Tin Can Flat Campground

For Idaho locals who truly appreciate the rugged beauty and serene tranquility of our state's wild places, Tin Can Flat Campground offers an authentic and rewarding outdoor experience. Nestled along the banks of the majestic St. Joe River within the vast Idaho Panhandle National Forests, this campground provides a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It's a place where the sounds of the river and the rustling leaves replace traffic noise, and privacy is a cherished commodity. While it offers a more rustic experience without all the bells and whistles of a modern RV park, Tin Can Flat shines for its incredible natural setting, abundant recreational opportunities, and the peaceful solitude it affords. For those willing to embrace a true wilderness camping adventure, this gem along the St. Joe is a prime destination to reconnect with Idaho's pristine environment.

Tin Can Flat Campground is idyllically located near Avery, ID 83802, USA, placing it directly within the breathtaking Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Its position along a "great stretch of the St. Joe" River is a significant draw, offering a quintessential Idaho riverside experience. For locals, accessing Tin Can Flat involves a scenic journey into the heart of the forest. From the town of St. Maries, you would travel east on the St. Joe River Road (Forest Highway 50) for approximately 47 miles. The campground is located about 10 miles east of Avery, a historic and charming former railroad town.

The drive along the St. Joe River Road itself is part of the adventure, winding through dense forests and offering glimpses of the stunning river. While the campground is accessible to RVs and tents, visitors should be prepared for gravel roads typical of national forest campgrounds. Directions are generally straightforward once you are on FH 50, but it's always wise for Idahoans venturing into more remote areas to have maps downloaded or physical maps, as cell service can be unreliable or non-existent in this region. The lack of cell service, while a minor inconvenience for some, is often a welcome feature for those seeking to truly disconnect. The beautiful location, well-shaded sites, and general remoteness contribute to a sense of privacy and immersion in nature, making the journey well worth it for those seeking a genuine Idaho wilderness experience.

Tin Can Flat Campground offers a fundamental set of services designed to provide a rustic and traditional camping experience, focusing on integrating seamlessly with the natural environment.

• Campsites: The campground features 11 camp units, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site is generally "reasonably well spaced and private," ensuring a sense of seclusion and personal space. All sites are equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, essential for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires. Some sites also feature fireside benches. The ground for tents is often level and suitable for pitching.

• Potable Water: A notable amenity for a rustic campground, Tin Can Flat provides potable water. This is typically available via a hand pump equipped well, usually from June through October. It's tested monthly for bacteria to ensure safety, alleviating the need for campers to bring their entire water supply. However, one review mentioned "No water available" in their experience, suggesting availability might be seasonal or subject to maintenance, so it's always good to verify.

• Vault Toilets: Vault toilets are available at the campground. While one customer review described them as "disgusting" and noted they are "not maintained" often due to the lack of a host, another stated they were "maintained adequately." This suggests variability, and campers should be prepared for basic, un-flushed facilities. There is an accessible outhouse.

• No Host: A key characteristic of Tin Can Flat is the absence of a designated camp host. This means campers are expected to be self-reliant and adhere to campground rules, including the "Pack it In, Pack it Out" refuse policy, as there are no garbage services provided.

• No Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available at any of the campsites, making it suitable for tent camping and self-contained RVs or trailers up to 45 feet.

• Fees: Fees are $15 per night during peak season when potable water is available (June-October) and $12 per night during the non-peak season when water is off. An additional $5.00 applies for a third vehicle if needed. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to single campsites. Payment is typically by cash or check.

Tin Can Flat Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that draw Idahoans seeking a genuine outdoor experience along the St. Joe River.

• Beautiful Riverside Location: The campground is described as "absolutely beautiful" and "well-shaded on great stretch of the St Joe." Many sites offer "views of the river," providing a picturesque backdrop to your camping experience. The immersive forest setting, with tall cedar trees, wildflowers, and ferns, adds to the aesthetic appeal.

• Privacy and Space: Campsites are "reasonably well spaced and private," which is a significant advantage for those seeking solitude and a less crowded environment. This allows for a more personal and tranquil camping experience.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Tin Can Flat is renowned for "Good fishing right behind it." The St. Joe River is a "blue ribbon fishery for Native West Slope Cutthroat trout" and is popular for fly fishing. Anglers can enjoy fishing for trout, bass, and whitefish. Remember to check current Idaho fishing regulations and ensure you have a valid license; barbless hooks and catch-and-release rules apply in certain sections.

• Abundant Hiking Nearby: The area offers "tons of hiking nearby." This includes access to trails like Allen Ridge Trail #17 and Malin Ridge Trail #197. The surrounding Idaho Panhandle National Forests provide numerous opportunities for day hikes and exploring the wilderness, making it a great base camp for adventurers.

• Non-Motorized Boating on the St. Joe: Floating the St. Joe River is a popular summertime activity. The river here is wide and relatively shallow, making it suitable for non-motorized boating like kayaking, canoeing, rafting, and tubing, generally until mid-July when water levels might drop.

• Wildlife and Scenery Viewing: The diverse ecosystem provides "abundant wildlife to be seen" and incredible scenery, perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

• Historical Significance: The area around Tin Can Flat was once a thriving mining camp, adding a layer of historical interest for those curious about the region's past.

• Quiet Atmosphere: Overall, the campground maintains a "nice and quiet" atmosphere, appealing to campers who prioritize peace and natural sounds over bustling activity.

For inquiries or additional information regarding Tin Can Flat Campground, it is best to contact the managing ranger district of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, as there is no on-site host.

Address: Avery, ID 83802, USA (Located about 10 miles east of Avery on St. Joe River Road / FH 50)

Contact for the St. Joe Ranger District (St. Maries Office):

Phone: (208) 245-2531

Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. weekdays (Closed on federal holidays)

Given that sites are first-come, first-served, calling ahead to inquire about general availability during peak times is advisable, though real-time occupancy cannot be guaranteed.

For Idaho locals, Tin Can Flat Campground embodies the essence of a quintessential North Idaho outdoor adventure, making it highly suitable for those seeking a true wilderness escape. Its location on a "beautiful" stretch of the St. Joe River, surrounded by the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, provides immediate access to world-class fishing and abundant hiking opportunities right from your campsite. The "lots of privacy between spots" is a major draw, allowing Idahoans to truly unwind and enjoy nature without feeling crowded. While the restrooms might have inconsistent maintenance due to the absence of a host, and river access from sites requires a "short walk through tall grass" with no dedicated "beach for swimming," these aspects are often part of the charm for locals who appreciate rustic camping. The availability of potable water (seasonally) is a welcome convenience in an otherwise primitive setting. For Idahoans who are self-reliant, cherish quiet moments by the river, and are eager to explore the vast network of trails, Tin Can Flat Campground offers an authentic, affordable, and incredibly scenic base camp from which to experience the wild beauty that defines our great state. It's a place to embrace the simplicity of nature and create lasting memories in a truly beautiful corner of Idaho.

Tin Can Flat Campground

Avery, ID 83802, USA