Sawtooth National Forest, located in central Idaho, spans over 2.1 million acres and features stunning mountain ranges, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. The best time to visit is during summer for hiking and camping, while winter offers opportunities for snow sports. Key locations for RV rentals include nearby towns like Ketchum and Stanley, which provide easy access to the forest's attractions.
For RV camping near Sawtooth National Forest, there are numerous campgrounds available. Notable options include Redfish Lake Campground and Stanley Lake Campground, both offering paid sites with amenities. For a more rustic experience, dispersed camping is allowed in many areas of the forest. Prepare for varying weather conditions and check local regulations for camping permits.
Camping in Sawtooth National Forest
For Sawtooth National Forest RV camping, there are many options available, ranging from developed campgrounds to free dispersed camping sites. Check out the top campgrounds in Idaho as well as options for BLM camping near Sawtooth National Forest. Ensure a smooth RV experience by locating the best RV dump stations nearby.
Price: $16-$32 per night
Price: $24 per night
Price: $16 per night
Price: $20 per night
Price: $24-$48 per night
Campgrounds Near Lakes, Rivers, and Waterfalls
Price: $20-$40 per night
Price: $20-$40 per night
Price: $20-$40 per night
Price: $22-$44 per night
Price: $22-$44 per night
Group Camping Areas
Price: $75-$175 per night
Capacity: Up to 150 people.
Price: $150-$200 per night
Capacity: Up to 150 people.
Price: $100 per night
Capacity: Up to 40 people.
Price: $125 per night
Capacity: Up to 40 people.
Price: $100 per night
Capacity: Up to 40 people.
Private Campgrounds Nearby
Price: $64-$74 per night
Price: $100 per night
Sawtooth National Forest Hiking Trails
Sawtooth National Forest offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging mountain climbs.
Easy Trails
Length: 6 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Moderate Trails
Length: 7.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Challenging Trails
Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Length: 10 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Length: 14 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
-
Iron Creek Stanley Lake Trail
One of the most popular hiking trails in the forest will provide you with views of Alpine Lake and Sawtooth Lake. If you're a budding photographer, this is the perfect trail to break out your camera and take some pictures. The difficulty level is moderate, making it accessible to most experienced hikers. Snow can fall well into spring here, so make sure you check the weather before you venture out and dress appropriately.
Length: 10 miles round-trip
Intensity: Moderate
-
Lady Face Falls
If you want to experience the wilderness but aren't quite up to a moderate hike, the Lady Face Falls hiking trail may be more your speed. Found near the town of Stanley, this hike is just over five miles long. You'll be rewarded with a lovely view of the peaceful, clear blue water of Lady Face Falls. Also, a fantastic advantage of this trail is that you can experience it with your furry friend as dogs are welcome on the trail.
Length: 5.3 miles round-trip
Intensity: Easy
-
Baker Lake Trail
Nearer to Ketchum, the Baker Lake Trail is for the experienced hikers who are up for a challenge. It may be a short hike at only two miles, but it makes up for length with difficulty level. Baker Lake is a popular catch-and-release fishing spot, so if you'd like to cast your reel at the end of the hike, make sure you grab your fishing gear.
Length: 14 miles
Intensity: Moderate
-
Fishhook Creek Trail
Speaking of fishing, if you're hiking with a family, the Fishhook Creek Trail is the perfect trail for your group. Because this is a gentle trail with an elevation gain of less than 400 feet and a roundtrip length of only six miles, it's accommodating for every generation. You can access this trail from the Redfish Trailhead area.
Length: 4.4 miles roundtrip
Intensity: Easy
-
Prairie Creek Trailhead
If you're a lake lover, make sure you plan to spend some time on this trail. It offers a two-for-one special on lake scenery that you won't want to miss. Using this trailhead, you can take the five-mile Prairie Lakes trail and the Miner Lakes trail. These paths will lead you through luscious meadows and towering pines. You'll feel energized after experiencing the fresh mountain air on these trails.
Length: 16.4 miles round-trip
Intensity: Hard
How to get to Sawtooth National Forest
Address: 5 North Fork Canyon Road, Ketchum, ID 83340
Fee: Entry fee $0
By Car
From Boise: Take I-84 East to Mountain Home, then head north on ID-75 towards Stanley. This route provides access to several popular entry points.
From Sun Valley: Drive north on ID-75, which leads directly into the forest. The drive offers scenic views along the way.
By Air
The nearest airports to Sawtooth National Forest are:
Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN): Located in Hailey, about 30 miles from the forest, the airport offers flights from major cities.
Boise Airport (BOI): Approximately 130 miles away, this is the largest airport in the region with more flight options.
Seasonal Restrictions
Many higher-elevation roads, including portions of ID-21 and some trailheads, remain closed due to snow from late October through May. During the summer months (July and August), certain roads may face increased traffic and temporary closures due to maintenance or weather conditions. It’s advisable to check for any alerts or road closures before your visit.
Fees
There is no general entry fee for Sawtooth National Forest; however, specific sites may have associated costs for camping or special activities. Always verify potential fees at designated campgrounds or recreational sites.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sawtooth National Forest
What type of wildlife lives in Sawtooth National Forest?
Wildlife in the Sawtooth National Forest includes elk, mule, deer, porcupines, black bears, mountain lions, weasels, pine martens, and wolverines. There is also a variety of birds that call the forest home.
Do you need a permit to fish or hunt in Sawtooth National Forest?
Yes, you need a permit to hunt in the Sawtooth National Forest. Anyone 14 years or older also needs a permit to fish in the Sawtooth National Forest, or on any Idaho public lands.
Is there a limit to how long you can camp in Sawtooth National Forest?
Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in the Sawtooth National Forest. Dispersed campers can stay a maximum of 10 days in a 30-day period. After 10 days, campers are required to move at least 30 miles. Developed campgrounds have their own limits on camping, so you should check with the campground on those.
Is Sawtooth National Forest open all year round?
Yes, the Sawtooth National Forest is open year-round. Some areas may be inaccessible during winter because of deep snow, however.
What is the closest town to Sawtooth National Forest?
The town of Sun Valley is near the Sawtooth National Forest. Visitors can ski, shop, grab a bite to eat, or relax in this resort town for a few days.
