The Lemhi Valley surrounding Leadore sits at over 6,000 feet elevation in east-central Idaho, making for cool evenings even during summer months when daytime temperatures typically reach the 80s. Camping options range from primitive sites along Timber Creek Reservoir to more developed facilities at Leadore City Park, with most campgrounds experiencing peak visitor numbers from July through September. Seasonal access varies significantly with higher elevation sites often inaccessible until snowmelt concludes in late June.
What to do
Fishing access at Meadow Lake: The lake is stocked twice annually by Fish and Game, providing reliable catches. As one camper notes, "There are lots of fish to be caught. Fish and Game stock it twice a year. There are four wheeler trails outside the campground and there is a hike loop right in the campground" (Meadow Lake Campground).
Alpine hiking options: Several campgrounds near Leadore offer trail access for all skill levels. "This is a very nice and clean campground situated within a small cirque of mountain summits... There is a small trail system with a trailhead at each end of the campground, a 3/4 mile loop between the two through subalpine forest, and two other trails off of that loop that go higher up to a small pond and eventually up to the 10,200 ft Lemhi Pass with views to mountain ranges to the west" (Meadow Lake Campground).
Ghost town exploration: Within a 45-minute drive of Leadore, Bannack State Park offers unique historical experiences. "The 1860s mining town's buildings have been stabilized but not restored. It's fascinating... A creek runs through the campground, and all was well maintained" (Vigilante Campground — Bannack State Park).
What campers like
Mountain backdrop views: The positioning of many campgrounds offers exceptional scenery. "This campground is located at the base of sheep mountain, with a gorgeous view of the steep walls and a beautiful lake" (Meadow Lake Campground).
Affordable camping options: Most campgrounds in the area maintain reasonable rates. "Right before you come in to Leadore from the north/west on hwy 28. Decent. Works in a pinch 5$ water and bathrooms" (Leadore City Park).
Sheltered picnic areas: Several locations feature covered tables, particularly valuable during summer heat or rain. "There was so much room for tents, rigs, cars, and boat trailers. Dog friendly, clean pit toilets, manual water pump, and beautiful sunrise/sunset over the lake" (Beaverhead Campground).
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds, with higher elevation sites often having no service. "Verizon had spotty signal (less than 1 bar)" (Lewis & Clark Campground).
Weather preparation essential: Mountain weather can change rapidly throughout the year. "It's a long uphill drive on a narrow road to get there but it's worth it... The wind blows A LOT here, so be prepared" (Meadow Lake Campground).
Insect management: Mosquitoes can be problematic at certain times, especially near water sources. "The mosquitos were out of control so be sure to bring bug spray and netting. Watch for snakes" (Clark Canyon Recreation Area).
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Leadore feature safe water access for children. "The lake is beautiful and would be fun to kayak or paddle board on. We did some hiking up the trails to look over the campsite and the lake but did not take the full trail. Bathrooms were very clean and well stocked" (Meadow Lake Campground).
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer junior ranger programs and historical learning. "Kids visiting the park can work on a Jr. Ranger program. Great time to visit is when they have volunteers dressed in period clothing" (Vigilante Campground — Bannack State Park).
Spacious sites for play: Many campgrounds provide ample room for children to explore safely. "Awesome little campground next to Grasshopper Creek. There aren't many sites here but we were lucky enough to get two. Each space has plenty of room for the kids to run around and play. Caught a few fish on the fly too" (Vigilante Campground).
Tips from RVers
Seasonal accessibility: RV campers should check road conditions before traveling to higher elevation campgrounds. "Note the hwy 2 heading west towards La Hood might be a little hazardous with jetting out rocks against a large trailer" (Lewis & Clark Campground).
Level sites available: Despite the mountainous terrain, several locations offer suitable RV parking. "Better than we expected... Large, flat gravel pads (our 43.5' TH fits fine), not crowded, and almost every site has a firepit and ramada over the picnic table" (Beaverhead Campground).
Hook-up options limited: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Leadore have minimal or no hookups. "Nestled next to an old ghost town with a creek flowing around it... No hook ups. Vault toilets, community water faucet. Plenty of room for our 30' trailer and truck. Just empty your tanks and fill up on water, food and supplies in Dillon" (Vigilante Campground).
Traveler
