Montpelier Canyon Campground

For those who cherish the quiet solitude of the outdoors, Montpelier Canyon Campground is a hidden gem tucked away in Idaho’s stunning Caribou-Targhee National Forest. This campground offers a simple, rustic escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. It's a place where you can truly disconnect, with limited or no cell service, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. As one camper noted, the ability to escape and be off-grid is a significant draw, making it perfect for solo campers and anyone who needs a digital detox.

Montpelier Canyon Campground is known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery. The creek that runs behind many of the tent sites provides a soothing soundtrack to your stay, and the views of the mountains and the surrounding forest are breathtaking. Campers often praise the perfect size of the sites, which offer a great sense of privacy without feeling isolated. This balance is what makes the campground so appealing. It's a place to relax, read a book, or simply gaze at the beautiful stars that are so visible in the dark night sky.

While the campground is straightforward and primitive, it's also well-maintained and provides essential amenities. The presence of vault toilets and running water (though it’s been noted that water is not always available and it’s best to bring your own) adds to the comfort level without detracting from the rustic charm. The camp hosts are often described as helpful and friendly, which always enhances the camping experience. It’s the kind of place where you feel a sense of community with fellow campers and a connection with the natural environment.

This is not a campground for those seeking a luxurious or amenity-heavy experience. It is for the person who loves the outdoors in its purest form—a place to enjoy a campfire under the stars and wake up to the sound of a rushing creek. Its proximity to town, while providing a convenient option for supplies, doesn't detract from the serene, natural setting. This is a place for campers who appreciate the simple things, and who find joy in a peaceful, natural environment.

Location and Accessibility

Montpelier Canyon Campground is located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest on Forest Rd 153, near Montpelier, ID 83254, USA. It is situated about 35 minutes away from Bear Lake, which makes it a great base camp for exploring the larger area while avoiding the crowds and noise of the more popular tourist spots. The campground is also just a few miles from the town of Montpelier, allowing for easy access to supplies or for a quick trip to get cell service.

The campground is accessible to a variety of vehicles, including RVs, but campers should be aware of a few details. While it is located near a highway, some of the roads leading into the sites can be narrow and may have low-hanging trees, which might be a challenge for larger rigs. However, many sites are suitable for RVs up to 25 feet, and the campground offers a mix of tent-only sites and those for trailers. It’s always a good idea to scout your site upon arrival.

For those with mobility concerns, the campground does offer a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity. The on-site parking at each site is a convenient feature. While there is a mention of road noise from a nearby highway and off-road vehicles on the trails, the overall secluded feeling and the beauty of the canyon setting often outweigh these minor distractions.

Services Offered

• RV Camping: The campground has sites that can accommodate RVs and trailers, with some offering water hookups.
• Tent Sites: Many spots are available for tent camping, including some that are tent-only.
• Public Restroom: Vault toilets are available on-site and are generally well-maintained.
• Running Water: The campground has running water, though some reviews suggest it may not always be available, so bringing your own is recommended.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit or grill for cooking and gathering.

Features / Highlights

• Secluded and Quiet: The campground is a great choice for those seeking solitude and a peaceful atmosphere, away from crowds.
• No Cell Service: For those looking to truly disconnect, the lack of cell service is a major highlight, with the option to drive a few minutes to town for a connection.
• Proximity to Creek: A creek runs through the campground, providing a serene backdrop and a cool place to relax.
• Beautiful Stargazing: The remote location and dark skies make for incredible views of the stars at night.
• Good for Kids: The campground is a great place for children to explore, play, and connect with nature.
• Dog-Friendly: The campground welcomes dogs, making it a convenient spot for pet owners.

Contact Information

Address: Caribou Targee National Forest, Forest Rd 153, Montpelier, ID 83254, USA

Phone: (208) 847-0375

Mobile Phone: +1 208-847-0375

What is worth choosing

Montpelier Canyon Campground is an excellent choice for a number of reasons, but its greatest appeal lies in its ability to offer a true, back-to-basics camping experience. For a minimal camping fee, you get a beautiful, quiet, and well-maintained site in a stunning location. This is not a place with a lot of frills or scheduled activities; it's a place for genuine relaxation and immersion in nature. The peaceful solitude is a major draw, especially for solo campers or those who want a private getaway without having to deal with large groups or the noise that comes with them.

The campground's location is also a key selling point. It is a perfect middle-ground—close enough to a town for convenience but far enough away to feel truly removed from civilization. The fact that you are just a short drive from Bear Lake means you can enjoy the popular attractions of the area without having to stay in a crowded campground. The access to riding and hiking trails also makes it an ideal base for a wide variety of outdoor adventures, from a leisurely walk to a more challenging trek.

Finally, the simple amenities and the overall atmosphere make it a highly recommended choice. The availability of clean vault toilets, running water, and picnic tables ensures a comfortable stay, while the beautiful scenery and the peaceful sound of the creek create an unforgettable experience. For anyone who loves Idaho's natural beauty and wants a straightforward, peaceful, and rustic camping trip, Montpelier Canyon Campground is a perfect match.

Montpelier Canyon Campground

Caribou Targee National Forest, Forest Rd 153, Montpelier, ID 83254, USA