Redfish Lake Recreation Complex

Star4.75
34 reviews
Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

6,552 ft

Price

$9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Sawtooth National Forest site

Official Website
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Redfish Lake Recreation Complex
$9.00 - $9.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Parking fee at the day-use area is $9.
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

4.75

Top-Rated

Based on 34 reviews

32 Google reviews

Most mentioned

waterlakebeach

Some mention

reservation

"User opinions about Redfish Lake Recreation Complex are mixed but generally positive. Many reviewers praise the stunning natural beauty, clear lake water, and wide range of available activities. However, some criticize the crowds, RV generators, and perceived commercialization of the area."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Redfish Lake Recreation Complex

44.1196, -114.9293

Nearby supplies
There is a visitor center and Redfish Lake Lodge in the area. Between Little Redfish Lake and Redfish Lake, there are commercially operated showers, a gas station with propane, a dump station, and horse rentals.

Best Time to Camp at Redfish Lake Recreation Complex

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak activity season with swimming, boating and hiking; expect crowds on holidays/weekends.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 3% in ID

Scenic foliage and fewer crowds likely make fall excellent for visits (inferred).

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Shoulder season with hiking and lake views but chilly water and variable access/crowds.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Offers snowshoeing and XC skiing; quieter but activity options are more limited.

Planning Tips

    About Redfish Lake Recreation Complex

    Nestled within the breathtaking Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Redfish Lake emerges as a pristine mountain paradise where crystal-clear waters meet towering peaks. This beloved campground serves as your gateway to endless adventure, whether you're gliding across the lake's mirror-like surface in a kayak, casting a line for native trout, or setting off on trails that wind through ancient forests. Here, where endangered sockeye salmon still make their heroic journey home, you'll discover a place where natural wonder and conservation efforts create an unforgettable outdoor experience.
    The campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including RV, tent, and group camping. Additionally, there are options for first-come, first-serve sites and reservations.
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    Reserving a campsite

    Stay Limit
    Occupancy limit is 10 days in a 30-day period within a 30-mile radius for the entire Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

    Amenities available

    Showers
    Dump station
    Lodging and accommodations
    Vault toilets
    Camp Store
    Cabin Lodging

    Activities you can enjoy

    The Redfish Lake Recreation Complex offers a diverse range of activities suitable for various interests and seasons. These include hiking, swimming, fishing, motorized boating, waterskiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also enjoy educational visitor programs and scenic views at interpretive areas.
    HikingHiking opportunities include day hikes and backpacking. Specific trail details such as difficulty or length were not provided.
    FishingFishing is permitted in the lake, which is stocked with sockeye salmon and features bull trout, steelhead, and Chinook salmon. User reviews did not provide specific fishing conditions or satisfaction levels.
    SwimmingSwimming is available in designated areas. A user review mentioned that the swimming area is roped off from boaters and has a maximum depth of 'a little over 5 feet.' The water is described as 'chilly but crystal clear.'
    BoatingMotorized boating and waterskiing are allowed at Redfish Lake, but not at Little Redfish Lake. A lodge with a dock and boat rentals enhances the boating experience.
    Wildlife viewingThe area is home to a variety of fish species and likely supports other wildlife, although specific details or viewing tips were not provided.
    Beach activitiesThe beach is described as having 'soft sand, not rocky.' A user review noted, 'You can walk out to the anchored dock from the beach.'
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    Policies & Safety

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

    Weather at Redfish Lake Recreation Complex

    Reviews

    4.8
    34 reviews
    Top-Rated
    Top-Rated
    Redfish Lake Recreation Complex is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
    User opinions about Redfish Lake Recreation Complex are mixed but generally positive. Many reviewers praise the stunning natural beauty, clear lake water, and wide range of available activities. However, some criticize the crowds, RV generators, and perceived commercialization of the area.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 34 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Reviewers frequently mention the area's natural beauty ('One of the most beautiful lakes in the world'), clear water ('crystal clear lake'), and diverse activities, including horseback riding and...
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    Based on 34 reviews

    Common Concerns

    Common complaints include overcrowding during holidays and weekends ('avoid the holidays'), difficulty in securing reservations ('must reserve months in advance'), and the prevalence of RVs running...
    Show more
    Based on 34 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Tips include booking reservations months in advance to secure the best sites and avoiding peak times to enjoy a quieter experience. One reviewer suggested exploring off-grid camping in the...
    Show more
    Based on 34 reviews

    Seasonal Insights

    Crowding seems to peak during holidays and summer weekends, making these times less ideal for visitors seeking solitude. Winter activities such as snowshoeing may offer a quieter experience.
    Based on 34 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    1. 'Absolutely gorgeous and the beach is soft sand, not rocky.' 2. 'Prettiest place on earth.' 3. 'If you're looking for a quiet space to camp and see the stars, look somewhere else.'
    Based on 34 reviews

    Site-Specific Reviews

    No specific campsite numbers were mentioned in the user reviews, although certain campsites are noted as being best ('Must reserve months in advance').
    Based on 34 reviews

    Accessibility Features

    User reviews did not mention accessibility features or experiences for individuals with disabilities.
    Based on 34 reviews

    Pet-Friendly Features

    Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. No additional details on pet-related amenities or experiences were provided.
    Based on 34 reviews

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    Last updated January 5, 2026
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