Rough dirt roads lead 10 miles to this forested campground beside Sagehen Creek and its associated reservoir. The US Forest Service maintains 35-foot maximum RV sites along with tent spots, though all camping here is dry with no hookups. Campers access drinking water from spigots positioned throughout the grounds.
The reservoir allows small motorboats only, keeping water conditions smooth for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Reviewers consistently mention trout fishing opportunities, though some note weedy areas near shore that require scouting for open water. One section features large rocks suitable for jumping into deeper water. Sites spread across different areas, with those closest to the water filling first during busy periods.
"Water is fairly dirty near the shore as there are cows roaming near-by," notes Derek S., pointing to livestock grazing in the area. The campground operates with a camp host and maintains vault toilets, though no showers or flush facilities exist. Everything follows pack-out principles. Firewood is available for purchase, and each site includes a fire pit and picnic table.
Campers seeking additional forest camping can explore nearby Eastside just minutes away for a different lakeside experience.
Description
Overview
Sagehen Creek Campground is located on the shores of the scenic Sagehen Reservoir at an elevation of 4997 feet. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, exploring Joe's Creek Trail, as well as utilizing the non-motorized Sagehen Reservoir Trail.
Recreation
Sagehen Reservoir offers great boating, canoeing, and rainbow trout fishing. A boat ramp and dock are located within the campground.There is a 15 mph speed limit on the reservoir. Hiking, biking, horse, and ATV trails are abundant in the area, including Joe's Creek Trail, which begins not far from the campground. The Sagehen Reservoir Trail, a 4-mile loop around the lake, offers great fishing spots, beautiful viewpoints and wildlife watching opportunities for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. The Sagehen and KYAOTT ATV Trail Systems can be accessed near the reservoir, offering more than 35 miles of trails for ATVs and motorcycles, but hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders can enjoy these trails as well.
Facilities
The campground contains several single-family sites, a few of which are accessible, all with picnic tables and campfire rings. Vault toilets and hand-pumped drinking water are provided. Firewood is available for purchase from the host.
Natural Features
The campground is situated in a forest of towering Ponderosa pine, Engelmann spruce, Douglas fir, and grand fir, which provide plentiful shade in most sites. Some sites afford lake views. Summer temperatures range from 80 to 90-degree days to cooler nights. A variety of berries and mushrooms can be found throughout the area. Local wildlife includes deer, elk, black bear, goshawk, woodpeckers, and boreal owls.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
A location closure has been issued, and the facility is closed at this time. Reservation-holders will receive an email with additional information. Please check back for location closure updates.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSagehen Creek is located in Idaho near Ola
Directions
From Horseshoe Bend, Idaho take Highway 52 for 9 miles west to the junction with the Sweet/Ola Highway. Turn north and travel 16 miles to Ola, Idaho. Travel north through Ola and follow FS Rd 618, 18 miles to Sagehen Reservoir (FS Road 626). Turn right and continue on FS Rd 626 for 7 miles. Take a left on FS Rd 614 and travel about 2 miles to Sage Hen Reservoir. Sagehen Campground is on the east side of the reservoir.
Address
EMMETT RANGER DISTRICT
1805 HIGHWAY 16, #5
Emmett, ID 83617
Coordinates
44.335 N
116.1775 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 1 hr 56 min from Boise, ID
- 3 hrs 40 min from Twin Falls, ID
- 4 hrs 17 min from Lewiston, ID
- 5 hrs 34 min from Walla Walla, WA








