Shorts Bar Recreation Site

Facility · Idaho ·

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management

Cottonwood Field Office (Bureau of Land Management ID) · Open Access

This site is a frequent put-in spot for floating the Lower Salmon River. The site is near large, sandy beaches and provides easy access to the Salmon River. BLM recreation sites attached to this stretch of river are Island Bar, Lucile, Old Lucile, Slate Creek, Skookumchuck, White Bird, Hammer Creek and Pine Bar. Be sure to check those sites for more information and amenities for boat ramps or camping. For river maps, authorized outfitters and shuttle services, see the links below.

Getting there

2.6 miles east of Riggins, Idaho on Big Salmon Road.

45.41194, -116.30222 · 45°24'43.0"N 116°18'8.0"W

Directions (Google Maps) · Directions (Apple Maps)

Typical weather

Typically 90°F in Aug, down to 40°F in Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High °F414655627178909080644840
Low °F252630354147525245362925
Precip in1.31.41.82.02.21.70.80.71.21.51.41.4

1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 6 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.

Map

Fees and stay limits

Stay limit: 14 Days Stay Limit

From Recreation.gov, which is not always current. The operator's own page is the authority on what you will be charged.

Member photos

Common questions about Shorts Bar Recreation Site

Can you reserve a site at Shorts Bar Recreation Site?
No. Shorts Bar Recreation Site is not reservable through Recreation.gov, so sites are first-come, first-served or booked elsewhere.
How long can you stay at Shorts Bar Recreation Site?
14 Days Stay Limit

Camping near Shorts Bar Recreation Site

Comments

Contact

Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-02-25.

Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.