Idaho Fish and Game officials are closing Horsethief Reservoir to overnight camping on Aug. 22 unless a replacement host can be found. The current host unexpectedly resigned, and under agreements with adjacent land owners, the department will only allow camping when a qualified host is present.
The east side of the recreation facility will also be closed to public access. The west side, including boat launch, dock, and the fishing area around the dam, will remain open for fishing and other day-use activities.
Fish and Game is searching for a replacement host, and people interested can contact Joe Kozfkay or Dennis Hardy at (208) 465-8465. Hosts must be qualified, have a background check done by Fish and Game, and be available by Labor Day weekend to reopen the area for camping.
The campground normally stays open until Sept. 20. If a campground host is not found, it will remain closed for the season.
“We realize how important this is for Labor Day,and we will try to get a host as quick as possible,” said Fish and Game’s Southwest Region Fisheries Manager Joe Kozfkay
A campground host is required not only by agreement, but also to enforce summer fire restrictions and prevent vandalism to the campground, which has happened in the past. Fish and Game conservation officers will enforce the camping closure, but are not available to manage the campground because hunting seasons are starting.
Horsethief Reservoir is about 10 miles east of Cascade and owned and operated by Idaho Fish and Game.