Pine Bar Put In & Campground

For Idaho locals who cherish an authentic and unspoiled connection with the natural world, Pine Bar Put In & Campground near Grangeville offers a uniquely rewarding experience. This isn't your typical amenity-rich campsite; it's a "pack it in, pack it out" haven nestled directly on the stunning Lower Salmon River, perfect for those who truly embrace the wild. As one enthusiastic reviewer shared, "We love hanging out in the pine bar area the kids love jumping off the rocks into the river, husband and I love fishing it, the sand is amazing!!!" If you're an Idahoan seeking pristine sandy beaches, excellent fishing, and a place where you can truly leave only footprints, Pine Bar is an exceptional destination.

Idaho's landscape is defined by its majestic rivers, towering canyons, and vast wilderness, and Pine Bar Put In & Campground embodies these elements perfectly. It's more than just a place to set up camp; it's a vibrant hub for river recreation and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This campground is particularly suited for individuals and families who appreciate the raw beauty of nature and are comfortable with a more primitive camping style.

Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the river, spending your days playing on the sand, fishing for bass or trout, and perhaps even picking wild blackberries or apples when in season. This is the simple, yet profoundly enriching, experience that awaits you at Pine Bar. It serves as a fantastic launching point for floating adventures down the Lower Salmon River, making it a favorite among boaters and paddlers.

Whether you're an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a family looking to introduce children to the joys of nature in a beautiful, unadorned setting, Pine Bar Put In & Campground offers an authentic taste of Idaho's incredible outdoors. Its focus on natural beauty and self-reliance makes it a true gem for locals seeking genuine wilderness encounters.

Pine Bar Put In & Campground is located at Grangeville, ID 83530, USA. More specifically, it is situated along the Lower Salmon River, south of Cottonwood, Idaho, accessible via Graves Creek Road. This places it within the larger context of the Cottonwood Field Office, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The drive to Pine Bar is often described as very beautiful, with a scenic journey along the river leading to the camp area. While remote, this allows for stunning views and a gradual immersion into the canyon landscape.

For Idaho locals, the journey to Pine Bar is part of the adventure. It's a drive that takes you away from urban centers and into the heart of the state's wild river country. The campground is a frequent "put-in spot for floating the Lower Salmon River," indicating its primary role as a base for river trips. This makes it highly accessible for those with rafts, kayaks, jet boats, or power boats looking to embark on multi-day floats or simply enjoy a day on the water.

Accessibility is generally good during the main season, but as it's located on an unpaved section of road, conditions can vary with weather. It's always advisable for locals to check current road conditions, especially during spring thaw or after heavy rains. Given its remote location, cellular service is likely to be limited or non-existent, reinforcing the "unplugged" nature of the experience. Campers should ensure they have all necessary supplies, including water, before heading out, as immediate services are not available at the campground itself.

Its position along the Lower Salmon River also means it's part of a network of other BLM recreation sites, such as Island Bar, Shorts Bar, and Hammer Creek, offering further exploration opportunities for those familiar with the region. This interconnectedness allows locals to plan extended river adventures or explore various riverside spots.

Pine Bar Put In & Campground offers essential, albeit limited, services designed for a rustic and self-sufficient camping experience. It's important for visitors to arrive prepared for a "pack it in, pack it out" environment. Based on public data and local reviews, the services typically include:

• Campsites: There are approximately five to six designated campsites available. These sites are generally suitable for tents and can also accommodate RVs or trailers. They are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, meaning no reservations can be made.
• Restroom Facilities: A pit toilet (vault toilet) is provided. Reviews indicate these are present and functional, providing a basic but necessary amenity for campers.
• Picnic Tables: Picnic tables are available, some "near" the sandy beach areas, offering convenient spots for outdoor meals.
• Fire Rings: Fire rings are typically available at campsites for campfires (fire restrictions permitting).
• Boat Launch/River Access: A significant feature, as indicated by "Put In," is its role as a frequent put-in spot for floating the Lower Salmon River. This means excellent access for rafts, kayaks, jet boats, and power boats directly into the river.

It is crucial for visitors to note what is generally NOT provided, as this is a primitive campground:

• Potable Water: There is no potable (drinking) water available at the campground. Campers must bring their own sufficient supply of water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation.
• Garbage Services: No garbage disposal services are provided. Campers are strictly required to "pack it in, pack it out," taking all trash with them upon departure to maintain the pristine environment.
• Electricity/Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs.
• Camp Host: A dedicated camp host is typically not on site.
• Cell Phone Service: Due to the remote canyon location, cell phone reception is generally very limited or nonexistent.

Pine Bar Put In & Campground is celebrated for several distinctive features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for Idaho locals seeking an authentic outdoor adventure. These attributes contribute to its unique appeal and memorable experience:

• Stunning Riverside Location: The primary highlight is its beautiful setting directly on the Lower Salmon River. This offers breathtaking views, the soothing sound of the water, and immediate access to the river.
• Amazing Sandy Beaches: Reviewers consistently rave about the "amazing sand!!!" and "several large beaches provide perfect swimming opportunities." These expansive sandy areas are ideal for relaxing, sunbathing, building sandcastles, and provide easy entry into the cool river waters.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The Lower Salmon River is renowned for its fishing. As one local noted, "husband and I love fishing it." This area is known for bass, trout, and potentially sturgeon, offering fantastic angling opportunities for both casual and serious fishermen.
• Rock Jumping: A thrilling highlight for families, especially kids, is the opportunity for "jumping off the rocks into the river." This provides a unique and exciting recreational activity right at the campground.
• Seasonal Foraging: The presence of "Blackberries and apples when in season" adds a delightful bonus for foragers, allowing visitors to enjoy fresh, wild fruits straight from nature.
• "Put In" for River Floating: As a designated "Put In" site, it's a popular starting point for multi-day float trips down the Lower Salmon River, attracting rafters, kayakers, and boaters seeking to explore the renowned river wilderness.
• True "Pack It In, Pack It Out" Ethic: For many Idaho locals, the emphasis on leaving no trace is a point of pride. This "pack it in, pack it out" requirement ensures the campground remains pristine and contributes to the authentic wilderness experience.
• Secluded and Peaceful Atmosphere: With only five to six campsites, Pine Bar offers a more intimate and less crowded camping environment, fostering a sense of peace and solitude away from bustling recreational areas.
• Scenic Drive In: The journey to the campground is itself a highlight, with a "very beautiful drive along the river," setting the tone for a tranquil and scenic escape.

Pine Bar Put In & Campground is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and is part of their Cottonwood Field Office. As a primitive site, it typically does not have a dedicated phone line directly at the campground. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including current conditions, fire restrictions, or any changes to accessibility, it is best to contact the managing BLM office.

Address: Grangeville, ID 83530, USA (General Area)

For more detailed information, especially regarding the Lower Salmon River area, you can contact the BLM Cottonwood Field Office:

BLM Cottonwood Field Office Phone: (208) 962-3245

Email: BLM_ID_CottonwoodOffice@blm.gov

Address (BLM Office): 2 Butte Drive, Cottonwood, Idaho, 83522

It's important to remember that cell service is likely unavailable at the campground itself, so all inquiries and planning should be completed before your arrival.

Pine Bar Put In & Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Idaho locals who seek an authentic, no-frills outdoor experience deeply rooted in the state's natural beauty. Its appeal to residents stems from several core strengths that align perfectly with the Idaho lifestyle. Firstly, its prime location directly on the Lower Salmon River, with "amazing sand!!!" beaches and opportunities for "jumping off the rocks into the river," offers a unique and highly engaging aquatic experience. This is a significant draw for families and individuals looking for more than just a place to pitch a tent – it's a recreational playground in its own right.

Secondly, the campground's emphasis on "pack it in pack it out" resonates with the responsible and conservation-minded nature of many Idahoans. This ethos ensures the site remains pristine and beautiful, allowing future generations to enjoy the same untouched wilderness. It fosters a sense of stewardship among visitors, which is often deeply valued by local outdoor enthusiasts.

Furthermore, the "beautiful drive along the river to get to the camp area" transforms the journey into a scenic adventure, allowing locals to appreciate the diverse landscapes of their home state. The opportunities for fishing, foraging for seasonal blackberries and apples, and the overall peaceful, secluded atmosphere make it a perfect escape from daily routines without requiring extensive travel outside of Idaho.

In conclusion, Pine Bar Put In & Campground is more than just a campsite; it's an immersive Idaho river experience. It caters to those who prioritize direct engagement with nature – swimming, fishing, floating, and simply unwinding by the water – in a clean, self-reliant environment. For any Idaho local yearning for a truly authentic wilderness getaway, where the river is your backyard and the stars are your ceiling, Pine Bar Put In & Campground stands as a remarkable and highly recommended destination.

Pine Bar Put In & Campground

Grangeville, ID 83530, USA