McCrea Bridge Campground

McCrea Bridge Campground, nestled in the scenic Caribou-Targhee National Forest, offers an idyllic retreat for campers seeking a blend of tranquility and outdoor adventure in Island Park, Idaho. This lovely, peaceful campground provides a classic camping experience with its beautiful, large spots that are perfect for both tent and RV campers. It’s the kind of place where you can truly relax, surrounded by the natural beauty of lodgepole pine forests and the backwaters of the stunning Island Park Reservoir. What makes McCrea Bridge stand out is its commitment to providing a clean, well-maintained environment where visitors can feel comfortable and secure. The campground hosts are a highlight, consistently praised by visitors for their friendly, pleasant, and helpful nature, ensuring that every guest feels welcome and well-cared for. This personal touch, along with the beautiful scenery, makes it a cherished spot for many Idaho locals.

The essence of McCrea Bridge Campground is its focus on the core elements of a great camping trip: a beautiful natural setting, clean facilities, and a supportive community. It’s not about flashy amenities or endless activities but rather about providing a quiet and serene base from which to explore the surrounding wilderness. The non-electric sites encourage a true disconnection from the digital world and a reconnection with nature. Each site is thoughtfully equipped with a picnic table, grill, and bear box, showing a dedication to both guest comfort and safety. This attention to detail, from the well-maintained sites to the immaculate restrooms, contributes to a high-quality experience that campers appreciate. It's a place where you can wake up to the sounds of nature, spend your days fishing or hiking, and end your evenings by a campfire under the vast Idaho sky. The peaceful atmosphere and welcoming hosts make McCrea Bridge Campground a perfect destination for families and solo travelers alike, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all.

Beyond the campground itself, its location offers a gateway to some of Idaho's most spectacular landscapes and recreational opportunities. The campground is well-suited for those who love boating, fishing, and hiking, with direct access to the water and nearby trails. The combination of a beautiful natural setting, essential amenities, and a friendly atmosphere creates a camping experience that is both authentic and comfortable. For those who value a quiet, clean, and well-run campground over a crowded resort, McCrea Bridge is an excellent choice. It is a testament to the idea that a great camping trip doesn't require a long list of modern conveniences, but rather a perfect blend of natural beauty and thoughtful hospitality.

McCrea Bridge Campground is located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest at Kilgore-Yale Rd, Island Park, ID 83429, USA. Its prime location places it on the backwaters of the beautiful Island Park Reservoir. The campground is accessed via a paved road, but the interior roads and parking spurs are gravel. This makes it suitable for both RVs and tents, with some sites specifically designed for RVs. The location is an ideal base for exploring the wider Island Park area, which is known for its world-class fishing and breathtaking scenery. The accessibility of the campground is a key feature, with wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking lots, ensuring that it can be enjoyed by a wide range of visitors. The peaceful setting and convenient access to nearby recreational opportunities make it a highly desirable destination for locals and travelers from across the state.

The campground's proximity to various natural attractions is a significant advantage. While it is tucked away, it is not so remote that it is difficult to reach. The paved road leading to the campground provides a smooth journey, and the interior gravel roads are well-maintained for easy navigation. The on-site parking at each campsite adds a layer of convenience, allowing campers to quickly set up their base camp. This balance of being in a quiet, natural environment while still being easily accessible is a major draw. For those coming to enjoy the water, the on-site boat ramp offers a seamless way to get your boat onto the reservoir. The easy access and well-thought-out design of the campground contribute to a stress-free experience, allowing you to get to the fun parts of your trip faster.

McCrea Bridge Campground offers a set of essential services that cater to the fundamental needs of campers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay in a natural setting.

• Tent and RV camping sites are available.

• On-site services include a boat ramp for easy water access.

• A public restroom with running water is available.

• Each campsite is equipped with a barbecue grill and a picnic table.

• Barbecue grills are provided for cooking convenience.

• Camping fees are in place, with online payment options available via Recreation.gov.

• Firewood is available for purchase from the camp host.

It's important to note that while the campground has running water, it does not have electric or sewer hookups. Campers can fill their water reservoirs at a central location before proceeding to their individual campsites. This setup is perfect for those who enjoy a more rustic experience without forgoing basic necessities like a clean restroom and a place to cook. The convenience of having a boat ramp and fire pits at each site adds significant value, making it a functional and well-equipped campground for its type. The presence of friendly and helpful hosts who are known to keep the restrooms "extremely clean" is a highly praised aspect of the campground's service.

The features and highlights of McCrea Bridge Campground are focused on creating a memorable outdoor experience by leveraging its beautiful natural surroundings and thoughtful amenities.

• Picnic areas with dedicated tables and grills are a highlight for outdoor meals.

• Wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot ensure the campground is welcoming to all visitors.

• Kid-friendly hikes are available, making it a great spot for families with children.

• The campground is pet-friendly, with dogs allowed on-site.

• A boat ramp is available for easy access to Island Park Reservoir for boating, fishing, and water sports.

• Clean and well-maintained restrooms are a consistent point of praise from campers.

• The presence of a very pleasant and helpful camp host who ensures the cleanliness and a pleasant atmosphere is a key feature.

• Each site comes with a bear-safe food storage box for safety.

The combination of these features makes McCrea Bridge a highly appealing destination. The availability of a boat ramp is a significant draw for those who enjoy water activities on the reservoir. The clean facilities, which are often cited in reviews, show a high standard of maintenance that is crucial for a positive camping experience. The campground's family-friendly nature, with safe hiking opportunities and a pet-friendly policy, ensures that every member of the family can enjoy the trip. The thoughtful inclusion of bear-safe food boxes reflects a commitment to both guest safety and the preservation of the local wildlife. These highlights work together to create a camping environment that is both peaceful and practical, making it a top choice in the Island Park area.

For more information, reservations, or to inquire about the campground, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Caribou Targee National Forest, Kilgore-Yale Rd, Island Park, ID 83429, USA

Phone: (877) 444-6777

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777

The reservation system for the campground is available online at Recreation.gov, where you can check for availability and make your booking in advance.

McCrea Bridge Campground is worth choosing for those who are looking for a genuine, non-commercialized camping experience in Idaho. Its standout features, especially from a local perspective, are its tranquility, cleanliness, and the exceptional hospitality of its hosts. One reviewer noted that it is "very pretty and quiet," a quality that is highly valued by those seeking a true escape from city life. The presence of friendly and accommodating hosts who are known for their helpfulness elevates the experience from a simple stay to a truly welcoming visit. As one camper mentioned, the restrooms are "extremely clean," a detail that speaks volumes about the care put into the campground's management.

The campground offers a great value for the price, providing essential amenities like running water, picnic tables, and grills without the added cost of electric hookups that many campers don't need. The location is perfect for those who want to be close to both the water and hiking trails, offering a variety of activities without having to travel far from your campsite. The ability to reserve a spot online also makes it convenient for planning. For any Idahoan looking for a peaceful, well-maintained, and friendly campground that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of outdoor recreation in the state, McCrea Bridge is an excellent choice. It’s a place that promises and delivers a relaxing and memorable trip for all who visit.

McCrea Bridge Campground

Caribou Targee National Forest, Kilgore-Yale Rd, Island Park, ID 83429, USA