Best Tent Camping near Clayton, ID
The Sawtooth National Forest surrounding Clayton, Idaho offers numerous tent camping options ranging from established campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites. Little Bayhorse Campground, located in the Challis National Forest, provides tent-only sites with clean, well-spaced campsites near a lake with fishing and hiking opportunities. Basin Creek Transfer Camp Trailhead offers creekside tent camping with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. For those seeking more seclusion, dispersed tent camping is available along Nip and Tuck Road near Stanley, approximately 30 miles west of Clayton, with sites offering views of the Sawtooth Range.
Most tent campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically from late May through September, with higher elevation sites often inaccessible until snowmelt completes. Tent campsites generally feature dirt or gravel pads with minimal improvements. Water availability is limited throughout the area, requiring campers to bring their own supply or obtain water in nearby towns like Challis or Stanley. Vault toilets are present at established campgrounds but absent at dispersed sites. Fire restrictions are common during summer months, particularly in August and September. Walk-in tent sites at locations like Redfish Inlet Trailhead require additional planning as they're accessible only by boat or hiking trail.
Tent-only areas provide distinct advantages for campers seeking natural experiences. According to reviews, creekside sites at Basin Creek offer "a few nice options by the creek" with some sites being "a little sandy from the burn" and "a little buggy in early season." At Redfish Lake, one camper noted the area is "one of the most beautiful blue lakes in Idaho" with weekdays offering significantly fewer crowds than weekends. Primitive tent camping areas throughout the region serve as excellent baseposts for day hiking, fishing, and backcountry exploration. The higher elevation of many sites provides cooler temperatures than the surrounding valleys, making them particularly appealing during summer months when lower elevations experience significant heat.
