Bad Bear Campground
Bad Bear Campground is located 48 miles northeast of Boise, Idaho, in a scenic Ponderosa pine forest along Highway 21 at an elevation of 5,100 feet. Wildlife and summer wildflowers are abundant. Historic Idaho City is just 11 miles south. Mores Creek runs adjacent to the site, offering whitefish and rainbow trout fishing. Highway 21, also known as the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, snakes along Mores Creek to Mores Creek Summit, Gold Fork, and Banner Ridge with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forest.
This campground contains 6 sites that can accommodate up to 6 people each. Picnic tables, a charcoal BBQ grill, and fire ring with benches are provided. The site is in an open area with shade. Vault toilets are provided. Parking spurs are paved. Due to its proximity to the highway, some noise from passing traffic is to be expected. No trash service.
Notifications and Alerts
The Idaho Transportation Department is making improvements to 12 miles of SH 21, between Mores Creek Summit (MP 52) to Beaver Creek Summit (MP 64). Work is planned for July 2023 (after 4th of July holiday) and will extend through August 2023. The road will be fully closed Monday through Thursday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Access to recreation sites within the work zone will be restricted during work hours, plan accordingly. Visit https://itdprojects.org/ for project updates.
Need to Know
- Please click here for further information about the facility and recreation opportunities in the area.
- Don't Move Firewood: Help prevent the spread of tree-killing pests in our national forests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Nearby Attractions
Recreation
Numerous trail opportunities are in the area, offering hiking, biking, horseback riding, and ATVing. In winter, the area becomes a playground for backcountry skiers and snowmobilers.
Contact Information
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P.O. Box 129 Idaho City ID 83631
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 208-392-6681
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From the Idaho City Ranger Station, drive north on Highway 21 for almost 10 miles, then turn left at the sign for Bad Bear Campground. Bad Bear Campground is located at milepost 48, just beyond Ten Mile Campground.
Available Campsites
- Site 001, Loop BAD BEAR CAMPGROUND, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 002, Loop BAD BEAR CAMPGROUND, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 006, Loop BAD BEAR CAMPGROUND, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 004, Loop BAD BEAR CAMPGROUND, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 005, Loop BAD BEAR CAMPGROUND, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 003, Loop BAD BEAR CAMPGROUND, Type Standard Nonelectric
