Forest camping near Sun Valley with campfires

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100% (45 reviews)

United States
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Idaho
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Sun Valley

100% (45 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Sun Valley

Top forest campgrounds near sun valley with campfires

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.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

95%

(76)

Sawtooth National Forest

Challis, Idaho

80%

(41)

Boise National Forest

Lowman, Idaho

Forest camping near Sun Valley with campfires guide

Overview

The small resort town of Sun Valley sits in central Idaho, about 150 miles east of state capital Boise. Skiing is quite popular in the winter months around here. The area's Bald Mountain regularly appears on lists of the world's best peaks to ski. Sun Valley is also popular among travelers headed to the nearby Sawtooth National Forest. With over 2.1 million acres worth of forest, there's plenty of exploring to be done here! The region's many hot springs are a big draw for those who enjoy relaxing in the natural heat. If you're into no-frills camping, aim for Sawtooth's Boundary Campground. The area is pretty small, with just nine sites. Still, it's very convenient to Sun Valley, Ketchum, and local trailheads while retaining a sense of seclusion. The Wood River Campground is similarly secluded but slightly larger. This camp contains 30 single-use campsites. Picnic tables and public toilets in this area provide a bit more amenities than Boundary Campground.