Buster Lake Trailhead

721 East Main St Suite 8, Challis, ID 83226, USA

Tucked away in the embrace of California's pristine wilderness, Herd Lake Campground stands as one of the region's best-kept secrets for those seeking true solitude. This intimate single-site retreat lies 10 miles down the winding Herd Lake Road, where the gentle murmur of Herd Creek becomes your soundtrack to serenity. Just a mile north of the crystalline waters of Herd Lake and bordered by the magnificent Jerry Peak-Jim McClure Wilderness, this remote sanctuary offers adventurers a rare chance to have an entire campground to themselves. Your private haven comes equipped with essential comforts—a sturdy picnic table for sunset dinners, a fire ring for starlit storytelling, and a vault toilet—while the absence of potable water and limited cell service reminds you that you've truly escaped the modern world.

Sawtooth National Forest

Discover your perfect outdoor escape where ancient forests meet crystal-clear waters, and starlit nights promise unforgettable memories. This hidden gem offers the ideal blend of wilderness adventure and comfortable camping, welcoming everyone from seasoned backpackers to families seeking their first taste of the great outdoors. Wake up to birdsong echoing through towering pines, spend your days exploring scenic trails, and end each evening around a crackling campfire as the Milky Way emerges overhead.

Sawtooth National Forest

Discover your perfect outdoor escape at this hidden gem, where pristine wilderness meets modern camping comfort. Whether you're seeking adventure-filled days or peaceful nights under the stars, this campground offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers of all ages. Wake up to birdsong, spend your days exploring scenic trails, and end each evening around a crackling campfire as the sun paints the sky in brilliant hues.

SAWTOOTH NRA

Nestled alongside the crystal-clear waters of Redfish Lake at 6,500 feet, Outlet Campground invites you to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Sawtooth Mountains. Here, where paved roads wind through towering pines and modern amenities meet wilderness wonder, you'll discover the perfect basecamp for mountain adventures or peaceful lakeside retreats. With flush toilets, well-maintained facilities, and the charming Redfish Lake Lodge just moments away, this alpine sanctuary combines comfort with the raw beauty of Idaho's most spectacular mountain landscape.

H.C. 64 Box 9900

Nestled on the pristine northern shore of Redfish Lake, this historic cabin offers an intimate escape where time slows down and nature takes center stage. Perfect for small families or close-knit groups seeking authentic mountain solitude, the cabin seamlessly blends 1930s craftsmanship with essential modern comforts including electricity. While embracing a simpler lifestyle without running water, guests discover the true luxury lies in uninterrupted mountain views and the gentle lapping of lake waters just steps away.

Sawtooth National Forest

SAWTOOTH, STANLEY, ID, USA

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.

Sawtooth National Forest

Escape to Mountain View Campground, where Idaho's untamed wilderness awaits your arrival. This first-come, first-served haven operates on the simple principle of adventure seekers claiming their perfect spot upon arrival. Once you've found your ideal site among the sweeping mountain vistas, secure your stay with a quick QR code scan through the Recreation.gov mobile app. While the digital age meets the great outdoors here, be prepared for nature's own communication system – cellular signals tend to fade as the mountain peaks rise, reminding you that you've truly left the connected world behind.

Sawtooth National Forest

Tucked away on the serene eastern shores of Little Redfish Lake, Mountain View Campground beckons those seeking an authentic Idaho wilderness experience. This hidden gem features six intimate, first-come, first-serve campsites that offer a perfect escape from the crowds. With motorized watercraft banned from these pristine waters, visitors can peacefully paddle their canoes and kayaks across the mirror-like surface, cast lines for native trout, or simply float in the crystal-clear mountain lake. Adventure enthusiasts will discover themselves at the doorstep of both the legendary Sawtooth Wilderness and the stunning White Clouds Wilderness, with multiple trailheads leading directly into these protected backcountry areas. Whether you're capturing the alpenglow on jagged peaks at sunrise or exploring hidden alpine lakes by day, this photographer's paradise promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Sawtooth National Forest

Escape the crowds and discover your perfect wilderness retreat at this hidden gem, where camping spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Early birds are rewarded with their choice of pristine sites, making spontaneous adventure seekers and flexible travelers feel right at home in this natural haven.

Sawtooth National Recreation, Stanley, ID 83278, USA

Nestled along the pristine Salmon River in the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Sunny Gulch Campground offers the perfect blend of wilderness adventure and family-friendly comfort. With well-maintained paved roads leading you through this mountain paradise, modern vault toilets, fresh drinking water, and inviting picnic areas, you'll find all the essentials for a memorable outdoor experience. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply soaking in the mountain majesty, Sunny Gulch serves as your ideal basecamp for discovering the treasures of central Idaho.

Sawtooth National Forest

Discover the freedom of spontaneous adventure at Salmon River Campground, where the first-come, first-served policy invites you to claim your perfect riverside spot as soon as you arrive. This flexible camping experience puts you in control of your wilderness escape, with modern convenience at your fingertips through the Recreation.gov mobile app's QR code Scan & Pay feature—making your check-in as smooth as the river's flow.

Sawtooth National Forest

Escape the crowds and discover the tranquil beauty of Holman Creek Campground, where pristine wilderness meets peaceful solitude. This hidden gem offers a refreshing alternative to busier camping destinations, providing the perfect retreat for those seeking authentic outdoor experiences. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis, the campground welcomes spontaneous adventurers and early risers alike. Before setting out on your journey, be sure to download the Recreation.gov app for seamless Scan & Pay transactions, as the remote location offers limited cellular connectivity – a small price to pay for true disconnection from the digital world.

Sawtooth National Forest

Discover your own private wilderness retreat at this exclusive single-site campground, where solitude meets nature in perfect harmony. This hidden gem offers the ultimate escape for those seeking a truly intimate outdoor experience, with just one carefully positioned campsite ensuring complete privacy and an uninterrupted connection with the natural world around you.

Sawtooth National Forest

Nestled deep within the enchanting Sawtooth National Forest, Casino Creek Campground serves as your gateway to adventure, where crystalline waters meet rugged trails. This outdoor haven beckons with its renowned 20-mile loop trail system, equally beloved by mountain bikers seeking heart-pumping descents and hikers craving panoramic wilderness views. Whether you're pitching your tent beside the gentle murmur of the creek or planning your next trail conquest, Casino Creek promises an authentic Idaho backcountry experience.

Sawtooth National Forest

Experience the freedom of spontaneous adventure at this first-come, first-served campground, where your next outdoor escape awaits. Simply arrive in person to claim your perfect campsite among nature's backdrop. Once you've found your ideal spot, our convenient QR code payment system through the Recreation.gov mobile app's Scan and Pay feature makes securing your stay quick and effortless, letting you focus on what matters most – immersing yourself in the great outdoors.

Sawtooth National Forest

Escape the crowds and discover your own riverside retreat at Upper O'Brien Campground, where the gentle murmur of the Salmon River becomes your personal soundtrack. This hidden gem welcomes adventurers on a first-come, first-served basis, rewarding those who venture off the beaten path with unparalleled tranquility and pristine natural beauty.

/

Discover your perfect outdoor escape at this hidden gem, where pristine wilderness meets modern camping comfort. Whether you're seeking a peaceful weekend retreat or an adventure-filled family vacation, this campground offers the ideal basecamp for exploring nature's wonders. Wake up to birdsong, spend your days hiking scenic trails, and end each evening around a crackling campfire under a canopy of stars.

Sawtooth National Forest

Nestled alongside the pristine waters of the Salmon River, Riverside Campground offers a tranquil escape where the gentle sounds of flowing water provide nature's soundtrack. This charming campground straddles both sides of a quiet road, creating two distinct camping areas that cater to both tent enthusiasts and RV adventurers. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with a trailer up to 25 feet, you'll find your perfect basecamp here. Essential amenities blend seamlessly with the natural setting—two well-maintained outhouses serve the campground, while hand-pumped water stations offer fresh mountain water. Each site features its own fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings and s'mores under the stars. Despite its serene riverside setting, the campground remains conveniently accessible from the nearby highway, making it an ideal stop for travelers exploring the region.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Discover tranquility at Blind Creek Campground, where the melodic rush of the Yankee Fork of the Salmon River serves as nature's soundtrack. As the gateway to a string of riverside campsites, this intimate six-site retreat offers an authentic wilderness experience. Two coveted spots place you just steps from the water's edge, where the river's gentle murmur lulls you to sleep. Each thoughtfully spaced site comes equipped with a sturdy picnic table and a fire ring complete with cooking grill—perfect for savoring fresh-caught trout under a canopy of stars. While vault toilets provide necessary comfort, the absence of potable water reminds you that you're truly immersed in nature's domain, so come prepared with your own supply.

Flat Rock Campground, Yankee Fork of Salmon River

Tucked along the pristine waters of the Yankee Fork of Salmon River, Flat Rock Campground offers an intimate escape into Idaho's wilderness. This hidden gem features just six thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with picnic tables and fire pits complete with cooking grills. Perfect for those seeking solitude without sacrificing comfort, the campground welcomes RVs and trailers up to 32 feet, making it an ideal basecamp for adventurers who appreciate the road less traveled.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Perched on a hillside away from the hustle of the main road, Pole Flat Campground offers a peaceful retreat with sweeping views of the river valley and historic dredge ponds below. Each campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with a picnic table, designated tent pad, and fire ring complete with a cooking grill for those memorable outdoor meals. While the sites sit close together, creating a friendly atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow adventurers, the open layout allows for easy maneuvering of trailers and motorhomes up to 32 feet. Modern vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort during your stay. With a visitor rating of 4.2 for general experiences and 3.0 for camping, Pole Flat remains a hidden gem for those seeking a quieter basecamp in the Salmon-Challis wilderness.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Tucked away in a tranquil forest grove, this intimate campground offers a peaceful retreat where towering timber provides natural privacy and shelter. Hidden behind historic dredge piles that whisper tales of the area's mining past, this secluded site creates the perfect basecamp for small groups seeking an authentic wilderness experience away from the crowds.

311 N. HWY 93

Nestled in a pristine mountain valley at 6,500 feet, Bonanza CCC Group Campground offers an exclusive retreat for groups seeking authentic wilderness experiences. This thoughtfully designed facility features 13 spacious camping spurs, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and traditional fire rings where stories and s'mores come to life under starlit skies. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with rustic charm through well-maintained vault toilets and a convenient grey water sink. As a group-only reservation facility without hookups, Bonanza encourages disconnection from the digital world and reconnection with nature and companions. The campground's legacy traces back to the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose careful planning created this perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness preservation.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Nestled along the historic Custer Motorway, this intimate six-site campground offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and Old West history. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table, fire ring with cooking grill, and access to vault toilet facilities. The thoughtfully designed spaces welcome RVs and trailers up to 32 feet, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the remnants of Custer's gold rush glory days while enjoying the pristine wilderness of the Salmon-Challis National Forest.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Nestled beside a pristine high mountain lake, Big Bayhorse Campground offers an intimate escape into Idaho's untamed wilderness. Eight thoughtfully spaced campsites welcome adventurers seeking solitude among towering peaks and crystal-clear waters. Each site comes complete with a picnic table for lakeside dining, a fire ring for evening storytelling, and a cooking grill for preparing the day's catch or trail-worthy meals.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Escape to a pristine alpine sanctuary where crystal-clear waters mirror towering peaks and endless sky. This secluded high mountain lake offers an authentic wilderness experience with excellent fishing opportunities and a scenic hiking trail that winds its way to neighboring Bayhorse Lake. Three thoughtfully placed primitive campsites, each furnished with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings, provide intimate spaces to reconnect with nature. While you'll find basic facilities including a conveniently located toilet, this off-the-grid gem embraces simplicity—pack in your water and supplies, and prepare to pack out what you bring, as no drinking water or garbage services are available on site.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Nestled along the pristine waters of the Yankee Fork of the Salmon River, this intimate camping retreat offers the perfect escape for families seeking outdoor adventure or peaceful relaxation. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear river, tracking game through the surrounding wilderness, or simply unwinding under Idaho's vast sky, this charming campground provides an authentic back-to-nature experience. The site features essential vault toilet facilities, while the spacious meadow across the road welcomes larger RVs and camp trailers with room to spare. As a true wilderness destination, visitors should come prepared with their own water supplies and plan to pack out all garbage, helping preserve this natural haven for future adventurers. With a generous 16-day stay limit, you'll have plenty of time to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Tucked along the legendary Custer Motorway near Challis, Mill Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into Idaho's rugged backcountry. This hidden gem features eight thoughtfully spaced single campsites, each equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring for those quintessential campfire evenings, plus one spacious group site perfect for family gatherings or outdoor clubs. While ATVs must stick to the Forest Roads beyond camp boundaries, the real adventure here unfolds on foot or by fishing rod. With vault toilets and a hand-operated water pump providing the essentials, this pack-it-in, pack-it-out campground strips away modern distractions. Cast a line for rainbow trout in the babbling waters of Mill Creek, or use the camp as your basecamp for exploring the extensive motorized trail network that winds its way to Bayhorse Lake and beyond.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

High in the rugged wilderness of the Salmon-Challis National Forest, Mosquito Flat Reservoir Campground offers an authentic backcountry experience just outside Challis, Idaho. This intimate campground features 11 thoughtfully placed sites across three distinct camping areas, each offering its own perspective of the shimmering reservoir below. Here, simplicity reigns supreme—each site comes equipped with the camping essentials: a sturdy picnic table and fire ring where stories are shared under starlit skies. True to its wilderness character, this is a 'pack it in, pack it out' destination without water hookups or garbage service, encouraging a deeper connection with the natural world. Despite its rustic nature, the campground welcomes RVs and trailers up to 32 feet, and vault toilets provide necessary amenities for your mountain adventure.

5025 Hot Springs Rd, Challis, Idaho, 83226-4971, United States

Nestled in the heart of Idaho's rugged wilderness, Challis Hot Springs beckons weary travelers with its legendary mineral pools and riverside serenity. This newly minted Idaho State Park gem combines the therapeutic waters that have drawn visitors for generations with modern amenities and pristine camping facilities. Whether you're pulling in with an RV or pitching a tent under the stars, you'll discover why guests consistently rave about the spotless grounds, warm hospitality, and the profound sense of tranquility that permeates this riverside sanctuary along the mighty Salmon River.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Discover a hidden gem where adventure begins at your doorstep. This intimate single-site campground sits right at the trailhead, offering exclusive access to hiking paths that lead to a historic fire lookout tower. Your private wilderness retreat comes equipped with a rustic picnic table and traditional fire ring, creating the perfect basecamp for those seeking an authentic backcountry experience without venturing too far from the trailhead.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Perched on a scenic bluff overlooking the rushing waters of Loon Creek, Tin Cup Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience at the edge of the legendary Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. This intimate campground features thirteen thoughtfully dispersed sites, each tucked beneath a canopy of towering Douglas firs and furnished with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings for evening gatherings under starlit skies. While embracing a back-to-basics camping philosophy with vault toilets and no running water, Tin Cup rewards visitors with unparalleled tranquility and direct access to one of America's last great wild places.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Tucked deep within the legendary Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, Indian Springs Campsite offers adventurers two pristine primitive sites where the modern world fades away. Here, beneath towering pines and endless skies, simple pleasures reign supreme—gather around crackling fire rings as stars emerge overhead, share stories at weathered picnic tables, and wake to the whisper of wilderness winds. This is camping stripped to its beautiful essentials, where every sunset feels earned and every sunrise brings new possibilities.

End of Little West Fork Road

Tucked away at the edge of untamed wilderness, Little West Fork Morgan Creek Trailhead welcomes adventurous souls seeking an authentic backcountry experience. This intimate dispersed camping area features a single developed site complete with a picnic table and fire ring, serving as your gateway to the legendary Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. While you'll find the comfort of a vault toilet, this is true wilderness camping—bring your own water and pack out what you pack in, as no potable water or garbage services are available at this remote outpost.

null

Escape to a secluded wilderness retreat where a single, intimate campsite awaits with its welcoming picnic table and crackling fire ring. This hidden gem serves as your personal gateway to the legendary Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, offering adventurers direct trail access to one of America's most pristine and untouched landscapes. While embracing the true spirit of backcountry camping with basic vault toilet facilities and no running water or garbage service, this site promises an authentic connection with nature that modern campgrounds simply can't match.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Salmon-Challis National Forest

End of Little West Fork Road

null

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Flat Rock Campground, Yankee Fork of Salmon River

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Sawtooth National Forest

/

Sawtooth National Forest

Sawtooth National Forest

Sawtooth National Forest

Sawtooth National Forest