Huckleberry Campground

For Idaho locals seeking a comfortable yet adventurous camping experience, Huckleberry Campground in Calder is a prime destination within the stunning Idaho Panhandle National Forests. This isn't just any campsite; it's a well-equipped haven offering desirable amenities like electricity and water at most spots, clean bathrooms, and direct access to the refreshing St. Joe River. While nestled in a naturally beautiful setting, it also serves as a fantastic base for exhilarating outdoor activities like off-road riding, fishing, and swimming. Huckleberry Campground provides a wonderful balance of convenience and wilderness immersion, making it a popular choice for those who want to experience the best of Idaho's outdoors.

Imagine waking up with the convenience of electricity for your RV, stepping out to access the "cool clear water" of the St. Joe River, and knowing that miles of trails are just waiting to be explored. Huckleberry Campground is highly regarded for its well-maintained facilities and the dedication of its camp hosts, who ensure the place is kept "very clean." While the sounds of logging trucks might be a part of the early morning rhythm on weekdays, as noted by local visitors, the overall experience of spacious sites, river access, and a good mix of sun and shade more than compensates. This campground truly offers Idahoans a chance to unwind, create lasting memories, and pursue their passions in the heart of our beautiful state.

Huckleberry Campground is located in Calder, ID 83808, USA, specifically at 29431 St. Joe River Road. This puts it directly along the picturesque shores of the St. Joe River, approximately 29 miles east of St. Maries, Idaho. The campground is nestled within the sprawling Idaho Panhandle National Forests, an area renowned for its dense forests, pristine rivers, and abundant wildlife. Its location serves as a central hub for campers and recreationists exploring the stretch of the St. Joe River between Calder and Avery, Idaho.

Accessing Huckleberry Campground is relatively straightforward. From St. Maries, Idaho, you would typically travel south on Highway 3 for about half a mile, then turn right (east) onto the St. Joe River Road (Forest Service Highway 50). Continue on this road for approximately 29 miles until you reach the campground. The roads are generally well-maintained, providing a scenic drive through the forest. While the campground is "right in front of the street," indicating ease of access, its riverside setting still provides a natural escape. This convenient access, coupled with its scenic location, makes Huckleberry Campground an attractive destination for Idaho locals seeking a balance of wilderness and accessibility.

Huckleberry Campground offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities, making it one of the more "developed" campgrounds along the St. Joe River. These facilities are designed to enhance the camping experience, particularly for RV users.

• Campsites: The campground features 33 RV campsites. Sites 1-30 are single RV sites, while Sites 31-33 are larger group RV sites. Most sites are "somewhat spacious" and offer a good combination of sun and shade.
• Electrical & Water Hookups: A significant highlight is that "most spots have electricity and water." Single sites have one paved parking spur, one potable water and electric hookup (30 amp service in many sites, with some offering 50 amp service). Group sites have gravel parking, and three potable water and electric hookups (30 amp). This modernization, completed in 2024, allows for higher amperage.
• Restrooms: The campground provides "6 concrete vault toilets restrooms" which are consistently noted as being "kept very clean" by the camp hosts.
• RV Dump Station: An RV dump station is available on-site for Huckleberry overnight guests only, providing a convenient service for RV campers. There may be a fee for use.
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite includes a picnic table and a camp fire ring for outdoor cooking and enjoyment.
• Boat Access: An undeveloped non-motorized boat ramp and a small day-use parking area are available next to the boat ramp, providing river access for floating, kayaking, and fishing.
• Camp Hosts: On-site full-time camp hosts (two sets) are present from May through October, who are described as "wonderful folks" and are instrumental in keeping the place clean. Firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host.
• Reservations: Campsites can be reserved, with reservations available typically from May 1st through early September via Recreation.gov. It's recommended to make reservations, especially for popular river sites, as the campground "often fills."
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash.
• Wireless Internet Hotspots: There are two wireless internet hotspots to place online reservations, which can be useful given that cell service is generally not available in the area.

Huckleberry Campground boasts several key features and highlights that make it a highly desirable camping destination in Idaho:

• Riverfront Location & Access: Its primary highlight is its beautiful location "along the shores of the St. Joe River." Most river sites offer direct private river access, perfect for "fishing, swimming, kayaking, or floating." The St. Joe River is renowned for fly fishing.
• Electrical & Water Hookups: The availability of water and electricity at most sites, including 50-amp service at some, is a major draw, catering to modern RVs and providing enhanced comfort.
• Excellent for Off-Road Riding: Huckleberry Campground serves as a "central hub" for "off road riding, ATV/UTV user groups" accessing miles of US Forest Service and Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) roads. This makes it an "excellent location for off road riding."
• Spacious & Well-Maintained Sites: Visitors praise the "somewhat spacious" and "large, grassy, and private" sites, noting the campground is "well maintained."
• Clean Facilities: The "bathrooms are kept very clean" by the "wonderful camp hosts," which is a highly valued feature for campers.
• Group Camping Options: With dedicated group RV sites (31-33) that accommodate multiple hookups and a larger number of people/vehicles, it's ideal for larger gatherings.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is known for wildlife, including deer, elk, moose, squirrels, and various birds, offering opportunities for viewing. Elk hunting is also popular.
• Scenic Beauty: Located amidst cottonwood, aspen, willows, and pines, the campground provides a "beautiful" setting with a peaceful atmosphere, though proximity to the road can mean noise.

For those planning a visit to Huckleberry Campground in Calder, Idaho, here is the essential contact information:

• Address: 29431 St. Joe River Road, Calder, ID 83808, USA
• Phone: (208) 769-5000
• Mobile Phone: +1 208-769-5000

These phone numbers are associated with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Coeur d'Alene Field Office, which manages Huckleberry Campground. For specific inquiries regarding reservations, current conditions, or any alerts, it is highly recommended to use the official reservation system at Recreation.gov or contact Recreation.gov directly at (877) 444-6777. The provided phone numbers (208-769-5000) are for general campground inquiries, and are a reliable way to get up-to-date information directly from the managing office. It is always wise to check current conditions and reservation availability, especially during peak season, as the campground is popular and often fills up.

Huckleberry Campground is an outstanding choice for Idaho locals, perfectly aligning with the spirit of our state's outdoor lifestyle. For those of us who appreciate the rugged beauty of Idaho but also value comfort and convenience, this campground truly delivers. The availability of electricity and water hookups at most sites is a significant draw, making it an ideal spot for RVers and even tent campers who enjoy a more "developed" experience. This modern amenity, combined with its riverfront location, provides a level of comfort not always found in more remote Idaho campgrounds.

What truly sets Huckleberry Campground apart for locals is its dual appeal: it’s a serene riverside retreat for relaxation, and a thrilling gateway to adventure. Being a "central hub for campers and recreationists recreating along the river" and for "ATV/UTV user groups" means that whether you're bringing your fishing gear, a kayak, or your off-road vehicle, you'll find ample opportunities for your favorite outdoor pursuits right from your campsite. The dedication of the "wonderful camp hosts" and the consistently "clean bathrooms" also contribute significantly to a pleasant and welcoming experience, making it feel like a home away from home for repeat visitors.

While the occasional noise from logging trucks is a consideration, it's often a small trade-off for the otherwise "peaceful" and "beautiful" setting. For Idahoans, who are accustomed to and appreciate the working landscapes of our state, this simply becomes part of the authentic wilderness experience. Huckleberry Campground offers an accessible, feature-rich, and memorable outdoor adventure that truly embodies the best of Idaho's diverse natural attractions, making it a highly suitable and beloved spot for our local community.