Cabin rentals near Ketchum, Idaho sit at elevations between 5,800-8,000 feet in the Sawtooth National Forest, where summer nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F even in July. The area experiences significant seasonal closures, with most cabin facilities operating only from late May through mid-October due to heavy winter snowfall that can exceed 100 inches annually.
What to do
Mountain biking on rails-to-trails path: At Murdock Creek Dispersed campground, visitors can access the 30+ mile multi-purpose trail that starts just down the road. "The rails to trails multi purpose trail starts just down the road. Super safe place to ride," notes one camper who enjoyed the accessibility to outdoor activities.
Stargazing under dark skies: Pitch your tent at the cabins and campsites around Redfish Lake for exceptional night sky viewing. "The real treat came when we saw the beauty of the night sky unencumbered by city lights; the Milky Way was on full display," explains a visitor to Murdock campground, highlighting the area's minimal light pollution.
Fishing in alpine waters: The Sawtooth region offers multiple fishing opportunities at various elevations. A visitor to Mackay Tourist Park notes, "I love mackay and its community, if you show up in the summer you get amazing weather and incredible fishing."
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Cabin campers value well-maintained facilities. At Stanley RV + Camp, reviewers specifically mention the "bathrooms, showers and laundry room are pristine for a campground! Hot water was no issue and they have a great little store if you're out of anything."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area's cabins provide opportunities to observe local fauna. "Had 2 deer meander through the campground in the morning!" reports a camper at Mackay Tourist Park, while others mention seeing elk, moose, and other wildlife throughout the region.
Scenic mountain vistas: Glacier View Campground near Stanley delivers on its name with exceptional mountain panoramas. "The campsites are large, with paved and relatively level driveways for campers and RVs, and flat cleared areas to set up a tent," notes one reviewer, adding that "some have views of the Sawtooth Mountains."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin accommodations require advance planning. For Point Campground cabins, a visitor advises, "Be sure to reserve or arrive very early to get a walk in spot anywhere around the lake."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations are extreme year-round. "Come prepared for cold nights even in the summer," warns a reviewer at Mount Heyburn Campground, noting that "water will be just as cold unless its August but it's refreshing and extremely clear."
Limited connectivity: Cell service and internet access are minimal throughout the region. At The Sawmill Station, a visitor reports, "We didn't have any AT&T cell service the entire time. We also logged into their wifi but it never worked for us."
Tips for camping with families
Walk-in cabin sites for safety: Cabins in walk-in areas provide secure environments for children. At Point Campground, a reviewer notes, "This campground is great when camping with children, especially with the bathrooms & lack of car traffic on the tent-only side."
Bring entertainment for evenings: While days offer numerous activities, evening amenities can be limited. "They had horseshoes and bean bags in a common area," mentions a reviewer at Smiley Creek Lodge, suggesting simple games help occupy children.
Water activities with caution: Lake temperatures remain cold throughout most of the season. A visitor to Mount Heyburn Campground warns, "Water will be just as cold unless its August," suggesting families should monitor children during water activities.
Tips from RVers
Know your site limitations: Not all cabin and RV sites offer equal amenities. At Smiley Creek Lodge, a camper advises, "Avoid spot number #17 if possible. The sewer hookup was loose and shared with a long term resident on the other side, also the water spigot was broken."
Check site leveling before setup: Mountain terrain creates challenges for level parking. A reviewer at Stanley RV + Camp mentions, "Only comment is that the sites are rocky; hopefully in the next few years they can be paved."
Plan for no hookups at some locations: Many cabin areas have limited services. At Glacier View Campground, a reviewer notes, "Unfortunately, there are no hookups, so prepare accordingly. There are water spigots about every 3 sites, so filling your tank via 5 gallon bucket is possible if you don't mind the labor."
