Yellowjacket Lake Campground
01 reviewYellowjacket Lake Campground, Salmon-Challis National Forest
Yellowjacket Lake Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
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About this campground
Perched at an impressive 8,000 feet, this intimate seven-site campground rests along the pristine shores of Yellowjacket Lake, where the wilderness truly begins. The dramatic silhouette of Sugarloaf Rock towers above the crystalline waters, creating one of the most photographed backdrops in the region. From your campsite, a network of trails beckons adventurers into the legendary Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, leading to hidden treasures like the wildflower-carpeted Hoodoo Meadows, the commanding summit of McEleny Peak, and the tumbling waters of Yellowjacket Creek. This is where the untamed heart of Idaho reveals itself to those willing to venture beyond the beaten path.
Yellowjacket Lake Campground provides a rustic camping experience with minimal facilities. It is best suited for tent camping or small vehicle camping due to limited accessibility for larger RVs or trailers.
Historical SignificanceThis remote corner of Idaho has long served as a gateway to the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, one of the largest designated wilderness areas in the continental United States. The Yellowjacket Mountains have witnessed centuries of exploration, from Native American hunting grounds to early prospectors seeking fortune in these rugged peaks, leaving behind a legacy of adventure that continues to draw modern explorers.
Weather and SeasonsAt 8,000 feet elevation, prepare for cool mountain nights even in summer, with daytime temperatures offering perfect hiking weather. Snow typically lingers through late spring, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland that gives way to spectacular wildflower displays by July. Afternoon thunderstorms can roll through quickly in summer months, adding drama to the already spectacular mountain vistas.
ElevationAt 8,000 feet above sea level, this high-altitude campground offers a true mountain experience where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly in the thin atmosphere, and alpine meadows burst with color during the brief but spectacular growing season. The elevation provides natural air conditioning during summer months and positions visitors perfectly for accessing the surrounding high country trails.
Natural Features and SceneryYellowjacket Lake sparkles like a sapphire jewel beneath the imposing granite face of Sugarloaf Rock, creating a scene that seems pulled from a landscape painting. The mirror-like waters invite anglers to try their luck for native trout, while paddlers can explore hidden coves accessible only by non-motorized craft carried down to the water's edge. The surrounding Yellowjacket Mountains frame panoramic views in every direction, with wildflower meadows, cascading creeks, and ancient forests creating a tapestry of natural beauty that changes with each season.
Geological RegionNestled at the threshold of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, this campground sits within a geological wonderland shaped by millennia of volcanic activity and glacial carving. The Yellowjacket Mountains showcase exposed granite formations and volcanic remnants, with Sugarloaf Rock standing as a testament to the powerful forces that sculpted this landscape. This unique position offers visitors a front-row seat to some of Idaho's most dramatic and pristine backcountry terrain.
Campsite details
Sites SizeNot specified in authoritative sources.
Sites PrivacyNot specified in authoritative sources.
Total Campsites7 campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
No information about group camping sites is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is only open during the summer season starting July 1st.
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policynull
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Lodging and accommodations
Activities you can enjoy
Yellowjacket Lake Campground is an excellent location for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include fishing in Yellowjacket Lake and Yellowjacket Creek, as well as hiking in the Yellowjacket Mountains and nearby trails leading to attractions like Hoodoo Meadows and McEleny Peak.
Hiking
Numerous trails extend from the campground through the Yellowjacket Mountains and into the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. Nearby points of interest include Hoodoo Meadows, McEleny Peak, and Yellowjacket Creek.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant in Yellowjacket Lake and Yellowjacket Creek. User reviews describe fishing as 'good' and one of the highlights of their camping experiences.Boating
Carry-down access allows non-motorized boats on Yellowjacket Lake, making it suitable for activities such as kayaking or canoeing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are supported via carry-down access to Yellowjacket Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsnull
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo specific information on trash or recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresFishing in the lake or in Yellowjacket Creek.
Common complaintsnull
Hostnull
Campground Map
Yellowjacket Lake Campground, Salmon-Challis National Forest
Driving directionsFrom Cobalt, go 9 miles south on Forest Road 055, 7 miles west on FR 112, and 16 miles north on FR 113 (continue 3 miles on FR 112 to reach Guard Station).
FR 113 is narrow with few turnouts. Not recommended for long RVs or cars with trailers. Travel is slow, passing can be difficult, and backing may be necessary.Nearby places
Cobalt (Approximately 32 miles, driving time varies due to road conditions).
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Yellowjacket Lake Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is appreciated for its natural beauty, fishing opportunities, and tranquil environment. However, the lack of basic amenities like restrooms and potable water could be a drawback for some users.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the 'good fishing,' the serenity of the area, and the stunning natural surroundings, with Sugarloaf Rock as a notable landmark.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Challenges include the absence of potable water, rugged access on FR 113, and the lack of restroom facilities.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should be prepared for the lack of water and restroom facilities and consider the narrow and challenging FR 113 road conditions while planning their visit.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No detailed seasonal review trends are provided, but weather data suggests that early summer and late summer may be the most favorable times to visit due to moderate temperatures and clearer skies.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
One user described the campground experience as 'Absolutely amazing!' and highlighted the 'good fishing' and 'nice camp area.'
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No individual campsite-specific reviews are available.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are present.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences are present.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025