Big Creek Campground

Idaho is a state that truly embodies the spirit of wilderness and rugged beauty, offering some of the most remote and untouched landscapes in the United States. For Idahoans who crave a genuine backcountry experience, far from the hustle and bustle, Big Creek Campground presents a unique and captivating opportunity. This isn't your typical roadside campground; Big Creek is a destination that requires a sense of adventure and offers unparalleled immersion in one of America's largest wilderness areas.

Nestled deep within the vast Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness and managed by the Payette National Forest, Big Creek Campground serves as a crucial access point for explorers, pilots, and outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a place where the journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself, promising a profound connection with Idaho's wild heart. Whether you're flying in for a backcountry breakfast at the nearby lodge, embarking on a multi-day hiking expedition, or simply seeking the ultimate in solitude, Big Creek offers a taste of Idaho that few ever get to truly experience.

For many Idaho locals, the allure of the backcountry lies in its untouched grandeur and the challenge it presents. Big Creek Campground speaks directly to this adventurous spirit, providing a gateway to vast expanses of pristine wilderness. We'll delve into the specifics that make Big Creek Campground a remarkable and highly sought-after destination for those in Idaho who wish to explore the deepest, most authentic corners of our magnificent state.

Big Creek Campground is situated at Big Creek Rd, McCall, ID 83638, USA. However, it's crucial for prospective visitors to understand that while the address links it to McCall, its true location is deep within the Payette National Forest and on the edge of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness Area. This means it is incredibly remote, about 86 miles northeast of McCall.

The primary and often preferred method of access to Big Creek is by air, as it is located adjacent to the Big Creek Airstrip. This makes it a popular destination for backcountry pilots, who frequently fly in for day trips or overnight stays. The reviews provided highlight this unique aspect, with visitors flying in for breakfast at the nearby lodge. This aerial access truly sets Big Creek apart from most campgrounds.

For those planning to drive, the accessibility is significantly more challenging and requires careful preparation. The drive from McCall is long and arduous, typically taking 3 to 5 hours, depending on the route and road conditions. One common route involves heading south from McCall towards Cascade, then taking Warm Lake Road (NF22), and then a series of other forest service roads (like NF 474, Johnson Creek Rd NF 413) that eventually lead to Yellow Pine, and from there onto Big Creek Road (NF412 and NF371). Another option from McCall involves Lick Creek Road.

The roads leading to Big Creek are unpaved, narrow, windy, and often steep. They are subject to seasonal closures due to snow, typically not opening until late June or even early July. A high-clearance, 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, and drivers should be experienced with backcountry driving. Cellular service is non-existent or extremely unreliable in this remote region, making physical maps and satellite communication devices essential for safety. The journey by road is an adventure in itself, but it underscores the true wilderness nature of Big Creek Campground.

As a remote, wilderness-adjacent campground within a national forest, Big Creek Campground offers a minimalist set of services, emphasizing a rustic and self-sufficient camping experience. This is part of its appeal for those seeking true solitude and a deeper connection with nature.

• Designated Campsites: The campground is small, typically offering around four designated single-unit campsites. Each site usually includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are not reservable.
• Vault Toilets: Basic sanitation is provided through accessible vault toilets. These non-flushing facilities are designed for low environmental impact in remote settings.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is usually available via a hand pump. However, it's always advisable to carry your own water or have a reliable method for filtering/treating natural water sources, especially during off-peak seasons or if the pump is out of service.
• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs. This is a dry camping experience, requiring campers to be fully self-contained.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: In line with Leave No Trace principles, there are no trash disposal services. All campers are required to pack out everything they pack in, including all garbage and food waste.
• Proximity to Big Creek Lodge: While not a direct campground service, the nearby Big Creek Lodge (accessible by flight or a short walk from the airstrip) offers a unique amenity: a place for meals. As mentioned in reviews, visitors often fly in for breakfast, indicating that the lodge can provide a welcome respite and hot meal in a very remote setting, complementing the primitive camping experience. (Note: Lodge services are separate and may require prior arrangements).
• Minimal Supervision: While managed by the Forest Service, there might not always be a dedicated camp host on-site, further emphasizing the need for self-reliance and responsible camping practices.

Big Creek Campground's remote location and natural surroundings offer several unique features and highlights for the adventurous Idaho local.

• Gateway to Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness: This is arguably the biggest highlight. The campground serves as a primary staging area for accessing one of the largest federally designated wilderness areas in the lower 48 states. This offers unparalleled opportunities for multi-day backpacking, extended hiking, and genuine wilderness immersion.
• Big Creek Airstrip Access: For pilots and those who enjoy a unique journey, the adjacent airstrip allows for fly-in access, providing a thrilling and efficient way to reach this remote destination. This makes it a popular spot for aviation enthusiasts.
• Big Creek Lodge Experience: The presence of the Big Creek Lodge nearby offers a rustic, cozy retreat with the possibility of delicious, hearty meals in the heart of the backcountry. Reviews specifically praise the lodge's breakfast and warm atmosphere. It's a rare amenity for such a remote setting.
• Exceptional Hiking and Trail Access: Numerous trails branch out from the Big Creek area, leading into the wilderness. The Big Creek/Smith Creek trailhead and Lick Creek Trailhead offer extensive opportunities for hiking, exploring diverse ecosystems, and discovering stunning viewpoints.
• Fishing Opportunities: Big Creek itself and nearby tributaries offer excellent opportunities for stream fishing, with the chance to catch various trout species in a pristine environment.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The deep wilderness setting ensures incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors might spot elk, deer, bighorn sheep, various bird species, and potentially even larger mammals common to the Idaho backcountry.
• Ultimate Seclusion and Tranquility: Due to its challenging access, the campground offers a profound sense of quiet and solitude. It’s an ideal place to disconnect from modern life, listen to the sounds of nature, and experience true peace.
• Stargazing: Far from any significant light pollution, the night skies at Big Creek are exceptionally dark, providing breathtaking views of the stars and Milky Way.
• Backcountry Horse/Mule Packing Base: For those who use pack animals for wilderness excursions, Big Creek serves as an excellent base for launching trips into the Frank Church Wilderness.

For Big Creek Campground, direct contact information specific to the campground itself is limited due to its remote, primitive nature. It is managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

Address: Big Creek Rd, McCall, ID 83638, USA

Phone: (208) 634-0600 (This is the phone number for the Krassel Ranger District of the Payette National Forest, which is the managing district for the Big Creek area.)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-634-0600 (This is also generally the number for the Krassel Ranger District or the main Payette National Forest contact.)

It is highly recommended to contact the Krassel Ranger District or the Payette National Forest Supervisor's Office prior to your trip to Big Creek Campground. They can provide the most current information regarding:

• Road conditions and access (especially crucial for Big Creek, which has challenging routes).
• Any temporary closures or alerts.
• Current fire restrictions.
• Water availability at the campground.
• General wilderness safety and regulations.

For information specifically related to the Big Creek Lodge (for meals or lodging services), it is best to contact the lodge directly, as it operates independently from the campground. A quick online search for "Big Creek Lodge Idaho" will typically provide their current contact details.

For Idahoans, Big Creek Campground is not just another camping spot; it's an emblem of the state's rugged, wild heart and an ideal destination for those who truly embrace the backcountry lifestyle. Its remote nature and unique accessibility make it perfectly suited for the adventurous spirit that defines many locals.

Firstly, Big Creek offers an unparalleled level of seclusion and an authentic wilderness experience that can be hard to find elsewhere. For Idahoans who regularly venture into the outdoors, the challenge of reaching Big Creek by rugged forest roads or a scenic fly-in adds to its allure. It’s a place where you genuinely disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature on a profound level, a true escape from everyday life. This deep immersion in the vast Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness provides a sense of freedom and exploration that is highly valued by local outdoor enthusiasts.

Secondly, the array of activities available directly from the campground caters to a variety of beloved Idaho pastimes. From world-class fishing in Big Creek to extensive hiking opportunities deep within the wilderness, and incredible wildlife viewing, Big Creek serves as a perfect base for authentic adventures. The unique social aspect of sharing the space with backcountry pilots, as indicated by the reviews praising the nearby lodge, adds another layer of local character, reflecting Idaho's rich aviation culture and its connection to remote areas.

Finally, for those who truly understand and appreciate Idaho's vast, untamed landscapes, Big Creek Campground offers a deep dive into the state's natural heritage. It's a place where one can learn self-reliance, practice Leave No Trace principles, and witness the raw beauty of the wilderness firsthand. While it requires more planning and preparation than a typical campground, the rewards—a profound sense of peace, unforgettable experiences, and a deeper connection to Idaho's wild core—make Big Creek Campground an absolute must-visit for any local seeking the ultimate backcountry adventure.

Big Creek Campground

Big Creek Rd, McCall, ID 83638, USA