Little Bayhorse Lake Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Idahoans who dream of escaping to a pristine high-mountain lake, far from the ordinary, Little Bayhorse Lake Campground near Challis, ID, offers an unparalleled opportunity. Nestled within the breathtaking Salmon-Challis National Forest, this campground is a true hidden gem, providing a rustic and deeply immersive outdoor experience. It's renowned among those who value genuine tranquility, excellent fishing, and the raw beauty of Idaho's mountainous landscapes. As one enthusiastic camper put it, it's an "awesome campground" with a "great mountain lake," perfect for taking "family and friends." While it requires a bit of an adventurous spirit to reach, with mentions of "steep" roads and the need for a "4x4 truck or SUV," the reward is a uniquely serene setting where the sounds of nature prevail. This overview aims to illuminate the distinctive characteristics that make Little Bayhorse Lake Campground a compelling choice for locals seeking a memorable and authentic Idaho wilderness retreat.

Location and Accessibility

Little Bayhorse Lake Campground is situated on Forest Rd 382, Challis, ID 83226, USA, deep within the vast and beautiful Salmon-Challis National Forest. This location places it in a high-mountain setting at an elevation of approximately 8,500 feet, offering stunning vistas and a refreshing escape from lower elevations. Access to the campground is a key consideration for potential visitors. From Challis, you typically head south on US Highway 93 for about 2 miles, then turn onto State Highway 75 towards Stanley. After about 7 miles on Highway 75 (and 0.6 miles past the turnoff for Bayhorse Recreation Site), you turn northwest onto Forest Service Road 051. You follow this road for approximately 6 miles to a "Y" intersection. To reach Little Bayhorse Lake, you should keep right at the "Y" onto Little Bayhorse Lake Road (Forest Service Road 382) and continue for about 0.8 miles. Critically, information from both official sources and user reviews emphasizes that this final stretch of road is "steep and narrow," and the "last 1/2 mile to the lake is rough." It is "not recommended for trailers" and strongly advises the use of a "4x4 truck or SUV." This means that while it's accessible by road, visitors must be prepared for challenging driving conditions. However, for adventurous Idahoans with appropriate vehicles, this limited access helps preserve the campground's secluded and pristine nature. Despite its remote feel, the campground is still within a reasonable drive of Challis, allowing for necessary supply runs before embarking on the journey to this mountain haven. Its position within the Salmon-Challis National Forest also means it serves as a gateway to extensive hiking, exploration, and backcountry adventures.

Services Offered

Little Bayhorse Lake Campground is a primitive Forest Service campground, providing essential, minimalist services to facilitate a rustic camping experience. Campers should arrive well-prepared, as amenities are limited:

• Campsites: The campground offers three primitive campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for campfires (always check current fire restrictions). Some sites may even include chairs, as noted by a reviewer.
• Dock: A significant amenity for a high-mountain lake, the campground "had a dock," providing convenient access for fishing, launching small non-motorized boats, or simply enjoying the lakeside view.
• Outhouses/Toilets: Vault toilets (outhouses) are available on-site, offering basic restroom facilities.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial to understand that there is no drinking water available at the campground. Campers must bring all their own water for hydration, cooking, and cleaning.
• No Garbage Pick-up: Visitors are required to practice "Leave No Trace" principles, meaning all garbage and refuse must be packed out from the campground.
• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available, making it suitable for tent camping or self-contained RVs that can navigate the access road.
• First-Come, First-Served: The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are not available. This allows for spontaneous trips but necessitates early arrival during peak seasons.

Features / Highlights

• Stunning Mountain Lake Setting: The most prominent feature is the "beautiful high mountain lake" itself. Little Bayhorse Lake offers breathtaking scenery, surrounded by evergreen forests and mountainous landscapes.
• Excellent Fishing: Renowned for "pretty good fishing," Little Bayhorse Lake is an ideal spot for anglers, particularly those interested in trout fishing. The presence of a dock further enhances fishing opportunities.
• Secluded and Peaceful Atmosphere: The challenging access helps ensure a less crowded environment, making it a "super hidden" and quiet retreat, perfect for those seeking solitude and natural serenity.
• Rustic Charm: It provides a genuine primitive camping experience, appealing to those who prefer minimalist facilities and a strong connection to the wilderness.
• Access to Hiking Trails: A hiking trail connects Little Bayhorse Lake to the larger Bayhorse Lake nearby, offering additional exploration opportunities.
• Wildlife Viewing: The remote, forested setting is home to various wildlife, providing chances for observation and photography.
• "Awesome Campground": Positive reviews highlight the overall quality of the campground experience, despite its rustic nature.
• Free Camping: As a primitive Forest Service site, camping at Little Bayhorse Lake Campground is typically free, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Unique Access Requirement: The need for a "4x4 truck or SUV" for the final stretch of road is a distinctive feature that appeals to adventurous campers and helps maintain its secluded character.
• Proximity to Bayhorse Ghost Town: The area is rich in mining history, with the historic Bayhorse Ghost Town not far, offering a fascinating side trip for history buffs.

Contact Information

Address: Salmon Challis National Forest, Forest Rd 382, Challis, ID 83226, USA

Phone: (208) 756-5100 (This is the general contact number for the Salmon-Challis National Forest Supervisor's Office, which oversees the campground and can provide current conditions and access information.)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-756-5100

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Little Bayhorse Lake Campground offers an unparalleled, authentic Idaho outdoor experience that is particularly well-suited for locals. Its location within the majestic Salmon-Challis National Forest, coupled with its high-mountain lake setting, provides a stunning backdrop for any adventure. For Idahoans who own a "4x4 truck or SUV" and relish a challenge, the journey to the campground itself becomes part of the adventure, leading to a truly secluded haven away from the bustling crowds. This limited accessibility means that those who make the effort are rewarded with a peaceful and less-trafficked environment, allowing for genuine tranquility and a deeper connection with nature. The "pretty good fishing" in Little Bayhorse Lake is a significant draw, making it a prime spot for anglers across the state. Beyond fishing, the campground offers immediate access to hiking trails and the chance to explore the rich mining history of the surrounding area, adding an educational dimension to the outdoor escape. While it provides basic amenities like outhouses and picnic tables, the expectation for campers to be self-sufficient and practice "Leave No Trace" aligns perfectly with the values of many Idahoans who are stewards of their state's pristine wilderness. Little Bayhorse Lake Campground is not just a place to set up camp; it's an invitation to experience the wild, untamed beauty of Idaho, offering an affordable, adventurous, and profoundly rewarding retreat for those who cherish their state's unique outdoor heritage. It's a true high-country gem, waiting to be discovered by the intrepid local.

Little Bayhorse Lake Campground

Salmon Challis National Forest, Forest Rd 382, Challis, ID 83226, USA