Stanley Camping

The Sawtooth/Stanley Area is the ultimate camping destination. A highly guarded secret among Idaho natives, the Sawtooth Valley boasts cool summer temperatures and unlimited developed and un-developed camping options. The area surrounding Stanley boasts over 300 well maintained camping sites. Visitors can choose to camp near mountain lakes, in huge mountain meadows or along the mighty Salmon River of No Return.

USFS campgrounds are designed for self-sufficient camping; USFS campgrounds do not offer trailer hookups for water, sewer, or power. Because of heavy winter snows, most area campgrounds are open only from mid-May through Labor Day.

GENERAL INFORMATION about the Sawtooth area recreation, camping, and picnic sites is available from the Sawtooth National Forest/Sawtooth National Recreation Area offices.

For more detailed information or questions about facilities and locations, contact one of the sources below.

• Sawtooth National Recreation Area – 208-727-5013 or 208-727-5000
• Stanley Ranger Station – 208-774-3000
• Redfish Lake Visitor Center – 208-774-3376.
  (Summer only, June 1 – Labor Day)

Information is also available online at fs.fed.us/r4/sawtooth.

CAMPGROUND RESERVATIONS: Eleven USFS fee campgrounds and five picnic sites in the SNRA may be reserved in advance. The sites that may be reserved (generally the most popular) include several on Redfish Lake, Stanley Lake, and the Salmon River, as well as a few along Idaho Highway 21 west of Stanley.

Campsite reservations are made by contacting the U.S. Forest Service by phone at (1-877-444-6777) or online at:

ReserveUSA.com – “Reserve Your Place” at over 49,500 reservable campsites provided by the Corps of Engineers and USDA Forest Service. From waterfront to backcountry, your place is waiting for you!