Big Roaring River Lake Campground
05 reviewsBig Roaring River Lake Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by reservation method: $8 if made online or through the app; $9 if made through the contact center; $3 if made in-person.
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About this campground
Discover your alpine sanctuary at Big Roaring River Lake Campground, where 12 intimate campsites await beneath a canopy of towering lodgepole pines in the heart of the Trinity Recreation area. This riverside retreat serves as your gateway to adventure, with the Upper Roaring River Trail beckoning from the north and connections to both the William H. Pogue National Recreation Trail and the legendary Lava Mountain Trail just to the south. Wake to the gentle sounds of the rushing river and set out to explore miles of pristine wilderness trails right from your tent flap.
The campground offers traditional campsites suitable for both tents and small vehicles. It is not reservable, operating on a first-come, first-served basis.
Weather and SeasonsWinter holds this high-country paradise in its icy embrace, often keeping the access roads snow-locked until early July. But when summer finally arrives, it transforms the landscape into a botanical wonderland. Alpine meadows burst into a painter's palette of wildflowers, temperatures warm to perfect hiking conditions, and the brief but brilliant mountain summer creates memories that last a lifetime.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 7,900 feet above sea level, this high-altitude haven offers crisp mountain air and cooler temperatures that provide sweet relief from summer heat. The elevation creates a unique subalpine environment where hardy lodgepole pines thrive and wildflowers bloom in compressed seasons of spectacular beauty.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a pristine subalpine wonderland where dense stands of lodgepole pines frame your campsite and the melodic East Fork Roaring River provides nature's soundtrack. This remarkable setting cradles four jewel-like mountain lakes—Big and Little Roaring River Lakes alongside Big and Little Trinity Lakes—each offering its own unique character and fishing opportunities. The majestic peaks of the Boise Mountains create a dramatic amphitheater around the campground, with mighty Trinity Mountain commanding the southern skyline at 9,700 feet, standing as the crown jewel of the entire range.
Geological RegionNestled within the rugged embrace of the Boise Mountains, this campground occupies a remarkable geological crossroads where ancient volcanic forces and glacial sculpting have created a landscape of extraordinary beauty. The surrounding peaks tell a story millions of years in the making, while the quartet of subalpine lakes—Big Roaring River, Little Roaring River, Big Trinity, and Little Trinity—sparkle like gems set in granite. From your campsite at 7,900 feet, you'll witness firsthand the powerful forces that shaped this mountain sanctuary, from the volcanic origins of nearby Trinity Mountain to the patient work of ice and water that carved these highland basins.
Campsite details
Total Campsites12 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Cancellation PolicyCustomers may cancel a reservation prior to the day of the reservation check-in date, both online, through the app, or through the contact center. A $10 cancellation fee may apply. For most facilities, customers may not cancel a reservation after 12:00 AM local time on the reservation check-in date.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Trails near the campground include the William H. Pogue National Recreation Trail and the Lava Mountain Trail, which allow access to picturesque lakes. Activities include fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout, hiking, mountain biking, off-road vehicle riding, and horseback riding. Canoeing and kayaking are popular on the nearby lakes. The area is also known for its wildlife viewing opportunities, with elk, deer, and sometimes black bears spotted.
Hiking
Hiking trails such as the William H. Pogue National Recreation Trail and Lava Mountain Trail are accessible from the campground. These trails are suitable for mountain bikers, hikers, horseback riders, and off-road vehicles. The Rainbow Basin Trail System, approximately 4 miles long, is also nearby.Fishing
Anglers can fish in Big Roaring River Lake and other nearby lakes for rainbow and cutthroat trout. The lakes provide excellent opportunities for fishing.Biking
Biking is allowed on several area trails, including the William H. Pogue National Recreation Trail and Lava Mountain Trail.Boating
The campground features a hand-carry boat launch for canoes and other small craft, making it ideal for exploring nearby lakes.Wildlife viewing
The area is a haven for elk, deer, and an occasional black bear. Wildlife enthusiasts have also reported moose and large deer roaming through the campsites at night.Water Sports
nullCampground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsThis area is a haven for elk and deer, but wildlife watchers may also spot an occasional black bear.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 17.5 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Proximity to water featuresBig Roaring River Lake is nearby, offering opportunities for fishing rainbow trout and exploring via canoe or kayak.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention the rough road to the campground, with one reviewer noting that 'there were times I was doing maybe 5 mph.' Mosquitoes are also described as abundant – 'bring a lot of something for them.'
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho travel east along Interstate 84 (I-84) to Mountain Home, Idaho. At the I-84 and State Highway 20 junction, take Highway 20 east for 35 miles to the Pine/Featherville turnoff. Travel north on Forest Highway 61 for 29 miles to Forest Service (FS) road 172. Proceed 15 miles northwest to FS road 129. Continue 3 miles to the Guard Station junction. The roadway is paved up to the junction of FS road 172. FS Road 172 is native material (dirt) and trailer traffic is not recommended. There are signs noting each of the junctions.
The roadway is paved up to the junction of FS road 172. FS Road 172 is native material (dirt) and trailer traffic is not recommended.Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Big Roaring River Lake Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is praised for its serene setting, natural beauty, and abundant wildlife. However, some users criticize the rough access road and the presence of mosquitoes.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include the beauty of the lake, well-maintained campgrounds, and peaceful atmosphere. Wildlife spotting is another common positive mention.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include rough and difficult access roads that may require a high-clearance vehicle, as well as the abundance of mosquitoes.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring ample mosquito repellent. If driving, consider using a high-clearance vehicle due to rough roads. LED lights are recommended as they don’t attract bugs.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Snow can make the area inaccessible until early July. After the snow melts, the area is blanketed with vibrant wildflowers, making mid-summer a favored time for camping.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Most beautiful lake in the Trinity Mountains. Best camp spot, best price." - Laura Scott. "Amazing lake to camp on, very serene and the camp spots are great." - Dave Morales. "Vault toilet was well...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025