Camping near Sawtooth National Forest

Sawtooth National Forest in Idaho has many different camping options spread across its beautiful mountain landscape. The Recreation Area section gives campers good access to mountain views and lots to do outdoors. City Park Campground has more facilities like bathrooms and places to eat. If you want something more basic, the Local National Forest Sites let you camp with fewer people around, though you'll need to bring everything you need since there aren't facilities. The Area State Park works well for campers who want hiking and fishing close to their site. Many trails run through the forest, and the rivers and lakes have good fishing. Most people camp here from late spring to early fall when it's warmer and all trails are open. Snow can block some areas in winter, so always check if roads or campgrounds are closed before you go. County Park Campground gives you more privacy with trees blocking views between sites. You can find everything from full-service campgrounds to completely undeveloped spots throughout Sawtooth. Make sure to pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace rules while camping. Sawtooth's mountains, lakes and forests make it one of Idaho's best places to camp.

Best Camping Sites Near Sawtooth National Forest (239)

    1. North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest

    14 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."

    2. Prairie Creek Camping

    6 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."

    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. 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."

    5. 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."

    6. Smiley Creek Lodge

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

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

    "Rode some awesome dirt bike trails. And enjoyed some delicious food."

    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. 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."

    9. Wood River Campground

    5 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."

    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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Showing results 1-10 of 239 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Sawtooth National Forest

519 Reviews of 239 Sawtooth National Forest Campgrounds



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

What camping is available near Sawtooth National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, Sawtooth National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 239 campgrounds and RV parks near Sawtooth National Forest and 42 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Sawtooth National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Sawtooth National Forest is North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest with a 4.2-star rating from 14 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Sawtooth National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 42 free dispersed camping spots near Sawtooth National Forest.

What parks are near Sawtooth National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Sawtooth National Forest that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.