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Dispersed Camping

Loon Lake

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Loon Lake is located in the Payette National Forest, surrounded by forested terrain and a lake. Temperatures range from lows in the 30s Fahrenheit in spring and fall to highs in the 80s during summer. Nearby attractions include the historic Burgdorf Hot Springs and the scenic Secesh River, offering opportunities for relaxation and exploration.

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Location

Loon Lake is located in Idaho

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

45.16691077 N
115.83616955 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Loon Lake needs a permit.

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General Info


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1 Review

Reviewed Jul. 12, 2020

Amazing views and history!

This campground is a hike-in area unless you visit via dirt bikes, mountain bikes or horses. It is 4.4 miles to Loon Lake from the Chinook Campground.Chinook is the last place you can get water and use a pit toilet before going on the hike. Follow the Loon Lake Loop trail to get to the lake. It is likely you may be the only person camping there, but you will see people hiking in to visit the plane wreckage of a B-23 Dragon Bomber which crashed on the other side of the lake in 1943. The plane can be difficult to find as you have to bushwack to get to it. I did find a little trail that brought me out, but it is often hard to find. We hiked along the right side of the lake, then bushwacked to the left, forded a creek, and was able to find the plane. I have heard and red that you can find the plane by going around an unmaintained forest service trail on the left side of the lake as well. If you make it this far I encourage you to find the plane and read the informational signs no matter what. The story is incredible! While it is longer to hike back out on the rest of the loop, the trail is completely different than coming in and provides amazing views of the Secesh river. Don't expect any amenities when camping at Loon Lake. This spot is truly for those interested in packing in and packing out what they want to use in a remote setting.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Loon Lake by Hannah C., July 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Loon Lake by Hannah C., July 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Loon Lake by Hannah C., July 12, 2020
  • (5) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the camping facilities available at Loon Lake Idaho?

Loon Lake offers primitive camping facilities in a remote wilderness setting. The area is undeveloped with no established amenities like running water or toilets at the lake itself. The last available water and pit toilets are located at Chinook Campground before the 4.4-mile hike in. Campers should be prepared for backcountry camping, bringing all necessary supplies including water filtration equipment, food, and waste disposal bags. Plan to practice Leave No Trace principles during your stay at this pristine alpine lake.

How do I get to Loon Lake in Idaho?

Loon Lake in Idaho is accessible via a 4.4-mile hike from Chinook Campground. This is primarily a hike-in destination, though it can also be reached using dirt bikes, mountain bikes, or horses. The trailhead begins at Chinook Campground, which serves as the last point for water access and restroom facilities before your journey to the lake. Follow the Loon Lake Loop trail all the way to the lake. Be sure to prepare appropriately for a wilderness hike with proper gear and supplies.

What hiking trails are available near Loon Lake Idaho?

The primary trail serving Loon Lake is the Loon Lake Loop trail, a 4.4-mile path connecting Chinook Campground to the lake. This trail is suitable for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. The route offers scenic forest views culminating in the beautiful alpine lake destination. While specific information about additional trails branching from Loon Lake isn't detailed, the surrounding wilderness area likely offers opportunities for day hikes around the lake and further exploration. Trail difficulty is moderate, requiring proper hiking footwear and wilderness preparation.