About this campground
Overview Tucked along the Salmon River at 5,400 feet in elevation, Bayhorse Campground offers a scenic and historic getaway just ten miles south of Challis on Highway 75. Named after the nearby Bayhorse Mining District, this quiet riverside retreat features 12 campsites perfect for anglers, history buffs, and outdoor explorers alike. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities here, with resident cutthroat and rainbow trout, steelhead, and mountain whitefish thriving in the clear waters of the Upper Salmon River. Beyond the river, a short drive west leads to Bayhorse Townsite ran by the Land of the Yankee Fork State Park, which showcases remnants of historic mines, offering a glimpse into Idaho’s rugged mining past. The campground also serves as an ideal base camp for exploring the Land of the Yankee Fork, rich in trails, interpretive sites, and striking mountain landscapes. Campground Amenities: 12 first-come, first-served campsites with picnic tables & fire rings Seasonal campground hosts Potable water & vault toilets Boat ramp and day-use parking area Hiking trails & interpretive historic sites nearby Know Before You Go: Limited cell service No electric or water hook-ups available
Getting there
Approximately 10 miles southwest of Challis, Idaho: travel south from Challis on Highway 93 for 2 miles, turn right onto Highway 75 and drive southwest for approximately 8 miles. The recreation site is on your right between the highway and the Salmon River.
Activities
- CAMPING
- FISHING
- WILDLIFE VIEWING
- PHOTOGRAPHY
- BOATING
Nearby federal campgrounds
- Challis-Yankee Fork Ranger DistrictSalmon-Challis National Forest8 mi
- Custer #1 CampgroundSalmon-Challis National Forest20 mi
- Herd Lake CampgroundBureau of Land Management20 mi
- Cottonwood Recreation SiteSalmon River21 mi
- BONANZA CCC GROUP CAMPGROUNDSalmon-Challis National Forest23 mi
- Pole Flat CampgroundSalmon-Challis National Forest23 mi
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