Wench Creek

You can camp by the Union Valley Reservoir at Wench Creek Campground. This mountain retreat has 100 sites that can house up to six people each and two group sites for up to 50 guests each. Sleep in the ponderosa pine forest and enjoy a range of outdoor activities when you stay here. You'll need to use only tents in one of the group facilities, but the other spots can accommodate tents, trailers, or RVs. There are no hook-ups. 

The campground sits on the northeastern side of the reservoir. Enjoy fishing for trout, bass, and kokanee salmon if you have a license. Cast from shore or take your craft to one of the boat ramps to cruise the lake or go waterskiing. There's a puptacular 109-foot waterfall near here. Take the dirt road off Ice House Road that's across from Big Silver Group Campground to Bassi Falls trailhead and follow the path to the base of the cascade. It's most impressive during the spring thaw. You can also hike or bike the Union Valley Bike Trail. This 4.8-mile out-and-back route follows the eastern shore of the reservoir. Take in the scenery and keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife as you travel to and from Jones Fork Campground.

There's no need to leave your furry pal home when you come here -- dogs on a leash can camp and explore the area with you! Never leave them unattended, and scoop their waste. Your nightly camping fee covers up to two dogs, but additional canine campers will incur an extra fee.

If you're planning a group outing, you must reserve one of the sites four to 12 months ahead of time. The fee for the larger campgrounds is $160 per night. Individual spots are first-come-first-served and are $25 per night. Get here early to set up your base and start enjoying nature. Remember to practice bear safety by storing your food, soaps, and garbage in sealed containers or in your vehicle.