Mcfarland Campground

Location

1206 S Challis St
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Policies

Booking

First come, first served (pay on site)

About

McFarland Campground sits at the edge of the Lemhi River where a narrow riparian corridor of willows and cottonwoods cuts through an otherwise dry valley between the Beaverhead Mountains and the Lemhi Range. The setting feels open and rugged: peaks rise on both sides of the river and the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail runs along the Beaverheads to the east, offering single-day outings or multi-day treks from trailheads on nearby roads. The broader Salmon Field Office area supports abundant wildlife elk, deer, mountain goats, moose and black bears are common in the Lemhi Range and the campground's river access makes it a convenient base for anglers, hikers and hunters who want to work the valley's trails and tributaries. Nearby points of interest include the Lemhi River itself, the Beaverhead and Lemhi ranges, the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, and local features such as Tarpon's Roost Shelter. The site is small and straightforward: there are 9 campsites total, and all 9 sites are set up to accommodate both RVs and tents. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring and access to potable water plus vault toilets on site; shade from riverside trees helps keep things comfortable in summer. Fees are $5 per night per campsite with an additional vehicle charge of $2 (limit one additional vehicle per campsite), and payments are handled on site with fee envelopes or via the Recreation.gov Scan & Pay App because fees are collected at the campground, no changes, cancellations, or refunds are allowed. The location is unstaffed; to speak with the Salmon Field Office for general information, call (208) 756-5400. To reach McFarland, drive Highway 28 east from Salmon, ID for about 32 miles; the campground sits on the left between the highway and the Lemhi River.