Shadowy Saint Joe Campground

For Idahoans seeking a tranquil yet active escape into the heart of North Idaho's natural beauty, Shadowy Saint Joe Campground presents a compelling choice. Situated directly on a picturesque, slack water section of the renowned St. Joe River, this campground offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the lush, green landscapes of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Imagine spending your days casting a line into the clear river, paddling its calm waters, or simply relaxing by your campfire, surrounded by verdant trees. Recent comprehensive renovations, completed in 2023 through the Great American Outdoors Act and an Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation grant, have transformed this beloved spot, enhancing its accessibility and amenities for an even more comfortable and enjoyable experience. While some past visitors noted a lack of a visible camp host or occasional weekend noise, the overall sentiment is one of appreciation for a well-maintained, quiet, and naturally abundant camping destination perfect for local adventurers.

Shadowy Saint Joe Campground is conveniently located at 21870 Forest Road 278, Bayview, ID 83803, USA, which is approximately 10.6 miles from the full-service community of St. Maries, Idaho. To reach the campground from St. Maries, take Highway 3 north for about half a mile, then turn right onto the St. Joe River Road (Forest Highway 50) and continue for 10.6 miles. Turn right into the campground entrance. The campground sits at an elevation of 2100 feet. The roadways and camping spurs within the campground are paved, ensuring relatively easy maneuvering for both tents and RVs. However, it's important to note that some older online directions might be incorrect; it's best to follow current signage or consult official Forest Service maps. While the road leading to the campground is generally accessible, be aware that it's an area popular with off-road vehicles, so drivers should remain vigilant. The proximity to St. Maries means that essentials like gas, food, and a hospital are just a short drive away, providing convenience without detracting from the remote feel of the campground. Additionally, direct river access via a boat ramp and docks makes it incredibly accessible for those arriving by water.

Services Offered:

• 14 fully accessible campsites designed for both tents and RVs/trailers.
• Electrical hookups available at all 14 campsites (a significant upgrade from previous conditions).
• New picnic tables at each site.
• New fire rings with grates at each site.
• Refuse receptacles provided for trash.
• Ample parking and convenient trailer space.
• Potable piped water available throughout the campground.
• Vault toilets (newly renovated and accessible).
• Boat launch with docks for motorized and non-motorized access to the St. Joe River.
• Group picnic shelter with tables seating up to 40 people, available for reservation ($35 fee).
• Seven campsites available for reservations via Recreation.gov; seven sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Daily campsite fee of $20.00, plus an additional $5.00 for a third vehicle.
• $5.00 boat launch fee, contributing to dock maintenance.

Features / Highlights:

• Direct St. Joe River Access: The campground is located directly on a "slack water section" of the St. Joe River, making it perfect for various water activities.
• Boat Launch & Docks: Features a convenient boat ramp and newly maintained docks, allowing easy access for motorized and non-motorized boats (canoeing, kayaking, drift boating, tubing). Motorized boats can even continue upriver to St. Joe City.
• Swimming Opportunities: The river itself provides opportunities for swimming directly from the campground, offering a refreshing way to cool off.
• Recent Major Renovations (2023): The entire campground received a complete redesign, significantly improving facilities with all-new accessible amenities, including electricity at every site, new fire rings, picnic tables, and restrooms, ensuring a modern and comfortable camping experience.
• Accessibility: All 14 camp units are fully accessible, making it welcoming for visitors of all abilities.
• Lush, Green, and Well-Manicured: Reviewers praise the campground for being "very green and lush" and "well manicured and clean," offering a pleasant and inviting environment.
• Quiet Atmosphere (Generally): While weekend noise can occur, many visitors find the campground quiet and not overly crowded, especially during weekdays, promoting a peaceful retreat.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is known for abundant wildlife, with herds of elk often seen along the lower sections of the river. Large old cottonwood trees line the riverbank.
• Fishing Destination: The St. Joe River is renowned as a fishing destination, easily accessible from the campground for river and stream fishing.

Contact Information:

Address: St Maries, ID 83861, USA (Physical address: 21870 Forest Road 278, Bayview, ID 83803, USA)

Phone: (208) 245-2531

Mobile Phone: +1 208-245-2531

This phone number connects to the St. Joe Ranger District of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, which manages Shadowy Saint Joe Campground. It is highly recommended to call this number for the most current information on reservations, site availability, road conditions, and any fire restrictions before your visit. You can also make reservations for some sites via Recreation.gov.

For Idaho locals, Shadowy Saint Joe Campground is an excellent choice for a wide array of outdoor activities, offering a revitalized and highly accessible camping experience right in their backyard. Its prime location on the St. Joe River provides immediate access to popular water sports like boating, swimming, fishing, and tubing, making it a perfect summer destination for families and water enthusiasts. The significant 2023 renovations, including the addition of electrical hookups and fully accessible sites, address many modern camping needs while preserving the natural charm. While cell signal can be limited, and weekend crowds may bring some noise, these are minor considerations when weighed against the beautiful scenery, the well-maintained facilities, and the sheer abundance of recreational opportunities available. Shadowy Saint Joe is a testament to the continuous effort to enhance Idaho's outdoor spaces, providing a comfortable and engaging natural escape for locals eager to explore the beauty of the Idaho Panhandle.

Shadowy Saint Joe Campground

St Maries, ID 83861, USA