Spring Bar Campground

Idaho, the "Gem State," is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of landscapes from rugged mountains to pristine rivers. For many Idahoans, the Salmon River, often called the "River of No Return," holds a special allure, representing the wild heart of the state. Tucked along its banks near Riggins, Spring Bar Campground provides a fantastic basecamp for exploring this iconic waterway and the surrounding Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. It’s a popular spot that strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and a genuine connection to Idaho's majestic wilderness.

Spring Bar Campground is more than just a place to pitch your tent or park your RV; it’s a vibrant hub for river adventures. It's where countless memorable trips begin, allowing easy access to the Salmon River for fishing, rafting, and simply enjoying the calming sounds of whitewater. For locals, who know and cherish the unique character of Idaho’s rivers, Spring Bar offers an affordable and well-maintained option for experiencing the outdoors. Whether you're planning a multi-day float trip, an evening of steelhead fishing, or just a quiet few nights under the stars, this campground provides a welcoming and scenic environment that captures the true spirit of Idaho outdoor living.

Spring Bar Campground is ideally located in Riggins, ID 83549, USA, directly on the banks of the mighty Salmon River. This strategic position makes it a premier spot for those looking to access the river for various water-based activities. The campground is situated within the expansive Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, offering a blend of riverfront recreation and forested surroundings.

One of Spring Bar’s most significant advantages, as highlighted by local users, is its accessibility. It allows you to launch your boat before the pavement ends, effectively letting you "skip 12 miles of bumpy and busy dirt road" further downstream. This ease of access ensures that campers can reach their desired spot without navigating challenging unpaved sections, making it suitable for a wider range of vehicles, including vans and RVs (up to 25 feet). While it’s along the Big Salmon Road, reviews indicate that traffic isn't overly busy, allowing for a relatively quiet experience despite its convenient location. The address itself, Riggins, ID, places it near a town that offers essential services and supplies, ensuring a comfortable stay while remaining immersed in the natural environment. Its proximity to the main road and a well-maintained access point makes Spring Bar a go-to spot for convenient river access and camping.

• Tent and RV/Trailer Campsites: Spring Bar Campground offers 18 designated campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs (with some reports suggesting a maximum RV length of 25 feet). Three of these sites are pull-through, offering ease of parking.
• Picnic Tables: Most campsites are equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meals, games, and outdoor relaxation.
• Fire Rings: Each site includes a fire ring, allowing campers to enjoy a campfire (when no fire restrictions are in place).
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets for basic sanitation needs.
• Potable Water: Potable (drinkable) water is available via water spigots within the campground during the summer months, a highly valued amenity for campers.
• Boat Ramp: A significant service offered is the boat ramp, providing easy access for launching and taking out rafts, kayaks, and other watercraft for river trips on the Salmon River.
• First-Come, First-Served: Spring Bar Campground primarily operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not typically accepted. This offers spontaneity but suggests arriving early, especially during peak seasons.
• Fee Area: There is a fee for overnight use, typically around $12 per night for a single site, with an additional $3 fee for extra vehicles. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes may offer a 50% discount. (Fees are subject to change, so checking with the Forest Service is advised.)
• Pet-Friendly: Leashed pets are generally allowed at the campground, ensuring your furry companions can join your outdoor adventure.

• River Views and Access: Many sites, like site #14 mentioned in a review, offer direct river views and relatively easy access to a "river beach" adjacent to the boat ramp. This provides excellent opportunities for watching rafters and enjoying the water.
• Calming Whitewater Noise: While located near the river, the "calming noise of white water from river" is often cited as a positive feature, providing a natural soundtrack to your camping experience rather than disruptive sounds.
• Quiet and Well-Maintained: Despite its popularity and affordability, many visitors note the campground's quiet atmosphere, especially during weekdays, and its well-maintained condition.
• Beginning of River Trips: Spring Bar is a strategic put-in point for numerous popular river trips on the Salmon River, making it an ideal starting location for multi-day floating adventures.
• Steelhead and Trout Fishing: Anglers will find excellent opportunities for steelhead, trout, and mountain whitefish fishing directly from the river, particularly around the boat ramp area.
• Proximity to Riggins Hot Springs: Riggins Hot Springs (a private establishment) is located just across the river to the west of the campground, offering a nearby option for relaxation and soaking.
• Shade from Fruit-Bearing Trees: The campground is nestled in the shade of fruit-bearing trees, providing natural cooling and a pleasant ambiance, especially during warmer months.
• Wildlife in the Area: Campers should be aware of local wildlife, including bears, and take necessary precautions for food storage. This proximity to nature is a highlight for many, allowing for potential wildlife viewing opportunities.

Address: Riggins, ID 83549, USA

Phone: (208) 935-2513

Mobile Phone: +1 208-935-2513

For the most current information regarding Spring Bar Campground's operating status, fee updates, road conditions, and any fire restrictions, it is highly recommended to contact the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, as this campground is managed by the US Forest Service.

For Idahoans, Spring Bar Campground represents a hidden gem that balances convenience with an authentic river wilderness experience. Its location on the Salmon River, just before the really rough sections of the dirt road, makes it incredibly accessible for those looking to launch a river trip or simply enjoy the riverside environment without excessive travel time. This ease of access is a major draw for locals, allowing for quick weekend getaways or even spontaneous overnighters.

The affordable $12 per night fee, combined with amenities like potable water and vault toilets, offers significant value for a well-maintained campground in such a prime location. The quiet atmosphere, despite its accessibility, and the soothing sounds of the whitewater create a serene backdrop for relaxation. For those who enjoy fishing, the direct access to the Salmon River for steelhead and trout is an undeniable highlight, catering to a deeply ingrained Idaho pastime. The simple, first-come, first-served system, while requiring a bit of planning, adds to the laid-back, non-commercial feel that many Idaho locals appreciate.

Ultimately, Spring Bar Campground is perfectly suited for Idaho residents because it offers a direct and enjoyable connection to one of the state's most iconic natural features – the Salmon River – without being overly developed or difficult to reach. It’s a place where families can relax, anglers can cast their lines, and adventurers can embark on unforgettable river journeys, all within the breathtaking landscape of their home state. It's a testament to Idaho's enduring commitment to providing accessible, high-quality outdoor recreation for its people.

Spring Bar Campground

Riggins, ID 83549, USA