, though afternoon thundershowers occasionally roll through to refresh the forest. As autumn approaches, cool evenings return, painting the Aspens gold and reminding guests to bring that extra fleece.
ElevationPerched at 7,400 feet above sea level, the campground sits in that sweet spot of mountain elevation where the air is crisp and clean, the stars shine brilliantly at night, and alpine meadows meet dense forest. This elevation provides cool relief from summer heat while remaining accessible for most visitors.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground unfolds within an enchanting tapestry of Lodgepole pines standing sentinel alongside graceful Aspens and sturdy conifers. Wildhorse Creek babbles nearby, with several prime campsites claiming creekside real estate while others rest just a pleasant stroll from the water's melodic flow. The rugged Copper Basin terrain surrounds you with its raw beauty—weathered ridgelines, hidden valleys, and endless opportunities to explore where the forest meets the sky.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic Copper Basin, this campground showcases the region's stunning geological diversity. Ancient forces sculpted these rugged peaks and valleys, creating a landscape where resilient Lodgepole pines dominate the slopes, mixed conifers add texture to the forest mosaic, and Aspens dance in mountain breezes. The terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, from mineral-rich soils to creek-carved canyons.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has accessible vault toilets, but no specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities were highlighted in the available information.
Sites SizeThe campground features a variety of site sizes, with one site capable of accommodating more than one RV. Parking aprons are dirt and gravel.
Sites PrivacyThe campground provides good privacy due to widely spaced sites and the absence of an understory, despite being located in a heavily wooded area.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early during summer weekends for a better chance at securing a site.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
,Not applicable.
Check-out
,Not applicable.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 16 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site is not specifically mentioned.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites at Wildhorse Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is a large single loop with sites located along Wildhorse Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonal operation from May 22 through September 30.
Reservation Platforms, There are no online reservation platforms as this site is first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityYes, all sites are first-come first-serve with no reservation system in place.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservation system; sites are first-come first-serve.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Wildhorse Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. Highlights include direct access to the 2.5-mile Boulder Creek Trail for hiking, fishing opportunities with rainbow and brook trout in the nearby Wildhorse Creek, and wildlife viewing. The scenic views of the Copper Basin landscape are a notable attraction.
Hiking
The campground is convenient to the Boulder Creek Trail #057, a 2.5-mile trail suitable for foot traffic. "Great hiking trails nearby" and "hiking to the old mine is great," as described by a user review.Fishing
Fishing opportunities in the nearby Wildhorse Creek include rainbow and brook trout. However, some reviews criticize the fishing access, stating it is "bad", while others enjoy the activity as part of their camping experience.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity at Wildhorse Campground. Visitors often report sightings of moose and other wildlife. "Gorgeous views, clean camp sights," and "the wildlife is beautiful and a pleasure to see," according to user reviews.Winter Activities
No winter recreation options are provided, as the campground primarily operates during summer months (June 15 - September 30).Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not supported at this campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Standard fire rings available; no specific fire bans or restrictions mentioned.
- Quiet hours are , Not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsBear country. Wildlife and rugged terrain may pose safety concerns.
Active alertsNone mentioned.
Weather at Wildhorse Campground
32
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 14.6 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
, Mackay
Good to know
Peak season dates, Summer season from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates on a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy, meaning there are no dedicated trash or recycling facilities on-site.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Wildhorse Creek, which offers fishing opportunities for rainbow and brook trout.
Common complaints"Some users complained about the lack of water and power, fishing access being bad, and roads being challenging." Others noted that the campground gets crowded, especially on weekends.
HostNo campground hosts or services are mentioned.
Campground Map
, Copper Basin Road, Trail Creek Road, Wildhorse Creek Road
Driving directionsFrom Mackay: Take US Highway 93 approximately 16 miles north of Mackay to the Trail Creek Road. Turn left on the Trail Creek Road (#208). Follow this road 18 miles to the Copper Basin Road then turn left on the Copper Basin Road (#135). Follow this road 2 miles to the Wildhorse Creek Road. Stay to the right on the Wildhorse Creek Road. Follow the Wildhorse Creek Road 5.5 miles to the campground. From Challis: Take US Highway 93 south of Challis to the Trail Creek Road. Turn right on the Trail Creek Road. Follow this road 18 miles to the Copper Basin Road. Turn left on the Copper Basin Road. Follow this road 2 miles to the Wildhorse Creek Road. Stay to the right on the Wildhorse Creek Road. Follow the Wildhorse Creek Road 5.5 miles to the campground. From Sun Valley/Ketchum: Take Highway 75 (main street) to Sun Valley Road. Turn northeast onto the Sun Valley Road. This road turns into Trail Creek Road. Follow this road to the Copper Basin road. Turn right on the Copper Basin Road. Follow this road 2 miles to the Wildhorse Creek Road. Stay to the right on the Wildhorse Creek Road. Follow this road 5.5 miles to the campground.
The last 15 miles is unpaved and single-lane with few turnouts. The interior road is described as rough.Nearby places
, Mackay, Challis, Sun Valley
Nearby supplies
Mackay is the closest population center with groceries and supplies.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
14 reviews
Wildhorse Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Wildhorse Campground are mixed but generally positive, with frequent mentions of the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. Complaints often focus on overcrowding, road conditions, and limited facilities such as drinking water and power.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include the quiet and peaceful atmosphere, stunning natural scenery, and abundant wildlife. Many reviews praise the spacious campsites and opportunities for hiking and fishing.
Based on 14 reviewsCommon Concerns
Concerns mentioned by users include lack of potable water, poor road conditions leading to the campground, and overcrowding during peak times. Some users also criticize the lack of reservations and...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a site, as all sites are first-come, first-served. Bring sufficient water and supplies, as there are no on-site services. Practice bear safety and prepare for rugged road...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest in the summer months, particularly on weekends. Reviewers note that it is quieter in September. Winter use is not applicable due to seasonal closure.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great place to camp! Quiet and you might get a moose or two through your campsite like we did," "The sites are shaded by Lodgepole pines with some other conifers and Aspen trees mixed in," "Great...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites adjacent to Wildhorse Creek are noted for their proximity to the water and scenic views. One site can accommodate multiple RVs, but no exact site numbers were provided.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews regarding pet policies were noted.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated August 10, 2025
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