Warm River Campground

For many Idaho locals, Warm River Campground isn't just a place; it's a cherished tradition. Located within the breathtaking Caribou-Targhee National Forest near Ashton, this campground has been a favorite for generations of families and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a classic, rustic camping experience that connects you directly with the natural beauty of the region. This is a place to slow down, relax by the river, and enjoy the simple pleasures of the outdoors. The campground is a perfect basecamp for a variety of activities, from river tubing to hiking to fishing, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It holds a special place in the hearts of those who have visited, with many returning time and again to relive fond memories and create new ones.

The atmosphere at Warm River Campground is one of peaceful simplicity and natural beauty. As one reviewer from Idaho put it, it's a "great campground," and a place he would "never get tired of." The scenic river provides a constant, calming soundtrack to your stay, and the pine trees offer partial shade and a sense of being truly immersed in the forest. While it’s a popular spot, especially during the summer months, the overall feeling is one of shared outdoor appreciation. The facilities are noted for their cleanliness, from the campsites themselves to the restrooms, which adds to the comfort and enjoyment of the stay. It's a place where the focus is on the environment and the activities it provides, making it a genuine escape from the fast-paced world.

Warm River Campground is located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, on Forest Rd 097, Ashton, ID 83420, USA. Its address places it in a prime location for exploring the region's famous attractions. From the town of Ashton, you travel northeast on Highway 47 to Warm River, then take a short drive on a forest road to the campground entrance. This convenient accessibility makes it a popular destination for both Idaho residents and visitors from out of state.

The campground offers a variety of site types to accommodate different needs, including those for RVs and trailers. The on-site parking and designated sites make it easy to set up your camp. For those with accessibility needs, the campground provides a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. While some areas of the park are built for vehicles, the immediate vicinity offers a wealth of opportunities for those who prefer to explore on foot, bike, or even by tube. The proximity to the river and the start of a well-known rail trail makes getting around and enjoying the area a breeze. It’s an ideal location for those who want to be close to both local points of interest and more remote wilderness areas.

Services Offered

• RV Camping: The campground provides sites that can accommodate RVs, trailers, and tents, offering flexibility for different types of campers.
• Restrooms: Clean vault toilets are available for guest use.
• Running Water: Potable drinking water is available throughout the campground.
• On-Site Parking: The campground offers on-site parking, with some sites specifically designed for RVs.

Features / Highlights

• Proximity to the Warm River: The campground is situated on the banks of the Warm River, making it an excellent spot for tubing, wading, and fishing.
• Hiking and Biking Access: The campground is a gateway to numerous trails, including a scenic rail trail located just across the river, as well as hikes to nearby Mesa Falls.
• Kid-Friendly: The campground provides a safe and engaging environment for children, with plenty of space for play and a variety of kid-friendly hikes.
• Trout Fishing: The Warm River is known for its excellent trout fishing, offering anglers a great "catch and release" experience.
• Dog-Friendly: The campground is a welcoming place for your pets, allowing you to bring your dogs along for the adventure.
• Accessibility Features: The presence of a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot makes the campground welcoming to all visitors.
• Scenic Location: The beautiful surroundings, including pine forests and the peaceful river, create a stunning backdrop for your camping trip.

Contact Information

Address: Caribou Targee National Forest, Forest Rd 097, Ashton, ID 83420, USA

Phone: (208) 557-5900

What is worth choosing

Choosing Warm River Campground is a decision to embrace a classic, authentic Idaho outdoor experience. For many locals, this campground is a beloved tradition, and its reputation for a simple, yet profoundly rewarding, stay is well-earned. The primary reason to choose Warm River is its ideal blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. It offers the kind of peaceful, secluded feel of a true forest campground while still providing essential amenities like clean restrooms and running water. The direct access to the Warm River is a huge advantage, especially for families and individuals who love to tube, wade, or fish. It provides a constant source of entertainment and relaxation just steps from your campsite.

The variety of activities available makes it a perfect basecamp. From the unique experience of floating down the river to hiking the scenic trails that lead to majestic waterfalls like Upper and Lower Mesa Falls, there is no shortage of things to do. The nearby rail trail offers a fantastic option for mountain bikers and hikers, providing a different kind of adventure. The fact that the campground is "good for kids" and offers "kid-friendly hikes" is a significant bonus for families, ensuring that even the youngest campers will have a great time. The commitment to a clean environment, as noted by a reviewer, also adds to the overall value and comfort of the stay.

While it's not the right choice for those looking to ride OHVs or ATVs, as noted in a review, this very fact contributes to the peaceful and quiet atmosphere. For those who want to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with nature, Warm River Campground is a standout choice. It offers a classic, unpretentious camping experience that has created lasting memories for generations, and it's ready to do the same for you.

Warm River Campground

Caribou Targee National Forest, Forest Rd 097, Ashton, ID 83420, USA