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The best camping near Sawtooth National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sawtooth adventure.

95% (76 reviews)
95% (76 reviews)

Find four-season outdoor fun in this mountainous landscape.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Sawtooth National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Sawtooth National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Sawtooth National Forest

Yellow Bus, Lime Creek

1 site ¡ Lodging40 acres ¡ Challis, ID
Stay in a school bus on a working micro farm with a comfy bed, heater and propane range. Passive solar shower available. Enjoy the pond, rock hunting, hiking, birds, and wildlife. Host cabin nearby. Bird, plant walks and farm tour with hosts available. A short drive to hot springs and river activities.
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from 
$75
 / night
100%
(9)

Salmon Gypsy B&B & Mini-Donkey Ranc

2 sites ¡ Lodging2 acres ¡ Salmon, ID
Located on Idaho's Salmon River outside Salmon, ID, the Salmon Gypsy B and B and Mini-Donkey Ranch is two acres of heaven. The gypsy wagon is only 2 miles from the famous Goldbug Hot Springs trailhead. Enjoy the peace of this area just across the river from a working cattle ranch, 2.5 miles from the local bar and grill, 23 miles north to Salmon, and 35 miles south to Challis in the lovely unincorporated area of Elk Bend, Idaho. Enjoy hiking, rafting, fishing, biking, horseback riding and a visit with our mini-donkeys!
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from 
$135
 / night

Elk Bend RV Resort LLC

15 sites ¡ RVs10 acres ¡ Salmon, ID
Elk Bend RV Park is located just south of Salmon, ID on one of the most scenic drives in the western United States. Elk Bend is famous for its wildlife, you can see eagles, deer, big horn sheep, and mountain goats around the area and along the river. You can also wake up to a fabulous view with elk and big horn sheep grazing on the mountain hillsides. The river is just across the street and is great for floating and fly fishing. The famous Goldbug Hot Springs Trailhead is a short drive (1.3 miles) then a 2-mile hike away. Campers can look forward to a number of great attractions just beyond the campground including the Lewis and Clark Trail, Lemhi County Historical Society & Museum, Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural & Educational Center and the Salmon-Challis National Forest. This is one stop not to miss on your travels or vacation. Amenities at the park include: water, sewerage, laundry, dump station, big rig access and 20/30/50 amp sites. Hope to see you soon!
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from 
$45
 / night
98%
(53)

Idaho's Best Kept Secret!

3 sites ¡ RVs2 acres ¡ Mackay, ID
One of Idaho's most iconic peaks, often compared to the Matterhorn, will transfix you in a picture-perfect view from this campsite. On a clear night, its rosy glow is the only thing you will see just before darkness. As the night darkens further you'll be dazzled by the brightest stars against the darkest of dark skies you will ever experience. Then you'll fall asleep to the peaceful sounds of the Lost River gliding by. In the early morning be on the lookout for the resident moose and her calf (Watch, but don't approach!!) or any of the many deer that ramble by. Then drop a fishing line into the river, just a few steps away, and catch yourself a trout or two for your breakfast. After breakfast, get out your binoculars, cameras, and maps (you did bring them, didn't you?) and choose your day's adventure, whether it be a challenging hike up a mountain trail, a leisurely stroll to a delightful waterfall, a 20-mile trip to world-famous Sun Valley via the stunning Trail Creek Summit, or exploring the largest designated wilderness in the lower 48 states. which is, literally, just on the other side of the fence! The road you enter the property from will also get you 20 miles deep into that wilderness along a broad river valley where you may see elk, moose, wolves, coyotes, foxes, beavers, deer, antelope, mountain goats, big horn sheep, black bears, and much more all thriving in natural abundance. Mountain lions are absent in this area, fortunately, but can be found in narrow, steep-sided canyons in other drainages nearby, if you dare.
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from 
$100
 / night

Goldbug Hot Springs Getaway

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Salmon, ID
Welcome to your perfect Goldbug Getaway at our charming tiny home! Our brand-new listing is currently undergoing updates, including fresh pictures that will showcase the cozy beauty of this unique space. Nestled in a serene and friendly canyon community, our tiny home is a mere 5 minutes away (2.7 miles) from the Goldbug Hot Springs Trailhead, offering you easy access to breathtaking natural wonders and the healing water hot springs. If you're a hunting enthusiast, you'll love our proximity within Hunting Unit 29. And for anglers, the Spring and Fall Steelhead fishing opportunities are second to none! Key Features: - Proximity to Goldbug Hot Springs: Immerse yourself in the healing waters of Goldbug Hot Springs, just a short 5-minute drive away. Experience relaxation like never before. - Tranquil Location: Enjoy the peace and quiet of our spacious corner lot in a friendly neighborhood, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. - RV Friendly: Planning to bring your RV along? No problem! Our property is RV-friendly and offers convenient dump and hookups, making your stay as comfortable as possible. - Pet Paradise: We understand that pets are family too. Our dog kennel and cozy dog house are ready to accommodate your furry friends, ensuring they have a fantastic vacation too. - Outdoor Enthusiast's Dream: If you're a hunting enthusiast, you'll love our proximity to Hunting Unit 29. And for anglers, the Spring and Fall Steelhead fishing opportunities are second to none. What's Coming: We're excited to update our listing with new pictures that will showcase the unique charm of our tiny home. Our space is being meticulously designed to provide you with a comfortable and memorable stay. Whether you're seeking relaxation, outdoor adventures, or a break from the ordinary, our tiny home offers it all. Keep an eye out for our updated pictures and book your stay with us today. Your perfect canyon getaway awaits!
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from 
$105
 / night
100%
(18)

Breathtaking beaverhead basecamp

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents13 acres ¡ Salmon, ID
Learn more about this land:Flat spot, decently private with a babbling ditch and view of the beaverhead mountains. Outhouse available complete with new toilet seat. All the delicious well water you can handle. Also, access to a slide in camper with a little wood stove and a propane cooktop. Available upon request.
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from 
$16
 / night

The best camping near Sawtooth National Forest guide

Overview

About

Named for central Idaho’s wild and jagged Sawtooth Range, the Sawtooth National Forest is a massive landscape filled with mountain lakes, towering peaks, and scenic rivers. The Sawtooth Scenic Byway travels from Shoshone to Stanley and passes by some of the most spectacular scenery in the forest. Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and paddle sports are all popular ways to enjoy the Sawtooths in summer, while winter brings a playground for snow sports. Camping opportunities are plentiful, from designated campgrounds on alpine lakes to dispersed camping areas set off of remote dirt roads.  

Notable campgrounds

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Reservations are strongly recommended for popular areas including Redfish Lake, Stanley Lake, and sites along the Salmon River. Reservations are available six months in advance online and fill quickly for summer weekends and holidays. 
  2. Some camping areas in the Sawtooths are incredibly popular. Arrive mid-week for the best chance at finding a first-come, first-served site through the weekend. 
  3. Cabins are also available at Redfish Lake and can be reserved up to six months in advance online.

When to go

Summer is the best and busiest time for hiking, camping, and sightseeing in the Sawtooth National Forest, so visit mid-week to avoid the crowds at the lakes. Early fall can be a nice time to camp and hike as long as you bring along extra layers. Evenings can get quite chilly in the Sawtooths, even in summer. Spring brings rain, even when higher elevation trails are still covered with snow. Backcountry skiing is often best January through April.  

Know before you go

  1. Sawtooth National Forest campgrounds often include picnic tables, fire rings, and either flush or vault toilets. RV hookups and showers are rarely available. 
  2. Gas, groceries, and all other camping necessities are available in the Sawtooth gateway towns of Ketchum and Stanley. A general store can be found at Redfish Lake. 
  3. Boats, kayaks, and standup paddleboards are available for rent at the Redfish Lake Marina.
  4. Black bears are a common sight in the Sawtooth National Forest, so follow all bear safety campground rules. Never leave food, garbage, or other scented items unattended. 
  5. Dogs are allowed in most areas in the forest. Dogs are not allowed on beaches and in some areas in spring where their presence may threaten endangered animals.

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