Cabin camping near Stanley, Idaho provides access to the Sawtooth Mountains where elevations reach 10,000+ feet, creating temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night even in summer. Most cabins sit between 6,200-7,000 feet elevation, contributing to the region's short camping season from late May through September when access roads remain clear.
What to do
Night sky viewing: The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve surrounding Stanley offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Glacier View Campground, one camper notes: "This area is within the 1416 square mile Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, the first Gold Tier site in the United States. The result is world class spectacular night sky astronomy unimpeded by light pollution."
Wildlife watching: The Sawtooth area supports diverse wildlife visible from cabin areas. "Fauna is abundant in the surrounding area. Deer, elk, bear, marten, moose, and pronghorn antelope all made appearances during my last trip to the area," reports a Glacier View visitor. Morning and evening hours offer the best viewing opportunities.
Shuttle boat rides: Use the boat shuttle at Redfish Lake to access remote trails. "The marina operates an on-demand boat shuttle for hikers to the trailhead at the far end of the lake during daylight hours. No reservation is required, but you can call to schedule pickup," explains a camper about this service that costs $15-18 round-trip per person.
What campers like
Natural water features: The pristine water quality at Point Campground receives consistent praise. "Wife and I did lots of swimming and hiking here. Hiked up to the bench lakes about an 8 mile round trip," shares a visitor. Another notes that Redfish Lake has "incredibly beautiful tent only camping sites."
Clean facilities: The Sawmill Station cabins receive high marks for maintenance. "Bathroom was clean. Showers were good. The food at the restaurant was amazing," writes one reviewer. These cabins feature modern amenities including electric hookups and sewer connections.
Accessible fishing: Fishing opportunities exist directly from many cabin sites. "We walk easily to the lake to fish in the morning or later in the evening," mentions a camper at Glacier View. Another visitor notes: "Fishing at the beginning and end of season might net you Dolly Varden, Rainbow Trout, and Kokanee."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service and internet access remain extremely limited. At Stanley RV + Camp, a visitor explains: "We have AT&T and no cell service. There is no trees for shade." Another reviewer at Sawmill Station notes: "This area is very remote and we didn't have any AT&T cell service the entire time."
Reservation timing: Most cabins require booking 6-12 months in advance for summer weekends. "Reserve early, but it's worth it! Our site had an amazing view and great host," advises a Glacier View camper. Another mentions that some campgrounds are "booked out almost the entire summer."
Weather preparedness: Even summer nights drop to freezing temperatures. "Come prepared for cold nights even in the summer. Water will be just as cold unless its August," warns a visitor at Mount Heyburn Campground. Campers should pack layers and cold-weather sleeping gear regardless of season.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Smiley Creek Lodge offers activities for children right at the property. "They had horseshoes and bean bags in a common area," notes a visitor, making this location convenient for families wanting built-in entertainment options.
Safety considerations: Many cabin areas have wildlife concerns requiring proper food storage. At Point Campground, "Each campsite has a dedicated level pad for tents, a picnic table, a bear box, and fire ring." These bear boxes are essential for preventing wildlife encounters.
Bathroom access: Not all cabins include private facilities. A family staying at Point Campground appreciated that it's "great when camping with children, especially with the bathrooms & lack of car traffic on the tent-only side." Consider cabin locations relative to shared bathroom facilities when booking with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Smiley Creek Lodge, specific sites offer better amenities. "Avoid spot number #17 if possible. The sewer hookup was loose and shared with a long term resident on the other side, also the water spigot was broken so we had to use the spigot for spot #16," advises one RVer.
Electrical planning: Many cabins lack reliable power. "We really like to stay for the longest time possible (10 days) but it is really tough on battery power without running the generator constantly," notes a visitor at Glacier View Campground. RVers should prepare for limited or no hookups at many locations.
Supply preparation: The limited shopping options in Stanley necessitate bringing supplies. "I would recommend getting groceries before you arrive bc local store is pitiful," recommends a visitor. Most RVers suggest stocking up in larger towns like Ketchum or Boise before arriving.
