Buttonhook Group Camps

Buttonhook Group Camps, nestled within the expansive and historically rich Farragut State Park in Athol, Idaho, represents a unique offering within the Campgrounds & RV Parks category. Designed specifically to cater to larger gatherings, such as family reunions, youth groups, or organizational retreats, these camps provide a dedicated space for communal outdoor experiences. Farragut State Park itself, a former World War II naval training station, offers a diverse landscape at the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille, combining stunning scenery with a myriad of recreational activities. Buttonhook Group Camps leverage this prime location to deliver a memorable group camping adventure.

The environment at Buttonhook Group Camps is characterized by a blend of forested seclusion and convenient access to the vast recreational assets of Farragut State Park. There are four distinct group camps within the Buttonhook area: Larch, Ocean Spray, Morel, and Saw-Whet. These sites are designed primarily for tent camping, offering ample space for numerous tents, while also allowing for a single RV camper per site, catering to varied group needs. The camps are situated in a wooded setting, providing natural shade and a sense of privacy, allowing groups to enjoy their gatherings without feeling overcrowded. The location near Buttonhook Bay offers a quieter, more secluded part of Lake Pend Oreille, which is Idaho's largest and deepest lake. While not directly on the immediate shoreline, these camps are a short walk or drive from prime lake access points and the popular swimming and fishing spot of Beaver Bay Beach. The overall park environment boasts rolling fields fringed by lush forests, surrounded by scenic mountains, and is home to abundant wildlife, including mountain goats, elk, moose, and white-tailed deer, enhancing the natural experience. The elevation of Farragut State Park is approximately 2,054 feet, offering comfortable seasonal conditions for camping.

As dedicated group camps within the Campgrounds & RV Parks framework, Buttonhook Group Camps focus on providing essential services tailored to larger gatherings. Each of the four group camps is equipped with a set of core amenities to facilitate a comfortable stay. These typically include:

• Two vault toilets: These are regularly maintained, providing basic restroom facilities.
• Picnic tables: Approximately 20 picnic tables are available at each group site, offering ample space for communal meals and activities.
• Fire rings: Around 12 fire rings are provided at each site, many with grates for grilling, allowing for campfires and outdoor cooking. Firewood is often available for purchase at the main park office.
• Parking: Each site offers parking for approximately eight vehicles, with additional parking often available nearby for an extra fee if needed.

While Buttonhook Group Camps are considered more "basic" in terms of hookups (they do not offer water or electric hookups for RVs), potable water is generally available on-site, though some past visitors have noted variations in taste and recommend bringing personal water supplies. For groups requiring showers or more developed restroom facilities, these are typically available elsewhere within Farragut State Park, such as at Beaver Bay Day Use Area or other developed campgrounds within the park, which feature improved restrooms with showers and changing areas. The park also has its own water treatment and sewage treatment systems, ensuring responsible environmental management. Importantly, a landline is often available for emergencies, and cell service can be found along nearby roads and trails, though it may be spotty in certain areas of the park. Park rules regarding quiet hours (typically 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.), pet policies (leashed and supervised), and fire safety (use of established fire rings, adherence to burn bans) are strictly enforced to ensure a pleasant and safe environment for all visitors.

The features of Buttonhook Group Camps extend far beyond the immediate campsite, benefiting from the extensive recreational opportunities offered by Farragut State Park. This makes it an attractive choice within the Campgrounds & RV Parks category for activity-oriented groups. Key features include:

• Lake Pend Oreille Access: Buttonhook Bay offers mooring docks for boats, and Beaver Bay provides a popular swimming beach and fishing spot. The lake itself is excellent for boating, swimming, and various water sports.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Farragut State Park boasts over 45 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and in winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Notable trails include the easy 1.5-mile Shoreline Trail along Buttonhook Bay with scenic views, and the more challenging Highpoint Trail to Bernard Peak for panoramic lake views.
• Disc Golf: Farragut State Park is home to premier disc golf courses, including those near the Locust Grove group campground, offering a fun and engaging activity for all skill levels.
• Historical Significance: The park's past as a major WWII naval training station is preserved and interpreted at the Museum of the Brig, offering an educational and unique feature.
• Diverse Wildlife: The park is a haven for wildlife and bird watching, providing opportunities to observe various species in their natural habitat.
• Tree to Tree Adventure Park: A popular attraction within the park, offering zip lines, obstacle courses, and Tarzan swings for an exhilarating aerial adventure (additional fees apply).
• Archery Range and Model Airplane Field: Unique facilities within the park cater to specific hobbies and interests.

The design of Buttonhook Group Camps with multiple fire rings and picnic tables encourages group bonding and communal activities, while the surrounding park ensures that there is never a shortage of adventures to embark on.

For those considering Buttonhook Group Camps within the Campgrounds & RV Parks category, several pieces of promotional information are vital for planning. Due to their popularity, especially during peak season, reservations for Buttonhook Group Camps are highly recommended and can typically be made months in advance through the Idaho State Parks reservation system, often via platforms like Recreation.gov. It is crucial to verify specific availability and booking windows. Fees for group camps vary based on amenities and group size; prospective campers should check the current rates and any additional costs for extra vehicles. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes may offer discounts on individual campsites within the park, but group camp pricing structures might differ. The operational season generally aligns with Farragut State Park's main camping season, typically from spring through fall, though portions of the park and some individual campsites may be open year-round for those seeking a winter camping experience. Promotional materials often highlight the suitability of these camps for large family gatherings, organizational outings, and youth groups, emphasizing the spaciousness and the blend of natural immersion with accessible recreational activities. Visitors are advised to familiarize themselves with the park's comprehensive rules and regulations, including check-in/check-out times, quiet hours, and specific pet policies, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay. Contacting Farragut State Park directly via phone or their official website is the best way to obtain the most current and detailed information regarding Buttonhook Group Camps, including specific site layouts and any restrictions that may apply to group activities. The combination of a beautiful natural setting, dedicated group facilities, and a wealth of recreational opportunities makes Buttonhook Group Camps an excellent choice for a memorable group camping experience in Idaho.