The best camping near Sawtooth National Forest
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sawtooth National Forest adventure.
95% (76 reviews)
95% (76 reviews)
Find four-season outdoor fun in this mountainous landscape.
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Stay at a public campground in Sawtooth National Forest
Top-rated campgrounds near Sawtooth National Forest
97%
(43)
Cactus River Ranch RV
5 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Salmon, ID
Currently, the property has 3 full RV hook-up with water, 30-50 amp power and septic (Site #1 - 30 amp, Site #2 - 50 & 30 amp, Site #3 - 50 & 30 amp). There is also 1 campsite for either a vehicle or tent, with access to complete bathhouse and shower facilities. Cactus River Ranch is located 12 minutes outside of Salmon, Idaho along the Salmon River. The sites have river front views with your own private river access. Hiking and mountain biking options are available right out the back door up Henry's Creek trail. Amazing fly fishing or bird watching location! Williams Lake is located 6 miles up the road and offers a variety of recreation activities including fishing, swimming, paddle-boarding, canoeing, or sight seeing.
If you are looking for an area that is out of town, THIS IS IT!!
We also have overnight stalls available for horses.
Please make sure RV tanks are empty in order to hook up to septic. No RV dump station on site.
With the river location, we get very windy conditions along the river corridor. Awnings can easily become damaged during these conditions. Please take notice and consider putting awnings away so that they don't get damaged. Along the same lines, please don't have campfires if the winds are high.
Make sure your dogs are on a leash. We have mules on the property that DO NOT like dogs. This is for the safety of your dog.
No fireworks on the premises.
NO campfires at this time, the Salmon-Challis National Forest is currently in High Fire Danger.
We do have a couple small trash cans that get dumped on Thursdays...that being said....we are NOT a dump. If trash cans are full or you have large items, please haul your trash to Lemhi County Landfill. They are open Monday-Friday: 7am-5:15pm and have dumpsters open on the weekend.
Pets
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from
$45
/ night
98%
(59)
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
95%
(21)
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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$16
/ night
100%
(5)
Taste of Romerica
2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Salmon, ID
Located 3 miles south of Salmon, Idaho. Nestled in the valley of the Beaverhead Mountains, we are minutes away from amazing fishing, hunting and floating the beautiful Salmon River in the summer months. Town offers several restaurants, bars, a bakery and shopping.
Our property is in a quiet neighborhood easily accessible off the main highway into town. Outside firepit for marshmallow roasting or just to enjoy a fire.
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from
$30
/ night
100%
(10)
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!
Potable water
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from
$135
/ night
Booked 2 times
Mountains Hideaway Campground
8 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Salmon, ID
Minimalist Oasis: Dry Camping Haven
Tucked away behind the quaint Off the Beaten Path Saddlery, this minimalist dry camping spot offers a unique escape.
Here’s what you can expect:
Simplicity Defined: Leave behind the noise and distractions. This property is a blank canvas for your outdoor adventure.
Open Skies: With an unobstructed view, the vast sky becomes your companion. Stargazing enthusiasts, rejoice!
Urban Convenience: Just steps away from the locally owned store, you’ll have easy access to essentials. During store hours, you can use the store bathroom. Chat with friendly faces while you’re there!
Concrete Camping: No campfires here, but you’ll have a solid base for your setup. Bring your portable stove and enjoy meals under the open sky.
Pet-Friendly: Your furry friends are welcome. They’ll appreciate the simplicity and space.
Additional Amenities:
Portable Toilet: Available round-the-clock.
Shower Use: Accessible for a $5 fee, with a $1 towel rental (available during store hours, not suitable for wheelchair users).
Potable Water
Local Features:
Salmon River: Explore the nearby Salmon River, known for its pristine waters and excellent fishing opportunities. Cast your line and reel in the catch of the day!
Sacajawea Center: Immerse yourself in local history and culture at the Sacajawea Center. Learn about the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the remarkable journey of Sacajawea.
Rafting Adventures: For thrill-seekers, nearby rafting excursions await. Navigate the rapids and feel the rush of adrenaline as you conquer the river.
Local Hot Springs: After a day of outdoor exploration, unwind in the soothing embrace of local hot springs. Let the warm waters rejuvenate your body and soul.
Fishing Spots: Beyond the Salmon River, discover hidden fishing spots in the surrounding wilderness. Whether you prefer fly fishing or spin casting, there’s a spot for every angler.
Hiking Trails: Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails. Explore the rugged terrain, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and discover hidden vistas.
Remember: This property does not offer water or electrical hookups. Pack light, embrace the simplicity, and create your own adventure.
Inquire about our monthly rates (which includes complimentary shower use)!
Secure your spot today and experience the beauty of minimalism! 🌄🏕️
Pets
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Toilets
from
$25
/ 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
- Best for families: Glacier View Campground
- Best for water sports: Stanley Lake Campground
- Best for hikers: Twin Lakes Campground
Tips for snagging a campsite
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Sawtooth National Forest campgrounds often include picnic tables, fire rings, and either flush or vault toilets. RV hookups and showers are rarely available.
- 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.
- Boats, kayaks, and standup paddleboards are available for rent at the Redfish Lake Marina.
- 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.
- 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.
Top cities near Sawtooth National Forest
- Sawtooth National Forest
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