Maple Grove Campground

Welcome to Maple Grove Campground, a true hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts in southeastern Idaho. Tucked away on the serene shores of the Oneida Narrows Reservoir, this small but highly cherished campground offers an authentic and secluded camping experience. Unlike larger, more commercial sites, Maple Grove provides a peaceful retreat where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. The spacious sites, each with a front-row view of the lake, offer a unique opportunity for campers to enjoy the tranquil water, whether for fishing, kayaking, or simply taking in the view. It's a place where you can find a quiet moment for yourself or create lasting memories with family and friends, all while being surrounded by the natural beauty that defines Idaho's landscape.

Maple Grove Campground is a testament to the fact that you don't need a host of modern amenities to have a wonderful time. The focus here is on the simple pleasures of camping: the crackle of a campfire, the jump of fish in the water, and the star-filled night sky unmarred by city lights. Visitors often praise the generous size of the sites and the sense of privacy they offer, a rare find in today's crowded campgrounds. This is a place that feels like a discovery, a personal retreat that locals love to return to year after year. From families enjoying a calm ride on the river to fishing enthusiasts trying their luck for walleye, the campground provides a straightforward and rewarding outdoor adventure for all.

Maple Grove Campground is located at Oneida Narrows Rd, Thatcher, ID 83283, USA. Getting to this secluded spot is part of the adventure, requiring a drive of approximately 7 miles down a well-maintained dirt road. This journey adds to the feeling of getting away from it all and helps ensure the campground remains a quiet and peaceful destination. While the location is remote, it's easily accessible from the town of Preston, which is roughly 30 minutes away and serves as the closest point for gas stations and stores. This allows campers to stock up on supplies before making their final approach to the campsite.

Accessibility is straightforward at Maple Grove Campground, primarily for standard vehicles and campers. One review suggests that while the road is generally fine, it may be a little rutted in places, and a camper longer than 20 feet might be challenging to navigate in the narrow pull-ins. There is ample on-site parking at the campsites. It's important for visitors to be prepared for the self-sufficient nature of the campground, as highlighted by its remote location and lack of cell service. This is a place for those who are ready to embrace a less-connected, more natural camping experience.

Maple Grove Campground is a rustic site managed by the Pocatello Field Office of the Bureau of Land Management. The services offered are essential and designed to support a traditional camping experience.

• Tent Sites: The campground features a limited number of developed campsites, each offering ample space for a good-sized tent or camper. These sites are a first-come, first-served basis, with no online reservation system, so it is a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

• Public Restrooms: There are two vault toilets available for campers. While not a full bathhouse, they are regularly maintained and provide a necessary convenience for campers.

• Running Water: It is crucial to note that while the campground is listed with running water, customer reviews from the past have clarified that there is no potable water available on site. Campers must bring their own drinking water. The running water reference likely pertains to the nearby river or other non-potable sources, so preparedness is key.

• Amenities at each site: Each of the spacious campsites includes a fire ring, a grill, and a picnic table, providing the basic equipment needed for cooking and dining outdoors. The presence of these amenities at each site adds to the convenience and comfort of your stay.

The true highlights of Maple Grove Campground lie in its natural environment and the recreational opportunities it offers.

• Lakeside Sites: The campground is uniquely situated along the Oneida Narrows Reservoir, with most sites having the lake just across a small, low-traffic road. This gives campers unparalleled access to the water for swimming, fishing, or boating with a personal kayak or canoe. There are also a boat ramp and docks for easy access.

• River Tubing: One of the most popular activities in the area is tubing on the Bear River. The campground is located near a boat/tube take-out spot, with a put-in spot further upriver. Companies like Family Fun Tubing, located nearby, provide a convenient shuttle service, making it easy to enjoy a relaxing float down the river with just enough rapids to keep things interesting. This is a fantastic highlight for those seeking a fun and refreshing activity.

• Affordable Camping: The cost of camping here is remarkably low, currently at a fee per vehicle per night. While there is a notice that this may change, the current pricing makes it an incredible value for a group or family looking for a budget-friendly outing. This affordability is a significant draw for many campers.

• Spacious, Secluded Sites: Campers consistently praise the size and spacing of the sites, which are much larger than what you find at many other campgrounds. This offers a sense of privacy and peace, allowing you to fully enjoy your space without feeling crowded by your neighbors.

Since there is no on-site contact information and the camp is managed by the Bureau of Land Management, it is recommended to check with the Pocatello office for the most current information.

Address: Oneida Narrows Rd, Thatcher, ID 83283, USA

Phone: (208) 478-6340 (BLM Pocatello Field Office)

What is worth choosing about Maple Grove Campground is its authentic, off-the-grid charm combined with its incredible recreational value. The self-sufficient nature of the site, which requires you to bring your own water and pack out your trash, is a small price to pay for the serenity and beauty you get in return. The reviews from real customers perfectly capture the essence of the camp. One visitor highlights the "spacious" sites and the fact that the "lake is right across the little road," emphasizing the prime location and generous space. The details about the nearby tubing and the affordability of the campground solidify its value proposition.

While the lack of cell service and the first-come, first-served policy may seem like downsides, they are also what contribute to the peaceful and less-crowded atmosphere. This is a place for those who truly want to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors. The combination of lakeside access, a great spot for kayaking and fishing, and the exciting option for river tubing makes Maple Grove Campground a standout choice for an outdoor adventure in Idaho. It is a place that rewards those who come prepared with a truly memorable and relaxing camping experience that feels far more special than a typical commercial campground.

Maple Grove Campground

Oneida Narrows Rd, Thatcher, ID 83283, USA