Four Mile Campground

Idaho, with its vast stretches of untouched wilderness and stunning natural landscapes, offers unparalleled opportunities for those seeking to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the outdoors. For residents of the Gem State who cherish a quiet, rustic camping experience, Four Mile Campground near Cascade stands out as a hidden gem. Tucked away amidst the lush forest and beside the South Fork Salmon River, this campground provides an intimate and authentic encounter with Idaho's wild heart.

Unlike larger, more bustling campgrounds, Four Mile Campground prides itself on its secluded atmosphere and basic, yet clean, amenities. It's a place where the sounds of the river and the rustling leaves replace urban noise, and where the starlit sky provides an unrivaled evening spectacle. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Four Mile Campground, detailing its unique location, the essential services it offers, its notable features, and why it's a perfectly suited destination for Idahoans looking for a genuine and restorative wilderness experience close to home.

Four Mile Campground is located in the beautiful Payette National Forest, specifically along the South Fork Salmon River, near Cascade, ID 83611, USA. Its exact position is often described as being between mile markers 15 and 16 along the road that parallels the river, indicating its tucked-away nature within the forest.

Accessing Four Mile Campground typically involves driving on forest service roads. If traveling from McCall, a common route is to go approximately 30 miles northeast on Forest Road 48 (Lick Creek Road), then 11 miles south on FR 674 (South Fork Road). From Cascade, the South Fork corridor is about 30 miles along the Warm Lake Highway. While the South Fork Road is often paved, it can be narrow with two-way traffic and blind corners, requiring careful driving. The entrance to the campground itself is noted by visitors as "just around a bend," meaning it can "sneak up on you." Therefore, slowing down and being attentive is recommended. The journey to Four Mile Campground is part of its charm, leading visitors deeper into the forested expanse of the Payette National Forest and promising a truly secluded experience. Due to its location in a national forest, it's always wise to check current road conditions, especially during the spring thaw or late fall, as some routes may be affected by weather.

Four Mile Campground provides a rustic, yet well-maintained, camping experience, focusing on essential amenities that support a comfortable stay in a natural setting. It is designed for those who appreciate simplicity and self-reliance in the wilderness.

• Individual Campsites: The campground features a limited number of individual campsites, often noted as having "4 individual spots" in one section, though the entire campground may have "significantly more" sites, including "big group sites that multiple tents could be set up at," as mentioned by a reviewer. These sites are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Outhouse Facilities: A very clean outhouse (vault toilet) is provided, ensuring basic sanitation for campers.
• Campfire Pits: Each designated spot comes with a campfire pit, usually equipped with a bench, perfect for cooking over an open flame and enjoying evening campfires (always check for fire restrictions).
• Designated Parking: Each site includes a designated parking space, and there's often additional designated parking directly across from the campsite area.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial to note that this campground does NOT have potable water. Visitors must bring all their own drinking, cooking, and washing water for the duration of their stay.
• No Hookups: As a primitive campground, there are no RV hookups (water, electric, or sewer), making it ideal for tent campers or self-contained RVs/vans.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: Campers are expected to adhere to "Leave No Trace" principles, packing out all garbage and waste to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
• Stock Ramp and Hitching Rack: For those with horses, the campground is equipped with a stock ramp and hitching rack, offering access to trails suitable for equestrian use.

These amenities, while basic, contribute to the authentic wilderness appeal of Four Mile Campground, providing a comfortable foundation for a truly immersive outdoor adventure.

Four Mile Campground's true allure lies in its pristine natural surroundings and the unique recreational opportunities it offers, making it a favorite among those who discover its charm.

• Secluded Wilderness Setting: The campground is praised for being "tucked back into the woods," offering a quiet and tranquil atmosphere away from more crowded areas. This seclusion is a major draw for those seeking peace and a deep connection with nature.
• Proximity to the South Fork Salmon River: Situated "directly across from the campsite" and "next to the river," the campground provides easy access to the South Fork Salmon River, known for its scenic beauty and excellent fishing opportunities. The sound of the river nearby contributes to the relaxing ambiance.
• Nearby Hot Springs: A significant highlight is the presence of a hot springs "settled next to the river between mile marker 16 and 15," just a short distance from the campground. This offers a unique opportunity for a natural, warm soak after a day of hiking or exploring.
• Direct Trail Access: "Trails right off the campground" are available, including a path directly across from the campsite that allows for immediate hiking and exploration into the surrounding forest. The area provides access to an extensive trail system for both motorized and non-motorized recreation.
• Beautiful Forest Environment: Visitors consistently note the scenic beauty of the area, characterized by its forested terrain and lush surroundings.
• First-Come, First-Served: The campground's first-come, first-served policy contributes to its rustic, spontaneous appeal, often allowing for quieter periods and a more authentic wilderness feel compared to reservation-heavy sites.
• Wildlife Viewing: The remote forest location means abundant opportunities for spotting local wildlife, from deer and elk to various bird species.

These features combine to make Four Mile Campground a highly desirable destination for those seeking an authentic and memorable Idaho wilderness experience, offering both adventure and profound tranquility.

For specific inquiries regarding Four Mile Campground, including current conditions, road access, and any fire restrictions, it is advisable to contact the U.S. Forest Service office responsible for the Payette National Forest, particularly the Cascade Ranger District, as the campground is in the vicinity of Cascade.

Address: Cascade, ID 83611, USA (This is the general area for the campground, as specific street numbers are not typical for remote forest service sites).

Phone: The primary contact number for the Payette National Forest is (208) 634-0400. While this is a general line, they can direct you to the most appropriate ranger district or provide the necessary information.

As Four Mile Campground is a first-come, first-served site, reservations are not taken. However, calling ahead to confirm road accessibility (especially with the note about Google Maps inaccuracies) and any current conditions like fire bans or temporary closures is highly recommended before planning your trip. The official Payette National Forest website is also an excellent resource for current alerts and visitor information.

For Idahoans, Four Mile Campground near Cascade represents an ideal opportunity to experience the authentic wilderness that defines our state, offering a retreat that feels both deeply secluded and easily accessible for a local adventure. This campground is particularly suited for residents who appreciate a more rustic, no-frills camping experience, one that prioritizes connection with nature over extensive amenities.

The "quiet and tranquil" atmosphere, as described by visitors, is a major draw for those seeking to escape the noise and demands of everyday life. Its position "tucked back into the woods" and "next to the river" provides a truly immersive environment where the sounds of flowing water and rustling leaves become your soundtrack. The fact that it's a smaller campground with individual, designated spots offers a sense of privacy and intimacy rarely found in larger, more developed sites. This allows Idahoans to truly unplug and rejuvenate in a natural setting.

Furthermore, the unique highlights like the nearby hot springs add an exceptional dimension to the camping experience, offering a natural amenity that exemplifies Idaho's geothermal wonders. Direct access to hiking trails right from the campground means immediate opportunities for exploration, whether you're looking for a short stroll or a more extensive trek into the Payette National Forest. While the lack of potable water requires preparedness, it aligns with a spirit of self-sufficiency that many Idaho outdoor enthusiasts embrace. Four Mile Campground is a testament to the fact that some of the best adventures are found off the beaten path, providing an unforgettable experience that reinforces the profound beauty and accessibility of Idaho’s incredible wild spaces for its residents. It's truly a spot worth slowing down for, and one you'll be eager to circle on your own atlas for future returns.

Four Mile Campground

Cascade, ID 83611, USA