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

372 Reviews of 167 Salmon-Challis National Forest Campgrounds


  • 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

  • Brendon B.
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Petit Lake Dispersed Camping

    Great spots, close to the Tin Cup trailhead!

    Within 5 minutes from the lake and the trailhead for the Alice-Toxaway Loop. Quite a few camping spots available back this direction, I saw at least 7 spots up close to the entrance, and it did go back farther. Plenty of room for trailer rigs or just tents like me.

    I came on a Sunday night, several people leaving, several spots available. Not sure if it would be the same towards the beginning of the weekend.

  • Anne E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Cottonwood Recreation Site

    Best campground so far

    This is a little gem with easy paved access and paved throughout. Just off the highway with good signage right on the Salmon River. 15 fcfs sites. No reservations 2 of those are tent sites, 2 are pull thrus. The rest are back in with 7 of those being on the rivers edge. Only $10/night. Half price with Golden Agers pass. 14 day limit. Clean vault toilets. Water on sites. Dump station.

  • Paige P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Salmon River - Dispersed Camping

    Great spot on the water

    A bit close to the highway, but right on Salmon River, really lovely. There was a fire ring

  • Rowen S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2025

    Decker Flats Dispersed

    Perfect spot for River lovers

    An excellent spot. Super beautiful right inbetween burned and pristine forest on the river. Close enough to Stanley but still a world away. I camped for two nights and it was chilly in July but so quiet and peaceful despite every other spot being occupied by an RV. Might luck out for a smaller spot if you camp light.


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.