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Caribou-Targhee/Buttermilk
Overview
Located within the stunning expanse of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Buttermilk Campground offers a peaceful retreat along the western shores of the Island Park Reservoir. Sitting at an elevation of approximately 6,300 feet, this destination provides a classic mountain atmosphere characterized by fresh air and expansive water views. It is a managed Forest Service site that serves as a quiet forest getaway for those who prefer natural beauty over commercial developments.
Location & Surroundings
The park is nestled in a dense forest of lodgepole pines, providing cooling shade and a sense of seclusion for many of the campsites. Its position on the reservoir makes it a prime spot for water-based recreation, while the surrounding Island Park caldera offers a unique geological backdrop. Travelers can expect to see local wildlife and enjoy the distinct scent of evergreen trees that defines this high-country Idaho landscape throughout the summer season.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional Forest Service facility, the focus here is on a rustic experience. Guests have access to vault toilets and potable drinking water stations located throughout the camping loops. Each individual site is equipped with a heavy-duty picnic table and a fire ring for evening gatherings under the stars. The standout feature for many visitors is the direct access to the water via the on-site boat ramp and docks, which accommodate various watercraft for daily excursions.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, with the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park located just 30 miles to the north. Anglers will appreciate the world-class fly fishing nearby on the Henrys Fork of the Snake River. Additionally, the breathtaking Upper and Lower Mesa Falls are a short drive away, offering spectacular views of one of the last undisturbed waterfalls in the region.
Who This Park Is Best For
This location is ideal for dry campers and boaters who prefer a self-contained, rustic experience over a luxury resort. It is a fantastic choice for families looking to reconnect with nature and for travelers who prioritize waterfront access and quiet evenings. If you enjoy falling asleep to the sound of wind through the pines and want a scenic, budget-friendly home base near Yellowstone, Buttermilk Campground is a perfect fit for your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Bryce Belnap
Nice campground. Whish they had more sites with power. Host do a great job.
Sydney Norton
Overall great experience. We stayed at a reserved site. The vault toilets are very clean; 4 stalls were easily accessible from the site we were at. I was surprised at how little privacy there was - we could easily see 5 campsites from where we were. As another reviewer said there will be new tables & it looks like some construction was going on about that. The campfire ring has a swinging grill which was very convenient for cooking. There is a spigot and a dumpster nearby. No bear boxes, so keep scented things and food in your vehicle. (Last part of the review is about the reservoir) We brought a canoe and the boat ramp is close by with free parking. Life jackets are available to borrow in case you forgot yours which was cool. Unfortunately people on the reservoir were quite rude and didn’t obey the law with wake speed near other boats (this law is clearly posted), so it was irritating when fishing from a canoe and fighting against their wakes.
D Cook
Buttermilk loop B sites 27 through 46 are the reserved sites however a good 60% of the sites 1-56 are first come first serve. New vault toilets were put in for the 2024 season along with new fire pits and a new utility table at each camp site. New picnic tables a supposed to be coming for the 2025 season. Vault toilets are very clean and camp hosts are the best. They are friendly and very helpful. Even if you see all the reserved sites are full on the recreation.gov web site, there is a 99% chance a first come first serve site will be available. Most of the sites are pull through.
Elena Leppard
Great campground right on the water. Loop A is all first come, first served sites. There a few docks on the lake to tie up to, but they are not adjusted for water levels.
Molly Ann Lewis
This is a Beautiful place to camp right on Island Park Reservoir. The fishing was Great, the camp host was NICE and it had the Cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen in a campground.