Bench Creek Campground ~ Challis National Forest

Flickr album link: Bench Creek Campground

Idaho Highway 21 is the main tourism corridor through the picturesque Sawtooth Mountains and there are many recreational options to be found along the roadside. There are literally dozens of creeks and streams cascading down from the high elevations in this region, which feed the headwaters of famous rivers, so packing a fishing pole is best to do before setting sail. These mountains are a hiker's paradise and many lesser known lakes and ponds are within easy reach, so finding a secluded spot to become one with the fly fishing spirits is easy to do. Previous articles feature several of the Highway 21 camping destinations and Bench Creek is yet one more to peruse when making plans. 

Just like most of the campgrounds along Highway 21, the Bench Creek Campground only offers a few campsites, but the pads are large enough for mid size RV campers and trailers. This cozy little campground is equipped with basic facilities, picnic tables and chargrill pits, but no drinking water is available. Water can be found at other campgrounds nearby, while filtering the stream water is always an option. Bench Creek literally runs next to this camping spot, so all a visitor has to do is roll out of the tent to find a source for an evening fish fry. If the brook trout in the stream are not cooperative, a second option is to hike a short distance uphill to Bull Trout Lake, which offers world class trout fishing. There are several ponds along the way where wildlife abounds, so be sure to pack a camera when setting out on foot. The Highway 21 roadside campgrounds certainly are a nice convenience and because of the premium location, Bench Creek is one of the best, so be sure to take note!
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