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The Emerald Creek Garnet Area is CURRENTLY CLOSED see Emerald Creek Garnet Area for current conditions Emerald Creek Campground features 18 camp units, potable water, and vault toilets. a short distance from the campground. The Garnet Area is one of our most popular recreation sites where, for a small fee, one can dig for gem quality star garnets. Mosquitos can be prolific throughout the season, consider bringing bug repellent.
In Fernwood, ID, take State Rt. 3 south 4 miles to campground sign (Forest Rt. 447). Turn right at sign onto Rt. 447 and go 3.2 miles to a "Y" intersection. Bear left and go 1.7 miles to campground on left.
Great, clean, quiet campground. I think only one RV spot and never seems to be over crowded. Secret little gem. ;)
Emerald Creek campground does not have potable water available, at least since 2022.
The campground itself is really nice; well-shaded and the sites are spaced out enough. I only give it four stars because we weren't interested in garnet-hunting and there was nothing else to do there.
Exceptionally remote with excellent gravel roads into the park area. Camping area has a paved loop easy to maneuver our 22' TT. About a dozen camp spots, all but one are back-in. Tent areas. Can accommodate sliders on one side and trailers under 26 or so feet. The only pull thru can accommodate more closeouts and longer rigs, but being first come first served it make be occupied. Very private spots with deep forest all around. Exceptionally well maintained, each spot Has a good-sized sturdy BBQ grill, fire pit, large picnic table. Fairly flat parking with minimal leveling needed. If parking in the first few spots there's minor logging truck noise thru the trees from the gravel road below but no dust. Has a hand pumped well for water and pit toilets. Nearby small creek has purple-tinted sand that is actually millions of tiny garnets. Watch for open range cows by the roadway.
Not a bad campground near the Emerald Creek Garnet Area. Had a few campsites and a toilet. So it's not too primitive. Wildlife all around. Make sure you check your site for bees prior to committing to which site you take. $15 per night when we went there. Small garnets in the creek right by the site if you brought some sifting equipment .
