FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Pole Flat Campground

Stanley, Idaho · Custer County · Campground

This campground is away from the main road and up the hill overlooking the river and the dredge ponds. Campsites include picnic tables tent pads fire rings with cooking grills. Campground amenities include a vault toilet and drinking water. Sites accommodate trailers and motorhomes up to 32 feet long.

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44.30379, -114.71946
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About Pole Flat Campground

This campground is away from the main road and up the hill overlooking the river and the dredge ponds. Campsites include picnic tables tent pads fire rings with cooking grills. Campground amenities include a vault toilet and drinking water. Sites accommodate trailers and motorhomes up to 32 feet long.

How to Get There

From Stanley:Drive 11 miles east on Highway 75 to the Sunbeam Dam overlook. Turn left onto forest road #013 for about 3 miles. Campground is on the right.From Challis:Drive 42 miles west on Highway 75 to the Sunbeam Dam overlook. Turn right onto forest road #013 for about 3 miles. Campground is on the right.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Pole Flat Campground

Heading to Pole Flat Campground? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Pole Flat Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Pole Flat Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/239946) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Pole Flat Campground?

From Stanley:Drive 11 miles east on Highway 75 to the Sunbeam Dam overlook. Turn left onto forest road #013 for about 3 miles. Campground is on the right.From Challis:Drive 42 miles west on Highway 75 to the Sunbeam Dam overlook. Turn right onto forest road #013 for about 3 miles. Campground is on the right.

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