Stanley Lake Campground
4.5983 reviewsSAWTOOTH, ID, USA
Quick Facts
6,500 ftPrice
$24 - $48/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
37 campsites
Season
Open from May 23, 20...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
6,500 ftPrice
$24 - $48/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
37 campsites
Season
Open from May 23, 20...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsStanley Lake Campground
$24.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Reservation fees vary by campsite type, ranging from $24.00 for standard nonelectric sites to $48.00 during peak season. Additional fees include a...
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Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$48.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$72.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider928-537-8888camping@rrmofa.com
What Campers Say
4.59
Top-Rated
Based on 83 reviews
62 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewspeacefulcleanhiking
Some mention
mosquitoes
"Stanley Lake Campground receives high praise for its stunning natural beauty, cleanliness, and excellent recreational opportunities. Some visitors report issues with privacy and the behavior of certain camp hosts."
Fees & Passes at Stanley Lake Campground
$24 - $48/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Premium Site
Best views or amenities
Stay Limit: Maximum stay limit of 10 nights per visit.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival, with a $10 cancellation fee and f...
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 Stanley Lake Campground
Experience the magic of true mountain summers at Stanley Lake, where daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 78°F, perfect for hiking and water activities, before cooling to a crisp 40°F under star-filled skies. Pack your favorite fleece for those refreshingly cool evenings around the campfire, when stories flow as freely as the mountain air. During shoulder seasons, come prepared for nature's moods – from golden autumn days to spring's awakening showers, each bringing its own spectacular beauty to this high-country paradise.
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, 2025 to September 18, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 23, 2025, to September 18, 2025, for reservable sites. First-come-first-serve sites available in shoulder seasons (May 14-21, 2026, and September 19-30, 2025). Closed out of season.
- Current Alerts: No specific alerts noted.
About Stanley Lake Campground
Nestled among towering lodgepole pines at the foot of majestic McGowan Peak, Stanley Lake Campground offers an authentic mountain camping experience at its finest. This scenic retreat combines the convenience of reservable sites with the spontaneity of first-come, first-served options, all equipped with essential amenities including sturdy picnic tables, warming fire rings, clean vault toilets, and fresh potable water. Whether you're seeking a planned family getaway or a last-minute mountain escape, this pristine campground provides the perfect basecamp for your Sawtooth adventures.
Stanley Lake Campground offers versatile camping options, catering to tent campers, RV users, and those seeking first-come, first-served sites.
Historical SignificanceStanley Lake Campground stands as a cherished gateway within the legendary Sawtooth National Recreation Area, a landscape that has captivated adventurers and nature lovers for generations. This protected wilderness represents one of America's most spectacular mountain playgrounds, where pristine waters and jagged peaks have inspired countless outdoor enthusiasts to forge lasting connections with the natural world.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of true mountain summers at Stanley Lake, where daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 78°F, perfect for hiking and water activities, before cooling to a crisp 40°F under star-filled skies. Pack your favorite fleece for those refreshingly cool evenings around the campfire, when stories flow as freely as the mountain air. During shoulder seasons, come prepared for nature's moods – from golden autumn days to spring's awakening showers, each bringing its own spectacular beauty to this high-country paradise.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,500 feet above sea level, Stanley Lake Campground offers visitors a true high-mountain experience. This elevation creates a natural air conditioning system during summer months, while treating campers to panoramic vistas that stretch across the Sawtooth wilderness. The thin mountain air adds an extra sparkle to morning coffee and makes every sunset feel like a private show painted across the sky.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your hillside perch above the crystalline waters of Stanley Lake, wake up to breathtaking views of McGowan Peak piercing the morning sky. The campground's thoughtful placement among mature lodgepole pines creates a perfect balance of sheltering forest and open vistas, where every site feels like a private window into Idaho's wild heart. Watch eagles soar overhead, spot deer grazing in nearby meadows, and fall asleep to the gentle whisper of wind through ancient pines.
Geological RegionCarved into a scenic hillside within the rugged embrace of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, this campground showcases nature's architectural mastery. The imposing presence of McGowan Peak at 9,860 feet dominates the skyline, while Stanley Lake mirrors the surrounding peaks in its pristine waters below. Ancient lodgepole pines provide a living canopy of dappled shade, their straight trunks standing like natural pillars in this outdoor cathedral where granite meets sky in dramatic fashion.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides gravel roads and spurs, but specific details about ADA-compliant facilities or other accessibility features are not provided.
Sites SizeSites vary in size but are designed to accommodate RVs and tents. Certain sections of the campground, such as sites 25-35, are geared for larger RVs while still including flat pads for tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels at Stanley Lake Campground vary by site. Some areas, particularly the 'expansion' section, are more exposed and lack mature trees, while others offer partial shade and scenic views.
Total Campsites37 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLook for sites closer to the lake for better views and access (e.g., sites 9, 10, 11-14). Avoid expansion area sites if seeking shade.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11 AM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 10 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Recreation Use Fee allows one camping unit per standard single-family site and two vehicles per double site.
Groups
Group sites are available and are spacious enough to accommodate multiple individuals. Specific capacity limits are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of three sections: lakeside sites, an expansion area, and shaded sites within a lodgepole pine grove.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23, 2025, to September 18, 2025, for reservable sites. First-come-first-serve sites available in shoulder seasons (May 14-21, 2026, and September 19-30, 2025). Closed out of season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or through their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available during shoulder seasons and must be booked in person.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival, with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of reservation fees. Late cancellations (starting from midnight a day before check-in) also incur the first night's recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Stanley Lake Campground provides a range of recreational opportunities, including water activities, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Its location near Stanley Lake and the Sawtooth Mountains makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
The Idaho Centennial Trail passes nearby and is accessible from the Stanley Lake Trailhead. Additionally, new trails around the north side of the lake link the campground with day-use areas and trailheads. Hikers can explore numerous other trails in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, offering diverse options in difficulty and terrain.Fishing
Fishing is a major activity at Stanley Lake, with opportunities to catch rainbow, cutthroat, brook, and bull trout. The lake is described as gorgeous and serene, making it a favorite among anglers.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in Stanley Lake, but some campers have reported issues with leeches and swimmer's itch. Safety precautions such as rinsing off and avoiding stagnant areas are advised.Biking
Biking is popular in and around the campground, with trails crisscrossing the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The lake area also features bike-friendly paths.Boating
Stanley Lake supports a variety of boating activities, including water skiing, canoeing, and kayaking. A boat ramp is located just outside the campground for easy access.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highly recommended, with opportunities to observe the local fauna, including osprey hunting over the lake.Beach activities
The lake features areas suitable for beach activities such as sunbathing and relaxing. Some campsites offer direct access to the lakeshore.Winter Activities
No specific information on winter activities is provided. The campground operates seasonally and closes in the fall.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and water skiing are widely enjoyed at Stanley Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted within fire rings but subject to seasonal restrictions.
- Quiet hours are Starting at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include mosquitoes (noted in reviews), swimmer's itch, and fallen logs in campsites. Some sites may have uneven terrain as mentioned in user reviews.
Active alertsNo specific alerts noted.
Weather at Stanley Lake Campground
19
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Stanley, Idaho (4.5 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 to September 18, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash service is provided at the campground, but no recycling facilities are mentioned. Campers are encouraged to maintain cleanliness and dispose of waste responsibly.
Proximity to water featuresLocated above Stanley Lake, offering close access to water activities such as kayaking and fishing.
Common complaintsCommon feedback includes the behavior of some camp hosts, lack of privacy at certain sites, and the presence of mosquitoes.
HostHosts such as Denny are frequently praised for their friendliness and upkeep of the campground. However, some reviews indicate negative interactions with other hosts.
Campground Map
SAWTOOTH, ID, USA
Driving directionsTravel 4.5 miles west of Stanley, Idaho on State Highway 21. Turn on paved Stanley Lake Road and drive 3 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via a paved road, Stanley Lake Road, which is 3 miles from State Highway 21. Roads within the campground are gravel.Nearby places
Stanley (4.5 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The small town of Stanley (4.5 miles away) offers groceries, fuel, camping supplies, and other essentials.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
83 reviews
Stanley Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Stanley Lake Campground receives high praise for its stunning natural beauty, cleanliness, and excellent recreational opportunities. Some visitors report issues with privacy and the behavior of certain camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 83 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers highlight the beautiful lake views, clean and well-maintained vault toilets, and the wide range of recreational activities available. The campground is described as peaceful, with excellent...
Based on 83 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the behavior of some camp hosts, lack of privacy in certain sections, and the presence of mosquitoes and leeches in the lake during summer.
Based on 83 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bug spray, arriving early for first-come, first-served sites, and preparing for cool evenings. They also advise avoiding stagnant water in the lake due to leeches.
Based on 83 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with warm days and cool nights. However, mosquitoes and leeches are more prevalent during this time. Fall offers fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.
Based on 83 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The cleanest vault bathrooms I've ever seen." - Sarah Fitzpatrick; "Absolutely breathtaking, especially at dawn when the water is smooth." - Nicole Eldred; "Favorite campground ever." - Jeff H.
Based on 83 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites 11-14 are noted for their great beach access, while sites 25-35 are described as more exposed and better suited for RVs. Site 18 offers stunning lake views.
Based on 83 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features for disabled individuals.
Based on 83 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address experiences with pets at the campground.
Based on 83 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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