Best Lower Salmon River Campgrounds

The Lower Salmon River is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the lower 48. The river begins at an elevation of about 8,000 feet in the Sawtooth and Whitecloud Mountains in central Idaho. It first makes its way northeast and then west, gathering force from the snow of the Sawtooth mountains.

This section of the river and its canyon provide a phenomenal rafting experience with some of the best Salmon River Campgrounds. With high water all season, an abundance of class II and IV rapids, and numerous unusual white sand beaches - it’s a place and experience we encourage you to embark on. 

Idaho River Adventures offers a 4-day, guided river trip down the epic Lower Salmon River. Lower Salmon River rafting is all about warm water, sunny weather and if you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly river trip featuring fun class III whitewater and camping on huge, white sand beaches, look no further than the Lower Salmon River rafting Trip.

The Best Lower Salmon River Campgrounds

Camping along the Lower Salmon is an incredible experience. Below you will find Idaho River Adventures’ best places to pitch your tent! 

1. Hammer Creek Recreation Site Campground
2. Pine Bar Recreation Site Campground
3. Slate Creek Recreation Site Campground
4. Island Bar Recreation Site

*** Note, the BLM manages the following sites: Hammer Creek, Island Bar, Lucile, Old Lucile, Pine Bar, Shorts Bar, Skookumchuck, Slate Creek, and White Bird Gravel Pit.

1. Hammer Creek Recreation Site Campground

The Hammer Creek Recreation site lies west of White Bird, along highway 95, and features 12 pet-friendly campsites (yay river dogs!). One of our favorite things about this campground is that it is surrounded by semi-arid mountain peaks. 

The amenities available at this campsite include potable water, restrooms, and a dump station. The campsites are ADA accessible too. The campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only. 

2. Pine Bar Recreation Site Campground

The Pine Bar Campground lies within the Pine Bar Recreation Site south of Cottonwood, on the Lower Salmon River. This is our favorite spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. It’s a great afternoon stop, as well as a place to camp for the night, though there are only six campsites available at this location. 

Amenities include potable water, picnic tables, and toilets. All sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis only, and they are pet-friendly.

3. Slate Creek Recreation Site Campground

The Slate Creek Recreation Site lies 10 miles south of White Bird, along Highway 95, and features six campsites. A fun addition to this specific campground is multiple fire rings and picnic tables, as well as a developed and shaded site. 

Amenities include restrooms, potable water, and a picnic area. All the sites campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis only.

4. Island Bar Recreation Site

This spot is one of our favorites due to the fact that it’s largely underdeveloped and near large sandy beaches. Perfect for setting up camp and still having enough room to throw a frisbee. Though this spot is underdeveloped, it is a frequent put-in spot for rafts, kayaks, and jetboats.

To make all camping on the lower salmon better, book a trip with IRA and have your tent, food, etc along for the ride.

We hope you'll consider joining Idaho River Adventures on your family or group vacation. Our diverse Middle Fork Salmon River rafting trips and Lower Salmon River rafting trips are tailored to you in order to provide the most premium experience. Reach out today to inquire about the adventure of a lifetime on Idaho's most prestigious rivers.

Emily Knittel

Emily Knittel is a Montana based writer, mountain biker, and self-proclaimed professional hype girl. With a degree in Journalism, and an unshakable love for the outdoors, Emily writes to encourage a life of whimsy and adventure.