Two St. Joe River Campgrounds Closed for Renovations

ST. MARIES — Two campgrounds in the St. Joe Ranger District of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests are closed through Aug. 15 for construction activities.

Both campgrounds will receive a complete renovation and infrastructure improvements thanks to funding received through the Great American Outdoors Act and the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation.

The Shadowy St. Joe Campground is located about 10 miles east of St. Maries on the St. Joe River Road. Improvements include the installation of new electrical service, a new water system (including a new pumphouse and hydrants), repaving of roads and parking spurs, new toilets, a new storage shed for the camp host, a new information kiosk, new tables, and fire rings, and re-roofing of the existing pavilion.

The Tin Can Flat Campground is located about 10 miles east of Avery on the St. Joe River Road. Improvements include new toilets, a new information kiosk, new tables, new fire rings and site work to improve accessibility at several of the campsites.

Both campgrounds are closed temporarily for public safety during construction work.

Enacted into law Aug. 4, 2020, the Great American Outdoors Act continues to provide new opportunities for the USDA Forest Service to deliver benefits to the American public through major investments in infrastructure, recreation facilities, public lands access and land and water conservation.

The Idaho Recreational Vehicle Program, established in 1985 by the Idaho Legislature, provides nearly $5 million annually to government agencies for improvements to campgrounds, campsites, dump stations and general RV access statewide.

The U.S. Forest Service appreciates the public’s patience with these temporary inconveniences in support of the long-term improvements to these recreation areas.

For a list of alternate camping locations in the St. Joe Ranger District, visit www.fs.usda.gov, or call the St. Maries office at 208-245-2531.