Meadow Lake Campground
4.3927 reviewsPO Box 180 Ranger Street, Leadore, ID 83464, USA
Meadow Lake Campground
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
The nightly rate for standard nonelectric campsites ranges from $10 to $20 depending on the season. An $8 non-refundable online reservation fee applies.
About this campground
Perched high in the pristine wilderness of the Salmon-Challis National Forest, Meadow Lake Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic alpine escape. This intimate mountain retreat offers 17 thoughtfully arranged campsites—13 single sites perfect for couples or small families, and 4 spacious double sites ideal for larger groups. Each site comes equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay: sturdy fire rings for evening gatherings, picnic tables for outdoor meals, level tent pads for restful nights, and convenient prep tables for camp cooking under the stars.
Meadow Lake Campground accommodates tent camping and RVs but lacks hookups. Group campsites are available for larger parties.
Historical SignificanceYour journey to Meadow Lake takes you through a fascinating slice of Western history. As you wind up the mountain road, you'll pass through the haunting remnants of Gilmore Ghost Town, where weathered buildings and abandoned mine shafts whisper tales of Idaho's gold rush era. This once-bustling mining community now stands silent, offering photographers and history enthusiasts a compelling glimpse into the dreams and hardships of 19th-century prospectors who sought their fortunes in these rugged mountains.
Weather and SeasonsAt this lofty elevation, nature plays by its own rules. Even on summer nights, temperatures can plummet dramatically after sunset, creating a refreshing coolness that demands warm sleeping bags and cozy campfire conversations. Winter's grip lingers here longer than in the valleys below—snow patches may surprise early season visitors well into June, and the first flakes often return by September. This alpine climate creates a brief but spectacular camping season where every clear night reveals a canopy of stars unmatched at lower elevations.
ElevationAt a breathtaking 9,160 feet above sea level, Meadow Lake Campground offers a true high-altitude experience. The thin mountain air here carries a crispness that city dwellers rarely encounter, and visitors may notice they're breathing a bit harder during their first day's activities. This elevation brings dramatic temperature swings—warm afternoons can quickly give way to near-freezing nights, while the intense mountain sun requires extra protection during daylight hours.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled against the dramatic slopes of Meadow Lake Peak, which towers above at 10,720 feet, this campground offers front-row seats to some of Idaho's most spectacular mountain scenery. The centerpiece is the pristine 13.3-acre Meadow Lake, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks like a perfect mirror on calm mornings. Ancient lodgepole pines and gnarled whitebark pines provide natural shelter throughout the campground, their branches often serving as perches for curious gray jays. Lucky visitors might spot elegant mule deer grazing in nearby meadows at dawn, or catch a glimpse of sure-footed mountain goats traversing the rocky slopes above treeline.
Geological RegionSet within the rugged Lemhi Mountain Range, Meadow Lake Campground showcases the raw beauty of Idaho's alpine wilderness. This high-mountain ecosystem, carved by ancient glaciers and shaped by millions of years of geological forces, creates a dramatic landscape where jagged peaks meet tranquil waters. The campground's position at the base of Meadow Lake Peak places visitors in the heart of a pristine 13.3-acre alpine lake environment, surrounded by stands of hardy lodgepole and whitebark pines that have adapted to thrive in this challenging high-altitude climate. Here, the thin air and rocky terrain tell the story of a landscape forever balanced between harsh beauty and delicate ecological harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome reviewers note that accessibility features, particularly parking, are not ideal. 'Handy cap spaces and parking not so great!!!' (Jared Wallace).
Sites SizeThe campsites include both single and double options. Double sites accommodate larger groups with expanded parking and additional picnic tables and tent pads.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews describe the campground as having limited privacy, with campsites close together and minimal tree cover to separate them.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #12 provides direct access to trailheads and scenic views of the Lemhi divide.
Best CampsitesSite #12 was frequently mentioned positively for its proximity to hiking trails and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights during a single visit and 16 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard campsites allow 1 vehicle and tent pads for appropriate use.
Groups
Four double campsites are available, each accommodating two vehicles, two picnic tables, and two tent pads.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout13 single campsites and 4 double campsites spread out near the lake with day-use parking available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations July 1st to September 2nd; first-come, first-served camping outside this range as weather permits.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availability15 first-come, first-served campsites, with 2 reservable sites. Outside reservation season, first-come camping is permitted, but fees must be paid onsite.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations are subject to forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee. Changes incur a $10 fee for switching dates outside original reservation dates.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers various recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, picnicking, and non-motorized boating. Meadow Lake, located adjacent to the campsites, is stocked with fish twice annually. Nearby trails include Trail #342, a gentle loop, and Trail #057, leading to a steep ridge above the campground.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities start right from the campground. Trail #342 offers a gentle loop around the backside, whereas Trail #057 climbs to the ridge. A user shared, 'We really enjoyed the hike up the Lemhi divide, trail starts by site #12.'Fishing
Fishing is described as robust, with the lake being stocked twice a year. However, trout caught are generally small. 'Fishing is great as well.' (David Arnold).Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted, but there are no boat ramps or docks. Boats must be carried to the water. 'Our boat is heavy & it was difficult to carry it from the road to the shoreline' (Peggy H).Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer and mountain goats. One user observed, 'Four mule deer walked through camp.'Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are possible on the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings provided at campsites. "Don't Move Firewood" policy enforced.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh elevation (9,160 feet) may affect visitors sensitive to altitude. Narrow gravel roads with ruts and bumps. Wildlife encounters possible.
Active alertsWater shut off and some facilities not operational due to seasonal closure or maintenance issues reported by users.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 12.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Leadore Ranger Station for inquiries and assistance; nearest hospital or significant emergency services not explicitly stated.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1st - September 2nd
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility, meaning visitors are responsible for removing their own trash. A user emphasized, 'REMEMBER TO KEEP IT CLEAN, KEEP IT BEAUTIFUL PLEASE!!' (Soulja).
Proximity to water featuresNext to Meadow Lake (13.3 acres). No dock or ramp; boats must be carried to the water.
Common complaintsNo camp host leading to chaotic management. "Bathrooms unkempt most of the time, no TP half the time." Reports of overcrowding, noise violations, and day-use traffic impacting campsites.
HostUsers report no host presence leading to management issues.
Campground Map
PO Box 180 Ranger Street, Leadore, ID 83464, USA
Driving directionsFrom Leadore drive 17 miles south on Highway 28 and turn right (west) on to Forest Service Road #002 at the old Gilmore Townsite. Follow the gravel road for 6 miles as it climbs 2,080 feet to the campground.
The road leading to the campground is gravel and not maintained during winter months. It climbs 2,080 feet and has ruts and bumps. "Roughest part of the road was from SH28 to Gilmore town site, smoothed out after that with the usual ruts and bumps."Nearby places
Leadore - 22 miles (~30 minutes), Salmon - 70 miles (~1.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
Fuel and basic supplies available in Leadore (22 miles away). Larger provisions in Salmon (70 miles away). "Nearest fuel is Leadore, about 30 miles from camp. Nearest larger town with more provisions is Salmon, 70 miles."
Camper Reviews
4.4
27 reviews
Meadow Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty and recreational opportunities but also point out challenges such as overcrowding and lack of site management.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Common praise includes the stunning alpine setting, excellent fishing opportunities, and accessibility of hiking trails: 'Scenery is to die for.' (Dan Shurtliff) 'Amazing place to camp and fish.'...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns include lack of campground management leading to chaotic conditions, insufficient maintenance of vault toilets, and unreliable water supply: 'Campground is not really managed... bathrooms...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend visiting in late summer to avoid snow-covered roads and bringing plenty of water due to potential pump issues. 'Would recommend going in the mid to late summer so the snow has all...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are busiest, with some reviews mentioning overcrowding and unmanaged sites during peak season: 'Very busy campground. Lots of people.' (Cameron Flewellen). Cold weather limits access in...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful Alpine lake above the ghost town of Gilmore.' (Sled Dog) 2. 'What a lovely place to spend time with family.' (Soulja) 3. 'Hidden gem. Keep this place nice and hidden, its an awesome...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #12 received specific mentions for its proximity to the Lemhi divide trail and its popularity. However, issues include squatters occupying reserved spots.
Based on 27 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are mixed, with some complaints about poorly designed handicap spaces and parking: 'Handy cap spaces and parking not so great!!!' (Jared Wallace).
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but reviews indicate that some campers did not manage their pets responsibly: 'The same family had a dog running around the camps harrassing people.' (Alan Taylor).
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025