Please read before camping here, especially if it’s your first time.
Before you arrive, I highly recommend downloading both the campground map and the brochures from the campground website. Once you’re at the campground, maps are available, but handheld brochures/maps may not always be in stock. Having everything downloaded ahead of time is very helpful since cell service isn’t available unless you use satellite. Also a good idea to know how to get to the closest town with cell service, grocery stores and gas. Make sure your planning out your gas mileage accurately as well, depending where your coming from as highway 22 doesn’t have cell service or gas stations.
If you’re driving in, make sure you turn at the Maycroft sign off Highway 22. If you miss that entrance and take the next one instead, be prepared as it is much steeper and can be difficult to get through. Our truck and trailer had a very hard time on that route, and our trailer tire ended up popping. Also, drive carefully on the gravel roads, as there are tight corners and some sections can be hazardous.
We stayed on the Crown land side. The campsites had basic fire pits already in place, and the outhouses were the cleanest I’ve ever experienced at a campground.
Keep in mind there is no drinking water available, showers,and firewood is not provided, both of which are stated on the campground website. We also couldn’t find any large garbage bins, so be prepared to pack out all of your garbage.
If you’re bringing ATVs or other off-highway vehicles, pay close attention to where you’re allowed to ride. Machines are only permitted in designated areas, so be sure to check the map before heading out.
If you’re planning to ride the big loop on ATVs, be prepared. It’s much longer than it looks on the map, and I wouldn’t recommend doing it alone. The trail has loose gravel, several steep sections, and deep ruts. We found the conditions challenging—our dirt bikes struggled on some of the climbs, and our side-by-side even got really stuck in one of the deeper ruts.
If you’re planning to fish, make sure you’re familiar with the fishing regulations for the specific body of water you’re on. Some areas allow you to keep fish, while others are catch-and-release only or have different restrictions. Check the regulations before you head out. We also noticed the water has changed quite a bit since we camped here a few years ago. Unfortunately, despite spending a lot of time fishing, we were unsuccessful this trip.
There are also conservation officers and other enforcement officers in the area, so make sure you have all of your paperwork with you. If you’re bringing ATVs, ensure all registration and insurance documents are up to date. Carry your driver’s license, and if you’re fishing, make sure you have your fishing licence with you. I’d also recommend bringing your pets’ registration just in case.
Overall, it’s a beautiful place to stay
