Shorts Bar Recreation Site

For local users in the Riggins, Idaho area searching for "camping near me," Shorts Bar Recreation Site, located on NF-1614, Riggins, ID 83549, USA, offers a riverside camping experience. Based on the limited but informative reviews from fellow campers, this site presents a mixed picture of natural beauty and potential drawbacks that local users should consider when planning their outdoor excursions.

Environment and Location:

Shorts Bar Recreation Site is situated next to a river, a significant draw for many campers seeking the sights and sounds of flowing water, as well as potential opportunities for fishing or other water-related activities. The first review notes its pleasant location directly by the river. The address, NF-1614, indicates that the site is located along a National Forest road, suggesting a more natural and potentially less developed setting compared to private campgrounds or those within state parks. Riggins, Idaho, is known for its access to the Salmon River and the surrounding rugged landscapes, indicating that Shorts Bar Recreation Site likely benefits from the scenic beauty of this region.

However, the second review provides a contrasting perspective regarding a stay "on the bar upstream" in mid-August. The camper reported a severe issue with "biting flies," describing them as "horrible" and present in "hundreds," swarming both the campers and their RV. The reviewer attributed this problem to "penned elk that were across the road." This is a crucial piece of information for local users to consider, especially during the late summer months. The presence of penned elk nearby could indeed attract biting insects, potentially impacting the comfort and enjoyment of campers at Shorts Bar Recreation Site.

Despite the insect issue, the reviewer acknowledged that "the site is beautiful other than that and easy to access!" This highlights the inherent natural appeal of the location, likely stemming from its riverside setting and the surrounding Idaho wilderness. The ease of access is also a positive aspect, suggesting that the site is relatively straightforward to reach via NF-1614.

The first review stating "No one there" suggests that, at least at the time of that reviewer's visit, Shorts Bar Recreation Site might offer a degree of seclusion and quiet, which can be a significant advantage for those seeking a more private camping experience.

Services and Features:

The limited information available does not provide specific details about the services and features offered at Shorts Bar Recreation Site. As it's located on a National Forest road, it's likely a more primitive or minimally developed site compared to campgrounds with full amenities. Campers should anticipate basic or non-existent facilities.

Based on typical National Forest recreation sites, potential features might include:

• Designated campsites, though the reviews do not confirm this.
• Fire rings or established fire pits. The second review mentions being able to camp "on the bar upstream," which might imply less formally defined camping spots.
• Potentially a vault toilet, although this is not mentioned in the reviews, so campers should not rely on it being available.
• Parking areas near the campsites. The ease of access mentioned suggests parking is likely available.

Services that are typically *not* found at such sites include:

• Potable water sources. Campers should plan to bring their own water or have a way to purify natural sources.
• Electrical hookups. This site is unlikely to offer any electrical connections.
• Sewer hookups. These are not expected at a National Forest recreation site.
• Trash disposal. Campers are usually required to pack out all of their trash ("Pack It In, Pack It Out").
• Restroom facilities beyond a possible vault toilet.
• Managed security or on-site staff.

Local users considering Shorts Bar Recreation Site should be prepared for a self-sufficient camping experience with minimal amenities.

Features and Activities:

The primary feature of Shorts Bar Recreation Site is its location next to the river, which likely offers opportunities for activities such as fishing, wading (depending on river conditions and safety), and enjoying the riverside scenery. The surrounding area along NF-1614 and near Riggins is known for its natural beauty, so campers can likely engage in hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the local landscapes.

The potential for seclusion, as suggested by the "No one there" review, could be a significant feature for those seeking a quieter and more private camping experience away from crowded campgrounds.

However, the presence of biting flies, particularly in mid-August and potentially due to the nearby penned elk, is a significant factor that could impact the enjoyment of outdoor activities. Campers visiting during this time of year should be well-prepared with insect repellent, appropriate clothing, and possibly even head nets to protect themselves from biting insects.

The ease of access makes the site convenient to reach, which can be a plus for those who prefer not to hike long distances to their campsite.

Promotional Information and Local Context:

For local users in the Riggins area looking for "camping near me" with riverside access, Shorts Bar Recreation Site offers a potentially beautiful and easily accessible option. The possibility of a secluded experience, as indicated by at least one visitor finding it empty, could be a strong draw for those seeking peace and quiet in nature.

However, it is crucial for local campers to be aware of the potential for severe biting fly issues, especially during the mid-to-late summer, possibly exacerbated by the presence of penned elk nearby. This information should be a key consideration when planning a trip to Shorts Bar Recreation Site during those months.

Promotional information for this site should objectively present both its advantages and potential disadvantages based on user feedback. It could highlight:

• Its location directly next to the river.
• The ease of access via NF-1614.
• The potential for a secluded camping experience.
• The beautiful natural surroundings typical of the Riggins area.

At the same time, it should also caution potential visitors about:

• The reported problem with severe biting flies, particularly in mid-August, possibly linked to nearby penned elk.
• The likelihood of minimal to no developed amenities, requiring campers to be fully self-sufficient.

Local users who are well-prepared for potential insect issues and who prioritize a riverside location and ease of access might find Shorts Bar Recreation Site appealing. Those camping during the late summer should take extra precautions against biting flies.

It would be beneficial for local campers to check with local ranger stations or online forums for more recent information about the conditions at Shorts Bar Recreation Site, including the current status of insect populations and any updates regarding nearby animal enclosures. This could help in making a more informed decision about whether this site meets their needs for a "camping near me" experience.

In conclusion, Shorts Bar Recreation Site near Riggins, ID, offers a riverside camping experience with easy access and the potential for seclusion. The beautiful natural environment is a significant draw. However, local users must be aware of the reported severe issue with biting flies, particularly in mid-August, possibly due to nearby penned elk. The site likely has minimal to no developed amenities, requiring self-sufficiency. Campers should weigh the attractive riverside location and accessibility against the potential for insect problems when considering this "camping near me" option.

Shorts Bar Recreation Site

NF-1614, Riggins, ID 83549, USA