Outlet Recreation Day Use - Day Use Location

For Idahoans seeking an easily accessible and truly spectacular outdoor experience, Outlet Recreation Day Use, located near Lowman, offers a prime opportunity. While not a traditional overnight campground, this popular spot on the northeast side of breathtaking Redfish Lake serves as a vibrant hub for a myriad of recreational activities. Nestled beneath the majestic Sawtooth Mountain Range at an elevation of 6,500 feet, it provides unparalleled access to one of Idaho's most iconic natural treasures. It’s a place designed for enjoying the day, whether you're looking to swim, boat, fish, hike, or simply soak in the incredible scenery of the Sawtooth Wilderness. Despite its popularity, which can lead to crowds, its sheer beauty and convenience make it a highly desirable destination for locals.

Outlet Recreation Day Use is located near Lowman, ID 83637, USA. More specifically, it's situated on the northeast side of Redfish Lake, within the Sawtooth National Forest. Its elevation of 6,500 feet means refreshing temperatures, even in the height of summer, making it a comfortable escape from warmer lower elevations.

One of the most appealing aspects of Outlet Recreation Day Use, as highlighted by a local reviewer, is its exceptional ease of access: "It's just so easy to get to." This convenience is a significant draw for many Idahoans looking for a straightforward day trip without the need for extensive backcountry travel. The roads leading to this area are typically paved all the way to the campground/day use area, ensuring a smooth journey for all vehicle types.

From Stanley, Idaho, you can reach Redfish Lake by taking State Highway 75 south for about 4 miles, then turning west on Forest Road 214 for a short distance, and finally turning right at the Outlet Campground entry sign. The site is a first-come, first-served day-use area. Its popularity means that during peak seasons, it can get "very crowded," and while some might prefer more solitude, the ease of access often outweighs this for many families and groups looking for an active day out. Visitors should also be aware that, like many scenic areas, "a little smokey" conditions can occur, especially during wildfire seasons, though the views generally remain great.

Outlet Recreation Day Use provides key facilities to enhance your day-long visit to Redfish Lake, focusing on convenience for various recreational pursuits.

• Picnic Tables: Numerous picnic tables are available, perfect for enjoying a packed lunch or snacks with a view.
• Toilets: Restroom facilities, typically vault toilets, are provided for public use.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is generally available at the site.
• Parking: Ample parking is provided for vehicles, with space for vehicles and trailers in the day-use area.
• Boat Launch: A boat launch is conveniently located nearby at Sandy Beach, allowing easy access for motorized and non-motorized boats onto Redfish Lake.
• Information and Interpretive Programs: The Redfish Lake Visitor Center is within a quarter-mile, offering valuable information, interpretive activities, and evening programs about the area's wildlife, geology, and history.
• Boat and Kayak Rentals: While not directly at the day-use area, boat and kayak rentals are available nearby at Redfish Lake Lodge, making water sports easily accessible.
• Equestrian Stables: Equestrian stables are also in the vicinity for those interested in horse riding.

While this is a day-use area, the nearby Outlet Campground offers designated campsites with some shared amenities like flush toilets and paved roads, which are relevant if you combine a day visit with an overnight stay in the adjacent campground. Fees apply for some activities and usage of the recreation area, so it's wise to have small bills or be aware of payment options.

Outlet Recreation Day Use at Redfish Lake boasts a multitude of features and highlights that make it a premier destination in Idaho for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Stunning Sawtooth Views: The primary draw is the breathtaking scenery, with direct views of Redfish Lake set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sawtooth Mountain Range. This picturesque setting is ideal for photography and simply enjoying the beauty of Idaho.
• Direct Lake Access for Water Activities: The location offers terrific access to Redfish Lake for swimming, boating (motorized and non-motorized), water skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for rainbow trout and Kokanee salmon. The sandy beach is perfect for relaxing by the water.
• Hiking Opportunities: Numerous trailheads are in the immediate area, including those for the Alpine Way, Fishhook Creek, Redfish Lake Creek, and Bench Lakes Trails. The Idaho Centennial Trail also passes nearby, offering options for both short day hikes and longer backpacking adventures.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With easy access, swimming opportunities, and a visitor center offering interpretive programs, it's a fantastic spot for families to enjoy a day outdoors.
• Redfish Lake Lodge Proximity: The nearby Redfish Lake Lodge offers additional amenities such as a restaurant, general store, and even live music on the lawn during peak season, providing convenient options for dining and entertainment.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities for viewing local wildlife, including various birds and potentially even black bears in the surrounding wilderness (always be bear aware!).
• Interpretive Programs: The Redfish Lake Visitor Center offers valuable educational experiences about the local ecology and history.

While a reviewer noted that it can be "very crowded" and lacking "solitude," this is a testament to its popularity and easy accessibility. For many, the benefits of a vibrant, active day-use area with so many recreational options outweigh the desire for complete isolation. The presence of "sandy beach" areas makes it particularly appealing for lake-goers.

For inquiries about Outlet Recreation Day Use and the broader Redfish Lake area within the Sawtooth National Forest, the primary contact points are the relevant Forest Service offices.

Address: Lowman, ID 83637, USA (This address points to Lowman, while Redfish Lake is closer to Stanley. For more precise information, it's best to use the Sawtooth NRA contact details.)

For general inquiries about the Sawtooth National Recreation Area (NRA): (208) 727-5000

For the Stanley Ranger Station (closer to Redfish Lake): (208) 774-3000

It is always recommended to call these numbers for the most up-to-date information on operating hours, current conditions, any advisories (such as smoke from wildfires), and specific fee details for day use or nearby facilities. This ensures you have the most accurate information for planning your visit to this popular Idaho destination.

For Idahoans, Outlet Recreation Day Use at Redfish Lake is an indispensable part of their outdoor lifestyle. Its primary appeal lies in its unparalleled ease of access to one of the state's most iconic and breathtaking natural landscapes. Unlike more remote backcountry spots that require extensive planning and rugged travel, Outlet Day Use allows locals to effortlessly tap into the beauty of the Sawtooths for a day of fun and relaxation.

While some might lament the crowds, the very popularity of this site among locals speaks to its convenience and the sheer volume of activities available. It's a place where families can easily spend a day swimming in crystal-clear waters, launching their boats for a scenic tour, trying their hand at fishing, or embarking on accessible hikes with stunning payoffs. The proximity to the Redfish Lake Lodge and Visitor Center also adds layers of convenience, offering amenities and educational opportunities that enhance the experience. It serves as a vibrant communal space where Idahoans can connect with nature and each other, creating cherished memories against the backdrop of world-class scenery. For a hassle-free, activity-rich day amidst some of Idaho’s finest natural splendor, Outlet Recreation Day Use at Redfish Lake remains a top choice for those who call this beautiful state home.

Outlet Recreation Day Use - Day Use Location

Lowman, ID 83637, USA