Camping in Stanley, ID, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

United States
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Idaho
—
Stanley

98% (148 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Stanley

Top camping destinations

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Dog-friendly getaways

99%

(68)

4 top campgrounds near Stanley

96%

(110)

SawtoothMonkey

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Lowman, ID

The Sawtooth Monkey is a fictional character who lives in the Sawtooth mountains in Idaho, this creature is a crossbreed of a salmon and baby Bigfoot. Breeding and divine intervention took place circa 1989 when the 1989 fire hit the SF region of the Payette river. Baby Bigfoot had no where to go but the river, he was saved by a school of salmon who by Deus ex machina and the Idaho river God, Beeraspirits transformed Bigfoot and the Alpha 15 pound papa salmon into the Sawtooth Monkey. When SM hit puberty he developed a skin condition and an appetite for coconuts. He is currently friendly but a nuisance, because of his skin problems he is known for stealing ointment, lotions and sunscreen. Also, because of his love for coconuts, he is known for steal those too. Should you confront or come in contact with this elusive creature, please don't feed him anything but coconuts.

Idaho's Best Kept Secret!

3 sites · RVs2 acres · Mackay, ID

One of Idaho's most iconic peaks, often compared to the Matterhorn, will transfix you in a picture-perfect view from this campsite. On a clear night, its rosy glow is the only thing you will see just before darkness. As the night darkens further you'll be dazzled by the brightest stars against the darkest of dark skies you will ever experience. Then you'll fall asleep to the peaceful sounds of the Lost River gliding by. In the early morning be on the lookout for the resident moose and her calf (Watch, but don't approach!!) or any of the many deer that ramble by. Then drop a fishing line into the river, just a few steps away, and catch yourself a trout or two for your breakfast. After breakfast, get out your binoculars, cameras, and maps (you did bring them, didn't you?) and choose your day's adventure, whether it be a challenging hike up a mountain trail, a leisurely stroll to a delightful waterfall, a 20-mile trip to world-famous Sun Valley via the stunning Trail Creek Summit, or exploring the largest designated wilderness in the lower 48 states. which is, literally, just on the other side of the fence! The road you enter the property from will also get you 20 miles deep into that wilderness along a broad river valley where you may see elk, moose, wolves, coyotes, foxes, beavers, deer, antelope, mountain goats, big horn sheep, black bears, and much more all thriving in natural abundance. Mountain lions are absent in this area, fortunately, but can be found in narrow, steep-sided canyons in other drainages nearby, if you dare.

Riverfront Homestead

4 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Garden Valley, ID

This 15-acre homestead is experiencing a revival after more than 50 years of abandonment. We've diligently crafted a pond and established a sizable garden and orchard! Enjoy stunning river vistas and direct access to the river. Situated at the conclusion of The Canyon Section of the South Fork of the Payette River and the commencement of Swirly Canyon, this location is a rafter's paradise. Not an avid rafter? Fear not! There's a plethora of alternative activities to indulge in, such as hiking, strolling the property, observing wildlife, or riding ATVs. Whatever your preference, this locale is tailor-made for outdoor recreation. Interested in bringing horses? Feel free to reach out; we're more than happy to accommodate. Despite being just 25 minutes from town, your stay promises seclusion with scarcely a neighbor in sight. If you're considering RV camping, please note that the road demands a skilled driver. Rest assured, maneuvering a 30-foot travel trailer in and out of the property has been consistently smooth for adept drivers.

Saved 1 time

Yellow Bus, Lime Creek

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Challis, ID

Stay in a school bus on a working micro farm with a comfy bed, heater and propane range. Passive solar shower available. Enjoy the pond, rock hunting, hiking, birds, and wildlife. Host cabin nearby. Bird, plant walks and farm tour with hosts available. A short drive to hot springs and river activities.

Available this weekend

99%

(68)

Idaho's Best Kept Secret!

3 sites · RVs2 acres · Mackay, ID

One of Idaho's most iconic peaks, often compared to the Matterhorn, will transfix you in a picture-perfect view from this campsite. On a clear night, its rosy glow is the only thing you will see just before darkness. As the night darkens further you'll be dazzled by the brightest stars against the darkest of dark skies you will ever experience. Then you'll fall asleep to the peaceful sounds of the Lost River gliding by. In the early morning be on the lookout for the resident moose and her calf (Watch, but don't approach!!) or any of the many deer that ramble by. Then drop a fishing line into the river, just a few steps away, and catch yourself a trout or two for your breakfast. After breakfast, get out your binoculars, cameras, and maps (you did bring them, didn't you?) and choose your day's adventure, whether it be a challenging hike up a mountain trail, a leisurely stroll to a delightful waterfall, a 20-mile trip to world-famous Sun Valley via the stunning Trail Creek Summit, or exploring the largest designated wilderness in the lower 48 states. which is, literally, just on the other side of the fence! The road you enter the property from will also get you 20 miles deep into that wilderness along a broad river valley where you may see elk, moose, wolves, coyotes, foxes, beavers, deer, antelope, mountain goats, big horn sheep, black bears, and much more all thriving in natural abundance. Mountain lions are absent in this area, fortunately, but can be found in narrow, steep-sided canyons in other drainages nearby, if you dare.

SawtoothMonkey

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Lowman, ID

The Sawtooth Monkey is a fictional character who lives in the Sawtooth mountains in Idaho, this creature is a crossbreed of a salmon and baby Bigfoot. Breeding and divine intervention took place circa 1989 when the 1989 fire hit the SF region of the Payette river. Baby Bigfoot had no where to go but the river, he was saved by a school of salmon who by Deus ex machina and the Idaho river God, Beeraspirits transformed Bigfoot and the Alpha 15 pound papa salmon into the Sawtooth Monkey. When SM hit puberty he developed a skin condition and an appetite for coconuts. He is currently friendly but a nuisance, because of his skin problems he is known for stealing ointment, lotions and sunscreen. Also, because of his love for coconuts, he is known for steal those too. Should you confront or come in contact with this elusive creature, please don't feed him anything but coconuts.

Riverfront Homestead

4 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Garden Valley, ID

This 15-acre homestead is experiencing a revival after more than 50 years of abandonment. We've diligently crafted a pond and established a sizable garden and orchard! Enjoy stunning river vistas and direct access to the river. Situated at the conclusion of The Canyon Section of the South Fork of the Payette River and the commencement of Swirly Canyon, this location is a rafter's paradise. Not an avid rafter? Fear not! There's a plethora of alternative activities to indulge in, such as hiking, strolling the property, observing wildlife, or riding ATVs. Whatever your preference, this locale is tailor-made for outdoor recreation. Interested in bringing horses? Feel free to reach out; we're more than happy to accommodate. Despite being just 25 minutes from town, your stay promises seclusion with scarcely a neighbor in sight. If you're considering RV camping, please note that the road demands a skilled driver. Rest assured, maneuvering a 30-foot travel trailer in and out of the property has been consistently smooth for adept drivers.

Yellow Bus, Lime Creek

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Challis, ID

Stay in a school bus on a working micro farm with a comfy bed, heater and propane range. Passive solar shower available. Enjoy the pond, rock hunting, hiking, birds, and wildlife. Host cabin nearby. Bird, plant walks and farm tour with hosts available. A short drive to hot springs and river activities.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

95%

(76)

Sawtooth National Forest

Challis, Idaho

80%

(41)

Boise National Forest

Lowman, Idaho

82%

(22)

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Stanley, Idaho

Challis Field Office

Challis, Idaho

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Stanley guide

Overview

Looking to go camping near Stanley, Idaho? Hipcamp has you covered with 69 options to choose from. Whether you prefer tent-free accommodations like Laughing Horse Ranch, cozy up at The Meadow, or enjoy the serene atmosphere at Kraay's Market & Garden. Each campsite is reviewed by real campers, with Laughing Horse Ranch having 109 reviews, The Meadow with 102 reviews, and Kraay's Market & Garden with 90 reviews. With popular amenities like toilets, trash, and campfires, and activities such as biking, wildlife watching, and fishing, you're guaranteed an unforgettable camping experience. Plus, with an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $16, camping has never been more affordable.