Camping at North Fork Campground - St Charles Canyon Campground

North Fork Campground Overview

North Fork Campground, located within the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, offers a serene camping experience in a forested area. It's nestled in St. Charles Canyon, near Bear Lake, providing campers with a blend of scenic beauty, wildlife viewing opportunities, and a variety of outdoor recreational activities.

Camping Facilities and Amenities

• Campsites: The campground features single-family sites equipped with tables and fire rings.
• Water: There are spigots available for drinking water throughout the campground.
• Restrooms: Vault toilets are provided, which are generally well-maintained.
• Trash Disposal: Containers are typically available for garbage.

Recreational Activities

• Hiking & Biking: There are numerous trails accessible from the campground suitable for hiking and mountain biking.
• Fishing: Streams nearby offer the chance to fish for local species.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is known for its diverse wildlife including deer, elk, and moose.
• Water Recreation: Proximity to Bear Lake provides opportunities for boating, swimming, and additional fishing.

Access and Fees

• Vehicle Access: Roads leading to the campground are usually gravel and can be narrow. They are typically suitable for RVs and trailers of certain lengths; check specific size restrictions if applicable.
• Fees: Expect to pay a nightly fee for camping. Rates can vary based on site selection and time of year.
• Reservations: Sites can often be reserved in advance, though some may be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Season and Weather

• Operating Season: The campground is generally open from late spring through early autumn. Specific dates can vary by year due to weather conditions.
• Weather Considerations: Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so be prepared with appropriate gear for cold nights and rain.

Rules and Regulations

• Pets: Pets are usually allowed but must be kept on a leash.
• Fire Safety: Be vigilant about fires, following all fire regulations, and be aware of any fire bans due to seasonal risks.
• Wildlife Precautions: Proper food storage and handling are required to prevent attracting bears and other wildlife.
• Stay Limits: There is often a maximum stay limit; typically, this is 14 days.

Nearby Attractions

• Bear Lake: Enjoy the Caribbean-blue waters and various water activities.
• Minnetonka Cave: A guided tour of this fascinating limestone cave is available in the summer months.
• Bloomington Lake: A high-mountain glacial lake that offers a scenic backdrop and hiking trails.

Contact Information

For the most current information and to make reservations:

• Website: Look for North Fork Campground on the USDA Forest Service website or on recreation.gov.
• Phone: Contact the Caribou-Targhee National Forest district office, as they will provide the latest updates on campground status, fees, and restrictions.

Please note that information like fees and seasons may change, and it's a good practice to double-check details close to your planned trip.