The best camping near Sawtooth National Forest

For optimum stargazing, head to Sawtooth National Forest. Named for central Idaho’s wild and jagged Sawtooth Range and set inside a portion of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, Sawtooth National Forest provides the perfect vantage point to observe the first and only Gold-Tier dark sky reserve in the United States.

This massive landscape filled with mountain lakes, towering peaks, and scenic rivers can be seen from the Sawtooth Scenic Byway, which travels from Shoshone to Stanley. Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and paddle sports are all popular ways to enjoy the Sawtooths in summer, while winter brings a playground for snow sports. Camping opportunities are plentiful, from designated campgrounds on alpine lakes to dispersed camping areas set off of remote dirt roads. Fishermen and women should head to Sunny Gulch Campground for easy access to the Salmon River and rainbow trout. Cook your catch in the shelter equipped with a grill and other cooking and dining amenities.

• Best for families: Glacier View Campground 
• Best for water sports: Stanley Lake Campground 
• Best for hikers: Twin Lakes Campground

1. Reservations are strongly recommended for popular areas including Redfish Lake, Stanley Lake, and sites along the Salmon River. Reservations are available six months in advance online and fill quickly for summer weekends and holidays. 
2. Some camping areas in the Sawtooths are incredibly popular. Arrive mid-week for the best chance at finding a first-come, first-served site through the weekend. 
3. Cabins are also available at Redfish Lake and can be reserved up to six months in advance online.

Summer is the best and busiest time for hiking, camping, and sightseeing in the Sawtooth National Forest, so visit mid-week to avoid the crowds at the lakes. Early fall can be a nice time to camp and hike as long as you bring along extra layers. Evenings can get quite chilly in the Sawtooths, even in summer. Spring brings rain, even when higher elevation trails are still covered with snow. Backcountry skiing is often best January through April.  

1. Sawtooth National Forest campgrounds often include picnic tables, fire rings, and either flush or vault toilets. RV hookups and showers are rarely available. 
2. Gas, groceries, and all other camping necessities are available in the Sawtooth gateway towns of Ketchum and Stanley. A general store can be found at Redfish Lake. 
3. Boats, kayaks, and standup paddleboards are available for rent at the Redfish Lake Marina.
4. Black bears are a common sight in the Sawtooth National Forest, so follow all bear safety campground rules. Never leave food, garbage, or other scented items unattended. 
5. Dogs are allowed in most areas in the forest. Dogs are not allowed on beaches and in some areas in spring where their presence may threaten endangered animals.