Camping at Baumgartner Campground
Location and Access
Baumgartner Campground is located within the Sawtooth National Forest, in central Idaho. You can usually reach this campground by taking State Highway 20 to the town of Fairfield. From there, you would travel Northeast on Forest Road 094 (also known as Baumgartner Road), which leads straight to the campground. Keep in mind that this road may not be paved the entire way, and conditions can vary depending on weather and seasons.
Facilities and Amenities
Campground Basics:
- Sites: Baumgartner Campground consists of individual campsites that are typically equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring.
- Water: Potable water is available throughout the campground.
- Restrooms: There are toilets available for campers, which are likely to be vault toilets.
Additional Amenities:
- Garbage Service: Yes.
- RVs: The campground can accommodate RVs, though size limitations may apply, and there are no hookups.
- Group Sites: There may be one or more group camping sites available for larger parties.
Recreational Activities
Baumgartner Campground offers various recreational opportunities:
- Hiking: There are many trails in the area suitable for hiking and backpacking.
- Fishing: Anglers can enjoy fishing in nearby rivers and streams.
- Wildlife Viewing: The Sawtooth National Forest is home to many species of wildlife, including deer, elk, and a variety of birds.
- Hot Springs: There is a hot springs pool within the campground that is a popular attraction.
Reservations and Fees
- Reservations: For many sites, reservations can be made in advance through a central reservation system, while others may be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Fees: There is usually a nightly fee to camp at Baumgartner Campground, although the rates can vary, and there may be additional costs for extra vehicles.
Season and Weather Considerations
- The campground is typically open from late spring to early fall, but exact opening and closing dates can change annually due to weather conditions. Snow and cold temperatures are possible outside of the summer months.
- Be prepared for mountain weather, which can include sudden rainstorms and chilly nights, even in the summer.
Safety and Regulations
- Fire Safety: Campfire restrictions can be in place depending on the current fire danger. Always follow posted notices and guidance from forest rangers.
- Wildlife: Proper food storage is critical to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife.
- Pets: If pets are allowed, they should be kept on a leash.
- Leave No Trace: As with any natural area, it's important to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
Contact Information
For the most current information, you should contact the relevant managing agency:
Sawtooth National Forest
- Address: 2647 Kimberly Rd E, Twin Falls, ID 83301
- Phone: Typically, there is a forest supervisor's office phone number or a specific ranger district office that manages the area.
Notes: The information provided here is intended to give a general overview of Baumgartner Campground. Always check with local sources or visit the official forest service website for up-to-date and detailed information before planning your trip.