North Fork Campground

For those of us living in Idaho, the call of the mountains is never far. We know that some of the best adventures are found just a short drive from our towns, hidden away in the spectacular landscapes that define our state. North Fork Campground, nestled in the heart of the Sawtooth National Forest just outside of Ketchum, is one of those special places. It’s a perfect retreat for anyone seeking to combine the convenience of a developed campground with the raw, natural beauty of Idaho’s wilderness. Surrounded by towering trees and located along the banks of the Big Wood River, this campground offers a peaceful and well-maintained base camp for all your outdoor excursions.

North Fork Campground is designed to cater to a wide range of campers, from those traveling in large RVs to families with tents. The sites are known for being spacious and well-separated, providing a sense of privacy that is often hard to come by in popular camping areas. This is a place where you can set up your camp, enjoy a campfire, and feel a million miles away from the everyday hustle, all while having easy access to essential amenities. The campground’s setting is picturesque, with aspen and pine trees providing ample shade and the gentle rush of the river offering a constant, soothing soundtrack. It’s a favorite spot for many who frequent the area, praised for its cleanliness, friendly camp hosts, and overall peaceful atmosphere.

The appeal of North Fork Campground extends beyond its beautiful setting. It’s a hub for recreation, with direct access to some of the area’s best trails and waterways. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a keen cyclist, or a fly-fishing enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy here. The close proximity to Ketchum also means that while you’re enjoying a rustic retreat, you’re never too far from the amenities and attractions of a vibrant mountain town. The blend of accessibility, convenience, and natural splendor makes North Fork Campground a truly worthwhile choice for your next Idaho camping trip. This guide will help you get to know the campground better, providing you with all the details you need to plan a perfect visit.

Location and Accessibility

North Fork Campground is located just north of Ketchum, ID 83340, USA, putting it in a prime position for exploring the famed Sawtooth National Forest and Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Its address places it conveniently close to Highway 75, the scenic road that runs through the Wood River Valley. While some sites are noted to be close enough to the highway that you can hear traffic, they are not directly visible, and the noise tends to die down at night, allowing for a peaceful sleep. The location strikes an ideal balance, offering a remote feel without being so isolated as to be difficult to reach. This makes it a great option for RVs and trailers, with asphalt roads within the campground and easy access from the main highway.

One of the most notable aspects of North Fork Campground is its commitment to accessibility. With wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking, the campground ensures that people of all abilities can enjoy Idaho’s outdoor beauty. The on-site parking is a welcome convenience, providing a secure spot for your vehicle right at your campsite. For those traveling with RVs, the availability of water hookups at some sites is a significant benefit, reducing the need to carry large amounts of fresh water. The proximity to the Big Wood River is another major draw, offering easy access for fishing, and a place to cool off on a hot day. The fact that the campground is located in a known bear territory adds an element of wildness, prompting campers to be prepared and mindful of proper food storage, a key part of responsible Idaho camping.

The campground’s location also makes it an excellent base for day trips to other nearby attractions, such as the Sawtooth National Recreation Area Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the local history and geology. Easley Hot Springs is just a short drive away, providing a relaxing soak after a long day of hiking or biking. The convenience of being near a town like Ketchum, with its restaurants, shops, and cultural events, means you can have a truly versatile vacation, blending rustic camping with urban exploration. This combination is what makes North Fork Campground a top choice for a wide variety of campers.

Services Offered

• RV Camping: The campground is well-suited for RVs and offers sites with RV water hookups, making it a convenient option for travelers.
• Tent Sites: In addition to RV sites, there are numerous tent sites, each with a picnic table and fire pit, providing a great experience for traditional campers.
• Public Restrooms: The campground features clean restrooms, including vault toilets, which are a major plus for campers.
• Running Water: Potable water sources are available throughout the campground, allowing for easy access to drinking water and cooking needs.
• Picnic Tables: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a designated area for meals and social gatherings.
• On-site Parking: Ample on-site parking is available, ensuring you can park your vehicle conveniently at your campsite.

Features / Highlights

• Spacious and Private Sites: The campground's layout ensures a fair distance between neighbors, giving you a greater sense of privacy and space.
• Proximity to Big Wood River: Located along the banks of the Big Wood River, the campground offers excellent opportunities for fishing and tubing.
• Direct Access to Harriman Trail: The Harriman Trail for hiking and cycling is easily accessible from the campground, providing miles of scenic paths to explore.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The campground has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking, making it an inclusive destination for all visitors.
• Friendly and Helpful Camp Host: Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable camp host, who is available to assist campers and provide local information.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed, so you can bring your four-legged family members along for the adventure.

Contact Information

For information regarding reservations, availability, and specific campsite details, you can contact the local ranger district or visit the Recreation.gov website, as sites are often reservable in advance. On-site payment for a camping fee is typically cash-only due to lack of internet access. It is always a good idea to check for current fire restrictions before you go.

Address: Ketchum, ID 83340, USA

Phone: (928) 537-8888

What is worth choosing

For Idahoans looking for a quintessential mountain camping experience without sacrificing comfort, North Fork Campground is an excellent choice. The main selling point is its ideal blend of rustic charm and essential amenities. Unlike many primitive, free campgrounds, North Fork offers running water, clean restrooms, and RV water hookups, which can make a significant difference in the quality of your stay. The presence of a friendly camp host also provides a sense of security and community that is invaluable, especially for families or first-time campers.

Beyond the practical amenities, the campground's natural setting is a major highlight. The spacious, well-maintained sites, shaded by aspen and pine, create a peaceful and private environment. The proximity to the Big Wood River is a gift, offering a constant, calming sound and a chance to enjoy activities like fishing or just sitting by the water. The direct access to the Harriman Trail is a game-changer for active campers, as it provides a readily available network of paths for walking, running, and biking. This makes it a perfect base for exploring the area without having to get in your car every day. The fact that the campground is family-friendly and dog-friendly means that it can accommodate everyone, from the youngest explorer to the family pet.

In a state full of incredible outdoor destinations, North Fork Campground stands out for its balanced approach. It’s not a bare-bones survivalist site, nor is it an overly-developed resort. It is a true campground—a place where you can feel connected to nature while still having the basic comforts that make a trip enjoyable. The combination of its scenic location, thoughtful amenities, and access to a wide range of recreational activities makes it a compelling choice for any Idahoan seeking a memorable and authentic camping experience in the heart of the Sawtooths.

North Fork Campground

Ketchum, ID 83340, USA