Bear Gulch Campground

4.38

37 reviews

Quick Facts

5,991 ft

Price

$14/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Open season typicall...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Minidoka Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,991 ft

Price

$14/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Open season typicall...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Minidoka Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Bear Gulch Campground

$14.00 - $14.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The fee is $14 per night per site, as indicated by authoritative content.

Standard Site Fee$14.00

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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USFS

Provider

208-678-0430.

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What Campers Say

4.38

Recommended

Based on 37 reviews

31 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspacioussites

"User reviews generally describe Bear Gulch Campground as a clean and organized camping area with spacious sites and beautiful surroundings. Notable highlights include the nearby trails for off-road vehicles, wildlife sightings, and opportunities for outdoor activities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Bear Gulch Campground

Driving directionsFrom Twin Falls take US 93 west and south 27 miles to Foothills Road. Go east and south 8 miles, then north on Forest Road #500 and Forest Road #513.

The campground is accessible via Forest Roads #500 and #513, which appear to be less developed. User reviews mention that the Shoshone Basin Road leading to the area is 'awful,' indicating potential challenges in accessibility.

Nearby places

Twin Falls: 27 miles (approximately 30–40 minutes drive).

Nearby supplies

Twin Falls provides the nearest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, approximately 27 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Bear Gulch Campground

From May through October, Bear Gulch transforms into a sun-drenched paradise, with warm summer days perfect for exploring the surrounding wilderness. As autumn arrives, crisp mornings give way to golden afternoons, though savvy campers should pack layers for those chilly shoulder-season evenings when frost can kiss the landscape. Winter adventurers aren't forgotten either—from December through March, the campground area becomes a snowy playground for those seeking cold-weather thrills. Be prepared for Mother Nature's full repertoire: sudden snow squalls and gusty winds can sweep through during transitional months, adding an element of wild beauty to your camping experience.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

May–Oct warm days; peak season and prime wildflower/butterfly viewing in late spring/early summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Autumn offers crisp mornings and scenic foliage; reviews note pleasant fall scenery.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Late spring scenic with wildflowers and butterflies but reviewers note flooding risk in wet season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open as a winter play area Dec–Mar with some positive snow reports but limited detail.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May to October marks the peak season, as indicated by authoritative sources.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season typically runs from May through October, with the campground also serving as a winter play area from December through March.
Current Alerts: .

About Bear Gulch Campground

Nestled in the heart of Sawtooth National Forest, Bear Gulch Campground offers an intimate escape with just 8 individual campsites and 1 spacious group unit. This thoughtfully developed campground sits adjacent to the enchanting Shoshone Wildlife Pond, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in a protected haven for birds and local wildlife. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with your trailer, you'll find modern conveniences including restroom facilities and handicapped-accessible amenities. While the campground welcomes most outdoor adventurers, please note that equestrian camping is not permitted within the grounds.

The campground caters to tent and trailer camping, with additional accommodations for group visits. Primitive, RV, and glamping options are not explicitly mentioned.

Historical SignificanceBear Gulch Campground sits quietly within the storied landscape of the Sawtooth National Forest, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have come to reconnect with nature's timeless rhythms.

Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Bear Gulch transforms into a sun-drenched paradise, with warm summer days perfect for exploring the surrounding wilderness. As autumn arrives, crisp mornings give way to golden afternoons, though savvy campers should pack layers for those chilly shoulder-season evenings when frost can kiss the landscape. Winter adventurers aren't forgotten either—from December through March, the campground area becomes a snowy playground for those seeking cold-weather thrills. Be prepared for Mother Nature's full repertoire: sudden snow squalls and gusty winds can sweep through during transitional months, adding an element of wild beauty to your camping experience.

ElevationPerched at a comfortable elevation within the Sawtooth National Forest, Bear Gulch Campground offers that perfect mountain atmosphere where the air feels crisp and clean, and the sky seems just a little bit closer.

Natural Features and SceneryThe true magic of Bear Gulch unfolds at the nearby Shoshone Wildlife Pond, a carefully fenced sanctuary that serves as a vital habitat for countless bird species and wildlife. A gentle trail winds from the campground to secret fishing spots along both the pond and a babbling creek, where patient anglers can try their luck in pristine waters. During peak season, the landscape explodes with native wildflowers that attract clouds of butterflies, creating a living kaleidoscope of color. Green trails meander through the area, inviting hikers to explore this diverse ecosystem where forest meets water, and every turn reveals another glimpse of Idaho's natural splendor.

Geological RegionBear Gulch Campground claims its place within the magnificent Sawtooth National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of remarkable diversity. Here, dense forest groves give way to sun-dappled meadows, all centered around the life-giving waters of Shoshone Wildlife Pond. This unique positioning creates a rich tapestry of microhabitats, supporting an impressive array of birds and wildlife that make this corner of Idaho their home. The interplay between forested slopes and open spaces creates perfect conditions for both wildlife viewing and peaceful contemplation.

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-out

Stay Limit

14 consecutive days in a 28-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Limit of 2 vehicles per site. Vehicles must park on gravel spurs provided.

Groups

The group site can accommodate larger gatherings, but specific details about the number of people and vehicles allowed are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of 8 individual campsites and 1 group site. Sites are described as organized and spaced out for privacy.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms specified; availability is likely first-come, first-served.

Walk-in AvailabilitySites are likely first-come, first-served. User reviews suggest the campground fills during holiday weekends like Memorial Day.

Cancellation PolicyBear Gulch Campground does not specify cancellation policies.

AccessibilityThe campground is handicapped accessible, and a barrier-free stock loading ramp is provided for equestrian users nearby.

Site SizeSites are described as large enough for two parties or more, according to user reviews.

PrivacySites are noted to be spaced out nicely, allowing for some privacy.

Total Campsites9 campsites

Recommended SitesSome sites are described as large enough to accommodate multiple parties. Sites are spaced out for privacy.

Amenities available

Picnic tables

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Bear Gulch Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities for campers. These include fishing, hiking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and winter sports from December to March. The campground is also popular for off-road vehicle activities, such as ATV and side-by-side riding, as noted by user reviews.

HikingDay hikes are supported. A short trail from the campground leads to the Shoshone Wildlife Pond, which is fenced to protect local bird and wildlife habitats.

FishingFishing is available in the creek and pond near the campground.

Wildlife viewingThe Shoshone Wildlife Pond nearby provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, as it is fenced to protect bird and wildlife habitats. User reviews also mention sightings of deer, elk, and moose in the area.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews highlight the 'awful' condition of Shoshone Basin Road leading to the campground, suggesting potential hazards for vehicle access.

Active Alerts.

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

Weather at Bear Gulch Campground

Reviews

4.4

37 reviews

Recommended

Bear Gulch Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews generally describe Bear Gulch Campground as a clean and organized camping area with spacious sites and beautiful surroundings. Notable highlights include the nearby trails for off-road vehicles, wildlife sightings, and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Review Summaries

Based on 37 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the organized and clean campsites, spacious layout, and respectful neighbors. Highlights include wildlife sightings such as deer, elk, and moose, as well as trails for off-road...

Based on 37 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users noted issues with the condition of the road leading to the campground, describing it as 'awful.' During certain seasons, flooding was mentioned as a problem, particularly during Memorial...

Based on 37 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to be prepared for road conditions and potential flooding during the spring. Some reviews suggest visiting during the blooming season for wildflowers and butterflies.

Based on 37 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest that the campground is particularly scenic in late spring and early summer when wildflowers and butterflies are abundant. However, flooding can be an issue during the wet season, and...

Based on 37 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Great camping spot. Organized camp locations but fairly clean.' - Kade Kunzler 2. 'Nice campground. Could use a couple more spots but they are spaced out nicely so you aren't on top of each other...

Based on 37 reviews