How much does camping cost at Black Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Black Lake Campground range from $10/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Black Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Black Lake Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Black Lake Campground before I book?

Yes! Black Lake Campground has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Black Lake Campground?

Black Lake Campground is open June. 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 Black Lake Campground?

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

How many campsites does Black Lake Campground have?

Black Lake Campground has 4 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Black Lake Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Black 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 Black Lake Campground?

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

What activities can I do at Black Lake Campground?

Popular activities at Black Lake Campground include Hiking, Fishing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Black Lake Campground

3.76

30 reviews

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Fishing Idaho

Quick Facts

7,257 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

July- October

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,257 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

July- October

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Black Lake Campground

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Overnight campsite fees are $10/night for a single family unit (tent or trailer sites). Payments are accepted via self-service pay station using cash...

Standard Site Fee$10.00

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Provider

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Black Lake Campground

45.1898, -116.5613

Nearby places

Riggins, Idaho (60 miles, approximately 1 hour travel time)

Council, Idaho (30 miles, approximately 40 minutes travel time)

Nearby supplies

Council, Idaho is the closest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.

Driving directionsFrom Riggins, Idaho go south 60 miles on US Hwy 95 to Council, Idaho; In Council leave Hwy 95 in the downtown area and head north/northwest on the Hornet Creek Road #002; Continue north on this road past Lafferty Campground until the Community of Bear (no services); After passing through Bear continue north on Road 105 (gravel road suitable for passenger cars) and watch for the split in the road; Stay right on road #105 - do not enter the Bear Work Center; Continue on #105 road for approx. 1/2 mile to the intersection with Road #112; Travel on Road #112 heading north/northwest past Smith Mountain Lookout to the end of this road at Black Lake Campground.

The access road to the campground is steep and rough, and is not recommended for RVs, trailers, or low clearance vehicles. The last 6 miles of the access road is particularly rugged, requiring a high-clearance vehicle. It is a gravel road suitable for passenger cars up to a certain point.

Weather at Black Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Black Lake Campground

Summer brings daytime highs around 65-75°F and cool nights in the 40s to low 50s. Lakes and trails are fully melted by late June, making this the most reliable season for hiking, backpacking, and trout fishing. Snow and freezing temperatures can arrive into late spring and return in early fall. Weekend traffic from UTVs increases during peak summer months, though the four-site limit keeps crowds manageable.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer temps 65–75°F; lakes and trails fully melted by late June; peak season and best access.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: July- October

About Black Lake Campground

Black Lake Campground sits at 7,257 feet in the Wallowa Whitman National Forest with just four primitive tent sites. It is a trailhead for Horse Heaven Trail #214 and Six Lakes Basin Trail #218, placing you at the edge of the Hells Canyon Wilderness. Sites cost $10 per night and include picnic tables. The access road requires high-clearance or 4WD vehicles.

Black Lake Campground is primarily designed for tent camping, with its four designated sites catering to small groups or individuals. Primitive camping spots around the lake are also noted by some users.

Historical Significance

Devoted visitors have returned to Black Lake since 1954, with some families maintaining camping traditions here for nearly seven decades.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs around 65-75°F and cool nights in the 40s to low 50s. Lakes and trails are fully melted by late June, making this the most reliable season for hiking, backpacking, and trout fishing. Snow and freezing temperatures can arrive into late spring and return in early fall. Weekend traffic from UTVs increases during peak summer months, though the four-site limit keeps crowds manageable.

ElevationPerched within the mountainous embrace of the Hells Canyon region, the campground sits at an elevation that places you firmly in the realm of mountain camping, where the air carries that distinctive crispness and clarity that only comes with altitude. While specific elevation details await confirmation, visitors can expect the characteristic thin air and dramatic temperature swings typical of high-country camping.

Natural Features and SceneryDense coniferous forests cover the steep mountainsides surrounding Black Lake. The campground occupies the lake's edge in a water-rich ecosystem where a network of pristine lakes and streams defines the landscape. The rugged terrain reflects the forces that carved Hells Canyon Wilderness. Wildflowers line the trails during summer months when the snow has melted from the high country.

Geological RegionNestled at the convergence of water and wilderness, Black Lake Campground occupies a dramatic landscape where the forces of nature have sculpted a playground of peaks, forests, and waterways. The campground's position on Black Lake's edge places you at the threshold of the legendary Hells Canyon Wilderness, a region defined by its uncompromising terrain, where dense forests cloak steep mountainsides and a network of pristine lakes and streams creates a water-rich ecosystem that has captivated adventurers for generations.

Scenic ViewsThe campground is located directly on Black Lake, offering scenic lake views. The nearby Smith Mountain Lookout provides expansive vistas.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo lodging accommodations, such as lodges or cabins, are mentioned.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information provided about cultural or educational programs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Wilderness restrictions apply.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Camping is tight and space may be limited.

Groups

No designated group camping sites are mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutFour designated tent sites occupy the area around the lake, each with a picnic table. Reviewers note that camping can feel tight due to limited space.

Reservation PlatformsSelf-service pay station on site.

Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is tight, but some sites may be walk-up/first-come-first-served.

Cancellation PolicySites may be reservable and reservation fees apply; cancellation policies are not detailed.

AccessibilityNo accessibility features are specified.

Site SizeThe campground has only four designated tent sites.

PrivacySome user reviews mention that camping can feel tight due to limited space.

Total Campsites4 campsites

Recommended SitesSites directly adjacent to Black Lake are recommended for scenic views. Primitive camping spots around the lake offer additional options.

Need help booking Black Lake Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site.

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Black Lake Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing. The campground serves as the starting point for trails leading into the Hells Canyon Wilderness.

Hiking

Fishing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe steep, rocky, and narrow access road poses a challenge for low-clearance vehicles. Wildlife and rugged terrain may also present risks.

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

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Black Lake Campground

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From Booking Sources

3.8

30 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Black Lake Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the rugged and remote nature of Black Lake Campground. Positive aspects include its scenic location and access to trails, while criticisms focus on limited camping spots, challenging road conditions, and mixed fishing experiences.

Review Summaries

Based on 30 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers appreciate the scenic beauty and the 'off-the-beaten-path' setting. One user stated, 'Beautiful setting. Trailheads here as well.' Another reviewer mentioned, 'Bring an electric outboard...

Based on 30 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the poor condition of the access road, limited number of campsites, and subpar fishing. A reviewer noted, 'The last 6 miles of the access road is pretty rugged, high...

Based on 30 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend using a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle to navigate the access road. Another tip includes exploring other lakes and trails in the area, such as Granite Creek and Six Lakes Basin Trail.

Based on 30 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No season-specific reviews are provided, but operational hours indicate use in June, suggesting that summer may be the peak season for camping.

Based on 30 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The road keeps flatlanders away.' 2. 'Beautiful lake, not a lot of camping spots, expect a steady stream of UTVs on the weekend.' 3. 'Camping can be tight but road keeps flatlanders away.' 4....

Based on 30 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility features.

Based on 30 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically mention pet-related policies or experiences.

Based on 30 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

Hikers and backpackers heading into Six Lakes Basin or Horse Heaven Trail will find this the ideal base. Four sites keeps crowds down, and $10/night is a fair price for direct wilderness access. High-clearance or 4WD required for the last 6 miles.

Skip if

Weekend UTV traffic rattles through regularly, the fishing gets mixed reviews at best, and there's no potable water on site. Anyone counting on cell signal or a smooth access road will be disappointed before they even unpack.

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