Yellowjacket Lake Campground

Star4.40
13 reviews
Yellowjacket Lake Campground, Salmon-Challis National Forest
Romantic GetawayPeace & QuietSummer Destination

Quick Facts

8,000 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

7 campsites

Season

The campground is on...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

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Opens Salmon-Challis National Forest site

Official Website
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Yellowjacket Lake Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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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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What Campers Say

4.40

Recommended

Based on 13 reviews

8 Google 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."

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Campground Map

Yellowjacket Lake Campground, Salmon-Challis National Forest

Yellowjacket Lake Campground

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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Best Time to Camp at Yellowjacket Lake Campground

At 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.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open July 1; summer offers best access, hiking and paddling though nights remain cool at 8,000 ft.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Late summer/early fall is favorable, but early snow at high elevation can limit season length.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Snow lingers through late spring; campground opens July 1 so spring use is not applicable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is seasonal and closed in winter; winter rating not applicable.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The campground is only open during the summer season starting July 1st.
  • Current Alerts: null

About Yellowjacket Lake 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.
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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.
HikingNumerous 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.
FishingFishing opportunities are abundant in Yellowjacket Lake and Yellowjacket Creek. User reviews describe fishing as 'good' and one of the highlights of their camping experiences.
BoatingCarry-down access allows non-motorized boats on Yellowjacket Lake, making it suitable for activities such as kayaking or canoeing.
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

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

Weather at Yellowjacket Lake Campground

Reviews

4.4
13 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Yellowjacket Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% 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 13 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 13 reviews

Common Concerns

Challenges include the absence of potable water, rugged access on FR 113, and the lack of restroom facilities.
Based on 13 reviews

Pro 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 13 reviews

Seasonal 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 13 reviews

Camper Quotes

One user described the campground experience as 'Absolutely amazing!' and highlighted the 'good fishing' and 'nice camp area.'
Based on 13 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No individual campsite-specific reviews are available.
Based on 13 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are present.
Based on 13 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences are present.
Based on 13 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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