State: Idaho
Open: Seasonal
Number of Sites: 16
Elevation: 6360
Reservations: Yes - Check Recreation.gov for information
About: Big Springs Campground is nestled along the banks of Pebble Creek at an elevation of 6,500 feet just 16 miles from Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. Towering Douglas firs forest Loop A and offer partial shade, while aspens and sagebrush provide sparse shade on Loop B. Pebble Creek offers cutthroat and rainbow trout fishing. Big Springs Nature Trail begins in the site, offering an easy path to explore the area along the creek. The multi-use Boundary Trail, for hiking, biking, horses and ATVs, begins in the campground and accesses several additional local trails.
This campground contains one large group site that can accommodate up to 175 people with a pavilion, picnic tables, a fire ring, grills, and parking. Several single and double-family sites are available, with picnic tables, fire rings, and grills. Some sites have stairs between the parking spur and site pad. Single and double sites on the less shady B Loop have shade pavilions. Two equestrian sites are available, with horse corrals and hitching racks. Vault toilets and potable water are provided. A campground host is on-site; firewood is available for purchase. Camp hosts and periodic county sheriff patrols provide security.
Lava Hot Springs is close enough to the campground for an exciting day trip. A natural hot springs soaking pool, Olympic-sized swimming pool, waterslides, and diving platforms provide fun for all ages. Two 9-hole disc golf courses are linked around the Lava Hot Springs pool complex. Tubing on the Portneuf River is also a very popular activity; tube rentals are available throughout town.
Fees: See Forest Service website
Usage: Heavy
Water: Potable Water
Restrooms: Vault Toilet
Closest Town: Lava Hot Springs, ID
Directions: From Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, go north on old highway 30 (paved highway) about 9 miles to Pebble Creek road (also known locally as” Mikes Place” or “Whisky Mikes”). Turn left (west) across railroad tracks on forest road #036 (graveled). Stay on this road and go about 7 miles to Big Springs Campground.