Spruce Tree Campground

For those of us who cherish Idaho's wild heart, where the silence is broken only by the whispers of the forest and the rush of a river, Spruce Tree Campground offers an unparalleled escape. Tucked away in a truly remote corner near Avery, Idaho, this campground isn't for the faint of heart, but for the adventurer seeking profound tranquility and direct access to some of Idaho's most pristine wilderness. As locals, we understand that sometimes the best experiences require a little effort to reach, and Spruce Tree Campground perfectly exemplifies this, rewarding intrepid visitors with an untouched natural haven.

Spruce Tree Campground stands as a testament to the raw, untamed beauty that defines much of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature on its own terms. Visitors consistently describe it as "very quiet" and "out of the way," often enjoying the solitude of having the campground almost entirely to themselves, even in mid-June. This sense of peaceful isolation, combined with its well-kept condition despite its remoteness, makes Spruce Tree Campground a cherished secret among those in the know. It's an invitation to experience Idaho's backcountry in its most authentic form, offering an escape that resonates deeply with our state’s pioneering spirit.

Spruce Tree Campground is situated deep within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, specifically located near Avery, ID 83802, USA. Its charm lies in its remote, "end of the road" location, offering a true sense of being immersed in the wilderness. For Idahoans, reaching Spruce Tree Campground requires a bit of an adventure in itself. Access is typically via a gravel Forest Service road, which, as noted by visitors, can be "rough and narrow at times." Patience and attention are key when navigating this route; driving slowly and actively looking for potential pullout spots for oncoming vehicles are highly recommended. Despite the challenges, the road is generally navigable by "about any vehicle with a little attention," meaning most standard cars and trucks can make the journey, though high-clearance vehicles might offer a more comfortable ride. RVs are possible, but campers with larger rigs should exercise extreme caution due to the narrowness and limited turnaround space. This journey is part of the experience, leading you away from the paved paths and into the serene embrace of Idaho's backcountry.

• Primitive Camping: Spruce Tree Campground offers a primitive camping experience. This means campers should expect basic facilities and be prepared to be largely self-sufficient.
• No Potable Water: It is essential for all visitors to bring their own water supply for drinking, cooking, cleaning, and fire extinguishing, as there is no potable (drinking) water available at the campground.
• Vault Toilets: The campground is equipped with vault toilets. Reviews indicate these facilities are generally well-kept and clean, especially considering the remote nature of the site.
• Fire Rings: Each campsite typically includes a designated fire ring for campfires and outdoor cooking. Always check for current fire restrictions in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests before lighting a fire, as conditions can change rapidly.
• Picnic Tables: Campsites are usually outfitted with picnic tables, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• No Garbage Service: Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is paramount here. Campers are required to pack out all trash, garbage, and waste, including pet waste.
• First-Come, First-Served: Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are taken. Due to its remote nature, it is often less crowded, increasing the likelihood of securing a spot.

• Very Quiet and Remote: The most emphasized feature of Spruce Tree Campground is its exceptional quietness and remote location. It's truly "at the end of the road," making it perfect for those seeking deep solitude and an escape from noise and crowds.
• Great Hiking Access: The campground serves as an excellent base for hiking. Numerous trails are accessible directly from or nearby the campsites, leading into the vast Idaho Panhandle National Forests, offering opportunities for exploration and immersion in nature.
• Excellent Fishing Access: Proximity to the St. Joe River and its tributaries provides "great fishing access from the campsite." The St. Joe is renowned for its cutthroat trout, making it a prime destination for anglers.
• Well-Kept and Clean: Despite its remote location, visitors note that the campground is "well kept and clean," indicating regular maintenance and respect from other campers.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: The combination of remoteness, quietness, and natural beauty creates a "very peaceful place to spend some time in nature," allowing for true relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Uncrowded Experience: As experienced by a visitor who found "no one else was there" in mid-June, this campground often offers an uncrowded camping experience, which is a significant draw for those seeking privacy and seclusion.
• Authentic Wilderness Feel: Spruce Tree Campground provides an authentic wilderness experience, appealing to campers who prefer rustic, undeveloped sites over more commercialized options. It's a place where you can genuinely feel connected to the wild heart of Idaho.

As a U.S. Forest Service campground, Spruce Tree Campground, located near Avery, ID, does not have a direct, on-site contact number. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding road conditions, current operating status, fire restrictions, or any specific regulations for recreation in this remote part of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, it is best to contact the local ranger district that manages the St. Joe River corridor. For inquiries related to this area, the St. Maries Ranger District is typically the most relevant contact. You can generally find contact information for the Idaho Panhandle National Forests and its individual ranger districts on the U.S. Forest Service website. The main contact number for the Idaho Panhandle National Forests is (208) 765-7223. For more specific details related to the Avery area and the St. Joe River, calling the St. Maries Ranger District at (208) 245-4517 or the Avery Office at (208) 245-4517 would be the most appropriate approach.

Address: Avery, ID 83802, USA

For Idahoans, Spruce Tree Campground is more than just a remote spot on a map; it's a sanctuary that perfectly encapsulates the wild, untamed spirit of our state. Its allure lies precisely in its remoteness and tranquility. We, as locals, often seek out these "end of the road" destinations to truly escape the demands of modern life and immerse ourselves in nature. The promise of a "very quiet" and "peaceful place," where you might even find yourself to be the sole camper, is an incredibly compelling draw for those who value solitude above all else.

The journey to Spruce Tree, characterized by its "rough and narrow" road, is not a deterrent but an integral part of the adventure for many Idahoans. It's a testament to the effort required to reach true wilderness, a filter that ensures those who arrive are genuinely seeking the experience offered. This challenge is precisely what makes the reward of its well-kept, clean, and uncrowded sites even more satisfying. For those with a spirit of exploration and a willingness to navigate less-traveled paths, Spruce Tree offers an authentic, unfiltered taste of Idaho's backcountry.

Furthermore, the campground's direct access to phenomenal hiking and fishing opportunities makes it a dream destination for active locals. Being able to step out of your campsite and immediately be on a trail or cast a line into the renowned St. Joe River is a luxury that few other places can offer. This combination of seclusion, natural beauty, and direct access to beloved outdoor pursuits makes Spruce Tree Campground an ideal choice for Idahoans looking for a profound connection with their state's wild heart. It’s a place to create cherished memories, hone outdoor skills, and simply breathe in the crisp, clean air of an Idaho that remains wonderfully untouched.

Spruce Tree Campground

Avery, ID 83802, USA