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Camping near Sawtooth National Forest

555 Reviews

The Sawtooth National Forest area provides a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed sites across central Idaho's mountainous terrain. Campgrounds like Chemeketan and North Fork feature developed facilities with picnic tables, vault toilets, and seasonal availability, typically operating from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Prairie Creek offers free dispersed camping with designated sites near flowing water. The region includes options for various camping styles, from tent-only areas to RV-accessible sites with hookups at places like Smiley Creek Lodge, which also offers cabin accommodations and yurts.

Many campgrounds in the area require high-clearance vehicles to navigate rough dirt roads, particularly at sites like Chemeketan. "I was surprised to have the entire campground to myself," noted one camper about Chemeketan, highlighting the seclusion available even during peak season. Water availability varies significantly between locations, with some campgrounds providing drinking water while others, such as Prairie Creek, require visitors to bring their own supplies. Cell service is generally limited throughout the region, with most reviews mentioning zero coverage at sites like Prairie Creek. Seasonal access depends heavily on snow conditions, with some areas inaccessible until late spring or early summer due to snowpack at higher elevations.

Campers consistently praise the natural surroundings and scenic views available throughout the Sawtooth area. Multiple reviews highlight the opportunities for wildlife viewing, with one visitor describing evening sightings of mule deer and pronghorn at meadow-adjacent campsites. Water features represent a significant draw, with many campers specifically selecting sites near creeks or lakes. Several visitors mentioned proximity to trails as another advantage, with campgrounds often serving as convenient basecamps for day hikes. While roadside noise affects some locations like Prairie Creek, most reviews indicate the sound diminishes significantly at night. Campground cleanliness and site spacing received positive mentions across multiple reviews, with adequate privacy between sites at most established campgrounds.

Map showing campgrounds near Sawtooth National Forest, IdahoExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Sawtooth National Forest (241)

    1. Prairie Creek Camping

    7 Reviews
    Sawtooth National Forest, ID
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 737-3200

    $5 - $42 / night

    "This campground is just outside sun valley, Idaho. When we stayed it was very quiet and many different choices of campsites, you can here the road from your site but it was not disruptive."

    "This is free dispersed camping on a dirt road loop, just off highway 75. It is located just north of Sun Valley by a few miles on highway 75 as you head towards Galena summit."

    2. North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest

    15 Reviews
    Ketchum, ID
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-8888

    $22 - $44 / night

    "Right off Hwy 75 in the Sawtooth National Forest is this nice campground within a grove of aspens. The road through the campground is gravel and the sites are gravel and dirt."

    "This campground is located just north of Catchem Idaho just off the highway. 27 sites. Very clean and well-maintained pick toilets. Larger rigs can also stay at this campsite. Highly recommend."

    3. Chemeketan Campground

    5 Reviews
    Atlanta, ID
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-8888

    $100 - $200 / night

    "The campground was down a very dusty road, but it was near the headwaters of the Salmon River, AKA the RIver of No Return."

    "Best scenery and lots of tent sites away from crowds. Will go back again."

    4. Smiley Creek Lodge

    7 Reviews
    Sawtooth National Forest, ID
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 774-3547

    "The location is convenient just off the highway, and the sites were clean, easy to get into, and the hookups all worked great."

    "We paid $100 a night which is a premium but given the location it felt worth it."

    5. Easley Campground

    4 Reviews
    Ketchum, ID
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-8888

    $20 - $40 / night

    "This campground is off Hwy 75 in Sawtooth National Forest somewhat in a grove of aspens."

    6. Smokey Bear

    6 Reviews
    Atlanta, ID
    12 miles
    Website

    "I lucked into this empty campground on my drive to Stanley, Idaho. I had my pick of eight sites, a couple of which were double sites."

    "Crystal blue lake in the heart of Sawtooth. Mountain views. Off the beaten path and worth it. Hiking. Fishing. Boating. SUP (loved seeing the fish swimming under my board). Chilling."

    7. Alturas Inlet Campground

    5 Reviews
    Atlanta, ID
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-8888

    $24 - $48 / night

    "Alturas Lake Inlet campground is tucked into the lovely, shady forest around it. We saw plenty of birds, chipmunks and tiny wildflowers were all over our site in early July."

    "Close to Stanley, great site managers, and nearby lakes/trails make this a great place for all campers! (Our rig was 33ft class A)"

    8. Wood River Campground

    6 Reviews
    Ketchum, ID
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-8888

    $125 / night

    "Both the group and individual sites are at the same location. You can check out my extensive review and photos there."

    "It is located @ 10 miles north of Ketchum making it very convenient to run into town for supplies, meals, shopping, and entertainment."

    9. North Shore Campground (Alturas)

    5 Reviews
    Atlanta, ID
    12 miles
    Website

    "They have access to the lake and a very friendly host to assist with fees and firewood. The restrooms were super clean!"

    "Because it is so tranquil, beautiful and on a crystal clear blue lake with the Sawtooth Mountains as a backdrop, this area is super popular. With only 11 sites, it is hard to find vacancies."

    10. Pettit Lake Campground

    7 Reviews
    Stanley, ID
    16 miles
    Website

    "Situated next to Pettit Lake this campground served as a base camp while we explored the nearby hikes (Alice & Farley). Helpful host. Clean pit toilet."

    "It's a great place to set up camp if you're doing the hike to Alice lake (one of the best hikes).The campground is conveniently located right next to the trailhead."

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Recent Camping Photos near Sawtooth National Forest

192 Photos of 241 Sawtooth National Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Sawtooth National Forest

555 Reviews of 241 Sawtooth National Forest Campgrounds

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 1, 2025

    Little Camas Reservoir

    Just Beautiful

    It is definitely off the beaten path. 20 miles off of the main highway and then a gravel road in. All ok. Make sure to turn in before you pass the outhouse. There are zero services so you have to be self contained. We were the only ones here on Halloween!

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Nip and Tuck Rd - Dispersed Camping

    Spectacular views

    There are campsites some with fire Rings some without all along this road. It is completely primitive camping pack it in pack it out Bring Your Own water. But for a few nights it would be a superb hideout in the quiet of nature. 10-day limit two bars Verizon. Clear views all around with unparalleled astronomy night viewing. I'll come back here in a heartbeat.

  • Dallin S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Alice Lake Primitive Campsite - Sawtooth National Forest

    Surprisingly Great

    Get there early find a great spot mine was near the higher side of the lake. Spent the morning waiting for the sun to come over the mountains to dry off my tent great thunderstorm in September. The mist on the lake in the morning dances like ghosts on a glass surface. Memorable. My opinion hike up toxaway and come down Alice side.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Little Camas Reservoir

    Good overnight stop

    This was a nice place to stop overnight. The views were very nice even though the reservoir is nearly dry (more like a pond). It’s only 2 miles off of the paved road on a decent gravel road with a little washboard. Has a vault toilet only, no other facilities or trash. Plenty of room for any size rv or tent.

  • Dallin S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Wood River Campground

    Single Night, tent

    Good site separation, parking was easy, water and bathrooms close accessible and clean. Trees for hammocks available. Wood sold by camp liaison office started at 8 am a little late of you want an early start so pay day before pending arrival time.

  • 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

Guide to Sawtooth National Forest

Camping near Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho, offers stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. With various campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure.

What to do:

  • Hiking: The area is packed with trails for all skill levels. For instance, the hike to Goat Lake from Iron Creek Campground is popular. One camper noted, “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 at Redfish Lake. A visitor shared, “The lodge next door offers live music on the lawn. A restaurant with really good food, full bar, ice cream stand, camp store, sandy beach, boat/kayak/SUP rentals.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife. One camper at Redfish Inlet Trailhead mentioned, “Beautiful campgrounds with fearlessly friendly deer who visit your evening campfire.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. A review from Stanley Lake Campground highlights, “Incredible views from about half of the sites. The views are to die for.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A visitor at North Fork Campground said, “Very clean and well-maintained pit toilets. Larger rigs can also stay at this campsite. Highly recommend.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peaceful environment. One review for Sockeye Campground states, “Clean quiet campground. Plenty of great spots to choose from.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have little to no cell reception. A camper at Salmon River Campground noted, “No cell reception ATT, Verizon, or TMobile.”
  • No Showers: Most campgrounds do not offer shower facilities. A visitor at North Fork Campground mentioned, “There is no power and no cell service.”
  • Bear Awareness: Be cautious of wildlife, especially bears. A camper at Iron Creek Campground advised, “Be bear aware. There was snow this visit.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with roomy sites. A family at Sunny Gulch Campground appreciated, “Very private sites widely spaced out. Level, gravel back in spots with metal picnic tables on concrete pad.”
  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Engage kids with nearby hiking and water sports. A review from Sockeye Campground mentions, “Great camp host-Jim. Super clean! You will not regret the views are to die for!!!!”
  • Safety First: Always supervise children near water. A camper at Salmon River Campground reminded, “Store food appropriately as there are no bear boxes and bears do come to this area.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Big Rig Friendly: Many campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. A review for North Fork Campground states, “Sites are reservable on recreation.gov. Good for RVs, vans or tents.”
  • Check Road Conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A visitor at Iron Creek Campground noted, “The road to get back to the campsite is pretty rough, but if you have a higher clearance vehicle it would be okay.”
  • Plan Ahead: Reservations are recommended during peak season. A camper at Stanley Lake Campground shared, “Check out the videos for a realistic view of the sites.”

Camping near Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With stunning views, clean facilities, and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect getaway for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best camping spots in Sawtooth National Forest?

Sawtooth National Forest offers diverse camping options for every preference. Pettit Lake Campground provides lakeside sites perfect for exploring nearby trails to Alice and Farley Lakes, with clean facilities and well-spaced sites for $18/night. For those seeking free dispersed camping, Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed offers boondocking opportunities near Stanley with a 10-day stay limit between May and September. Other excellent options include Corral Creek for large designated dispersed sites and Stanley Lake for stunning mountain views. The area between Stanley and Redfish Lake is particularly scenic, while those preferring proximity to Ketchum should explore the Wood River Valley area campgrounds.

When is the best time of year to camp in Sawtooth National Forest?

The prime camping season in Sawtooth National Forest runs from late May through September, with July and August offering the most reliable weather. At Sunny Gulch Campground near Stanley, campers enjoy perfect summer conditions with incredible views. Late September brings beautiful fall colors, especially at North Fork Campground where aspen groves create a spectacular autumn display. Weather can change rapidly in the Sawtooths, with potential frost even in summer at higher elevations. Many campgrounds and forest roads close by mid-October due to snow. Spring camping (May-early June) offers fewer crowds but prepare for variable conditions and potential facility limitations as some campgrounds may still be opening for the season.

What amenities are available at Sawtooth National Forest campgrounds?

Amenities vary across Sawtooth National Forest campgrounds. Warm Springs Campground offers dispersed sites with creek access and nearby hot springs, while Lake Creek Rd Dispersed provides minimal amenities but convenient forest access. Developed campgrounds typically include fire pits, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Some sites like Mormon Bend feature paved parking pads and groomed tent areas. Drinking water is available via hand pumps at select locations, though not universal. Most campgrounds don't offer showers, electricity, or RV hookups. For RV campers seeking full amenities, Meadows RV Park near Ketchum provides developed facilities including dump stations. Cell service is limited throughout the forest, with most campgrounds having little to no coverage.

Do I need reservations for campgrounds in Sawtooth National Forest?

Reservation policies vary across Sawtooth National Forest. Popular sites like Easley Campground offer reservable sites that fill quickly during peak summer months (June-August), especially on weekends. It's advisable to book these well in advance through Recreation.gov. Mormon Bend Campground and several others operate on a first-come, first-served basis with on-site hosts managing availability. For spontaneous trips, numerous dispersed camping options exist throughout the forest with a typical 10-day stay limit. These include designated dispersed sites along forest roads and near waterways. During holiday weekends and peak summer season, arriving mid-week or early morning dramatically improves your chances of securing a spot without reservations.

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