Overview
📋 About This Campground
Idaho's most celebrated campground. Dramatic Sawtooth peaks reflected in glacially-carved Redfish Lake. Sockeye salmon return in summer. BEAR COUNTRY: proper food storage mandatory — hang food or use provided bear boxes. Book months ahead for July–August.
⛺ Campsite availability subject to change. Verify reservation status directly with
Recreation.gov or the managing agency before travel. PeakScout provides this information for planning purposes only and does not guarantee availability.
Planning
🗓️ Best Time to Visit — Idaho
🌡️ Best Time to Visit
June – September
Shoulder: May, October
📍 Current Conditions
June
Standard season conditions
Always check road conditions with the managing agency before planning a trip, especially for high-elevation destinations.
Questions Answered
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reserve a campsite at Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA in Idaho?
Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA offers online reservations via Recreation.gov at https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232488. The campground has 215 sites, 150 of which are reservable. Reservations typically open 6 months ahead — book as early as possible for peak season.
What is the fee per night at Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA?
The nightly fee at Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA is $24 per vehicle site, out of approximately 215 total sites. Fees may be higher for premium sites (lakeside, equestrian, etc.). Maximum stay is 14 nights. Payment methods vary — many USFS and BLM sites use self-pay stations.
When is Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA open? What are the seasonal access dates?
Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA Verify current access status with USFS before planning your trip.
What are the fire restrictions at Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA in Idaho?
Fire restrictions apply at Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA — verify current restrictions with USFS before starting any campfire, charcoal grill, or flame. Restrictions are most common June–September during peak fire season. Check
NIFC Predictive Services for current fire danger levels in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Custer County area.
Can I bring my RV or trailer to Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA?
Yes — Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA accommodates RVs and trailers. The campground is at 6,549 ft elevation — check access road conditions for any vehicle restrictions. No hookups are available at this campground. Maximum stay is 14 nights. Reservations are recommended for RVs during peak season.
Is there cell service at Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA?
Cell service at Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA is generally unreliable to unavailable in this area. Plan accordingly — download offline maps, notify someone of your itinerary, and carry a personal locator beacon if venturing further into the backcountry. No Wi-Fi is available at this campground.
What amenities are available at Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA?
Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA offers the following amenities: flush toilets, showers, fire rings, picnic tables, water, bear boxes, store, marina. RVs are accommodated. 215 sites total. Amenities may vary by individual site — verify with the managing agency.
What is the best time to camp at Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA in Idaho?
Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA is best visited May through October. Shoulder season (May, October) offers fewer crowds and lower fees. Peak season (June–August) has the warmest weather and most reliable access, but campsites fill fast — especially on weekends. Fall colors in Idaho are stunning in September–October at mid-elevations.
Are there bear safety requirements at Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA?
Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA is in bear country — food storage requirements are in effect. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Store all food, trash, and scented items in bear-resistant containers (provided on-site: bear boxes available) or hang at least 10 ft high and 4 ft from the trunk. Never leave food unattended, even briefly. Verify current food storage orders with USFS — violations result in fines and possible closure.
What nearby trails can I access from Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA?
Redfish Lake Campground — Sawtooth NRA provides access to hiking, fishing, and scenic drives in Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Custer County. Check with the local ranger station or BLM office for current trail conditions and any access restrictions. Several popular destinations are within a short drive.