Squaw Creek Campground

For Idaho locals who cherish the raw beauty of the wilderness and seek an authentic, unplugged camping experience, Squaw Creek Campground near Avery, ID, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourselves in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. This is not your typical developed campground with extensive amenities; instead, it provides a rustic, secluded setting where the sounds of nature, rather than other campers, will define your stay. It's a place for those who appreciate simplicity, self-reliance, and direct access to the untamed beauty of Idaho's rivers and forests.

Squaw Creek Campground is perfectly suited for adventurers looking to disconnect and embrace the tranquility of their surroundings. While it features a limited number of campsites, its appeal lies in its quiet isolation and the chance to witness abundant wildlife. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the creek, spotting local fauna, and enjoying the peaceful solitude that only a truly primitive campground can offer. It’s a space where you can leave behind the distractions of daily life and fully engage with the natural environment.

We understand that many Idahoans are drawn to the wild, untouched corners of our state, and Squaw Creek Campground delivers on that promise. While some sites may feel "exposed" due to fewer trees and shrubs, and while general maintenance might reflect its primitive nature, the core experience is one of genuine wilderness immersion. For those prepared to "pack it in, pack it out" and embrace a no-frills approach to camping, Squaw Creek Campground provides an ideal setting for fishing, hiking, and simply enjoying the serene beauty of the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River area.

Squaw Creek Campground is nestled in a remote section of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, with its address listed as Avery, ID 83802, USA. It is located specifically along the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River, in an area known for its rugged beauty and extensive forestland. This places it in a prime location for those looking to explore the natural wonders of northern Idaho.

Access to Squaw Creek Campground involves navigating through forest roads, which typically means unpaved and potentially less-maintained surfaces. While specific road numbers aren't always provided in general reviews, the remoteness suggests that a capable vehicle, while not always strictly necessary, would enhance the ease of access, especially after inclement weather. This seclusion also means that "no one there" is a common experience, contributing to the quiet atmosphere.

The campground's location, being "on the other side of the road" for most sites, means that while the river is nearby, direct river access or views from every campsite are limited. Only one site is noted as being "near the river," with a "steep path down to the water." This indicates that while the river is a prominent feature of the area, a direct riverfront experience might be limited to a select few spots. The primary draw of the location is its overall wild setting, offering a deep dive into Idaho's forest ecosystems. The remoteness also means that cell service is generally non-existent, providing a true opportunity to disconnect.

Squaw Creek Campground is a primitive Forest Service campground, meaning it offers very limited amenities. It is designed for self-sufficient campers who are comfortable with a "leave no trace" approach.

• Campsites: The campground features a small number of campsites, typically around 7 as noted in one review. These sites are designed for tent camping and potentially smaller RVs or trailers, though detailed specifications are limited. Each site is generally equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring.
• No Potable Water: It is highly probable that potable water is not available at Squaw Creek Campground. Campers should plan to bring all their own drinking water for the duration of their stay.
• No Toilets: There is no mention of vault toilets or any other restroom facilities. This is typical for very primitive or dispersed camping areas. Campers must be prepared to practice proper wilderness sanitation (digging cat holes, packing out toilet paper).
• No Trash Receptacles: As explicitly mentioned by a reviewer, "Someone had left a lot of trash - cans, plastic bottles, etc.," and it's understood that there are "no trash receptacle." This is a strict "pack it in, pack it out" campground, requiring campers to take all their waste with them upon departure.
• No Designated Host: There is no indication of a camp host on site. This contributes to the remote, unmanaged feel of the campground.

Due to the minimal services, Squaw Creek Campground is best suited for experienced campers who are prepared for a rugged, self-contained experience.

Despite its primitive nature, Squaw Creek Campground offers compelling features and highlights for those seeking an authentic Idaho wilderness adventure.

• Genuine Seclusion: A major highlight is the profound sense of "seclusion." With only a few sites and often no one else around, it provides a rare opportunity for true solitude and a quiet escape into nature.
• Riverside Proximity: Although not all sites have direct river views, the campground's location on Squaw Creek and its proximity to the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River offer opportunities for river access and enjoyment. One site is noted as being "near the river" with a "steep path down to the water," indicating direct, albeit rugged, access.
• Unplugged Experience: The likely absence of cell service ensures a complete "unplugged" experience. This encourages campers to fully disconnect from technology and immerse themselves in the natural environment.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The remote, forested setting is ideal for wildlife observation. While specific sightings aren't detailed for the campground itself in reviews, the surrounding Idaho Panhandle National Forests are rich in diverse flora and fauna, offering potential sightings of deer, various bird species, and other forest animals.
• Fishing Potential: Being situated on Squaw Creek and near the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River, the area presents opportunities for fishing. While not a primary highlight from the limited reviews, river fishing is a popular activity in this region of Idaho.
• Rugged Trail Access: The area is known for trails like the Squaw Creek single track, a 4-mile route that offers an "easier trail" overall but can present challenges like "thin downed trees" and "small loose hill climbs." This suggests opportunities for hiking or perhaps off-road biking for the adventurous.
• Natural Forest Setting: Despite some sites being described as "a bit exposed - not many trees or shrubs," the overall context of being in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests implies a setting surrounded by mature trees (like pine and aspen on nearby trails) and a natural forest ambiance.

Due to its primitive and unhosted nature, Squaw Creek Campground does not have a dedicated on-site phone number. For inquiries regarding this campground and current conditions within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, please contact the managing district office.

Address: Avery, ID 83802, USA (within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, likely managed by the St. Joe Ranger District).

For general information about the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, you can contact the Supervisor's Office:

Phone: (208) 765-7223 (Idaho Panhandle National Forests Supervisor's Office)

For more specific information regarding Squaw Creek Campground or conditions in the Avery area, it is advisable to contact the St. Joe Ranger District office directly, as they would have the most localized information. Their general contact information can typically be found on the USDA Forest Service website for the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Always check official sources for any alerts or closures before planning your trip.

For Idaho locals, Squaw Creek Campground presents a distinct and appealing option for those who truly embrace the rugged, untamed spirit of our state's wilderness. It's not a destination for every camper, but for those who prioritize solitude, self-sufficiency, and an authentic connection with nature, it stands out. The limited number of campsites and the general absence of other visitors mean that the peace and quiet are often profound, allowing for a deep immersion into the forest environment that many Idahoans cherish.

While some sites may offer less cover due to fewer trees and shrubs, this provides a different kind of openness to the expansive Idaho sky and views, and for the adventurous, can be an opportunity for unique stargazing. The lack of amenities, including potable water and trash receptacles, reinforces a strong "pack it in, pack it out" ethos – a principle deeply ingrained in responsible Idaho outdoor enthusiasts. This type of camping encourages a greater appreciation for conservation and minimizing human impact, aligning with the values of many locals.

The true value of Squaw Creek Campground for Idahoans lies in its unfiltered access to natural beauty and its encouragement of self-reliance. It's a place to hone your wilderness skills, enjoy quiet moments by the creek (even if the path is steep), and truly disconnect from the digital world. For the Idaho local seeking an authentic, primitive camping experience where nature takes center stage, Squaw Creek Campground offers an unmatched opportunity to explore and appreciate the wild heart of our beautiful state.

Squaw Creek Campground

Avery, ID 83802, USA