Bear Creek Transfer Camp
02 reviews32 miles north of Fairfield, Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
6 campsites
Season
Open mid-May through...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
6 campsites
Season
Open mid-May through...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Bear Creek Transfer Camp
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
This campground is free of charge; no fees are required.
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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USFS
Provider208-764-3202
What Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 2 reviews
3 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanrestrooms
"Users appreciate the equestrian amenities such as corrals and stock mangers, as well as the cleanliness of the vault toilet. Some expressed frustration when non-equestrian campers occupy sites intended for equestrians."
Fees & Passes at Bear Creek Transfer Camp
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: No explicit stay limit mentioned.
Cancellation: Cancellation policies are not applicable as reservations are not available.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Fairfield Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Bear Creek Transfer Camp
Experience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Sawtooth wilderness at Bear Creek Transfer Camp. Spring and fall bring a crisp mountain chill with occasional snowfall painting the landscape in pristine white, creating a stunning backdrop for hardy adventurers. As summer unfolds, the campground transforms into a temperate haven where daytime temperatures climb to a pleasant 70-80°F under brilliant blue skies. These warm months offer ideal conditions for extended trail rides and comfortable evenings around the campfire, though seasoned visitors know to pack layers for the cool mountain nights that remind you of the elevation.
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: Not specified, but summer and early fall months likely represent peak usage.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open mid-May through October 31, weather-dependent.
About Bear Creek Transfer Camp
Nestled in the heart of the Sawtooth National Forest, Bear Creek Transfer Camp beckons equestrian adventurers with six thoughtfully equipped campsites designed for riders and their horses. Each site comes complete with sturdy picnic tables for evening meals under the stars, fire rings perfect for storytelling sessions, and essential amenities including corrals, mangers, and convenient loading ramps for your equine companions. While the campground maintains a rustic charm with its single vault restroom and no potable water on-site, fresh stock water flows just 150 yards north at the pristine Bear Creek, ensuring your horses stay well-hydrated after a day on the trails.
Bear Creek Transfer Camp is a free, rustic campground offering equestrian camping, tent camping, and hunting-related accommodations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Sawtooth wilderness at Bear Creek Transfer Camp. Spring and fall bring a crisp mountain chill with occasional snowfall painting the landscape in pristine white, creating a stunning backdrop for hardy adventurers. As summer unfolds, the campground transforms into a temperate haven where daytime temperatures climb to a pleasant 70-80°F under brilliant blue skies. These warm months offer ideal conditions for extended trail rides and comfortable evenings around the campfire, though seasoned visitors know to pack layers for the cool mountain nights that remind you of the elevation.
ElevationNo elevation data is explicitly provided.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking wilderness of the Sawtooth National Forest, where Bear Creek Transfer Camp serves as your gateway to untamed mountain beauty. Towering peaks frame the horizon while dense forests of pine and fir create a natural cathedral around your campsite. The melodic sounds of Bear Creek provide a constant companion, its crystal-clear waters dancing over ancient stones just a short walk from camp. This pristine setting offers endless opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography, with the changing light throughout the day painting the mountainous terrain in ever-shifting hues of gold, green, and shadow.
Geological RegionBear Creek Transfer Camp sits within the magnificent Sawtooth National Forest, a geological wonderland characterized by its namesake jagged peaks that pierce the Idaho sky like ancient teeth. This rugged mountain terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, where volcanic activity and glacial carving have sculpted dramatic ridgelines and deep valleys. Dense coniferous forests blanket the slopes, providing habitat for diverse wildlife while Bear Creek has carved its own path through this rocky landscape, creating a vital water source that has sustained both wildlife and travelers for generations.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific mention of ADA-compliant or accessibility features for this campground.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of 6 sites, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Sites are suitable for tent setups and equestrian use, offering corrals and mangers.
Sites PrivacyThere is no explicit mention of the level of privacy offered at each campsite.
Total Campsites6 campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
No explicit stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No mention of a specific guest limit for single campsites.
Groups
There is no information about designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 6 individual sites with picnic tables and fire rings. Corrals and stock water access are nearby.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen mid-May through October 31, weather-dependent.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable for this location.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are first-come, first-served. Availability during peak season may vary.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not applicable as reservations are not available.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bear Creek Transfer Camp offers various recreational activities, including equestrian camping, horseback riding, hiking, and fishing. The proximity to Bear Creek provides opportunities for these activities, notably during the hunting season.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include day hikes and backpacking, but there are no specifics provided about trail lengths or difficulty levels.Fishing
Fishing is available in nearby Bear Creek, though no details are provided about the types of fish or fishing conditions.Winter Activities
There is no mention of winter recreational activities for this campground.Water Sports
There is no mention of water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be attended at all times.
Hazards
General hazardsWinter conditions can include snow accumulation, extreme cold, and icy roads. Wildlife may also pose a risk, particularly to unattended food.
Weather at Bear Creek Transfer Camp
34
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Fairfield Ranger District, 102 First Street East, Fairfield, ID 83327, Phone: 208-764-3202. Office hours are Mondays and Fridays from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified, but summer and early fall months likely represent peak usage.
Trash and recyclingThere is no available information on trash or recycling facilities at this campground.
Proximity to water featuresBear Creek is located approximately 150 yards from the campground.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention normal campers occupying equestrian sites, damage to picnic tables from snowmobilers, and destructive behavior from visitors.
Campground Map
32 miles north of Fairfield, Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho
Driving directionsTravel over Fleck Summit on Road No. 012. Once at the summer home area, turn onto Road No. 079 and continue north past the Methodist Church Camp then turn left onto Road No. 889. Look for the entrance sign.
Access requires travel over Fleck Summit, which may have challenging terrain. Seasonal closures may apply as operations are weather-dependent.Nearby places
Fairfield is 32 miles south (~45-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Fairfield contains grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel stations.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
2 reviews
Bear Creek Transfer Camp has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Users appreciate the equestrian amenities such as corrals and stock mangers, as well as the cleanliness of the vault toilet. Some expressed frustration when non-equestrian campers occupy sites intended for equestrians.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
"Great equine camp," remarked Mule Skinner, praising the inclusion of pens for horses. Joe Gillis noted, "One of the cleanest restrooms we've ever been in thanks to the forest service keeping it...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
A recurring complaint is the destruction of picnic tables, with users attributing it to snowmobilers and other irresponsible behaviors. Joe Gillis stated, "Tables are getting destroyed......
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers with horses should arrive early as the site is popular and may be occupied by non-equestrian campers. Additionally, users are advised to bring their own water as potable water is not...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open from mid-May through October, but its popularity peaks during hunting season, according to user observations. Weather conditions could impact accessibility at the start and end...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"We don’t have many [campsites] with pens. It’s sad when you haul in and it’s full of normal campers," commented Mule Skinner. Joe Gillis reflected, "Campsite was all clean... restrooms are one of...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground only has 6 sites, and no specific site numbers are reviewed. However, equestrian campers emphasize the importance of arriving early to secure a spot.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews mention accessibility for people with disabilities.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at this campground, provided they are leashed. No specific user reviews address pet-related experiences.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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