Best Campgrounds near Ketchum, ID

Ketchum, Idaho sits amid many camping spots throughout Sawtooth National Forest. The forest has sites that work well for larger RVs and campers. When you camp at Pettit Lake Campground, you'll be close to the water and several good hiking trails. Roads to most campgrounds are in good shape, though you might need a vehicle with higher clearance to reach some areas. The forest has specific fire rules and limits on how long you can stay at each site. It's smart to book ahead, particularly at busy campgrounds during summer months. Ketchum town is nearby when you need to grab food or supplies. The local rivers and lakes are good for fishing if you bring your gear. There are many trails in the area with different challenges and great views. Some campsites give you more privacy than others, depending on where you choose to stay. Most sites don't have much tree cover, so remember to bring hats and sunscreen. Make sure to take all your trash with you and follow outdoor ethics while camping. Late spring and early fall usually have the best weather for camping here. You can camp during winter too, but you'll need to prepare for the cold. The Ketchum area works well for both tent and RV camping.

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Best Camping Sites Near Ketchum, Idaho (181)

    1. North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest

    15 Reviews
    Ketchum, ID
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-8888

    $22 - $44 / night

    "Short 12-15 minute drive north from Ketchum/Sun Valley.  Only 1* off because of slight road noise but it is probably not an issue for most sites. "

    "Beautiful campground located at the mouth of Sawtooth Natl Forest. Right next to Wood River and surrounded by huge cottonwoods. Vault toilets and well water from spigot available."

    2. Lake Creek Rd Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Ketchum, ID
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 622-0090

    "This forest service land is a quick drive down Lake Creek Rd from Hwy 75 just past the town of Ketchum in the Sawtooth National Forest."

    "The sites further up are away from the others and run along a stream. Still further in, you’ll hit a Y in the road."

    3. Boundary Campground

    5 Reviews
    Sun Valley, ID
    4 miles
    Website

    $20 / night

    "Big sites, 2 vault toilets and easy access to Ketchum."

    "Campsite #7 is private with a short path to a nice creek, behind a large meadow, with views of the mountains."

    4. Murdock Creek Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    Ketchum, ID
    8 miles
    Website

    "Water is available at the dump station located on the left before you arrive. It services all area NF service campgrounds as well as paid for others not. We had good ATT service 2 and 3 bars."

    "This is a smaller campground tucked back against the mountains.  Good shade trees.  Close to hiking, fishing and mountain biking.  Campsites have a picnic table, fire ring with grill."

    5. Meadows RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Sun Valley, ID
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 726-5445

    "If you’re looking for a simple stay, close to all, including a gorgeous bike path, this will do the trick."

    "The location can't be beat, right off the river and biking trails. The mountains are absolutely gorgeous from your campsite."

    6. Corral Creek Canyon Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Sun Valley, ID
    5 miles

    "Close to Sun Valley. Place to turn around if unable to fine a campsite. No cell coverage. Only 3 day limit."

    "Quiet spot just outside the resort town. Limited spots and filled up pretty quick. Got very cold at night and the road wasn’t super busy."

    7. Wood River Campground

    5 Reviews
    Ketchum, ID
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-8888

    $125 / night

    "We were looking for a nice quiet campground to act as a base for fishing the Big Wood and visits into Ketchum/Hailey/Bellevue. Wood River did not disappoint."

    "Both the group and individual sites are at the same location. You can check out my extensive review and photos there."

    8. Easley Campground

    4 Reviews
    Ketchum, ID
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-8888

    $20 - $40 / night

    "Also nearby there are hot springs across the bridge though we did not check these out. No fires at this time!"

    9. Antelope Creek

    3 Reviews
    Sun Valley, ID
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 735-2060

    "Nice location, close to town. Close to road but not much traffic. Access can be difficult with steep access from main road and tricky spots along the access road. There are three access spots."

    "There were a couple of campers camped closer to the road from the turn-off but we managed to find a spot that was secluded and perfect for us right next to the creek."

    10. Prairie Creek Camping

    7 Reviews
    Sawtooth National Forest, ID
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 737-3200

    $5 - $42 / night

    "This campground is just outside sun valley, Idaho. When we stayed it was very quiet and many different choices of campsites, you can here the road from your site but it was not disruptive."

    "This is free dispersed camping on a dirt road loop, just off highway 75. It is located just north of Sun Valley by a few miles on highway 75 as you head towards Galena summit."

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Recent Reviews near Ketchum, ID

494 Reviews of 181 Ketchum Campgrounds


  • Raime B.
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Stanton Crossing

    Good for a night!

    We stopped here for the night while visiting Craters of the Moon. A convenient stop with a good amount of camping spots and free!

  • K
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Park Creek Campground

    AMAZING

    We were actually on our way to the Wildhorse campground and passed this and decided to check it out and were not disappointed! There was only one other family there on a Sunday night, and as soon as we pulled in we were greeted by a moose and her calf. Some of the sites are close and more bare and bigger would be good for groups or families together, others are more private. I believe there was 13 sites. Stars were also INCREDIBLE!

  • Rick L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Sunny Gulch Campground

    No hook ups, but that’s great

    Nice campground with lots of trees. Good spacing between sites, and have tent pads. Picnic tables and fire rings are nicely done. Easy access to river. Most sites could handle 30 foot travel trailer. Easy access to area attractions.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest

    Remote location just a few miles north of Ketchum

    Dispersed camping along the Wood River and a couple of SNRA Campgrounds with pit toilets and water. Amazing spot within easy driving distance of Ketchum and Sun Valley. The road dead ends at the trailhead for the Hemingway Wilderness

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 14, 2025

    Centennial Rest Area Hwy 93

    Parking lot on the edge of town.

    This parking lot allows for overnight parking, up to 16 hours. There are toilets and some picnic tables. A few trees and a nice view of the mountains.

  • Laura R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Birdie Creek Campground

    Dry Camping at its best!

    Big area off the road, easy to get in and out. Could be a great group spot and fit 3 or 4 trailers. Lots of trees for shade. Short 2 minute walk down to the river. River was about knee deep in most places and was perfect for putting in a chair and relaxing. Wildlife all around, from eagles, deer and chipmunks. Four miles from where the pavement ends and right around the corner from Bird Creek Campground. About 15-20 minutes away from Baumgartner Campgroup and hot  pool. There is no reception, and zero amenities.

  • Wayne S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Meadows RV Park

    Could not get them to respond to me

    This review does not reflect the campground but the staff. They would not respond to my phone calls nor my emails.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Sunny Gulch Campground

    Sunny Gulch

    Great space between sites. Large driveway to park the larger rigs. River in the back of the campground with a short hike to access. Nice vault toilet but no showers


Guide to Ketchum

Camping near Ketchum, Idaho, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventurous base for outdoor activities, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: The area is packed with trails. For example, at North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest, you can access nearby hiking and biking trails. One camper mentioned, "Hiking/biking trails nearby and this campground also sits along the Big Wood River."
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, head to Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed. A reviewer shared, "Wet a fly the next morning and caught a great brown trout."
  • Water Activities: Alturas Inlet Campground is perfect for those who love water sports. One visitor noted, "This is one of the most gorgeous locations for camping... The campground is right on the lake."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained sites. At Pettit Lake Campground, a reviewer said, "Clean vault toilets and clean sites. Camp host was really helpful and sweet."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Murdock Creek Dispersed mentioned, "The sound of water created a very serene environment for rest."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often make a difference. One camper at Baumgartner Campground said, "The hot spring was super enjoyable... the vault toilets were clean."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Stanton Crossing, have basic facilities. A reviewer noted, "There are no garbage cans or dumpsters so pack in and pack out."
  • Wildlife Awareness: Bears are sometimes spotted in the area. A camper at North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest warned, "There is a bear in the area at this time."
  • Cell Service: Expect limited or no cell service in many spots. A visitor at Pettit Lake Campground mentioned, "No cell coverage."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities. Baumgartner Campground has a hot spring and clean facilities, making it a great choice. One camper said, "There’s so much to do here! You’re close to a lake, you can fish the river."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or fishing gear. A family at Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed enjoyed fishing, stating, "Loved listening to the creek all night."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with plenty of food. A camper at Murdock Creek Dispersed noted, "We had good ATT service 2 and 3 bars," which can help with planning meals.

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for Big Rig-Friendly Sites: Campgrounds like North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest are big rig friendly. A reviewer mentioned, "Larger rigs can also stay at this campsite."
  • Check for Water Access: Ensure you have access to water for your RV. At Pettit Lake Campground, a visitor said, "Water accessible in an adjacent trailhead."
  • Be Prepared for Dusty Roads: Some campgrounds have gravel roads. A camper at Stanton Crossing noted, "The campground road is gravelly and circles most of the small campground."

Camping near Ketchum, Idaho, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike. Just remember to pack wisely and be aware of your surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping allowed around Ketchum, Idaho?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed in several areas around Ketchum. Free dispersed sites are available near the SNRA Guard Station just north of Ketchum off Highway 75, offering private camping near the Big Wood River with established fire rings. Lake Creek Rd Dispersed provides additional options for those seeking a more primitive experience. Many dispersed areas in Sawtooth National Forest have basic amenities like fire rings but no water or toilets, so come prepared with supplies. Always follow Leave No Trace principles, camp in previously used sites, and check current fire restrictions before your trip, as they can change seasonally.

What amenities are available at Ketchum campgrounds?

Campgrounds around Ketchum offer varying levels of amenities. Wood River Campground, located about 10 miles north of Ketchum, serves as an excellent base for fishing and town visits. For RV camping, Riverside RV Campground south of Hailey provides full hookup sites, though it's more functional than scenic. Most public campgrounds in the area feature vault toilets, while some like North Fork also have potable water from spigots. Campground hosts at several locations sell firewood ($7/bundle at North Fork) and provide helpful information. Boundary Campground typically offers water during peak season (though it's turned off later in the year) and has vault toilets with a $10 fee per site.

Where are the best campgrounds near Ketchum, Idaho?

North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest is highly recommended, located just 12-15 minutes north of Ketchum at the mouth of Sawtooth National Forest. It offers beautiful sites surrounded by cottonwoods along Wood River. Caribou Campground is another excellent choice with a small, quiet loop free from traffic noise and close enough to bike to the Harriman trail. For those willing to venture a bit further, East Fork Baker Creek Campground is about 25 minutes north of Ketchum and offers shaded, private sites. These campgrounds provide convenient access to Ketchum's amenities while still delivering a genuine outdoor experience.