Camping on the Main Salmon River: The Easy Way!

Camping along the Main Salmon River is one of the best aspects of a rafting trip in this area of Idaho. Broad sandy beaches mixed with tall ponderosa pine, and occasionally a sparkling mountain stream to make the oasis complete.

There's plenty of activity in camp if you want, such as volleyball, slip n' slides, fishing, or exploring. Of course you've got options for a nap, a good book, chatting with the group, or playing on the beach with the kids.

Sleeping Bag

Freshly laundered sleeping bags and sheets provide warmth on cool evenings. You'll receive your personal sleeping bag upon arrival to the river.

Comfortable Cots

Cots make sleeping and relaxing on the river easy. You'll lay your sleeping bag on top of the cot and sleep about 4 inches off the ground.

Roomy Tents

Tents are always available and easy to set up. You may be like many of our river guests who prefer to sleep under the vast canopy of stars.

Water-Resistant Bag

Your personal water-resistant bag will protect your duffel bag, sleeping bag and other personal items from exposure to sand and water.

Personal Ammo Can

A personal Ammo Can keeps important items handy during the day. This offers a convenient place to store rain gear, sunscreen, medication, etc.

Camp Chairs

Camp chairs offer comfortable seating along the river's edge. Camp chairs are stowed away while on the river and available while in camp.

Ground Cloth

A ground cloth keeps your gear and camping areas clean. This can be placed under your tent or cot at night.

Toilet Facilities

A portable toilet and hand wash system is set up each day in camp in a secluded location that assures privacy.

Toilet Facilities on the River

The portable toilet system we use in camp (as shown in the video) is NOT available during the day while rafting. During the day your guides will take “pit stops” (also known as “smile breaks”) where boats pull ashore allowing guests to access the river’s edge and… smile... while discreetly relieving liquid waste (#1) directly in the river’s naturally flushing current, according to regulations. This is generally done by wading into the water in a calm location or by finding a more private location at the water’s edge.

While we won't have the toilet system available during a portion of each day, if you need to go #2 during one of our pit stops, we will provide directions to a private location and supplies for a clean and convenient way to collect and dispose of things.

Dining on the River

“The food was fantastic! It was amazing how the guides transformed the campsites into a kitchen for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The meals were very well balanced. Dinners were gourmet.” Kathy - Connecticut

Breakfast

Steaming coffee provides welcome warmth to counter the cool sand between your toes. You might think you're still dreaming when you see plates of steaming flapjacks, fresh fruit and scrambled eggs, but it's the way every morning on the river begins. Your guides are not only trained river professionals, they're talented campfire cooks as well. And fresh food is served on all river adventures.

Lunch

A wonderful selection of fresh meats and cheeses, delicious bread, along with crisp vegetables and a variety of spreads satisfy hearty lunchtime appetites after a morning in the canyon. Tasty chicken and veggie wraps or perhaps chicken salad pitas may also be part of your mid-day buffet. At all times, unlimited quantities of fresh water and flavoring packets are available to quench your thirst.

Dinner

While you enjoy delectable appetizers and relax and at the river's edge, the guides prepare a dinner that is sure to surprise and please. Every night is different, but the menu will likely include grilled chicken breasts, tender steaks, pasta, or fresh fish accompanied by tossed green salad with your choice of dressing, vegetables, and side dishes. Dutch-oven cake and cobblers or other scrumptious desserts deliciously top off the evening meal.