Redfish Outlet Campground

For Idahoans who know that the true magic of our state lies in its untouched wilderness and breathtaking natural landscapes, Redfish Outlet Campground offers an experience that is nothing short of spectacular. Nestled at the north shore of the iconic Redfish Lake, beneath the dramatic peaks of the Sawtooth Mountain Range, this campground provides an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Idaho's most celebrated treasures. It's a place where the grandeur of the mountains meets the serene beauty of a crystal-clear alpine lake, offering a tranquil escape that often feels more intimate and less crowded than comparable national treasures in neighboring states.

Redfish Outlet Campground isn't just a place to pitch your tent or park your RV; it's a gateway to endless adventure and profound relaxation. Whether you're drawn by the promise of excellent fishing, the allure of a refreshing dip in chilly, clear waters, or simply the desire to unwind on a soft sandy beach, this campground delivers. It embodies the spirit of Idaho's outdoor culture, where breathtaking vistas and a welcoming atmosphere combine to create truly unforgettable memories. As one thrilled visitor exclaimed, "Wow, just wow! Idaho totally gives Colorado and Washington State a run for their money, and here's the kicker – way fewer tourists and way less crowd hassle." This sentiment perfectly captures the essence of what makes Redfish Outlet a special destination for locals.

Even during peak seasons, the campground maintains a vibe of relative solitude and relaxation, a testament to the vastness of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Another visitor, while only using the day-use area, vividly described the allure: "Absolutely gorgeous and the beach is soft sand, not rocky... The swimming area is roped off from boaters and was a little over 5' at it's deepest. You can walk out to the anchored dock from the beach. Water in redfish is chilly but feels great and the lake is crystal clear." These insights confirm that Redfish Outlet is a gem, offering pristine natural beauty and accessible water activities for everyone to enjoy.

Redfish Outlet Campground is ideally situated within the Sawtooth National Recreation Area (SNRA), at an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet. Its address is Sawtooth NRA, Stanley, ID 83278, USA. This prime location places it right on the north shore of Redfish Lake, at the point where Redfish Lake Creek flows out, providing immediate access to one of Idaho's most iconic and picturesque lakes.

Accessibility to the campground is straightforward, primarily via State Highway 75, a scenic route known as the Sawtooth Scenic Byway. From Stanley, Idaho, a charming mountain town that serves as a hub for the SNRA, you would travel approximately 4 miles south on Highway 75. A clear sign directs you west onto Forest Road 214 for a short distance, leading directly to the Outlet Campground entry sign. The roads and parking spurs within the campground are paved, ensuring easy navigation for all types of vehicles, including larger RVs and trailers.

The campground's direct proximity to the Redfish Lake Visitor Center (within 1/4-mile) is a significant accessibility benefit, offering interpretive programs, area information, and exhibits. Additionally, Sandy Beach Boat Ramp is less than a mile away, and an RV dump station is just over a mile from the campground, providing essential services nearby. While cell service can be spotty in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, a pay phone is typically available at the Central Services area or Redfish Lake Lodge for necessary communications. This combination of easy highway access, paved interior roads, and close proximity to key services makes Redfish Outlet Campground highly accessible for a wide range of Idaho campers looking to experience the Sawtooths.

Redfish Outlet Campground, while nestled in a natural setting, offers a good range of services designed to enhance the camping experience, blending rustic charm with thoughtful conveniences. Based on information from official sources and traveler reviews, here's what campers can expect:

• Campsites: The campground features 19 sites, including several family sites and 7 double sites. Each site typically includes a picnic table, a fire pit with a grate, and often a sand-filled tent square. Sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs (up to 35-50 feet).
• Reservations: Most, if not all, sites at Redfish Outlet Campground are reservable through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. This allows campers to secure their spot in advance, which is highly recommended due to the campground's popularity. Reservations can often be made up to 6 months in advance.
• Flush Toilets: A significant amenity, the campground provides clean, flushing toilets, a notable upgrade from standard vault toilets found in many primitive campgrounds.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available through a pressurized water system, ensuring campers have access to clean water.
• Trash Services: Bear-resistant garbage containers are provided for convenient and safe trash disposal, emphasizing responsible waste management in a wildlife-rich area.
• Camp Hosts: A camp host is typically on site, available to assist campers, provide information, and help maintain the campground.
• Firewood: Firewood is generally available for purchase from camp hosts or at nearby Redfish Lake Lodge.
• Pets: Pets are allowed within the campground but must be kept on a leash. They are generally not permitted on the main swimming beaches.
• Nearby RV Dump Station: An RV dump station is conveniently located just over a mile from the campground at the Central Services area.
• Visitor Center Access: The Redfish Lake Visitor Center is a short walk away, offering interpretive programs, area information, and exhibits.
• Recreational Information & Rentals: While not directly offered by the campground, the nearby Redfish Lake Lodge and Marina provide boat and kayak rentals, lake tours, and a hiker shuttle.

Redfish Outlet Campground stands out as a premier Idaho camping destination due to its impressive array of natural and recreational features:

• Iconic Redfish Lake Access: Situated directly on the north shore of Redfish Lake, the campground offers immediate and easy access to this stunning alpine lake, renowned for its crystal-clear, albeit chilly, waters.
• Soft Sandy Beach: A major highlight is the "soft sand, not rocky" beach area, perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing by the water. A roped-off swimming area and an anchored dock provide excellent opportunities for safe swimming.
• Stunning Sawtooth Mountain Views: Campers are treated to "absolutely gorgeous" panoramic views of the rugged Sawtooth Mountains, including Mount Heyburn, creating a dramatic and picturesque backdrop for every moment.
• Less Crowded Experience: Compared to other highly popular national parks, Redfish Lake offers "way fewer tourists and way less crowd hassle," providing a more serene and peaceful outdoor experience, even during peak season.
• Excellent Fishing: The lake is known for its excellent fishing, stocked with trout multiple times a year and home to Kokanee salmon. Opportunities for pike fishing were also noted by a reviewer, making it a prime spot for anglers.
• Diverse Water Activities: Beyond swimming and fishing, Redfish Lake is ideal for boating, water skiing, canoeing, and kayaking, with boat rentals available nearby.
• Abundant Hiking Trails: The campground is in the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, offering immediate access to numerous trailheads for the Alpine Way, Fishhook Creek, Redfish Lake Creek, and Bench Lakes Trails. The Idaho Centennial Trail also passes nearby.
• Dog-Friendly: The campground is welcoming to pets (on leash), ensuring that furry family members can join in the adventure.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The safe swimming area, soft beach, and proximity to the Visitor Center with interpretive programs make it an excellent choice for families with children.
• Proximity to Redfish Lake Lodge: The nearby Lodge offers additional amenities like restaurants, a general store, and various rentals, providing convenient options for campers.

Redfish Outlet Campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. For inquiries, reservations, or up-to-date information, there are several reliable contact methods.

Address: Sawtooth NRA, Stanley, ID 83278, USA

Phone: (208) 727-5013 (This number appears to be for the Sawtooth National Recreation Area Headquarters or a related Forest Service office)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-727-5013 (Likely directs to the same office line)

For campground-specific inquiries and reservations, the primary method is through Recreation.gov, the official platform for booking federal recreation sites. You can make reservations online or by phone:

• Reservations Phone: (877) 444-6777
• Online Reservations: www.recreation.gov (search for "Outlet Campground, Sawtooth National Forest")

It's important to note that while the provided local numbers (208-727-5013) connect to the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, the 877 number is specifically for the national reservation system. Always call well in advance for reservations, especially during peak summer months, as campsites at Redfish Lake are highly sought after. Additionally, checking the Sawtooth National Forest or Sawtooth National Recreation Area official websites (fs.usda.gov) for current conditions, alerts, fire restrictions, and operating schedules before your trip is highly recommended, as these can change seasonally.

For Idahoans, Redfish Outlet Campground isn't just a place to camp; it's a quintessential Gem State experience, offering a perfect blend of convenience, breathtaking beauty, and a cherished sense of belonging to one of the state's most iconic landscapes. Its suitability for locals is deeply rooted in its ability to deliver an unparalleled outdoor adventure that resonates with the Idaho spirit.

Firstly, the sheer "Wow, just wow!" factor of Redfish Lake and its surrounding Sawtooth Mountains is something every Idahoan should experience firsthand. The campground provides direct, easy access to this natural marvel, allowing for spontaneous trips to enjoy the soft sandy beach, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear, albeit chilly, waters, or simply marvel at the dramatic peaks. This direct interaction with such a stunning environment, often with "way fewer tourists and way less crowd hassle" than comparable destinations elsewhere, makes it a truly local privilege.

Secondly, Redfish Outlet caters to a wide range of popular Idahoan outdoor pursuits. Whether it's the "good" fishing for trout and Kokanee, the extensive network of hiking trails leading into the Sawtooth Wilderness, or simply the joy of watching kids and dogs play by the creek, there's an activity for every member of the family. The presence of reservable sites, flush toilets, and potable water ensures a comfortable stay, while the option to bring your dog (on leash) means no one gets left behind.

Finally, for those seeking a true escape without venturing into extreme backcountry, Redfish Outlet Campground strikes the perfect balance. It offers the feeling of being deeply immersed in nature, yet with the convenience of nearby services and the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained Forest Service campground. It's a place where Idahoans can create cherished memories, reconnect with nature, and proudly showcase the raw, unfiltered beauty of their home state to friends and family. Redfish Outlet is more than a campground; it’s a treasured part of the Idaho outdoor legacy.

Redfish Outlet Campground

Sawtooth NRA, Stanley, ID 83278, USA