Sawtooth National Forest
Stay Limit
14 days
Elevation
6,200 - 8,000 ft
Cell Service
Poor to none (limited in Stanley)
Best Season
June - September
Nearest Town
Stanley, ID (5-25 miles)
The Sawtooth National Recreation Area in central Idaho offers some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the Lower 48, with jagged granite peaks rising above alpine lakes. Dispersed camping is permitted throughout the national forest outside of designated campgrounds. Forest roads along the Salmon River and Stanley Basin provide access to spectacular free camping with mountain views that rival the Tetons — without the crowds.
The town of Stanley (population 63) serves as a tiny but well-equipped base camp.
Available Amenities
Insider Tips
Redfish Lake is the most popular area — dispersed sites fill early in summer. Arrive midweek.
Natural hot springs along the Salmon River are a highlight. Sunbeam Hot Springs is the most accessible.
Snow can linger until late June at higher elevations. July-August is prime season.
Stanley is one of the coldest towns in the US — overnight lows can drop to freezing even in July. Bring warm sleeping gear.
Plan your trip
Plan Your Boondocking Trip
Rent a solar-equipped, off-grid-ready RV and experience Sawtooth National Forest on your own terms.