Is Big Roaring River Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Big Roaring River Lake Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

What is the best time to visit Big Roaring River Lake Campground?

Big Roaring River Lake Campground is open Seasons of Use Mid-July - End of September (unless closed by snow) Operational Hours Mid July - End of September Unless closed by snow. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Big Roaring River Lake Campground?

Big Roaring River Lake Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Big Roaring River Lake Campground have?

Big Roaring River Lake Campground has 12 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Big Roaring River Lake Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Big Roaring River Lake Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Big Roaring River Lake Campground?

Big Roaring River Lake Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Big Roaring River Lake Campground?

Popular activities at Big Roaring River Lake Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Big Roaring River Lake Campground

4.00

16 reviews

Summer Destination

Featured in:Hiking Camping Idaho

Quick Facts

7,900 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Seasons of Use Mid-J...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,900 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Seasons of Use Mid-J...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

Big Roaring River Lake Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Campground Map

Big Roaring River Lake Campground

43.6206, -115.4437

Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho travel east along Interstate 84 (I-84) to Mountain Home, Idaho. At the I-84 and State Highway 20 junction, take Highway 20 east for 35 miles to the Pine/Featherville turnoff. Travel north on Forest Highway 61 for 29 miles to Forest Service (FS) road 172. Proceed 15 miles northwest to FS road 129. Continue 3 miles to the Guard Station junction. The roadway is paved up to the junction of FS road 172. FS Road 172 is native material (dirt) and trailer traffic is not recommended. There are signs noting each of the junctions.

Weather at Big Roaring River Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Big Roaring River Lake Campground

Best season: summer. Summer delivers the clearest access and the most comfortable weather at 7,900 ft — expect daytime highs roughly 60–75°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s. Trails, lakes, and alpine meadows are at their peak: wildflowers bloom, trout fishing and small-boat boating are best, and the William H. Pogue and Lava Mountain trails are fully accessible. Crowds are moderate given the campground’s small size (12 sites), so plan to reserve early; watch for afternoon thunderstorms and possible fire restrictions Peak months: July, August, September, October Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best season: mid-July to end of September; wildflowers, trails and fishing peak in summer.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Seasons of Use Mid-July - End of September (unless closed by snow) Operational Hours Mid July - End of September Unless closed by snow

About Big Roaring River Lake Campground

Big Roaring River Lake Campground sits at 7,900 feet in Boise National Forest, offering small-scale alpine camping beside a high-elevation lake. The Forest Service maintains vault toilets and a handful of sites that serve as a base for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding backcountry. Summer brings wildflowers, accessible trails, and active trout fishing, though the approach road is rough and mosquitoes are abundant.

The campground offers traditional campsites suitable for both tents and small vehicles. It is not reservable, operating on a first-come, first-served basis.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer delivers the clearest access and the most comfortable weather at 7,900 ft — expect daytime highs roughly 60–75°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s. Trails, lakes, and alpine meadows are at their peak: wildflowers bloom, trout fishing and small-boat boating are best, and the William H. Pogue and Lava Mountain trails are fully accessible. Crowds are moderate given the campground’s small size (12 sites), so plan to reserve early; watch for afternoon thunderstorms and possible fire restrictions Peak months: July, August, September, October Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation7900 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits in a subalpine basin surrounded by four lakes: Big and Little Roaring River Lakes, plus Big and Little Trinity Lakes. Dense lodgepole pine provides shade while the East Fork Roaring River runs through camp. Trinity Mountain rises to 9,700 feet on the southern horizon, the highest peak in the Boise Mountains. The surrounding granite and volcanic landscape shows the region's glacial history. Wildlife sightings are common. Mosquitoes are abundant through summer. Multiple reviews call them relentless.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

The Big Roaring River Lake Campground is set within a dense lodgepole forest and features 12 campsites situated along the river. Amenities include a hand-carry boat launch for small crafts like canoes and kayaks, and there are nearby fishing opportunities for species like rainbow trout. The area is accessible by car, though the roads are unpaved and described as very rough by reviewers. Wildlife, including moose and deer, is frequently spotted near the campsites. Bathrooms are available, though their condition is mixed based on user reviews.

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Things to do at Big Roaring River Lake Campground

The campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Trails near the campground include the William H. Pogue National Recreation Trail and the Lava Mountain Trail, which allow access to picturesque lakes. Activities include fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout, hiking, mountain biking, off-road vehicle riding, and horseback riding. Canoeing and kayaking are popular on the nearby lakes. The area is also known for its wildlife viewing opportunities, with elk, deer, and sometimes black bears spotted.

Hiking4.0/5

Trail access from camp (William H. Pogue and Lava Mountain trails); used as a base for hiking into backcountry.

Fishing4.0/5

Described as offering active trout fishing in Big Roaring River Lake and nearby lakes; anglers praise trout opportunities.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Area is a haven for elk, deer and occasional black bear; wildlife viewing commonly reported.

Biking3.0/5

Biking allowed on several area trails, including William H. Pogue Trail; recreation available but not emphasized.

Water Sports3.0/5

Hand-carry launch supports kayaks/canoes for small-craft paddling on the lakes.

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Lakes, mountain horizon, wildflowers and wildlife provide varied photo subjects and vistas.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.0

16 reviews

Satisfactory

Big Roaring River Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is praised for its serene setting, natural beauty, and abundant wildlife. However, some users criticize the rough access road and the presence of mosquitoes.

Review Summaries

Based on 16 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights include the beauty of the lake, well-maintained campgrounds, and peaceful atmosphere. Wildlife spotting is another common positive mention.

Based on 16 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include rough and difficult access roads that may require a high-clearance vehicle, as well as the abundance of mosquitoes.

Based on 16 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring ample mosquito repellent. If driving, consider using a high-clearance vehicle due to rough roads. LED lights are recommended as they don’t attract bugs.

Based on 16 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Snow can make the area inaccessible until early July. After the snow melts, the area is blanketed with vibrant wildflowers, making mid-summer a favored time for camping.

Based on 16 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Most beautiful lake in the Trinity Mountains. Best camp spot, best price." - Laura Scott. "Amazing lake to camp on, very serene and the camp spots are great." - Dave Morales. "Vault toilet was well...

Based on 16 reviews

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Big Roaring River Lake Campground

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