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Access Site ID

Red Rock

Salmon River Salmon River

Source: idaho_department_of_fish_and_game Updated 1 year ago

City: Carmen, ID
County: Lemhi County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 45.34805085, -113.92006955
Air Temp: --
Location
Live Webcam
Live webcam view
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Real-time data from USGS Water Services
Whitewater Runs on Salmon River
9 runs (2 nearby)
About This Access Site
Red Rock is a popular boat launch on Idaho's Salmon River near Carmen, offering excellent access for summer boaters and anglers pursuing steelhead and trout. This 4.5-acre site features ample parking for boat trailers and a functional ramp, though camping is limited to 3-4 RV spots. The access point is easily reached via Highway 93 north of Salmon, making it convenient for day trips and multi-day floats.

The Salmon River at this location is a major waterway with substantial flow—averaging over 13,000 cubic feet per second—and a significant gradient of 23.1 feet per mile, indicating moderately swift current and rapids typical of this section. Paddlers and boaters should be prepared for active water conditions and plan accordingly based on seasonal flow levels. Spring and fall bring steelhead runs, while summer is popular for general recreation. Note that seasonal conditions can affect ramp accessibility, particularly during winter and spring ice events; contact Idaho Fish and Game at 208-756-2271 before your trip to confirm current conditions.

Nearby camping and facilities are available at Tower Rock Campground (reservable via Recreation.gov at $5/night) and Morgan Bar Recreation Site, both within a short drive, providing good options for extended outings in this scenic stretch of river.
Federal Facility Information
Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
The Lewis & Clark Expedition camped at the Tower Rock site, along the main Salmon River. Today, the site offers prime river access for floaters and steelhead and trout anglers. Camping and picnic sites are also available, and the area makes a great stopping point for scenic drivers.
Recreation
The area surrounding the campground offers a multitude of recreation opportunities including...

Overview
The Lewis & Clark Expedition camped at the Tower Rock site, along the main Salmon River. Today, the site offers prime river access for floaters and steelhead and trout anglers. Camping and picnic sites are also available, and the area makes a great stopping point for scenic drivers.
Recreation
The area surrounding the campground offers a multitude of recreation opportunities including motorized and non-motorized trails, hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Rafters and anglers often use the boat ramp to access the Salmon River. 
Facilities
The campground offers single-family campsites for both RV and designated tent-only camping. Each site is equipped with accessible picnic tables and campfire rings with grills. Vault toilets, fishing platforms, picnic shelter, and boat ramp with access to the Salmon River are provided. No hookups are available at this location.
Natural Features
William Clark described the rock formation above the campground, known today as Tower Rock, as a “Clift of dark brown flint”. The Precambrian quartzite is some of the oldest rock in Idaho and can be found in the outcrops between the campground and North Fork, ID. At the nearby Tower Pirimids Day Use Area "hoodoo" type sandstone, gravel, and capstone formation can be seen near another Corps of Discovery campsite.

Contact Info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (208) 756-5400.
Nearby Attractions

Salmon River
Tower Pirimids Day Use Area
Morgan Bar Campground

Charges & Cancellations
No changes/cancellations/refunds are allowed as all fees are paid either on-site or through the Recreation.gov Scan & Pay App.

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Nearby Campgrounds (3 within 10 miles)
Tower Rock Campground
On-site Reservable
Wallace Lake Campground
On-site
Morgan Bar Campground
On-site Reservable
Nearby Recreation Areas
Morgan Bar Recreation Site Located within
Tower Rock Recreation Site Located within
Discovery Hill Located within
Salmon-Challis National Forest Located within
Amenities
parking
restrooms