Black Lake Campground

Star4.10
30 reviews
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

7,257 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Wallowa Whitman National Forest site

Official Website
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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...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
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

4.10

Satisfactory

Based on 30 reviews

25 Google 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."

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Campground Map

Black Lake Campground

45.1898, -116.5613

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.
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.

Best Time to Camp at Black Lake Campground

June emerges as the crown jewel of camping seasons at Black Lake, drawing outdoor enthusiasts when the mountain air is crisp and inviting. The sweet spot for weather arrives around week 28, when daytime temperatures dance between a comfortable 72°F and cool evenings dip to 48°F, with blue skies dominating the forecast. Adventurous souls visiting during shoulder seasons should come prepared for winter's lingering touch, as freezing temperatures and snow can surprise even into late spring and early fall, adding an element of wild unpredictability to the mountain experience.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

June is peak season; week 28 highlighted as the sweet spot for weather and use.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

High-elevation site likely pleasant in early fall but limited seasonality info provided.

Spring(Mar-May)
2.0 / 5

High elevation suggests snow/late melt in spring; descriptions emphasize June peak instead.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Operational use noted mainly in June; winter access/operations not described.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Black Lake Campground

Tucked away in the embrace of pristine wilderness, Black Lake Campground offers an intimate escape with just four designated tent sites for those seeking solitude and authentic outdoor experiences. This rustic haven serves as your gateway to adventure, providing direct access to the scenic Black Lake and serving as a trailhead for both Horse Heaven Trail #214 and Six Lakes Basin Trail #218. Positioned at the doorstep of the magnificent Hells Canyon Wilderness, this campground rewards those willing to venture off the beaten path with an unparalleled connection to nature's raw beauty.
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.
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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
Wilderness restrictions apply.

Amenities available

Picnic tables

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.
HikingThe campground provides access to two hiking trails: Black Lake- Horse Heaven Trail #214 and Six Lakes Basin Trail #218, which lead into the Hells Canyon Wilderness. The trails are suited for day hikes.
FishingFishing is available at Black Lake, but user reviews are mixed. One reviewer stated, 'Every time I've been there, the fishing has been bad, it says they've stocked it multiple times over the years, but really they're just feeding the tiger muskie.' Another camper reminisced about using a 2.5HP outboard for fishing in the past.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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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.

Weather at Black Lake Campground

Reviews

4.1
30 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Black Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% 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...
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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...
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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....
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Based on 30 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific campsite numbers are mentioned in user reviews.
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

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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