Best Campgrounds near Sun Valley, ID

Camping around Sun Valley can be found throughout the nearby Sawtooth National Forest, where both developed and basic sites are available. The forest has maintained campgrounds with standard facilities, though amenities differ between locations. Many campers head here during summer when the weather stays warm and mostly clear, but you'll need to reserve spots well ahead of time since they fill quickly. Some camping spots have good tree cover and distance from neighbors, while others are more open and closer together. When autumn comes, the area cools down and the trees change color, making it a nice time to visit. Not many people camp during winter because of the snow and cold, though you'll have plenty of quiet if you do. Spring weather can change quickly, but campgrounds are typically less busy then. Be aware that some facilities close during off-season months, and certain areas have limited services year-round. Before heading out, check if any sites are closed or have special rules in place. Sun Valley campers can access many hiking trails, good fishing spots, and see great mountain views. The area's campgrounds work for both quiet stays and more active trips.

Best Camping Sites Near Sun Valley, Idaho (174)

    1. North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest

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

    $22 - $44 / night

    "Short 12-15 minute drive north from Ketchum/Sun Valley.  Only 1* off because of slight road noise but it is probably not an issue for most sites. "

    "Amazing spot within easy driving distance of Ketchum and Sun Valley. The road dead ends at the trailhead for the Hemingway Wilderness"

    2. Lake Creek Rd Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Ketchum, ID
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 622-0090

    "The sites further up are away from the others and run along a stream. Still further in, you’ll hit a Y in the road."

    "This forest service land is a quick drive down Lake Creek Rd from Hwy 75 just past the town of Ketchum in the Sawtooth National Forest."

    3. Boundary Campground

    5 Reviews
    Sun Valley, ID
    3 miles
    Website

    $10 - $20 / night

    "Campsite #7 is private with a short path to a nice creek, behind a large meadow, with views of the mountains."

    "Clean quite yet close to town! River runs right behind it! Sites are far enough apart that neighbors won’t bug you! Plenty of trees and shade. Fees range from $10-$20 a night"

    4. Meadows RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Sun Valley, ID
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 726-5445

    "If you’re looking for a simple stay, close to all, including a gorgeous bike path, this will do the trick."

    "The location can't be beat, right off the river and biking trails. The mountains are absolutely gorgeous from your campsite."

    5. Corral Creek Canyon Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Sun Valley, ID
    4 miles

    "Close to Sun Valley. Place to turn around if unable to fine a campsite. No cell coverage. Only 3 day limit."

    "Quiet spot just outside the resort town. Limited spots and filled up pretty quick. Got very cold at night and the road wasn’t super busy."

    6. Wood River Campground

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

    $125 / night

    "There is a rails to trails multi purpose trailhead not too far down the road. We road our bikes into town, south of town, over to Sun Valley. So many great routes."

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

    7. Murdock Creek Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    Ketchum, ID
    9 miles
    Website

    "Water is available at the dump station located on the left before you arrive. It services all area NF service campgrounds as well as paid for others not. We had good ATT service 2 and 3 bars."

    "This is a smaller campground tucked back against the mountains.  Good shade trees.  Close to hiking, fishing and mountain biking.  Campsites have a picnic table, fire ring with grill."

    8. Antelope Creek

    3 Reviews
    Sun Valley, ID
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 735-2060

    "Nice location, close to town. Close to road but not much traffic. Access can be difficult with steep access from main road and tricky spots along the access road. There are three access spots."

    "There were a couple of campers camped closer to the road from the turn-off but we managed to find a spot that was secluded and perfect for us right next to the creek."

    9. Uncle Johns Gulch on Corral Creek Road

    2 Reviews
    Sun Valley, ID
    5 miles
    Website

    "Large campsites next to stream nestled in a beautiful valley. Hiking/mtb trail next to campsites."

    10. Hyndman Campground

    2 Reviews
    Sun Valley, ID
    6 miles
    +1 (208) 622-0090

    "Met several wonderful people along the trail, at the site, and during the summit. Great place all around. If going in fall, prepare for some ice in the evening and light fog. Great experience."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 174 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Sun Valley, ID

495 Reviews of 174 Sun Valley Campgrounds


  • 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

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Hayspur Hatchery

    Hatchery is a nice stop over

    We wanted to fish nearby at the preserve, so decided to camp at the hatchery. Quiet campground and was able to park under shade trees. Walked over to the Hatchery, it was interesting to see the fish. Cute fishing lake at the campground (perfect for kids), my husband had some fun with his fly rod. Campground cost is donations only. Glad we stopped here.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Lava Flow Campground — Craters of the Moon National Monument

    Great place to stay

    We stayed just one night, but had a great experience. The ranger at the camping booth was super helpful. We had The America the Beautiful pass so it was only $7.50 to camp. We were able to unload our side by side and travel the paved paths of the park. Be sure to get the cave permit from the camping booth ranger before heading out to explore. They are free but you have to have one to enter the lava tubes. The camp sights and bathrooms are super clean and well taken care of.

  • Kay
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Atlanta Cabin

    Lots to do

    If you love the mountains this is the place to be. There are lots of spots to camp, fish, swim, and soak in the hot springs. There are bathrooms as well. Town is about 10 min from camp. The town is very small and the people are very friendly.


Guide to Sun Valley

Camping near Sun Valley, Idaho, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different preferences.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: The area is filled with trails for all skill levels. Many campers enjoy the Harriman Trail, which provides access to beautiful scenery. One visitor noted, "It's literally integrated with the 'Harriman trail' which provides access up and down the valley for runners, bikers, and hikers" at North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest.

  • Fishing: If you love fishing, the nearby rivers and lakes are perfect spots. A camper at Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed shared, "Wet a fly the next morning and caught a great brown trout."

  • Wildlife Watching: Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. One happy camper at Murdock Creek Dispersed mentioned, "There is a good chance at wildlife sightings."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A visitor at Pettit Lake Campground said, "Clean vault toilets and clean sites. Camp host was really helpful and sweet."
  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Alturas Inlet Campground described it as "one of the most gorgeous locations for camping."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer a peaceful experience away from the hustle and bustle. A camper at North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest appreciated the "quiet place" despite some highway noise.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed, do not have drinking water or trash services. One camper noted, "Pack out your own trash guys! It isn’t hard!"
  • Bear Country: Be bear aware and store food properly. A visitor at Smokey Bear mentioned, "There were plenty of signs reminding campers to be bear aware."
  • Cell Service: Expect limited or no cell service in many areas. A camper at Wood River Campground said, "Zero cell reception."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits. A family at Murdock Creek Dispersed enjoyed the "picnic table, partial shade, and fire ring."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. One camper at Pettit Lake Campground mentioned, "We used it as a base camp to mountain bike, play in the river."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A visitor at North Fork Campground - Sawtooth National Forest warned about a bear sighting nearby.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Stanton Crossing noted, "We have a 36ft travel trailer and were able to maneuver it very well."
  • Look for Paved Roads: Paved roads can make access easier. A visitor at Wood River Campground appreciated that "paved road throughout the campground helps to cut down on the dust."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Many campgrounds don’t have hookups. A camper at Pettit Lake Campground mentioned, "No cell coverage."

Camping around Sun Valley, Idaho, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but be prepared for the unique challenges and rewards that come with it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is camping available at Sun Valley Lake?

There isn't a body of water specifically called Sun Valley Lake in the area. However, there are excellent water-adjacent camping options nearby. Lake Creek Rd Dispersed offers camping along a stream with varying stay limits (3-day max at the entrance, 16-day max further in). Wood River Campground provides sites along the Wood River with helpful hosts who can assist you in finding available spots. For lake camping in the broader Sun Valley region, consider Pettit Lake Campground in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

What RV parks are available in Sun Valley, Idaho?

Meadows RV Park offers convenient RV camping with easy access to both Ketchum and Sun Valley, though sites are close together with shared utility access and tables. For those willing to venture slightly outside town, Boundary Campground accommodates RVs and is big-rig friendly with toilet facilities. RVers seeking dispersed options should explore North Fork Big Wood River area, where larger rigs can access sites 3-4 miles in from the main road, offering a more peaceful experience while still being close to town.

Where are the best campgrounds near Sun Valley, Idaho?

Several excellent campgrounds are located just minutes from Sun Valley. Prairie Creek Camping offers free dispersed camping on a dirt road loop just off Highway 75, a few miles north of Sun Valley. For a more established option, North Fork Campground is a 12-15 minute drive north from Ketchum/Sun Valley with helpful camp hosts, firewood for sale, and only minimal road noise. Other notable options include Corral Creek Canyon for quiet, private sites with a 3-day limit, and Murdock Creek Dispersed camping with spectacular Sawtooth Mountain views.