Davis Canyon Overflow Campground

For those seeking a genuine outdoor experience in Idaho, far from the crowds but rich in natural beauty, Davis Canyon Overflow Campground is a perfect choice. Located near the scenic Bear Lake and within the vast Caribou-Targhee National Forest, this campground offers a peaceful and immersive escape. It's a place where you can truly disconnect, with the gentle sounds of a nearby river and the stunning spectacle of a star-filled night sky as your primary entertainment. Whether you are a solo traveler seeking solitude or a family looking for an affordable, child-friendly spot to make lasting memories, Davis Canyon Overflow Campground provides an idyllic setting for all types of campers. Its "overflow" status hints at its role as a quieter alternative to more bustling sites, but it's much more than just a backup; it's a hidden gem for those in the know.

Situated on Forest Road 1149 in St Charles, Idaho, Davis Canyon Overflow Campground benefits from a prime location that balances accessibility with seclusion. While it’s nestled within the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, it’s conveniently close to the popular Bear Lake area, making it an excellent base camp for exploring the region's famous turquoise waters and recreational opportunities. The drive to the campground takes you along a dirt road, which, as one local review points out, adds to its rustic charm and helps keep the crowds away. This makes it a great option for those coming from nearby Idaho towns like Montpelier or Paris, and even communities across the border in northern Utah. The location is just far enough from the main tourist hubs to feel like a true wilderness experience, yet close enough that a quick trip into St Charles or Garden City for supplies is always an option.

The accessibility of the campground is a key feature. The dirt road, while requiring a cautious drive, is generally manageable for most vehicles, making it a viable option for a wide range of campers. This ease of access ensures that even those with a simple car camping setup can enjoy the natural beauty without needing a specialized off-road vehicle. The on-site parking at the campground makes it easy to unload and set up your site. This combination of a secluded feel with practical accessibility is a major reason why many Idaho locals return to Davis Canyon Overflow year after year.

Davis Canyon Overflow Campground provides a set of essential services that enhance the camping experience, focusing on what matters most for a comfortable and authentic stay.

Services Offered:

• Public Restrooms: The campground is equipped with public restrooms, including vault toilets, which are kept clean for visitor use. The presence of a clean, maintained restroom is often a deciding factor for families and is a highly-praised amenity, as noted by a recent visitor.

• Running Water: The availability of running water is a significant convenience, offering a source for drinking, cooking, and washing up. This service makes the camping trip much more manageable and hygienic for all.

• On-Site Parking: Designated on-site parking makes it easy to keep your vehicle close to your campsite, simplifying the process of unloading and packing up your gear.

• Campsites with Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with picnic benches and fire pits, providing campers with the basic tools needed for cooking, gathering, and enjoying a traditional campfire experience.

• Family-Friendly Environment: The campground is noted as being good for kids, offering a safe and spacious environment for children to explore and play in nature.

Beyond the basic services, Davis Canyon Overflow Campground offers a variety of features that contribute to its unique appeal and make it a standout destination.

Features / Highlights:

• Peace and Solitude: A key highlight, as mentioned in customer reviews, is the peaceful and quiet environment. The "overflow" status and dirt road access help keep the crowds down, allowing for a truly serene experience. One visitor described being "fully alone" in mid-June, a rarity in many popular camping areas.

• Natural Sounds: The soothing sound of the nearby river is a major draw, providing a natural soundtrack to your stay that helps you relax and de-stress.

• Stargazing: The minimal light pollution in this area means the night sky is absolutely spectacular. A visitor noted "soooo many stars at night," making it a perfect spot for astronomers and anyone who loves to look up at the universe.

• Proximity to Bear Lake: While offering a quiet retreat, the campground is just a short drive from the popular north shore of Bear Lake, allowing campers to easily access all the water sports, beaches, and scenic views the lake has to offer.

• Affordability: Compared to other campgrounds closer to the main hubs of Bear Lake, Davis Canyon Overflow is a more economical choice, making it a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers who don't want to compromise on a great location.

For reservations, questions, or to get more information, you can use the following contact details.

Contact Information:

Address: Caribou Targee National Forest, Forest Rd 1149, St Charles, ID 83272, USA

Phone: (208) 847-0375

What is worth choosing Davis Canyon Overflow Campground?

Davis Canyon Overflow Campground offers a unique and compelling set of reasons to choose it for your next camping trip. It's not just a place to stay; it's an experience built on peace, value, and natural beauty. The most significant advantage is its ability to provide a secluded, quiet environment without being completely cut off from civilization. While it is an "overflow" site, this status is its greatest strength, as it ensures fewer crowds and a more intimate connection with nature. For those who find larger, more commercial campgrounds too noisy or crowded, Davis Canyon is the perfect antidote.

Furthermore, the value proposition is hard to beat. As one review highlighted, it is "cheaper than other campgrounds nearby," which makes it an excellent option for long-term stays or for families on a budget. This affordability does not come at the expense of comfort, as the campground still provides essential amenities like clean restrooms and running water. The fact that the sites have benches and fire pits adds to the convenience and allows for a traditional and enjoyable camping experience. The campground is also praised as being "good for kids," which speaks to its safe and welcoming environment for families looking to introduce their children to the joys of the outdoors. The natural surroundings, from the peaceful river sounds to the lack of bug issues and the stunning night sky, all contribute to a truly memorable stay. In a region with many camping options, Davis Canyon Overflow Campground stands out as an unpretentious, authentic, and genuinely rewarding choice for anyone seeking a peaceful Idaho retreat.

Davis Canyon Overflow Campground

Caribou Targee National Forest, Forest Rd 1149, St Charles, ID 83272, USA