Fish Creek Reservoir

For Idahoans seeking a genuine, off-the-beaten-path camping adventure, Fish Creek Reservoir offers a truly unique experience. Located near Carey, Idaho, this campground is a testament to the state's rugged, natural beauty. Unlike many developed campsites, Fish Creek Reservoir is a free, no-frills destination that appeals to those who are well-prepared and ready to embrace the wild. The site provides a raw, untamed feel, perfect for campers who value scenic views and an escape from crowded, manicured parks. It's a place where you can feel a direct connection to the landscape, with its vast open spaces and distinctive, high-desert terrain.

The reviews from fellow campers paint a picture of a spot that is both beautiful and unconventional. Visitors have noted the "cool views" and the "kind of cool spot," highlighting its unique aesthetic. It’s a place that isn't about traditional amenities, but rather about the freedom and sense of adventure that comes with dispersed camping. The presence of cows and the unique color of the water add to the distinctive character of the location, reminding campers that they are in a truly wild and working landscape. This authenticity is a significant draw for many Idaho locals who prefer a less commercialized outdoor experience.

Fish Creek Reservoir is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a destination for a variety of outdoor pursuits. The area is particularly popular for UTV enthusiasts, and as some reviews mention, the ability to go fast on UTVs is a highlight for many. While this adds an element of excitement for some, it is worth noting that it contributes to a more active and less quiet environment than a typical remote campsite. However, for those with kids, as one review notes, the area is still "good for kids" with some precautions, and the vastness of the space allows for a true sense of exploration and play. The presence of fire pits and picnic tables at certain sites also ensures that basic needs for a comfortable stay are met.

Location and Accessibility

Fish Creek Reservoir is situated at W Fork Fish Creek Rd, Carey, ID 83320, USA. This location places it in a secluded area that is a significant part of its appeal. Getting to the campground requires navigating a road that, as a camper described, has "tricky angles and big ol' protruding rocks." This challenging but rewarding drive is part of the adventure, and it is a testament to the area's untouched nature. Despite the challenging road, a reviewer successfully towed a "31' fiver," indicating that with careful driving and the right vehicle, a variety of setups can reach the site. The remoteness is a feature, not a bug, for those who want to get away from it all.

The accessibility of the campground is defined by its ruggedness. This is not a spot for small sedans or unprepared drivers. However, for those with the right vehicle and a spirit of adventure, the journey itself is part of the experience. The on-site parking is a key amenity, as it allows campers to safely park their vehicles near their preferred tent sites. The location’s proximity to Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve also makes it an excellent basecamp for exploring that unique and otherworldly landscape, providing a convenient and free alternative to other nearby paid sites.

The area’s remoteness means there is little to no light pollution, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. The surrounding terrain, characterized by its high-desert flora and fauna, offers a different kind of beauty than Idaho's more mountainous regions. The location is an honest, untouched slice of Idaho, and for those willing to make the effort to get there, the rewards are significant.

Services Offered

• Tent Sites: The campground is primarily for tent camping, with open spaces to find a suitable spot. Visitors should be prepared to set up their own camp, as the sites are not formally designated or numbered beyond a few notable areas with tables and fire pits.

• On-site Parking: Parking is available on-site, allowing campers to keep their vehicles nearby. Given the rugged nature of the access road, a vehicle with good clearance is highly recommended.

• Picnic Tables: At least a few of the sites are equipped with picnic tables, providing a convenient surface for dining or preparing meals.

• Fire Pits: Some sites have designated fire pits, perfect for building a campfire. Campers should always check for any current fire restrictions before their visit.

• Pit Toilet: The campground has a basic pit toilet, providing a simple but essential facility for campers.

• Good for Kids: A key highlight from a customer review is that the site is good for kids. The open space provides a great area for play and exploration, though parents should remain vigilant due to the presence of UTVs.

Features / Highlights

• Free Camping: One of the most significant features of Fish Creek Reservoir is that it is a free campground. This makes it an accessible option for all budgets and a highly attractive alternative to paid sites.

• Unique Views and Scenery: The "cool views" and the distinctive landscape, including the "fluorescent green water," make for a visually stunning and memorable experience. The scenery is a major draw for photographers and nature lovers.

• Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: The challenging access road and remote location are a highlight for those who seek a more adventurous and less commercialized camping trip. The feeling of "getting off the beaten path is super worth it" for many visitors.

• UTV and Outdoor Recreation: The area is popular for UTVs, which adds an exciting element for motorsports enthusiasts. The nearby landscape provides plenty of opportunities for exploration on and off the trails.

• Proximity to Craters of the Moon: The campground serves as a great, free basecamp for exploring Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, a unique geological wonder just a short drive away.

• Peaceful and Quiet at Night: While there might be some activity during the day, the nights are likely to be peaceful and quiet, perfect for stargazing and enjoying the natural sounds of the Idaho wilderness.

Contact Information

Fish Creek Reservoir is a dispersed camping area and does not have a formal office. For current conditions, it's best to contact the local Bureau of Land Management (BLM) office, as the land is often managed by them. The provided contact number, which is for the BLM's Twin Falls District, is (208) 732-7200. The physical address is W Fork Fish Creek Rd, Carey, ID 83320, USA.

What is worth choosing

Choosing Fish Creek Reservoir is a decision for the adventurous and the prepared. It is worth choosing for its authentic, no-cost camping experience that is increasingly rare to find. For Idaho locals who value their freedom to explore without the constraints of a developed park, this is an ideal spot. The stunning, unique views and the rugged landscape provide a memorable backdrop that you won't find at a traditional RV park. It’s a place for those who want to be immersed in the raw beauty of Idaho's high desert.

The practical benefit of it being a free campground is a major draw, making it an excellent option for extended trips or for those on a tight budget. The presence of basic amenities like a pit toilet and a few picnic tables is a nice bonus that provides a little comfort in an otherwise wild setting. While the presence of UTVs and the challenging access road might not be for everyone, for the right type of traveler—one who enjoys motor sports or is simply seeking a truly off-grid experience—these are features, not drawbacks. It is a place where you can feel the true spirit of Idaho's vast, untamed wilderness.

Fish Creek Reservoir

W Fork Fish Creek Rd, Carey, ID 83320, USA