Are you the owner for this storage? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Sawtooth/Chinook Bay
Overview
Chinook Bay Campground offers a quintessential Idaho experience tucked away in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Situated on the eastern shore of Redfish Lake, this site provides unparalleled access to some of the most photographed landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. Unlike luxury resorts, this destination focuses on providing a primitive camping experience where the primary draw is the raw, rugged beauty of the surrounding wilderness and the peaceful atmosphere of the high-country forest.
Location & Surroundings
Located just south of the charming town of Stanley, ID, the park sits at an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet. The campground is nestled among a dense forest of lodgepole and ponderosa pines, providing a cool canopy during the warm summer months. To the west, the jagged peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains rise dramatically over the lake, creating a stunning backdrop that shifts in color from sunrise to sunset, offering a deep sense of place for every visitor.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a traditional forest service site, meaning travelers should prepare for dry camping conditions. While there are no electrical or sewer hookups, each site is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and fire ring for evening gatherings. Guests have access to shared vault toilets and potable water from hand-crank pumps. The paved parking spurs are generally level, though big-rig owners should check site lengths carefully before arrival as many spots are better suited for medium-sized RVs.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the main event here. Visitors can walk to the shores of Redfish Lake for swimming or paddleboarding, or head to the nearby Redfish Lake Lodge for boat rentals and shuttle services. Hikers will find world-class trails, such as the Fishhook Creek Trail, just minutes away. Additionally, the Salmon River is nearby, offering excellent opportunities for fly fishing and white-water rafting adventures for those seeking more adrenaline.
Who This Park Is Best For
Chinook Bay is ideal for travelers who prefer a rustic, nature-first environment over modern resort amenities. It is a perfect fit for self-contained RVers who want to wake up steps away from the water and enjoy star-filled nights without light pollution. If you value scenic solitude and outdoor adventure and do not mind skipping the Wi-Fi and hookups, this campground serves as an incredible basecamp for exploring the heart of central Idaho.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Dr DREAM
Had a wonderful time here. Biking nearby is excellent. You can go all the way to Stanley, 14+ miles round-trip. Kayaking and SUP on Little Redfish Lake is super chill. And Redfish Lake is just a mile or so up the road! Dog friendly! Restrooms with flush toilets and sinks!
D Stump (Sawtooth Doug)
There is not one thing to dislike about this place. Great lake great views and nice camping spots. I enjoyed my 5 nights here and plan to come back to the area soon. The hiking in the area is awesome and some good fishing alo
Chris Hall
Perfect spot for some dry camping. Be aware though, Mosquitoes everywhere.
B Dawg
Amazing campground & the host Mary was a lovely lady
Kathleen Bynum
We had an awesome time! Dave and Mary were fantastic hosts. Our spot had an incredible view of those awesome mountains! It's a great place for non-motorized water sports.
Jenny Bell
Dave and Mary are wonderful campground hosts. They are always helpful, friendly and keep the campground clean. Thank you for all you do!
John Ellison
Agood small Campground on a small lake with fish and no motorized boats. Very quiet and scenic.
Candice DeMasters
Stayed at this beautiful campground, the spaces were clean and lots if area to move around. The camp host are very helpful and gave out maps and information of the area. Would loved to have stayed there longer. Be back next year.👍👍
Deb Santa
No reservations, no hook ups, few group sites. Flush toilets, water, fire ring, picnic tables. Inexpensive. Get there early any day to find sights opening up, especially Sun - Wed. Little Redfish Lake for nonmotorized boating, kayak, SUP. Best view of Mt Heyburn, coyotes early am singing across the river, bird watching Osprey, Herons, woodpeckers. Fishing. Easy bike ride to chaos of Big Redfish Lake resort for music Wed & Fri, restaurant, etc. Close to Stanley, hiking miles then into wilderness. WILDFLOWERS awesome this year. Misquitoes when warmer days.
Eric Burback
Great campground in a beautiful place! A first come sites, on the bank of little redfish lake.