Packsaddle Campground

For Idaho locals with a deep appreciation for the serene beauty of the Gem State's wilderness, Packsaddle Campground in Avery, ID, offers a truly idyllic escape. Tucked away on the banks of the picturesque St. Joe River, this hidden gem is celebrated for its intimate setting, tranquil atmosphere, and direct access to one of Idaho's most beloved waterways. Unlike many larger, bustling campgrounds, Packsaddle provides a peaceful haven where the sounds of the river and the rustling leaves replace the noise of everyday life. It’s the perfect spot for families, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unwind amidst the towering trees and fresh mountain air. If you're an Idahoan yearning for a quiet, natural retreat where memories are made by the riverside, Packsaddle Campground is a destination you'll want to discover and cherish.

Packsaddle Campground is strategically located at Avery, ID 83802, USA, placing it within the heart of the stunning Idaho Panhandle National Forests. This puts it squarely in a region renowned for its dense forests, pristine rivers, and abundant wildlife, offering an authentic Northern Idaho wilderness experience. The campground's most defining locational feature is its direct proximity to the St. Joe Wild & Scenic River, providing immediate access to the water's edge.

Accessibility to Packsaddle Campground is generally straightforward for those prepared for a forest road experience. While specific road conditions can vary with weather and season, the campground is situated along the St. Joe River corridor, which is traversed by forest service roads. Visitors should be aware that while the campground is "pretty close to the road," as one reviewer noted, it's "not a super busy road," suggesting a relatively peaceful roadside experience compared to major highways. This balance allows for convenient access without significant traffic noise. As it's located near Avery, ID, it's reachable for many in the Idaho Panhandle and surrounding areas. Given its status as a first-come, first-served campground, accessibility also implies arriving early, especially during peak seasons, to secure one of its limited sites. Visitors should always check with the Idaho Panhandle National Forests for any alerts or warnings regarding road closures or conditions before planning their trip.

Packsaddle Campground, while small and intimate, provides essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable and authentic camping experience in the Idaho wilderness. It adheres to a more rustic model, aligning with its first-come, first-served nature and focus on natural immersion.

• Campsites: The campground offers a very limited number of designated campsites, specifically only two, making it highly exclusive. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, providing basic necessities for outdoor living. The driveways are paved, and the sites are grassy, offering a pleasant and functional setup.
• Vault Toilet: A vault-style outhouse is available for campers' use. Reviews indicate these are generally kept clean and well-stocked, providing a necessary convenience in a rustic setting. The outhouse is also handicap accessible.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is available at the campground, typically from a hand-pump equipped well, generally from June through October. This is a significant amenity for campers, as it negates the need to carry in large quantities of drinking water. However, it's always wise to verify current water availability with the Forest Service.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: The campground operates on a "first-come, first-served" basis. This means no reservations are taken, requiring campers to arrive and secure a spot. This adds to the spontaneous and adventurous nature of a trip to Packsaddle.
• Fee-Based Camping: There is a fee per night for camping, with an additional fee for a third vehicle, indicating a managed site.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at the campground, provided they are kept on a leash, making it a great option for those who want to bring their furry family members along for the adventure.

Packsaddle Campground, despite its small size, offers a compelling array of features and highlights that make it a truly special destination for campers seeking a unique experience in Idaho.

• Exclusive Two-Site Layout: The most distinguishing feature of Packsaddle Campground is its incredibly limited number of sites – just two. This rarity ensures an exceptionally private and uncrowded camping experience, which is a significant highlight for those seeking solitude. As reviews suggest, these two sites are "very close together," making it "great for families and friends who want to camp together" and essentially allowing for a semi-private group camping experience if both sites are occupied by your party.
• Direct Riverside Location: Both campsites are situated "right on the river," specifically the St. Joe Wild & Scenic River. This direct access allows campers to enjoy the soothing sounds of the flowing water, easy access for fishing, and opportunities for non-motorized boating activities like floating and kayaking right from their site. This intimate connection with the river is a major draw.
• Plenty of Shady Trees: The campground is nestled within a mature forest, providing ample shade. This is a considerable benefit during warmer months, offering a cool and comfortable environment for camping. The mountainous area covered with a mature forest enhances the overall scenic beauty.
• Ideal for Families and Pets: Customer reviews highlight that "My grandkids loved it as well as my Chesapeake retriever," underscoring its suitability for family trips and pet owners. The river access provides a fantastic play area for children and pets alike.
• Scenic Beauty: The location along the St. Joe River, surrounded by mountainous terrain and a mature forest, ensures a beautiful backdrop for your camping adventure. Waking up to the sound of the river flowing past the camp is described as a delightful experience.
• Access to Recreation: Beyond just camping, the area offers opportunities for fishing in the St. Joe River. While the river at the campground itself might be shallow for swimming, nearby spots can provide better swimming opportunities. The broader area also offers backpacking, hiking, and the famous Trail of the Hiawatha for biking is "not too far away."
• Rustic Charm with Essential Amenities: The combination of a vault toilet and potable water from a hand pump provides necessary conveniences while maintaining a rustic, close-to-nature feel. This strikes a good balance for those who appreciate simplicity without sacrificing basic comfort.

For those planning a visit to the charming Packsaddle Campground, the primary contact information is its physical address. Since Packsaddle is a small, first-come, first-served campground managed by the U.S. Forest Service, there isn't a direct phone number specifically for the campground itself.

Address: Avery, ID 83802, USA

As Packsaddle Campground is part of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, for any inquiries beyond what's publicly available, such as current conditions, fire restrictions, or road accessibility, it is best to contact the relevant Ranger District. For Packsaddle Campground, which is located in the St. Joe River area, the most appropriate contact would be the St. Joe Ranger District.

St. Joe Ranger District - St. Maries Office

Address: 222 S. 7th, Suite #1, St. Maries, ID 83861

Phone: (208) 245-2531

Hours: Typically 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekdays (closed on federal holidays).

It is highly recommended to call this office before your trip, especially to confirm water availability (which is typically June-October), fire restrictions, and any potential road closures or alerts that might affect your travel plans to Avery and the campground area. They can provide the most up-to-date and reliable information for your visit. Remember, cell phone service is often non-existent in remote forest areas like this, so gather all necessary information before you depart.

Packsaddle Campground is an ideal destination for Idaho locals seeking an authentic and serene outdoor experience, perfectly embodying the spirit of the Gem State's wild beauty. Its appeal for locals stems from several key aspects. Firstly, its first-come, first-served nature ensures that those who are spontaneous and willing to venture out have the opportunity to secure a spot, avoiding the often-frustrating reservation systems of larger campgrounds. This suits the adventurous spirit of many Idahoans.

Secondly, the incredibly limited number of sites (just two!) guarantees an unrivaled level of privacy and peacefulness. In a state where outdoor recreation is highly valued, finding such an intimate riverside retreat where "not a lot of peeps" are around is a true luxury. It allows for a deep connection with nature, away from the crowds often found in more developed areas.

Furthermore, the direct river access to the St. Joe Wild & Scenic River is a significant draw. Whether it’s for fishing, floating, or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds of the water, this feature offers an immersive riverside experience right at your doorstep. For Idahoans who cherish their state's pristine waterways, Packsaddle provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy them up close.

Finally, its family and pet-friendly atmosphere, coupled with essential amenities like potable water and a clean vault toilet, strikes a perfect balance between rustic charm and necessary comfort. It provides a straightforward, no-frills camping experience that allows locals to truly appreciate the natural environment without excessive distractions. Packsaddle Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a cherished, secluded haven for Idahoans to create lasting memories by the river.

Packsaddle Campground

Avery, ID 83802, USA