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Sawtooth/Sunny Gulch
Overview
Sunny Gulch Campground offers a quintessential Idaho mountain experience within the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Located just south of the town of Stanley, this Forest Service facility is known for its spectacular mountain vistas and proximity to the Salmon River. It serves as a peaceful basecamp for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without the distractions of modern development. The atmosphere here is quiet and rustic, where the sound of the wind through the lodgepole pines and the smell of fresh sage define the authentic Idaho wilderness experience.
Location & Surroundings
The park sits at an elevation of roughly 6,300 feet, providing a crisp alpine climate even during the peak summer months. It is positioned along the Salmon River Scenic Byway, offering easy access to the river's edge for those interested in landscape photography or a morning walk. To the west, the jagged, snow-dusted peaks of the Sawtooth Range dominate the skyline, creating a dramatic backdrop for every campsite. The surrounding landscape consists of open meadows and light timber, allowing for more expansive views than many neighboring campgrounds.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional Forest Service destination, Sunny Gulch provides a dry camping experience without electric or water hookups. The sites are surprisingly spacious and can accommodate large RVs and trailers, with some parking pads extending up to 60 feet in length. Visitors will find essential facilities, including vault toilets and hand-pumped drinking water. Each individual site is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and a heavy-duty fire ring. There is also a day-use area and a group site available for larger gatherings.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Adventure is just minutes away, with Redfish Lake located only a few miles to the south. This popular destination offers boat rentals, sandy beaches, and various hiking trailheads that lead deep into the Sawtooth Wilderness. Anglers often frequent the nearby Salmon River for world-class fly fishing, while whitewater enthusiasts use the area as a launching point for river trips. The charming, historic town of Stanley is a short drive north, providing local dining and essential supplies for travelers.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for self-contained RVers who value scenery and solitude over resort-style luxury. If you enjoy the independence of boondocking but prefer the structure of a designated site, the wide-open layout of Sunny Gulch is a perfect fit. It is particularly well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers who want to be positioned near the most iconic landscapes in central Idaho. Those traveling with larger rigs who still want a rustic mountain experience will find this to be an accessible and rewarding choice.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
kate stewart
A lovely RV park. Great spaces, sparkling clean bathrooms, showers and laundry room. Lovely hosts. Easy access to Glacier National Park. I'd definitely stay there again
Jonathan “Remo” Mathiesen
The managers were highly helpful. The restrooms were very well maintained. There are bear resistant trash cans and dumpsters. I forgot to take my tackle however the river is very close and looks promising for fishing.
Cody Parker
Lucky enough to get a camp site on labor day weekend just driving through. Campground was full! Clean Campground and peaceful! No loud campers or late night noises to keep you up. Sitting by the fire, you would think you were the only ones there.
Isaiah Mitchell
Beautiful, clean, and well maintained. Cara/Campground Hostess is very pleasant and came around every few hours to clean and ensure everything was running smoothly. This is a great alternative to the campgrounds around Redfish, if you don't have a reservation.
Dana Tolick
Beautiful, clean and serene. Grandpa Frog is camp host. Good guy! We stayed at spot 39. You could hear the river below us about 100 yards.traiks take you down to it. First time staying at this campground and we highly recommend.