VICTOR, Idaho — Caribou-Targhee National Forest (CTNF) has announced seasonal closures for its campgrounds, with most in the Teton Basin Ranger District closing on Sept. 15.
After Sept. 15, campground services will no longer be provided, but gates and at least one pit toilet per campground will remain open for visitors, CTNF posted to Facebook. Campground gates will be closed and locked once snowfall makes entry and exit unsafe.
The gate to the Mike Harris Campground will be locked the afternoon of Sunday, Sept. 8. The next day, work will begin on replacing the single-lane bridge entering the Mike Harris recreation area. The new bridge will have room for one entry lane and two exit lanes onto the highway, which CTNF says will enhance safety and improve visitor traffic flow.
“The current bridge has become inadequate due to the volume of traffic the campground and trailhead receive,” CTNF posted. “The single-lane structure often causes traffic backups, creating unsafe conditions for campers and trailers trying to enter and exit the area simultaneously. The new bridge, which is funded through the Idaho Parks and Recreation RV Grant Program, will provide a safer experience for visitors and ease congestion at this popular site.”
Bikers, campers and hunters who still wish to use the Mike Harris area for recreation can access the trail system at these other points: Happy Hour Trailhead at Trail Creek Campground, Pole Canyon Trailhead and Sherman Springs Trailhead.
CTNF’s goal is to finish the project before winter weather sets in.
