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Caribou-Targhee/Upper Coffee Pot
Overview
Upper Coffee Pot Campground offers a quintessentially rustic escape within the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. Located just north of Macks Inn, Idaho, this site is situated along the pristine Henry’s Fork of the Snake River. Unlike commercial resorts, this park emphasizes a deep connection with nature, where the sound of rushing water and the scent of pine needles define the experience. It is a premier choice for travelers looking to trade city noises for the quiet rhythms of the forest and unspoiled mountain views.
Location & Surroundings
The campground sits within the Island Park Caldera, one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world. Dense stands of lodgepole pine provide generous shade and a sense of privacy between sites. The surrounding landscape is a haven for wildlife; it is common to spot moose wandering near the riverbanks or bald eagles soaring overhead. At an elevation of approximately 6,300 feet, the air remains crisp even during the peak of summer, making it a refreshing retreat for those escaping lower-elevation heat.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional Forest Service site, Upper Coffee Pot focuses on essential comforts rather than modern luxury. While there are no electric or sewer hookups, the park provides the necessary basics for a comfortable off-grid stay:
- Vault toilets maintained for cleanliness throughout the operating season.
- Potable drinking water available at shared spigots located conveniently throughout the loops.
- A paved boat ramp that serves as a primary hub for those looking to launch drift boats or kayaks.
- Large, gravel-surfaced sites featuring sturdy fire rings and heavy-duty picnic tables.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw for most visitors is the river itself, world-renowned for blue-ribbon trout fishing. Anglers flock here for the chance to catch rainbow and brook trout in a spectacular mountain setting. For hikers, the Coffee Pot Rapids Trail winds along the river canyon, offering views of the turbulent water and unique basalt formations. Additionally, the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park is less than thirty miles away, allowing for convenient day trips to see iconic geysers and grand thermal features.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for self-contained RVers who prioritize scenery and outdoor recreation over digital connectivity and full hookups. It is a paradise for fly-fishing enthusiasts and paddlers who want direct river access from their basecamp. Because many sites can accommodate larger rigs up to 45 feet, it is a great fit for experienced boondockers seeking a peaceful, natural alternative to the crowded commercial parks found closer to the national park boundaries.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Kim Tibbitts
One of the most beautiful Forest Service campgrounds in Island Park. It is several miles from busy Highway 20, so it's quieter than other Forest Service campgrounds in the area. Seven of the 15 campsites have electricity (30 and 50 amp). Individual sites do not have water, but there are several water spigots scattered throughout the campground where a person can fill his/her fresh water tank. There is no on-site RV dump. The trail to Coffee Pot Rapids begins just outside the campground gate. There is parking (referred to on signage as "Fisherman's Parking") outside the campground gate. Parking within the campground is for paying campers only. Campers may float down the Henry's Fork on kayaks, tubes, canoes, etc., and take out right in the campground. Those who float down the river, who are not paying campers, must take out at a new location (Sept. 2025) just west of the campground. Parking in the campground to load flotation devices is prohibited by the Forest Service.
Kimberly Haugen
I pulled in at 12 midnight and snagged the last spot. It was right next to the hosts. It wasn't until morning that I was able to see how immaculate the site was cleaned. I have never seen such a clean site before. Rake marks still covered the site. The squirrels can be a little vocally abusive to you from their perches high in the trees, but they eventually calmed down. I'm sure I look like a fool arguing with a dang squirrel, but I had fun. The hosts were kind and friendly. This is a beautiful spot.
A Conklin
I took the river trail and it is absolutely beautiful. I would highly recommend it for anyone visiting Island Park. It's a very easy hike, you're by the river pretty much the entire time. Watch for moose!
Patty Kadel
We stayed just one night, but it was the most lovely spot we stayed in our 2000 mile drive trip. We arrived in the late afternoon and there were several spots to choose from, but I expect it could be harder earlier in the summer or on a weekend. There's a trail along the river. I didn't take a chance on putting my kayak in since I didn't have the required Idaho invasive species permit, but I wanted to!
Ren Delatorre
Bad experience with Park Host but the peacefulness was wonderful. Spent time with my mom her first time camping had a wonderful time bonding.