Sawtooth National Forest Overview

The Sawtooth National Forest is one of Idaho’s most scenic and diverse outdoor destinations, covering more than two million acres across central and southern Idaho. Known for its jagged mountain peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, rushing rivers, and dense evergreen forests, the forest is named after the dramatic Sawtooth Mountain Range that dominates much of the landscape. The forest includes vast wilderness areas, scenic byways, and the famous Sawtooth National Recreation Area, making it a year-round destination for outdoor adventure and sightseeing.

The forest is especially famous for the Sawtooth Wilderness, a protected backcountry area featuring towering granite peaks, glacial valleys, and hundreds of alpine lakes. Many peaks rise above 10,000 feet, creating spectacular scenery for hikers, backpackers, photographers, and climbers. The wilderness also offers miles of trails leading to remote lakes, mountain passes, and pristine forests, providing visitors with opportunities for solitude and wilderness exploration.

Camping is one of the most popular activities in the forest. Visitors can choose from developed campgrounds near lakes and rivers or more remote backcountry camping experiences. Popular camping areas include the Redfish Lake area, where campgrounds sit beneath towering peaks and offer easy access to boating, fishing, hiking, and swimming. Recreation.gov lists dozens of campgrounds throughout the forest ranging from simple tent sites to family-friendly campgrounds with modern amenities.

Make a Reservation for Sawtooth National Forest

Amenities

• BBQ Grills
• Boat Launch/Ramp
• Campground Host
• Campsite Tables
• Cell Service - None
• Cell Service Poor
• Drinking Water
• Dumpsters
• Equestrian Facilities
• Equestrian trail
• Fire Pit
• Fire Rings
• Firewood Available
• Food Storage Locker
• Golden Age & Access Passports accepted
• Grills
• Hiking & Biking Trails
• Pets OK
• Picnic Tables
• Ranger Station
• Restrooms (Flush Toilets, Vault Toilets)
• Stables
• Stalls
• Trash Collection

Activities

• ATVing
• Backpacking
• Billiards
• Bird Watching
• Boating
• Canoeing
• Climbing
• Fishing
• Fly Fishing
• Hiking
• Historic Sites
• Horseback riding
• Hunting
• Kayaking
• Mountain Biking
• OHVing
• OTV Trails/Riding
• Paddle boarding (SUP)
• Photography
• Picnicking
• Rafting
• Rock Climbing
• Snowmobiling
• Stargazing
• Swimming
• Water Sports
• Wilderness Area
• Wildlife Viewing
• Winter/Snow Sports