Scout Camp

For Idahoans seeking a genuine mountain retreat that combines breathtaking scenery with opportunities for quiet reflection and exhilarating outdoor activity, Scout Mountain Campground near Pocatello offers an exceptional experience. Tucked high in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, this campground is a true gem, providing a serene escape from the everyday hustle. We understand that locals cherish their access to Idaho's pristine wilderness, and Scout Mountain Campground delivers on that promise, making it an ideal choice for families, adventurers, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature.

This isn't just another camping spot; it's a destination where the air is crisp, the views are expansive, and the opportunities for exploration are abundant. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, an avid mountain biker, or simply someone who enjoys the peace of a forest setting, Scout Mountain Campground caters to a diverse range of preferences. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of what makes this campground distinctive, its accessibility for Idaho residents, and the various services and features that contribute to its well-regarded reputation among those who know it best.

Prepare to discover a truly camera-worthy location, where blue skies meet green pine forests, offering a refreshing and memorable outdoor adventure right here in the heart of Idaho.

Scout Mountain Campground is located in Southeast Idaho, near Pocatello, specifically at Forest Rd 532S, Pocatello, ID 83204, USA. This prime location places it high in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, offering a distinct mountain camping experience.

Accessing the campground typically involves taking I-15 to exit 63 south of Pocatello, then following signs towards the Mink Creek Recreation Area. The journey involves driving up a curving mountain road for several miles (approximately 13 miles from Pocatello, taking about 30 minutes), which, while winding, is generally well-maintained. This ascent contributes to the sense of elevation and seclusion that many campers appreciate. For Idahoans residing in or around Pocatello, Boise, or even those traveling from northern Utah, the campground is a manageable drive for a weekend trip or longer stay. Its proximity to Pocatello means that essential services, supplies, and fuel are readily available before ascending to the tranquil forest setting. The journey itself offers increasingly beautiful views, building anticipation for the stunning scenery that awaits at the campground.

• Standard Nonelectric Campsites: The campground offers standard non-electric sites, suitable for both tent and RV camping, providing a rustic yet comfortable experience.
• Potable Water: Drinking water spigots are available throughout the campground, ensuring access to fresh water for campers.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are provided, offering essential restroom facilities for visitors.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking meals and enjoying campfires (fire restrictions permitting).
• Group Standard Nonelectric Sites: Specific sites, such as Site 028, are designated as Group Standard Nonelectric, making it an excellent option for larger gatherings of friends or family.
• First-Come, First-Served & Reservable Sites: The campground offers a mix of reservable sites and walk-in/first-come, first-served sites, providing flexibility for planning or spontaneous trips.
• On-Site Management (Camp Host): While not always explicitly stated for every site, positive reviews sometimes mention a camp host, indicating a helpful presence on-site.

• Stunning Mountain Views: Located high in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, the campground boasts "mountain views that are more than worth the hike or mountain bike ride," offering "blue sky above and green pine forest below."
• Direct Trail Access: Hikers, mountain bikers, and dirt bikers will find numerous trails nearby. The paved 1-mile Scout Mountain Nature Trail loops the campground, and the East Fork Mink Creek Trail begins within the site, with the Crestline Trail also nearby.
• Quiet and Secluded Atmosphere: Many visitors praise the campground's peaceful environment, often noting its quietness and the good spacing between sites, providing a sense of privacy and escape.
• Abundant Shade: The dense tree cover, consisting of pines and furs, provides ample shade for campsites, offering a cool respite during warmer months.
• Opportunities for Berry Picking: As highlighted in reviews, the area offers opportunities for berry picking, adding a unique and enjoyable activity for campers.
• Wildlife Sightings: Being in a natural forest environment, sightings of deer, moose, and various bird species are common, enhancing the wilderness experience.
• Proximity to Cherry Springs Nature Area: Less than 6 miles away, this area offers fishing, paved self-guided nature trails, and picnic facilities.
• Accessibility to Winter Recreation: The nearby Mink Creek Nordic Center (about 5 miles away) provides groomed cross-country ski trails in winter, expanding recreational opportunities beyond the warmer months.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a mix of site types and activities like hiking and berry picking, it's well-suited for families seeking an outdoor adventure.

Scout Mountain Campground is managed by Pinnacle Parks LLC under a special use permit with the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. For inquiries, reservations, or current conditions, it's best to use the provided contact details:

Address: Forest Rd 532S, Pocatello, ID 83204, USA (Scout Mountain Campground)

For campground inquiries, please call:

Phone: (208) 236-7500

Additional Contact for general inquiries (Pinnacle Parks LLC): (208) 757-3999 (between 8 am and 9 pm)

You can also typically find reservation information and availability on Recreation.gov, which is the platform for booking many U.S. Forest Service campgrounds. It's always advisable to check current conditions, fire restrictions, and any specific alerts before your trip, especially given the mountain environment.

Scout Mountain Campground is an outstanding choice for Idaho locals who are eager to embrace the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that our state offers. Its prime location high in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, just a short drive from Pocatello, makes it incredibly accessible for a quick weekend getaway or a longer family vacation without requiring extensive travel across the state. This convenience allows Idahoans to easily transition from their daily routines to the peaceful embrace of the mountains.

For those who love to be active, the direct access to numerous trails for hiking, mountain biking, and even dirt biking is a significant draw. The added joy of activities like berry picking and the potential for wildlife sightings further enriches the experience, making it more than just a place to camp—it's an adventure in itself. The campground’s reputation for being quiet, offering ample shade, and providing clean, basic amenities like vault toilets and potable water ensures a comfortable and authentic outdoor experience.

Whether you're looking for a tranquil escape to enjoy the stunning "camera-worthy" views, a basecamp for your next mountain adventure, or a family-friendly spot to create lasting memories, Scout Mountain Campground truly fits the bill. It embodies the essence of Idaho's outdoor appeal, providing a serene yet adventurous setting that is perfectly suited for the residents of the Gem State.

For a visual overview of some of the climbing opportunities you might find in a scout camp setting, consider watching (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lV1-KsG2X7E). This video showcases activities that contribute to the robust outdoor programs offered at Scout camps in the region.

Scout Camp

Idaho, USA