Glacier View Campground
4.07191 reviewsSAWTOOTH, STANLEY, ID, USA
Quick Facts
6,500 ftPrice
$26 - $52/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
65 campsites
Season
Open season begins M...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
6,500 ftPrice
$26 - $52/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
65 campsites
Season
Open season begins M...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsGlacier View Campground
$26.00 - $52.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Rates for standard nonelectric campsites range from $26.00 to $52.00 per night during peak season. First-come, first-served rates apply during...
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Standard Site Fee$26.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$26.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider928-537-8888camping@rrmofa.com
What Campers Say
4.07
Satisfactory
Based on 191 reviews
76 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewslakewell-maintainedsites
Some mention
noise
"Glacier View Campground is highly regarded for its scenic location, spacious sites, and proximity to Redfish Lake. However, recurring issues like generator noise, aging facilities, and occasional host-related conflicts are noted."
Fees & Passes at Glacier View Campground
$26 - $52/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Stay limit of 10 consecutive days enforced.
Cancellation: Cancellations can be made any time before the arrival date, with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancel...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Recreation Resource Management of America website.
Best Time to Camp at Glacier View Campground
Summer nights at Glacier View require warm sleeping bags, as temperatures dip to a crisp 40°F even after pleasantly warm 78°F days. The thin mountain air and intense sunshine create perfect conditions for hiking and water activities during the peak season. When winter arrives, the campground transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, with access becoming challenging or impossible as heavy snowfall blankets the region and temperatures plunge well below freezing.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23 to September 18 annually represents peak season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open season begins May 23, 2025, with reservations starting June 24, 2025. Closed season spans September 30, 2025, to May 14, 2026.
- Current Alerts: North Shore Picnic area construction in 2024 may cause delays and noise disturbances. Weather-related closures may occur during winter months.
About Glacier View Campground
Perched at 6,500 feet in the heart of Idaho's wilderness, Glacier View Campground delivers on its promise of breathtaking vistas across crystalline Redfish Lake to the jagged peaks of the Sawtooth Range. This high-altitude haven welcomes families with thoughtfully designed amenities including playgrounds and convenient paved sites, though visitor experiences vary regarding maintenance standards and campground host interactions. Despite these mixed reviews, the spectacular natural setting continues to draw outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic mountain camping experience.
Glacier View Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping and RV camping. Group and glamping accommodations are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceThe surrounding Sawtooth National Recreation Area serves as a living museum of geological wonders, where ancient forces carved dramatic peaks and pristine alpine lakes. Redfish Lake's visitor center brings this rich heritage to life through engaging interpretive programs that reveal the stories of indigenous peoples, early explorers, and the unique ecosystem that makes this region so extraordinary. These educational opportunities add depth to any camping adventure, connecting visitors to centuries of human and natural history.
Weather and SeasonsSummer nights at Glacier View require warm sleeping bags, as temperatures dip to a crisp 40°F even after pleasantly warm 78°F days. The thin mountain air and intense sunshine create perfect conditions for hiking and water activities during the peak season. When winter arrives, the campground transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, with access becoming challenging or impossible as heavy snowfall blankets the region and temperatures plunge well below freezing.
ElevationAt 6,500 feet above sea level, Glacier View Campground sits in a sweet spot where the air is refreshingly thin and the views are endlessly expansive. This alpine elevation creates a naturally air-conditioned environment even during summer's warmest days, while the surrounding peaks soar even higher, creating a dramatic amphitheater of granite and sky that changes character with every shift of light and weather.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering lodgepole pines provide dappled shade throughout the campground, their straight trunks creating natural cathedral spaces between campsites. Come July, meadows burst with Indian paintbrush, lupine, and other wildflowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The musical waters of nearby Fishhook Creek provide a constant soundtrack, while the combination of cool mornings (40°F) and warm afternoons (78°F) creates that perfect mountain camping rhythm of cozy sleeping bag mornings and comfortable afternoon explorations.
Geological RegionGlacier View Campground claims one of the most coveted positions in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, nestled alongside the sapphire waters of Redfish Lake with the dramatic Sawtooth Mountain Range rising like ancient sentinels beyond. This subalpine ecosystem, dominated by resilient lodgepole pines and seasonal wildflower meadows, showcases the raw beauty of Idaho's central mountains where glacial forces carved deep valleys and left behind pristine lakes that mirror the sky and surrounding peaks.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the campground description; no reviews explicitly reference accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes vary but are generally spacious. Tent pads are noted as large and sandy, and the sites accommodate both tents and RVs.
Sites PrivacySite privacy is generally considered good, with some sites being more secluded than others. Outer loop sites tend to offer better privacy and views.
Total Campsites65 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOuter loop sites provide better privacy and views. Site 7 is highly recommended for its creek proximity.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Stay limit of 10 consecutive days enforced.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard Single Family sites allow ONE camping unit ONLY. Double sites accommodate up to two vehicles.
Groups
Information about group sites is unavailable.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops, with sites offering varying levels of privacy and amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 23, 2025, with reservations starting June 24, 2025. Closed season spans September 30, 2025, to May 14, 2026.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, via phone, or in-person.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited first-come, first-served availability occurs during September 19-30 and May 14-21, outside peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time before the arrival date, with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's recreational use fee. Changes to reservations are subject to a $10 fee if new dates are entirely outside the original stay.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Glacier View Campground offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities. The nearby Redfish Lake is a hub for water-based activities, while the surrounding Sawtooth Mountains provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Some activities, like cultural programs, are available at the nearby Redfish Lake Visitor Center.
Hiking
The area provides access to an estimated 750 miles of trails, including the Alpine Way, Fishhook Creek, Redfish Lake Creek, and Bench Lakes Trails. Trails vary in difficulty, catering to different skill levels.Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound in Redfish Lake for rainbow trout and Kokanee salmon. Little Redfish Lake and the Salmon River add to the variety, offering species like Westslope cutthroat trout and bull trout.Swimming
Swimming is popular in Redfish Lake, known for its clear, cool water and scenic surroundings. Beach areas are a short walk from the campground.Biking
Biking opportunities include paved roads within the campground loops and trails leading to the lake and nearby attractions. Suitable for all skill levels.Boating
Redfish Lake enables various boating activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing. Rentals are available at the nearby lodge.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with visitors reporting sightings of deer and other animals around campsites. The area is rich in natural beauty and biodiversity.Beach activities
The campground is close to beaches along Redfish Lake, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking.Cultural and Educational Programs
The nearby Redfish Lake Visitor Center offers interpretive programs, evening presentations, and exhibits on wildlife, geology, and local history.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the campground's description or user reviews.Water Sports
The lake supports kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and water skiing, making it a hotspot for water sports.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated rings. Campers are advised to purchase local firewood to prevent pest spread.
- Quiet hours from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife encounters, including bears, are possible. Campers are advised to store food securely. Construction activities in 2024 may result in noise and road delays.
Active alertsNorth Shore Picnic area construction in 2024 may cause delays and noise disturbances. Weather-related closures may occur during winter months.
Weather at Glacier View Campground
19
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 75%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Stanley, ID offers emergency services including a gas station and medical facilities approximately 10 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to September 18 annually represents peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but several reviews note issues with overflowing dumpsters during peak use. Garbage collection frequency could be improved.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Redfish Lake, campers can enjoy water activities including boating, kayaking, and fishing.
Common complaintsComplaints include excessive generator noise, host-related issues, and overcrowding during peak season.
HostHosts provide assistance but have received mixed reviews. Some hosts are described as accommodating, while others are noted as rude or unprofessional.
Campground Map
SAWTOOTH, STANLEY, ID, USA
Driving directionsFrom Stanley, Idaho, take State Highway 75 south approximately 4 miles. Go west onto Forest Road 214. Turn left at Glacier View Campground entrance sign.
Roads and parking spurs throughout the site are paved. The campground can be accessed via Forest Road 214 from State Highway 75. Road conditions are described as generally good, but construction projects are planned for May through June 2024, which may result in 10-minute traffic delays and noise concerns during weekdays.Nearby places
Stanley, ID (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Stanley, ID, located 4 miles away, has restaurants, a small mercantile, and a gas station. Supplies can also be sourced from Redfish Lake Lodge nearby, which offers aquatic rentals, a bar, and general essentials.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.1
191 reviews
Glacier View Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Glacier View Campground is highly regarded for its scenic location, spacious sites, and proximity to Redfish Lake. However, recurring issues like generator noise, aging facilities, and occasional host-related conflicts are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 191 reviews
What Campers Love
Many visitors praise the campground for its breathtaking views, well-maintained sites, and variety of outdoor activities. "Million-dollar views" and convenience to Redfish Lake are frequently...
Based on 191 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include generator noise, outdated bathroom facilities, and inconsistent enforcement of rules by hosts. Some visitors found the reservation system challenging and reported host interactions...
Based on 191 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Book early due to high demand. Outer-loop sites offer better privacy and views. Bring earplugs if you're sensitive to noise from generators.
Based on 191 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The summer months are busy and vibrant, with activities centered around Redfish Lake. Outside peak season, visitors appreciate the quieter atmosphere but note colder nights.
Based on 191 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The backdrop of the Sawtooth Mountains against the lake is what dreams are made of." "The views, water, and trails are exceptional." "Hosts could be more accommodating, but the campground remains a...
Based on 191 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site B33 lacks shade and is exposed to direct sun all day. Sites like #7 and outer-loop locations are more secluded and offer excellent views. Site 60 is a double and offers spectacular mountain...
Based on 191 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is not specifically reviewed in detail.
Based on 191 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, but some visitors report issues with unleashed dogs and waste on-site.
Based on 191 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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