Sawtooth National Recreation Area

Sawtooth National Recreation Area (SNRA) is located in central Idaho, within Custer, Blaine, and Elmore counties. Encompassing over 756,000 acres, the SNRA is a stunning destination known for its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife.

Established in 1972, the SNRA was the result of a consolidation of several forest units, with the goal of protecting its scenic and recreational values. It was also established to preserve and enhance the natural resources found in the area. The recreation area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

The Sawtooth Mountains, part of the larger Rocky Mountain Range, dominate the landscape of the SNRA. With numerous peaks reaching over 10,000 feet, the jagged ridges and alpine meadows offer breathtaking vistas and unparalleled hiking and climbing opportunities. The area is also home to more than 300 alpine lakes, providing ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.

One of the most iconic attractions in the SNRA is the Sawtooth Scenic Byway, a designated All-American Road that winds through the heart of the recreation area. Offering incredible views of the Sawtooth Mountains, alpine valleys, and crystal-clear lakes, this scenic drive is a popular way to experience the beauty of the region.

The SNRA is also renowned for its extensive trail system, which spans over 700 miles and caters to hikers, backpackers, and equestrians. Trails lead to stunning destinations such as Redfish Lake, Alice Lake, and the Sawtooth Wilderness, where solitude and wilderness await. Wildlife enthusiasts can expect to encounter a variety of species, including elk, deer, moose, black bears, and mountain goats.

In addition to outdoor recreation, the SNRA offers historical sites that provide glimpses into its past. For instance, the ghost town of Custer, established during the gold rush, is located within the recreation area. Visitors can explore the remains of the once-bustling mining town and learn about its history through interpretive signs.

Nearby attractions to the SNRA include the charming town of Stanley, which serves as a gateway to the recreation area and offers amenities and accommodations for visitors. The Salmon River, known as the "River of No Return," also flows nearby and offers thrilling whitewater rafting experiences.

Overall, Sawtooth National Recreation Area in Idaho is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a wide range of recreational opportunities. Whether it's hiking, fishing, camping, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, the SNRA is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Sawtooth National Recreation Area is situated in the picturesque state of Idaho, within the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Nestled amidst the stunning Sawtooth Range and encompassing parts of the Boise and Challis National Forests, this expansive recreational area spans over 756,000 acres. Located in central Idaho, Sawtooth National Recreation Area is surrounded by the towns of Ketchum, Stanley, and Challis, providing easy access to its awe-inspiring natural wonders. With its jagged peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, verdant meadows, and cascading waterfalls, this region is truly a geographical marvel, enticing visitors from far and wide to explore its immense beauty.

Address & Contact

Sorry we don't have an address for this park on file yet.
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Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Sawtooth National Recreation Area is during the summer months, specifically in July and August. These months offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities, with average maximum temperatures of 81°F and 80°F respectively, and average minimum temperatures around the mid to high 30s°F. Additionally, July and August have the lowest average monthly precipitation, with 0.6 in and 0.5 in respectively. This combination of warm temperatures and low precipitation makes it an ideal time to explore the area and engage in outdoor recreational activities.

Campsites within or near Sawtooth National Recreation Area

Smokey Bear

The campground is located 20.8 mi from Stanley, ID.
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Total Campsites: 17
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Showers: No
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Redfish Overflow Camping

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Total Campsites: 11
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Pettit Lake

The campground is located 16.6 mi from Stanley, ID.
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Total Campsites: 20
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Showers: No
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North Shore Alturas

The campground is located 20.9 mi from Stanley, ID.
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Total Campsites: 23
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Showers: No
Potable Water: No

Alturas Inlet

The campground is located 12 mi from Obsidian, ID and is open early jun-late aug.
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Total Campsites: 29
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Showers: No
Potable Water: No

Boulder White Clouds

The campground is located 34.2 mi from Challis, ID and is open mid may-mid oct.
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Total Campsites: NULL
Toilets: Vault Toilets
Showers: No
Potable Water: No

Hotels within or near Sawtooth National Recreation Area

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Sun Valley Resort

When you stay at Sun Valley Resort in Sun Valley, you'll be near ski lifts, within a 5-minute drive of Big Wood Golf Course and Sun Valley Ski Resort. Featured amenities include a business center, limo/town car service, and express check-in. Planning an event in Sun Valley? This hotel has facilities measuring 28500 square feet (2648 square meters), including conference space. Free valet parking is available onsite.
Address: 1 Sun Valley Rd, Sun Valley, Idaho 83353
Web: Link

Mountain Village Lodge

With a stay at Mountain Village Lodge in Stanley, you'll be steps from Salmon River and a 2-minute drive from Stanley Disc Golf Course. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available on request).
Address: Intersection of Highway 21 and 75, Stanley, Idaho 83278
Web: Link

Saddle Road Home in Sun Valley by Alpine Lodging

Located in Sun Valley, this vacation home is within a 15-minute walk of Big Wood Golf Course and Sun Valley Ski Resort. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 104 Saddle Rd, Sun Valley, Idaho 83353
Web: Link

Valley Creek Lodge

Located in Stanley, Valley Creek Lodge is in the mountains, a 2-minute drive from Stanley Disc Golf Course and 14 minutes from Redfish Lake Visitor Center. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1060 Eva Falls Ave, Stanley, Idaho 83278
Web: Link

Stanley Town Square Condo Hotel

Located in Stanley, Stanley Town Square Condo Hotel is within a 5-minute drive of Stanley Disc Golf Course and Salmon River. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, luggage storage, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 250 Niece Ave, Stanley, Idaho 83278
Web: Link

Pine Ridge by RedAwning

With a stay at Pine Ridge by RedAwning in Ketchum (Warm Springs), you'll be steps from Sawtooth National Forest and a 2-minute drive from Big Wood Golf Course.
Address: 1908 Warm Springs Rd, #29, Ketchum, Idaho 83340
Web: Link

Sawtooth Lodge

With a stay at Sawtooth Lodge in Lowman, you'll be 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from Sacajawea Hot Springs and 22.6 mi (36.4 km) from Kirkhams Hot Springs. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: Forest Rd 700, Lowman, Idaho 83637
Web: Link

Redwood Cabins

With a stay at Redwood Cabins in Stanley, you'll be on a river, just steps from Salmon River and a 4-minute drive from Stanley Disc Golf Course. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 83 State Hwy 75, Stanley, Idaho 83278
Web: Link

White Cloud 16

Located in Sun Valley, this apartment is within a 5-minute drive of Big Wood Golf Course and Sun Valley Ski Resort. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 16 Cloud Nine Drive, Sun Valley, Idaho 83353
Web: Link

Saddle Road Home 104 by Alpine Lodging Sun Valley

When you stay at this vacation home in Sun Valley, you'll be near ski lifts, within a 15-minute walk of Big Wood Golf Course and Sun Valley Ski Resort. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 104 Saddle Road, Sun Valley, Idaho 83353
Web: Link