A rough dirt road through the conifer-covered terrain of Sawtooth National Forest leads to Independence Lakes Campground, a walk-in site near Almo, Idaho that draws anglers and hikers from July through October. High clearance is not optional here. Reviewers consistently flag the road as a serious obstacle, and at least one camper learned the hard way that trailers, even lifted ones, have a hard time making it to the parking area without incident.
The campground itself sits in forested terrain and includes permanent fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Sites are positioned fairly close together, though early arrivals tend to find enough separation to feel spread out. A creek runs nearby, audible from camp as evening settles in. The parking lot fills on busy weekends, so arriving early matters. No pets are allowed, and all trash must be packed out.
The main draw is the 2.5-mile hike to the first of three lakes, gaining elevation steadily through switchbacks with open sightlines toward the surrounding ridgeline. Fishing is available at the lakes, which are reportedly restocked annually. One trail note worth heeding: there is an unmarked fork around the mile-and-a-half mark, and the correct route goes right. Campers who want a longer loop can continue past the third lake toward the cliff rocks above, though that section is considered more demanding.
Flat Canyon Dispersed Campground - Sawtooth National Forest sits a few miles to the north for those who want a nearby alternative with more flexibility around pets or vehicle size. Independence Lakes rewards the effort it takes to get there.
Description
Independence Lake Campground and Picnic Area is a non-fee campground and picnic area where reservations are not required. There are 5 single sites. This area is accessible for a season that varies usually between July through October. Sites are handicapped accessible. Campground amenities include 9 tables and grills, toilets, and livestock facilities. No drinking water or trash service is available. Nearby Independence Lakes Trail (#35) is 3.1 miles to the Lake. Only non-motorized travel is authorized. The first mile is rocky, however the remainder is a reasonable grade with switchbacks to the first of four lakes in the alpine cirque basin.Fish Your National Forests: This site can be accessed by Passenger Car; Fish available include: Trout; Types of fishing available include: Wade, Shore, Non-motorized boat, Float tube, Fly, Spin, Bait;
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsIndependence Lakes Campground is located in Idaho near Almo
Coordinates
42.218269 N
113.674353 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 11 min from Twin Falls, ID
- 2 hrs 22 min from Pocatello, ID
- 2 hrs 45 min from Logan, UT
- 2 hrs 49 min from Ogden, UT
