Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Salmon-Challis National Forest and user-submitted reviews.
"Cute campsite with an old dragline excavator next to it. Access to the river, nice little fire ring"
"Near the lake. No water, has vault toilets. Roads can be slick."
"Really cool massive boulders are in and around the campground, and even though it is along the pass and near a beautiful gorge, you really can’t see anything beyond the campground due to the terrain."
"NO cell service whatsoever here either(AT&T) Location works for exploring the local areas up and down the fork"
"I did it with my Tacoma pulling a tiny camper but when I arrived at the lake, there were much larger vehicles than mine already there."
"This place was recommended by our camp host in lower Idaho. We made the drive up in our F-350 diesel and it felt sketchy in a few places. Took about 45 min."
$29 - $43 / night
"Sure there are a bazillion to choose from along the highway, but I wanted to soak in the highly reviewed waters. I was NOT disappointed!!!"
"showers; camp store with ice; WiFi; wildlife(two mountain goats lead me in on the road); walking trail; shade trees(no hammocks allowed). And it is next to the Snake river. Seriously??"
"My top sites of choice are sites 2 and 3 because of the shade and proximity to the creek. Site 3 is closer to the vault toilet and the working water pump."
ScoutThe campground was right off the highway. Traffic noise during the day, but pretty much quiet at night. Only three other campers besides us. Redfish lake campgrounds were full. I would stay here again, as it was clean, well maintained, and the vault toilet was very clean.
GuideSite 13 is a little close to the road so we do get some road noise, but there is a nice short path that takes you right out to the lake with a spectacular view of the sawtooth mountains. Camp host was very nice and the camps are very cleanand spacious.
GuideConvenient location to Redfish Lake and Stanley. Road and spots have recently been updated with packed sand like substance. Sites marked with large stones. To the far right there is no trailer turn around but a site large enough for a 5th wheel if you back all the way in. Center area has back in and a couple pull thrus. To the left there are 7 back in spots and 1 in the middle that can be a pull thru. The left side is better for solar with larger spots. Potable water and dump at both Redfish Lake and Stanley Ranger station. Both areas are $12 and both a short drive. Dumpsters at both locations. We were her mid September and it was pretty open during the week but filled up on the weekend. Close to 75 so road noise but it calms down at night. 4 rating was because of road noise and generators (including open frame) running nonstop over the weekend. Weather was beautiful (70s) during day and low 30s to high 20s at night. Propane refill in Stanley.
GuideThis is a nice campground right off the road though so you do get some car noise. A fire ring, shade cover and picnic table are provided for the five campsites as well as a pit toilet. The river is about a four -8 minute walk or so from most campsites. Very clean
TravelerBeautiful river - the non service site is great- easy back in with 24 ft TT. Wouldn’t choose service sites. Too close together and hard right angles.
GuideNice 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.
GuideJust off the main highway, and only a narrow bridge as an obstacle. There is currently a 30’ish foot big fifth wheel here, so I guess it can handle the weight. Just watch your sides if you are pulling a camper.
Plenty of room for Rv’s and tents. Lots of open space next to the river. There are some shaded spots, and plenty of unshaded in case you have Starlink. There are even some metal campfire rings.
Easy river access, too! Note that you can turn right or left once across the bridge. Fewer people to the left.
GuideThe first bride is closed, and the second bridge is pretty narrow. I have a 16 foot camper, and didn’t feel comfortable crossing it. I couldn’t see anything across the river that looked like a good candidate for camping, other than a very overgrown depression with some sort of signage. It appeared to be right where the maps were trying to take me.
Hope someone else can visit it and shed some light, but it’s a no go for me!
Hot in the summer. There are some higher elevation spots a good ways down the highway.
Deer Gulch 20 minutes further down is decent, but still hot. Plenty of open space, though… and not too terrible of a bridge to cross. I saw a 30’ish foot fifth wheel that made it across… so… Deer Gulch spot is good.
TravelerGreat 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
Camping near Salmon-Challis National Forest, Idaho, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the water, this area has something for everyone.
Camping near Salmon-Challis National Forest, Idaho, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful scenery, plenty of activities, and well-maintained campgrounds, it’s a perfect getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Custer Motorway in Salmon-Challis National Forest?
The Custer Motorway is a historic backcountry route through Salmon-Challis National Forest that follows the path taken by miners during the 1870s gold rush. This scenic byway stretches approximately 46 miles and connects Challis to Sunbeam, passing through the abandoned mining town of Custer. The motorway provides access to several historic sites and ghost towns, offering a glimpse into Idaho's mining history. Custer #1 Campground is accessible along this route, providing a convenient overnight option for travelers. The road is generally open from July through October, depending on snow conditions. Most of the route requires high-clearance vehicles, and four-wheel drive is recommended, especially after rain. Always check current road conditions before attempting this backcountry drive.
Where are the best camping spots in Salmon-Challis National Forest?
Salmon-Challis National Forest offers outstanding camping options across its vast terrain. Stanley Lake Campground provides stunning lake views and convenient walk-up sites, though it's popular in peak summer months. Yellowjacket Guard Station offers a unique experience with its remote feel and historic setting, making it an excellent basecamp for wilderness exploration. For those seeking dispersed camping, areas near the Salmon River offer free boondocking with a 10-day stay limit between May and September. The forest also features numerous smaller campgrounds with amenities ranging from basic (pit toilets only) to more developed sites with water access. Many campgrounds are first-come, first-served, so arriving mid-week or early in the day is recommended during peak season.
Are there any pit closures or restrictions in Salmon-Challis National Forest?
Salmon-Challis National Forest typically implements seasonal fire restrictions during dry summer months that may affect campfire use. These restrictions can range from requiring fires only in designated fire rings to complete bans during extreme conditions. Iron Creek Campground and other popular areas maintain vault toilets that are generally open during the main camping season (May-September), though facilities at higher elevations may close earlier due to snow access issues. Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed and similar dispersed camping areas enforce a 10-day stay limit between May 1 and September. Before heading out, check the Salmon-Challis National Forest website or contact a ranger station for current information on road closures, facility maintenance, and seasonal restrictions, as these can change based on weather, wildlife considerations, and maintenance schedules.
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