Anglers and swimmers find direct access to Lake Cleveland's clear waters at this Forest Service campground that accommodates RVs up to 60 feet. The east side sites work well for larger rigs, while vault toilets and metal fire rings with attached grills serve the camping area. Campers can reserve sites online, though local visitors often book holiday weekends well in advance.
The one-lane access road levels out as it approaches the lake, revealing the first campsite on the left with views down to the water. Alan B. notes "we could see fish swimming among the rocks from 20' above on the road," and walking down to the shoreline reveals even more trout activity. The lake supports both fishing and swimming, with crystal-clear water that allows visibility to significant depths.
Sites vary in privacy, with some reservable spots positioned quite close together. The campground operates from early July through late November at $10 per night. Cell service reaches the area, and pets are welcome throughout the campground. For campers exploring the region, sites around Sawtooth National Forest offer additional mountain camping options within the same forest system.
The Lake Cleveland Campground West Side provides an alternative just across the water for those preferring tent-focused sites.
Description
Overview
Lake Cleveland Campground is a very popular summer recreational facility. Located next to its namesake, the campground is divided into the East Side and West Side loops. Very popular with residents of local communities, the campground is often full every weekend from early July to Labor Day.
Recreation
Fishing, kayaking, hiking and swimming are all popular activities within the Lake Cleveland area during the summer months. Non-motorized boating and floating is allowed on Lake Cleveland. Motorized recreation is limited to system roads and trails; no cross-country motorized travel is allowed.
Facilities
Seventeen camping sites are located in the East campground loop, seven of which are reservable, the remaining ten are first-come, first-served. The East side of the lake is best suited for large RVs and trailers. Nine campsites are available on the West side of the lake on a first-come, first-served basis. Trailers are not advised on the West side of the lake because the turn-around is very tight (limited space due to steep terrain).
Natural Features
At an elevation of 8,300 feet, the campground facility is located in an alpine lake basin below Mt. Harrison which has an elevation of 9,240 feet. Late season snowdrifts on the county road and in the campground often block access until early to mid-July. The campground is near the timberline and alpine wildflower meadows. Expansive views north across the Snake River Plain and south into Utah and Nevada can be found near the campground.
Nearby Attractions
Two miles from Lake Cleveland, Mt. Harrison has a fully functional fire lookout tower. Nearby Pomerelle ski area offers lift-served access to mountain bike and hiking trails. Two miles away, Twin Lakes Campground offers equestrian facilities and access to the Skyline Trail which is open for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and dirt bikes.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundLake Cleveland - East Side is located in Idaho
Directions
From Interstate 84, take exit 216 and follow State Highway 77 south approximately 18 miles, through the towns of Declo and Albion, to Howell Canyon Road. Turn west at the Pomerelle Ski Area sign and drive up the canyon on Howell Canyon Road another 7 miles. The road is steep and winding. Look for an entrance sign on your right. Use caution with travel trailers and RVs, as not all campground loops are suitable for trailer turnarounds.
Address
2306 HILAND AVE
Burley, ID 83318
Coordinates
42.3233333 N
113.6469444 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/18/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/18/26- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/18/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/18/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 37 min from Twin Falls, ID
- 1 hr 49 min from Pocatello, ID
- 2 hrs 18 min from Logan, UT
- 2 hrs 23 min from Idaho Falls, ID
