Williams Lake Campground
01 review1206 S Challis St, Salmon, ID 83467
Williams Lake Campground
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $15 for standard non-electric sites to $30 for group sites. Parking is available for $2 daily.
About this campground
Tucked away in a tranquil forest setting, Williams Lake Campground offers an intimate camping experience with just 9 well-appointed sites that welcome both RV enthusiasts and tent campers alike. Each site comes equipped with the essentials for a comfortable stay: fresh potable water, clean vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. While RVs can easily access sites 1 through 6, the road narrows beyond that point, creating a more secluded atmosphere for the remaining sites that's ideal for smaller rigs and those seeking a deeper connection with nature.
Williams Lake Campground accommodates single-family sites for both RV and tent camping. Group camping is also available.
Historical SignificanceThe stories of this land remain quietly woven into the forest floor and mountain peaks, waiting to be discovered by those who venture here.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain retreat into a camper's paradise, with June through September offering the most inviting conditions for outdoor adventures. While winter brings a blanket of light snow and crystalline air that creates a wonderland for the hardy few, most visitors find the warm summer months ideal for exploring all the area has to offer. The crisp mountain mornings give way to perfect afternoons for hiking and fishing, while cool evenings invite cozy campfire conversations.
ElevationHigh enough to escape the summer heat of the valleys below, this mountain campground offers the refreshing climate that makes camping a true pleasure.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering Douglas-fir trees creates a natural sanctuary where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy, painting the forest floor in shifting patterns of light and shadow. This verdant haven serves as home to diverse wildlife, offering patient observers glimpses of forest creatures going about their daily routines. Just 2 miles down a scenic drive, Williams Lake beckons with promises of lazy afternoons spent fishing or exploring its waters by boat. While the lake itself isn't visible from the campground, the surrounding forest provides its own dramatic scenery and peaceful ambiance that many find even more captivating.
Geological RegionSet within a pristine mountainous landscape, the campground rests in a natural bowl of Douglas-fir forest that exemplifies the rugged beauty of this region. The ancient trees, some standing sentinel for centuries, create a living testament to the enduring power of these mountain ecosystems. This forested wonderland near Williams Lake showcases the dramatic interplay between mountain terrain and thriving forest habitats, offering campers an authentic wilderness experience while maintaining easy access to recreational waters.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible picnic tables and campfire rings with grills, but additional accessibility details are not provided.
Sites SizeSites are standard size, accommodating both RVs and tents. RVs and trailers are not advised beyond Site 6 due to road conditions.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are nestled among Douglas-fir trees, providing ample shade and a degree of privacy.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRVs and trailers are not recommended past Site 6 due to road conditions.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are highlighted as the best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified in authoritative sources.
Check-out
Not specified in authoritative sources.
Stay Limit
Not specified in authoritative sources.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated.
Groups
Group Standard Nonelectric sites are available at a nightly rate of $30. Specific details about group size limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground consists of a lower loop where RVs and trailers are not recommended past Site 6 due to road conditions.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open from January 1 to December 31 annually. Reservations are first-come, first-serve from June 21 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov with Scan & Pay-options available for first-come, first-served reservations.
Walk-in AvailabilityListed as first-come, first-served from June 21 to December 31. Number of available walk-up sites is unspecified.
Cancellation PolicyNo refunds, modifications, or cancellations allowed with Scan & Pay payments. This system is similar to cash fee tubes and non-refundable.
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 is located 2 miles from a Forest Service boat dock and Williams Lake access area, making it ideal for anglers and those interested in both motorized and non-motorized water activities. Additionally, the surrounding region offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, and off-road vehicle trails.
Hiking
The area features both motorized and non-motorized trails suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. Specific trail details such as difficulty level or length are not provided.Fishing
Williams Lake is a popular fishing destination accessible 2 miles from the campground. It supports both motorized and non-motorized fishing activities, though the specific types of fish available are not detailed.Boating
Campers can engage in both motorized and non-motorized boating activities at Williams Lake, located 2 miles from the campground. A Forest Service boat dock is available for access.Wildlife viewing
The campground is surrounded by Douglas-fir trees that provide a natural habitat for wildlife, making it suitable for wildlife enthusiasts.Winter Activities
The road to the campground is not maintained during winter months, which may limit access. Snow-related activities are not mentioned, but the surrounding area may offer opportunities for winter recreation.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding may be possible at Williams Lake due to its suitability for non-motorized water activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings with grills.
- Quiet hours are Not specified in authoritative sources.
Hazards
General hazardsVisitors are advised to be bear-aware. Road conditions can be hazardous during winter months as roads are not maintained.
Active alertsNone currently listed.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Nearest emergency services are located in Salmon, ID, accessible via Highway 93 (approximately 19 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 21 to December 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available at the campground, but recycling services are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresWilliams Lake boat dock and access area is 2 miles away.
Common complaintsUser review notes absence of direct lake access as a downside.
HostThe campground is unstaffed. For general information, call Salmon Field Office at (208) 756-5400.
Campground Map
1206 S Challis St, Salmon, ID 83467
Driving directionsTake Highway 93 South of Salmon, ID for 5 miles. Turn right on Williams Creek Road and cross Shoup Bridge. Continue on Williams Creek Road for 4 miles. Turn left on Williams Lake Road and continue for 10 miles. Follow signs for campground and Forest Service boat ramp.
Road to campground is not maintained during winter months, which can limit access. RVs and trailers are not recommended on the lower loop past Site 6 due to road conditions.Nearby places
Salmon, ID - approximately 19 miles (estimated travel time varies based on conditions).
Nearby supplies
Salmon, ID offers supplies including groceries, camping equipment, and fuel. Located approximately 19 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Williams Lake Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has a user rating of 4.5, reflecting positive sentiments about its amenities and recreational opportunities. However, some users have noted limitations such as the lack of direct lake access from the campground.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the shaded campsites nestled among Douglas-fir trees, the availability of potable water, vault toilets, and proximity to Williams Lake.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of direct access to Williams Lake from the campground.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to use the Forest Service boat dock 2 miles away for lake access. Be aware of the road conditions if traveling with RVs or trailers, especially beyond Site 6.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open year-round but may be less accessible in winter due to unmaintained roads. Summer and fall are likely the most favorable seasons for camping.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Kind of weird that it's a campsite on a lake that (as far as I have seen) has no direct access to the lake." - Samuel DeGrey, user review.
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
RVs and trailers are not recommended on the lower loop past Site 6. Specific campsite reviews for individual sites are not available.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features such as accessible picnic tables and campfire rings have been noted, but no specific user reviews addressing accessibility are available.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The policy on pets is not explicitly stated, and there are no user reviews addressing pet-related experiences.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025