Point Campground

Hello, fellow Idaho outdoor enthusiasts! When we think of iconic Idaho destinations, Redfish Lake inevitably comes to mind – a true jewel nestled at the foot of the magnificent Sawtooth Mountains. Among the various camping options around this stunning lake, Point Campground stands out as a particularly cherished spot for locals. It offers an unparalleled lakeside experience, with crystal-clear waters and a beautiful sandy beach that beckons for a refreshing dip on a warm summer day.

This article is your comprehensive guide to Point Campground. We'll delve into its picturesque location on the shores of Redfish Lake, outline the services and amenities you can expect, and highlight the unique features that make it such a beloved destination. We’ll also share important insights from fellow campers to help you plan your visit, ensuring you make the most of this "absolutely gorgeous campground." Whether you're planning a family outing with young children, a relaxing day by the water, or a basecamp for exploring the Sawtooth Wilderness, Point Campground offers a truly memorable Idaho experience.

Point Campground is wonderfully situated on Sawtooth Way, Stanley, ID 83278, USA, specifically on the west side of beautiful Redfish Lake at an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet. This location provides "gorgeous views" of the lake and the surrounding Sawtooth Mountain Range, making it one of the most photographed areas in Idaho.

Access to Point Campground is via paved roads off Highway 75. From Stanley, you'll travel about 4.3 miles south on Highway 75 to Redfish Lake Road, then turn right and travel 1.7 miles to the Redfish Lake Lodge sign on Forest Road 213. Turn right again and continue past Redfish Lake Lodge for approximately 0.7 miles until the road ends in the campground.

It's crucial to understand the types of vehicles allowed. Point Campground is "best suited for tent camping (trailers and motorhomes not allowed)." However, "Camper Vans (under 20 feet) are okay." Eight of the 17 campsites are "walk-to (tent only)" sites, where you park in a general lot and use provided carts to transport your gear to your site. This setup helps minimize vehicle traffic within the camping area, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere. While the campground is undeniably beautiful, it "can be very crowded, especially on weekends," so arriving early or making reservations (if available for your chosen site type) is highly recommended. Parking for day-use visitors (not camping) at Redfish Lake is typically $8, and state park stickers do not apply, as this is a National Forest area.

• Campsites:

  Point Campground offers "17 campsites," with 8 dedicated "walk-to tent-only" sites and the remainder suitable for "Camper Vans (under 20 feet)" or small RVs (up to 28 feet max equipment length). Each campsite is equipped with a "picnic table, fire ring, and grill." The walk-in sites have a "dedicated level pad for tents" and a "bear box" for food storage, which is essential in this bear country. Reservations can often be booked up to 6 months in advance for some sites, while others might be first-come, first-served.

• Restroom Facilities:

  The campground provides "bathrooms which had flushing toilets and running water, and are well maintained." This is a significant comfort for a Forest Service campground, often praised by campers for their cleanliness. Vault toilets are also available.

• Potable Water:

  Drinking water is available from "shared spigots" or "pressurized" water sources throughout the campground, ensuring easy access to fresh water.

• Camp Host:

  A "camp host" is typically present on-site during peak season, described by reviewers as "wonderfully friendly," "so kind and such a great guy," and "super nice." Hosts provide assistance, sell firewood, and help maintain the area.

• Trash Collection:

  Trash collection services are available via "bear proof containers," promoting a clean environment and protecting wildlife.

• Nearby Services at Redfish Lake Lodge:

  While not directly at the campground, Redfish Lake Lodge, located nearby, offers a variety of services, including a restaurant, general store, ice cream stand, boat and kayak rentals, mooring services, lake tours, and a lake shuttle. Public showers and laundry facilities are also available nearby at 50 Horstman Drive. An RV dump station is located at the Redfish Lake Central Services area.

• Crystal Clear Water & Sandy Beach:

  The most celebrated feature is the "crystal clear water" and the "nice Sandy Beach" right at the campground. The water is "shallow near the shore," making it a "good place for young children to swim," as noted by delighted parents.

• Stunning Redfish Lake and Sawtooth Views:

  Campers are treated to "gorgeous" panoramic views of Redfish Lake and the iconic Sawtooth Mountain Range. This breathtaking scenery is a constant backdrop to all activities.

• Excellent for Tent Camping and Small Vans:

  The campground's design, especially the walk-in tent sites, provides a more secluded and peaceful experience by limiting vehicle traffic within the camping loop. This makes it a prime spot for traditional tent campers and those with smaller camper vans.

• Direct Lake Access & Non-Motorized Boating:

  Beyond swimming, the lake offers excellent opportunities for "kayaking, paddle-boarding, canoeing," and "water sports." While there are no boat ramps directly at the campground, a "dock that allows you to meet up with your ski boat" is available, and a public boat ramp is located at Sandy Beach, on the east shore of the lake.

• Fishing Opportunities:

  Redfish Lake offers "excellent fishing for rainbow trout and Kokanee salmon." Little Redfish Lake, just down the road, provides additional fishing and canoeing opportunities.

• Abundant Recreation & Nearby Trails:

  The Sawtooth National Recreation Area is a hub of activity. From Point Campground, visitors have access to "excellent hiking and biking opportunities," with "an estimated 750 miles of trails" crisscrossing the area. Nearby trailheads include Alpine Way, Fishhook Creek, Redfish Lake Creek, and Bench Lakes Trails, including a popular "8-mile round trip" hike to the Bench Lakes. Horseback riding is also available from Redfish Lake Lodge.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere:

  The clear, shallow waters, clean facilities, and the presence of camp hosts make Point Campground "great when camping with children," offering a safe and enjoyable environment for families.

Address: Sawtooth Way, Stanley, ID 83278, USA

Phone: (928) 537-8888 (This number often connects to the Sawtooth National Forest for local inquiries)

Mobile Phone: +1 928-537-8888 (This number is associated with Recreation.gov for reservation inquiries, and also often connects to the Sawtooth National Forest for local information).

For the most current information regarding Point Campground, including specific site availability (especially for walk-in sites), reservation policies, local conditions, and fire restrictions, Idaho locals are strongly encouraged to contact the Sawtooth National Forest directly, specifically the Stanley Ranger Station. They can provide real-time updates and essential details to help you plan your visit to this popular spot.

For Idaho locals, Point Campground at Redfish Lake is an iconic and highly suitable destination that embodies the very best of our state's outdoor offerings. Its "absolutely gorgeous" setting, with its crystal-clear water and inviting sandy beach, is a natural playground perfect for families, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for children to "put our toes in the sand" and "swim" in the shallow waters.

While it can be "very crowded, especially on weekends," the high demand speaks volumes about its quality. For those prepared to arrive early or plan ahead with reservations, the rewards are immense. The campground's focus on tent camping and smaller camper vans helps maintain a quieter atmosphere, allowing campers to truly soak in the tranquility of Redfish Lake. The presence of flushing toilets, potable water, and friendly camp hosts ensures a comfortable experience, bridging the gap between primitive and fully developed camping. Furthermore, its proximity to Redfish Lake Lodge means easy access to rentals, dining, and additional services, enhancing convenience without detracting from the natural beauty. Whether you're fishing for trout, hiking into the Sawtooth Wilderness, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views, Point Campground offers a quintessential Idaho experience. It's a place that consistently earns rave reviews from locals who cherish its beauty and the memories it helps create, making it a prime spot to "plan on coming back to camp one day."

Point Campground

Sawtooth Way, Stanley, ID 83278, USA