Glamping close to Sun Valley, Idaho offers several options within the Sawtooth National Recreation Area at elevations between 6,000-7,000 feet. Summer temperatures range from 45°F nights to 85°F days, while winter temperatures can drop well below freezing. Campgrounds near Sun Valley typically fill quickly between July and August when wildflowers bloom throughout the high mountain meadows.
What to do
Kayaking at Alturas Lake: The Alturas Inlet Campground provides direct lake access for water activities. According to one camper, "Close to Stanley, great site managers, and nearby lakes/trails make this a great place for all campers!" The calm waters are ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Mountain biking near Ketchum: Murdock Campground serves as a convenient base for cycling adventures. A visitor noted, "Lots of hiking, mountain biking and fishing in the immediate area. Ketchum and Sun Valley are 15 min away. The rails to trails multi purpose trail starts just down the road. Super safe place to ride. 30+ miles." The trail system offers options for all skill levels.
Stargazing in remote settings: East Fork Baker Creek Campground provides exceptional night sky viewing opportunities away from light pollution. As one camper shared, "This area is just 10 minutes south of Galena Lodge and 25 minutes north of Ketchum. We arrived on a Friday morning and had no problem finding a shaded, private site." The elevation and minimal light pollution create optimal stargazing conditions.
What campers like
River sounds for sleeping: Murdock Campground offers sites near moving water. One visitor remarked, "Murdock campground has been lovely. There are 11 spots each with a picnic table, partial shade, and fire ring. There are two pit toilets and drinking water that is ice cold coming out of the tap." Another camper appreciated that "The sound of water created a very serene environment for rest."
Privacy between campsites: At East Fork Baker Creek Campground, visitors enjoy well-spaced sites. A camper reported, "This area is just 10 minutes south of Galena Lodge and 25 minutes north of Ketchum. We arrived on a Friday morning and had no problem finding a shaded, private site. There seemed to be a ton of options as you drive down Baker Creek (dirt road). Many have established fire pits."
Accessibility to supplies: Stanton Crossing provides convenient access to provisions. A camper noted, "There is a gas station and small grocery store 20 miles from the site so you are not totally removed from civilization. When we were there (in late April) it was quiet and not much traffic, this is a great place to stay for a few nights or more."
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: At Alturas Inlet Campground, temperatures can vary significantly. A camper advised, "Bring layers - it can is cool in the evenings and at night (40s F) even in July but warm in the day, especially if you are out by the lake." These temperature swings are typical throughout the Sawtooth region.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal connectivity. At Murdock Campground, a visitor reported, "We had good ATT service 2 and 3 bars," but this is uncommon. Another camper at Alturas Inlet noted, "We did not have cell service (Verizon) and it was a bit of a drive before we got it again."
Reservation systems vary: While some campgrounds require advance booking, others operate on first-come, first-served basis. At Point Campground near Redfish Lake, a visitor mentioned, "This site was excellent as it offers both spots for vehicles as well as a tent only area where the sites are walk-in."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation access: Salmon River Campground offers excellent river activities for children. A camper noted, "Plenty of paths down to Salmon river level to fish or nap," while another mentioned, "Very steep terrain, only experienced individuals should do the back country. Getting to the river could be steep, but it is very good fishing!"
Consider glamping alternatives: For families seeking more comfort near Sun Valley, Idaho, Point Campground provides amenities while maintaining a natural setting. A visitor explained, "On one of the most beloved and popular lakes in the Sawtooth. Redfish Lake. Gorgeous views. Any kind of water sports you crave. Backpacking destination trails. Short or long hiking. Biking."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campsites throughout the region offer chances to spot local fauna. At Alturas Inlet, a camper shared, "We saw plenty of birds, chipmunks and tiny wildflowers were all over our site in early July." Remember to follow proper food storage practices, as another visitor noted, "There plenty of signs reminding campers to be bear aware."
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Murdock Campground offers convenient services for RVs. A visitor noted, "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."
Level parking challenges: At Stanton Crossing, RV campers should scout their sites carefully. One camper advised, "The campground road is gravelly and circles most of the small campground so you can look for a good spot. We have a 36ft travel Trailer and we're able to maneuver it very well."
Limited hookup options: Most glamping sites close to Sun Valley, Idaho offer few amenities for larger rigs. At Deadman Hole, a camper observed, "The sites themselves are dirt and gravel with mostly level parking areas and each site varies in length. We would fit in many of them in our 26' Class C but larger rigs may have a problem."
