Conrad Crossing Campground

Are you an Idaho local craving a serene escape where the gentle rush of a river is your soundtrack and the vastness of nature surrounds you? Look no further than Conrad Crossing Campground, a hidden gem nestled along the stunning St. Joe Wild and Scenic River in Avery, Idaho. For those of us who call Idaho home, finding a quiet spot that offers both natural beauty and a true sense of peaceful solitude is paramount, and Conrad Crossing delivers just that.

Conrad Crossing Campground offers a quintessential Idaho camping experience, blending simplicity with unparalleled natural beauty. It's the perfect destination for campers who appreciate a more rustic setting, where the focus is on the environment rather than extensive amenities. With its prime riverside location and ample space, it's a beloved spot for both seasoned campers and families looking to create lasting memories amidst Idaho's breathtaking wilderness. This campground is more than just a place to stay; it's an invitation to unwind by the water, explore the surrounding forests, and truly embrace the outdoor lifestyle that defines our state.

Conrad Crossing Campground is conveniently located at Avery, ID 83802, USA, deep within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Its strategic position along the St. Joe Wild and Scenic River is a major draw, offering campers direct access to one of Idaho's most picturesque waterways. To reach the campground, visitors typically travel along Forest Highway 50 (also known as the St. Joe River Road). The road leading to the campground is generally well-maintained, and while it takes you into a more remote area, it's not overly busy, ensuring a relatively peaceful drive.

The campground itself is thoughtfully laid out, with some sites right on the riverbank, providing immediate access and stunning views of the St. Joe River. Other sites are located slightly above the highway, still offering plenty of room and a quiet atmosphere. Its elevation is approximately 3,300 to 3,600 feet, contributing to pleasant summer conditions. While it feels wonderfully secluded, it's accessible enough for most vehicles, making it a viable option for a wide range of Idaho residents looking for a tranquil escape into the heart of the Bitterroot Mountains region.

• Eight Camp Units: Conrad Crossing Campground features a total of eight designated campsites. Two of these are coveted riverfront spots, while the remaining five are located above the highway, all offering spacious areas.
• Potable Water: Hand-pumped potable water is typically available from June through October, providing a convenient source for drinking and other camping needs. (Note: It's always wise to check current conditions, as the water pump may be out of service at times, leading to a reduced camping fee).
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets for convenience. While generally well-maintained and stocked, it's worth noting that occasional repairs may be needed, as mentioned by a past visitor regarding a loose toilet seat.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table, offering a designated space for outdoor dining and meal preparation.
• Fireplaces/Fire Rings: Campers will find a fire ring at each site, perfect for building campfires, cooking, and enjoying the classic camping ambiance under the Idaho sky.
• Day Use Area: In addition to the overnight sites, there is a designated day-use area for visitors looking to enjoy the river and surroundings without camping overnight.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out Policy: As a commitment to preserving the natural beauty, the campground adheres to a "Pack It In, Pack It Out" refuse policy, requiring campers to take all their trash with them.

• Riverside Location: A major highlight, with some campsites directly next to the St. Joe River, offering soothing sounds of flowing water and immediate access for various river activities.
• Spacious Sites: Campers consistently praise the ample room available at the sites, allowing for comfortable parking of RVs (even large ones) and plenty of space for tents and outdoor living.
• Quiet and Simple Atmosphere: The campground is renowned for its peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil retreat away from crowded areas.
• Access to St. Joe Wild and Scenic River: This designation ensures the river's pristine nature, offering exceptional opportunities for fishing, floating (especially until mid-June when water levels allow), kayaking, and tubing.
• Proximity to Historic Montana Trail: Campers have prime access to the historic Montana Trail, inviting exploration and hiking opportunities right from the campground.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding Idaho Panhandle National Forests are home to abundant wildlife, providing opportunities for nature viewing.
• First-Come, First-Served: Most sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, appealing to spontaneous adventurers.
• No Cell Phone Service: For those truly looking to disconnect, the lack of cell phone service is a feature, promoting a digital detox and deeper immersion in nature.
• Affordable Pricing: The fees are very reasonable, especially considering the prime location and features, making it a budget-friendly option for an extended stay.

Address: Avery, ID 83802, USA

Phone: (208) 245-4517

Mobile Phone: +1 208-245-4517

This phone number connects to the St. Joe Ranger District – St. Maries Office, which oversees Conrad Crossing Campground. It is recommended to call during business hours for the most current information regarding campground status, water availability, fees, and any alerts or restrictions. While the campground is generally open from Memorial Day through early November, conditions can vary.

For Idahoans, Conrad Crossing Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an embodiment of the authentic Idaho outdoor experience that many of us cherish. Its suitability for locals stems from its unique blend of accessibility and untamed natural beauty, offering a genuine retreat into the wilderness that feels both familiar and deeply rewarding.

The prime location right next to the St. Joe River is a huge draw for anyone who loves water activities. We Idahoans understand the allure of a pristine river for fishing, floating, or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds of flowing water. Having direct access to such a beautiful waterway, often without the crowds found at more heavily developed sites, is a significant advantage that locals truly appreciate. This allows for impromptu fishing trips or relaxing afternoons by the water, which are quintessential Idaho pastimes.

Furthermore, the "simple yet wonderful" nature of the campground aligns perfectly with the Idaho ethos of appreciating the outdoors in its natural state. We’re often less concerned with lavish amenities and more interested in quiet solitude and ample space to spread out. The "lots and lots of room to park in some sites" is a practical benefit for those of us with larger RVs or multiple vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and uncrowded stay. The "Pack It In, Pack It Out" policy also resonates with our collective responsibility to preserve Idaho's pristine environments.

The relatively easy access via Forest Highway 50, combined with the assurance of a less busy road, makes it a convenient option for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation without the hassle of navigating congested tourist areas. The minor inconvenience of a needing-to-be-repaired toilet seat, as noted in a review, is often seen by locals as a small quirk of a beloved rustic spot rather than a major deterrent, easily overlooked for the overall quality of the experience.

In essence, Conrad Crossing Campground offers Idahoans a peaceful, riverfront sanctuary where the focus is on connection with nature. It’s a place to escape the demands of modern life, breathe in the fresh forest air, and create cherished memories by the St. Joe River. For those of us who call Idaho home, it’s a perfect reminder of why we love living in the Gem State – wild, beautiful, and endlessly inviting.

Conrad Crossing Campground

Avery, ID 83802, USA