Camping near Salmon-Challis National Forest

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.

Best Camping Sites Near Salmon-Challis National Forest (167)

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Recent Reviews near Salmon-Challis National Forest

376 Reviews of 167 Salmon-Challis National Forest Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed

    Very clean campground

    The 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.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Chinook Bay Campground

    Close to gorgeous lake

    Site 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.

  • Mark The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed

    Convienent location

    Convenient 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.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Deadman Hole

    Clean, road noise, walk to river

    This 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

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Cactus River Ranch RV & Campground

    Here overnight

    Beautiful 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.

  • 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.

  • Kenny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Deer Gulch

    Great spot! Easy access

    Just 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.

  • Kenny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Salmon Creek Camp on Loening Road

    Does not appear to be easily accessible

    The 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.

  • 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 Salmon-Challis National Forest

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.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. Many campers rave about the access to trails like the one leading to Goat Lake. One visitor mentioned, "The hike up to Goat Lake is still one of our most favorite hikes, simply gorgeous but strenuous at times, so be prepared."
  • Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers. A camper at Redfish Lake Outlet Campground said, "Gorgeous views. Any kind of water sports you crave."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A reviewer noted, "Fauna is abundant in the surrounding area. Deer, elk, bear, marten, moose, and pronghorn antelope all made appearances during my last trip."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking scenery. One visitor at Stanley Lake Campground shared, "Incredible views from about half of the sites."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A reviewer at Salmon River Campground mentioned, "Cleanest vault toilets ever. Asphalt roads and sites in good condition."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peaceful environment. A visitor at Iron Creek Campground said, "Quiet campsite. Walk to the trailhead."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell reception. A camper at Casino Creek Campground noted, "Zero cell reception ATT, Verizon, or TMobile."
  • Fire Restrictions: Check for fire bans before your trip. A visitor at Sunny Gulch Campground mentioned, "No fires allowed when we visited."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Glacier View Campground advised, "Expect to make reservations approximately 6 months in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities like picnic tables and clean restrooms. A parent at Challis Hot Springs said, "Beautiful kept park with friendly service great hot tubs."
  • Plan Activities: Keep kids entertained with nearby hiking and fishing. A reviewer at Mormon Bend Campground shared, "You can fish or swim in the river on those warm days."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Elk Mountain RV Resort mentioned, "Great view. Friendly staff. Had hot showers."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Salmon River Campground noted, "Each site varies in length. We would fit in many of them in our 26' Class C but larger rigs may have a problem."
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Some campgrounds can get dusty due to traffic. A visitor at Stanley Lake Campground mentioned, "There is constant traffic from site seekers and continual dusting because of it."
  • Bring Extra Water: Not all campgrounds have water hookups. A camper at Iron Creek Campground said, "There is one water pump and one vault toilet in the campground."

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.