Is Independence Lakes Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Independence Lakes Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

What is the best time to visit Independence Lakes Campground?

Independence Lakes Campground is open July through October. 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 Independence Lakes Campground?

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

How many campsites does Independence Lakes Campground have?

Independence Lakes Campground has 5 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Independence Lakes Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Independence Lakes Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Independence Lakes Campground?

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

What activities can I do at Independence Lakes Campground?

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

Independence Lakes Campground

4.43

29 reviews

,,,USA

Top 20% in UTSummer

Scenic Views

Featured in:Hidden Gem Campgrounds Utah#2 Mountain Camping Utah Forest Camping Utah

Quick Facts

7,789 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

5 campsites

Season

July through October

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

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Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,789 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

5 campsites

Season

July through October

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on ,,,USA Official Website

Get Directions

Independence Lakes Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Weather at Independence Lakes Campground

Best Time to Camp at Independence Lakes Campground

Best season: summer. Summer (mid-July through September) offers the best access and weather: daytime highs typically reach 55–70°F (13–21°C) with cool nights often near freezing (25–40°F / -4–4°C), so days are comfortable for long hikes and evenings are crisp by the lake. This is when the cirque basins clear of snow, wildflower meadows are at their peak, fishing in the alpine lakes is excellent, and wildlife viewing (marmots, deer, birds) is most reliable. Crowds remain low because the campground has only five sites Peak months: August, September, July, October Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 20% in UT

Best access mid-July–Sept; comfortable days, peak wildflowers and open trails.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: July through October

About Independence Lakes Campground

Independence Lakes Campground sits high in the Sawtooth National Forest, a very small primitive site serving as a trailhead to alpine cirque basins and wildflower meadows. With vault toilets and picnic tables, this is a bare-bones base camp for hikers and anglers chasing backcountry lakes just over three miles up the trail. Summer brings comfortable days and freezing nights, with peak wildflowers and excellent fishing from mid-July through September.

Independence Lakes Campground is a primitive, walk-in only facility with limited amenities, catering to tent campers and those seeking solitude.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer (mid-July through September) offers the best access and weather: daytime highs typically reach 55–70°F (13–21°C) with cool nights often near freezing (25–40°F / -4–4°C), so days are comfortable for long hikes and evenings are crisp by the lake. This is when the cirque basins clear of snow, wildflower meadows are at their peak, fishing in the alpine lakes is excellent, and wildlife viewing (marmots, deer, birds) is most reliable. Crowds remain low because the campground has only five sites Peak months: August, September, July, October Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation7789 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits near a stream at the trailhead for Independence Lakes Trail #35. The hike climbs through forest and switchbacks, then opens into cirque basins holding four alpine lakes. Granite peaks ring the upper basins. Wildflower meadows appear in midsummer when the snow clears. One reviewer described the second lake as "BEAUTIFUL," and others mention the trail's challenging first mile before it levels out for the remaining 2.1 miles to the first lake.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

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AccessibilitySites are handicapped accessible, but specifics on access to vault toilets or picnic tables are not provided.

Site SizeSmall single sites suitable for tents and small setups only.

PrivacyThe campground is described as small and quiet, offering a serene environment, though the level of privacy between sites is not detailed.

Total Campsites5 campsites

Recommended SitesSites near streams offer quiet surroundings and scenic views.

Amenities available

Independence Lakes Campground features 5 single sites and is open seasonally from July to October. The campground includes 9 tables, grills, toilets, and livestock facilities, but it lacks drinking water and trash service. Campers must pack out all trash. Sites are accessible by passenger vehicles, and the nearby Independence Lakes Trail provides access to the lakes with a 3.1-mile hike.

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Things to do at Independence Lakes Campground

The campground offers outdoor adventurers access to fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby trail to Independence Lakes is a key highlight, with some challenges due to rocky terrain on the first mile. However, the grade becomes manageable, leading to a picturesque alpine cirque basin.

Hiking4.0/5

Trailhead to Independence Lakes (#35), 3.1 mi to alpine cirque basins and four lakes; challenging then rewarding.

Fishing4.0/5

Trout fishing at nearby alpine lakes; wade/shore/float-tube allowed; non-motorized boats OK.

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5High elevation (7,789 ft) and remote, small primitive site imply good dark-sky potential.

Photography4.5/5Granite peaks, alpine lakes, wildflower meadows and high-elevation light make it highly photogenic.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground. Expect vault or pit toilets only.

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

29 reviews

Recommended

Independence Lakes Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the campground's serene and picturesque location but emphasize its remote and primitive nature. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and proximity to scenic trails and lakes.

Review Summaries

Based on 29 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the site's natural beauty, proximity to a stream, and the challenging yet rewarding hiking trails. One user stated, "We camped up at the 2nd lake and it was BEAUTIFUL!" Another...

Based on 29 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include the lack of trash facilities and the need to carry supplies in due to the walk-in nature of the sites. A user commented, "You have to park and carry your stuff in which is kind...

Based on 29 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific sites are not reviewed in detail, but the campground's proximity to the lakes is highly praised.

Based on 29 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend being prepared to hike and carry in supplies, as well as packing out all trash. Bringing adequate water and sturdy hiking shoes is advised.

Based on 29 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest the best time to visit is between July and October when the campground is open. Hikers mention that the trail conditions are rocky but manageable during this window.

Based on 29 reviews

Camper Quotes

"We had an amazing time at this little campground. You have to park and carry your stuff in which is kind of a pain, but it is nice and quiet and you are right next to a stream." "Awesome hike in, if...

Based on 29 reviews