Poverty Flat Campground

For those of us who live and breathe the Idaho outdoor lifestyle, Poverty Flat Campground near McCall is a truly exceptional find. Nestled alongside the pristine South Fork Salmon River, this campground offers that perfect blend of rugged wilderness experience and essential amenities that we locals appreciate. We know that Idaho is a treasure trove of untouched natural beauty, and Poverty Flat is a shining example, providing a serene backdrop for all your adventures. It's more than just a place to pitch a tent or park your camper; it's a vibrant hub where the sounds of the river and the scent of pine fill the air, creating an immediate sense of peace and belonging. Whether your passion lies in casting a line into clear waters, exploring scenic trails on foot or bike, or simply unwinding by a crackling campfire, Poverty Flat Campground is designed to make your Idaho wilderness dreams a reality. Its welcoming atmosphere and incredible surrounding attractions make it a highly desirable destination for anyone looking to truly immerse themselves in the Gem State's majestic outdoors.

Poverty Flat Campground is located at McCall, ID 83638, USA, deep within the Payette National Forest. Its specific location is about 13 miles down the South Fork Road (Forest Road #674), which parallels the South Fork Salmon River. To reach this scenic retreat from McCall, you'll typically travel about 30 miles northeast on Forest Road 48, also known as Lick Creek Road. Once you reach the intersection with Forest Road 674 (South Fork Road), you'll turn south and continue for approximately 13 miles until you arrive at the campground. An alternative route from Cascade involves traveling along the Warm Lake Highway to access the South Fork corridor, which is about 30 miles. It's important to note that Lick Creek Pass (Forest Road 48) is usually snow-free by July, providing a faster access route from McCall. The South Fork Road itself is described as a paved, narrow, one-lane road with two-way traffic and many blind corners, so cautious driving is advised. Despite its remote feel, the accessibility via well-maintained (though sometimes winding) forest roads ensures that the journey to Poverty Flat is part of the adventure, leading you to a truly secluded and beautiful setting. This distance from urban centers truly allows for a deep immersion into Idaho's wilderness.

Poverty Flat Campground offers a thoughtful selection of services designed to provide a comfortable yet authentic wilderness camping experience. While it maintains a rustic, back-to-nature atmosphere, it ensures that key amenities are available to enhance your stay in the Payette National Forest.

• Campsites for Tents and Campers: The campground features 10 campsites, including 4 dedicated walk-in tent sites, providing plenty of room for both campers and tents alike. These sites are often described as having good separation, offering a sense of privacy.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table, offering a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining outdoors, and gathering with your group.

• Fire Rings: Campers will find designated fire rings at each site, perfect for building a cozy campfire, providing warmth on cooler evenings, and cooking over an open flame.

• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets (sometimes referred to as "bathrooms" by reviewers) are available within the campground. These essential facilities ensure a sanitary experience in a primitive setting.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is accessible via a water pump (or spigot), typically located near the front of the campground or near the fee area, ensuring campers have a reliable source for hydration.

• Paved Campground: A notable convenience is that the campground itself is paved, which can make for easier navigation and setup, particularly for RVs and trailers, although large motorhomes might find some spots tight.

• First-Come, First-Served: Poverty Flat Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning visitors need to physically arrive to purchase and claim a site. This adds to the spontaneous nature of Idaho adventures.

• Pack In/Pack Out Policy: As is common in many wilderness areas, campers are required to pack out all their trash. There is typically no trash service provided, emphasizing a Leave No Trace ethic to maintain the pristine environment.

• Hitching Rails: For equestrian campers, hitching rails are available at sites, making it a particularly welcoming spot for those exploring the area with horses.

Poverty Flat Campground offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a truly captivating destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Idaho. These attributes combine to create an authentic and activity-rich wilderness experience.

• Riverside Location: The campground is beautifully situated "right off the river," specifically the South Fork Salmon River. This prime location provides picturesque views, the soothing sounds of flowing water, and direct access for various river-based activities.

• Awesome Fishing (Catch-and-Release): The South Fork Salmon River is renowned for its excellent fishing, particularly for trout. Visitors consistently praise the "awesome fishing" opportunities. It's important to note that fishing here is often "catch and release," meaning you enjoy the thrill of the catch but return the fish to the water to help sustain healthy populations. This typically requires barbless hooks and no bait.

• Proximity to Hot Springs: A major highlight is the convenient access to natural hot springs. Several reviews mention "awesome hot springs 1.5 miles north of the campground" or urge visitors to "be sure to check out the local hot springs," like the popular 16 Mile Hot Springs. These natural thermal pools offer a unique and relaxing way to unwind after a day of adventuring.

• Extensive Trail System: Poverty Flat Campground serves as a trailhead for a vast and "fun" trail system. Many loop hikes are possible directly from here, varying in length and difficulty. These trails are open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, offering endless opportunities to explore the rugged beauty of the surrounding forest. The Blackmare Creek Trail (#100) specifically begins within the campground.

• South Fork Salmon River Floating: The campground also functions as a take-out point for those floating the South Fork Salmon River from upstream locations like Goat Creek, making it a convenient spot for whitewater enthusiasts.

• Early Snow-Free Access: The South Fork of the Salmon River area is often one of the earlier regions in the forest to become snow-free in the spring, allowing for an extended camping season compared to higher elevations.

• Wildlife Viewing: The forested environment and river proximity provide ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, from various bird species singing up a storm to larger forest animals.

• Quiet Nights: Despite the main road nearby, campers note that the area "quiets down" at night, allowing for a peaceful and restful sleep, truly embodying a serene wilderness escape.

For inquiries or to plan your wilderness adventure at Poverty Flat Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: McCall, ID 83638, USA

Phone: (208) 634-0700 (This is often the Payette National Forest Supervisor's Office, which can provide information on all campgrounds in the forest.)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-634-0700

For us Idahoans, Poverty Flat Campground is an absolute must-visit that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of our outdoor heritage. We appreciate campgrounds that are not only beautiful but also practical, and Poverty Flat delivers. The fact that it’s "right off the river" means immediate access to our beloved South Fork Salmon for "awesome fishing," even if it is catch-and-release – a practice we understand helps preserve our precious fish populations for future generations. The paved sites, fire rings, picnic tables, and accessible water pump make for a comfortable and "inexpensive" stay, allowing us to truly focus on enjoying the natural surroundings. What truly sets Poverty Flat apart for locals is its incredible access to the wider Idaho wilderness. Being a trailhead for an "extensive trail system" means endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding right from our campsite. And, of course, the highlight for many of us is the "awesome hot springs 1.5 miles north." These natural thermal pools offer a unique and therapeutic way to relax after a day of Idaho adventures, providing that extra touch of magic. This campground offers a genuine connection to our state's wild heart, providing the perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and comfortable simplicity that makes us "love this campground" and look forward to coming back year after year.

Poverty Flat Campground

McCall, ID 83638, USA