Idlewild campground has 11 campsites located on the North Fork of the Salmon River. There is potable water and garbage service provided during the summer season. There are vault toilets available.
At a Glance
Fees
Family campsites $10.
Open Season:
May
Usage:
Light
Restrictions:
Maximum RV size is 24 feet. Camping limit 14 days. Dogs on leash only.
Closest Towns:
Sawyers Bar, Etna
Water:
Drinking water
Restroom:
Vault
Operated By:
US Forest Service
General Information
Directions: From Etna, take the Sawyers Bar Rd for approx. 20 miles to the campground.
Camping on the North Fork of the Salmon River, with nearby access to either the Marble Mountains or the Russian Wilderness.
Fire Information
Campfires in fire rings provided, subject to local restrictions.
No. of Sites
Reservations not available. All sites are first come, first served.
Reservation Info
None
No. of Accessible sites
11
RV Camping
Camping on the North Fork of the Salmon River, with nearby access to either the Marble Mountains or the Russian Wilderness.
Hookup - Sewer
No
Vechicle Clearance
Watch overhead for low hanging branches
Hookups - Electric
No
Fire Information
Campfires in fire rings provided, subject to local restrictions.
Pavement Type for Parking
Gravel
Dump Stations
No, Dump Station in Etna
No. of Sites
15
Size Restrictions
24'
Reservation Info
No reservations
No. of Accessible sites
None
Hookup - Water
No
Fishing
SHOW
River and Stream Fishing
Water Temperature
Water temperature fluctuates with seasons, flow level and water depth.
Fish Species
Trout
Special Designations
Regulations for the Salmon, Scott and Klamath Rivers are published in May each year in "Freshwater & Ocean Sport Fishing Supplement"
Water/Flow Level
Water flow in creeks and rivers fluctuate with seasons, rainfall and snow pack.
Hiking
SHOW
Day Hiking
Day hike along the scenic North Fork of the Salmon River on the North Fork Trail.
Fire Information
A current California Campfire Permit is required to use a camp stove, barbecue or have a campfire outside the developed campground. Local fire restrictions supersede the campfire permit. Inquire at the Ranger Station before having a fire.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate to Difficult
Backpacking
Backpack up the scenic North Fork of the Salmon River on the North Fork Trail and head deep into the Marble Mountains Wilderness. No permit is required for the Marble Mountains Wilderness. Backpackers should always yield to horses and livestock on the trail. Speaking to horses in a quiet voice will help them stay calm as they pass you.
Fire Information
A current California Campfire Permit is required to use a camp stove, barbecue or have a campfire. Local fire restrictions supersede the campfire permit. Inquire at the Ranger Station before having a fire.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate to Difficult
Horse Riding & Camping
SHOW
Horse Riding
The Forest Service requests and recommends bringing certified weed free feed for horses entering the wilderness.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate to Difficult
Nature Viewing
SHOW
Viewing Wildlife
A good area for riparian wildlife along the river and forest birding. Some small mammals frequent the campsites.
Viewing Scenery
An eleven mile drive to Etna Summit on Road 1C01 offers great views of Marble Mountains and Russian Wilderness.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate to Difficult
Rocks & Minerals
SHOW
Gold Panning
Gold Panning on the Salmon River is regulated by CA Dept of Fish & Game.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate to Difficult
Water Activities
SHOW
Swimming
Swimming, wading and water play off the gravel bar on the North Fork of the Salmon River.
Water Temperature
Water temperature fluctuates with seasons, flow level and water depth.
Clothing Requirements
Swimming attire required.
Water/Flow Level
Water flow in creeks and rivers fluctuate with seasons, rainfall and snow pack.
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