Sunny Gulch Campground
4.6474 reviewsSawtooth National Recreation, Stanley, ID 83278, USA
Sunny Gulch Campground
$24.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $24 for standard non-electric sites to $125 for group shelter non-electric sites during peak season.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine Salmon River in the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Sunny Gulch Campground offers the perfect blend of wilderness adventure and family-friendly comfort. With well-maintained paved roads leading you through this mountain paradise, modern vault toilets, fresh drinking water, and inviting picnic areas, you'll find all the essentials for a memorable outdoor experience. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply soaking in the mountain majesty, Sunny Gulch serves as your ideal basecamp for discovering the treasures of central Idaho.
Sunny Gulch Campground caters to primitive camping, tent camping, RV camping, and group gatherings. The campground is noted for its spacious campsites, suitability for family events, and scenic views.
Historical SignificanceThe spirit of the Old West comes alive throughout the summer season with vibrant local celebrations that showcase the region's rich heritage. Experience the excitement of Wagon Days, where pioneer history rolls through the streets, savor fresh catches at the annual Salmon Festival, or browse unique handcrafted treasures at the beloved Arts and Crafts Fair. These time-honored traditions offer campers a chance to connect with the authentic mountain culture that makes this region so special.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Sunny Gulch into an outdoor enthusiast's dream, with pleasantly warm days averaging 78°F that invite exploration and adventure. As evening approaches, temperatures dip to a refreshing 40°F, perfect for gathering around the campfire under star-filled skies. The peak season brings seemingly endless sunny days with minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for all your outdoor pursuits.
ElevationPerched high in Idaho's rugged mountain country, Sunny Gulch Campground offers that perfect alpine atmosphere where the air feels crisp and clean, and every breath rejuvenates your spirit. The mountainous terrain creates a natural amphitheater of beauty that surrounds your camping experience.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to breathtaking panoramic views of the legendary Sawtooth Mountains, their jagged peaks piercing the sky like nature's own cathedral. Towering lodgepole pines provide dappled shade throughout the campground, creating cool retreats on warm afternoons. During summer months, vibrant wildflowers paint the meadows in brilliant splashes of color, while the melodious Salmon River winds through the landscape, its clear waters teeming with trout and offering endless opportunities for both quiet reflection and exciting angling adventures.
Geological RegionSunny Gulch Campground lies within the spectacular Sawtooth National Recreation Area, a geological wonderland where ancient forces sculpted dramatic peaks and pristine valleys. Surrounded by groves of stately lodgepole pines and meadows bursting with seasonal wildflowers, the campground offers front-row seats to the Sawtooth Mountains' awe-inspiring grandeur. The life-giving Salmon River flows through this remarkable landscape, joined by countless mountain lakes and streams that create a water-rich ecosystem supporting abundant wildlife and world-class recreational opportunities.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features paved roads and parking spurs, which could assist campers with mobility challenges. Specific ADA-compliant facilities are not mentioned.
Sites SizeReviews describe spacious sites that accommodate tents and RVs comfortably: "Spacious sites. Quiet relative to the campgrounds around Redfish Lake."
Sites PrivacySites are noted for being well-spaced and providing some privacy: "Lots of room between campsites." However, some campsites lack shade at certain times: "Only downside is our site didn’t have good shade half of the day."
Total Campsites36 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the river for tranquility or shaded areas for comfort during warm days.
Best CampsitesSites near the river such as #36 or those offering shade and proximity to amenities are preferred.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is typically at Noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 10 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- One camping unit per single site
- capacity limits for double and group sites apply.
Groups
Group sites include access to a large picnic shelter equipped with a grill, utility tables, and eight picnic tables. The shelter is described as ideal for events like family reunions or weddings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout36 sites spread over two loops with a mix of family and group facilities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 to September 18 for reservations; limited first-come, first-served availability during shoulder season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited sites available on a first-come, first-served basis during off-season periods.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival, with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations.
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
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Sunny Gulch Campground is located in a prime recreational area, offering activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and nearby water sports. Fishing opportunities are abundant along the Salmon River, with species like rainbow trout, Westslope cutthroat trout, and bull trout available. Hiking and biking enthusiasts have access to over 750 miles of trails in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Nearby lakes such as Redfish Lake provide additional options for boating, canoeing, and kayaking.
Hiking
Sunny Gulch is close to major hiking trails such as the Alpine Way Trail and the Idaho Centennial Trail. A user review states: "Easy access to area hiking," and trails are described as offering scenic views of the Sawtooth Mountains.Fishing
Fishing on the Salmon River offers chances to catch rainbow trout, Westslope cutthroat trout, bull trout, and hybrid cutbows. One user noted: "Excellent fishing is right out your back door on the Salmon River."Biking
The campground is situated near biking trails, with over 750 miles of trails available in the surrounding Sawtooth National Recreation Area.Boating
Nearby lakes such as Redfish and Stanley Lakes offer opportunities for boating, water skiing, canoeing, and kayaking.Cultural and Educational Programs
Events in the area include an Arts and Crafts Fair in July, and Wagon Days, Salmon Festival, Quilt Fair, and Fireman's Ball in September.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the materials provided.Water Sports
Nearby lakes offer opportunities for water sports, including canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire pits, subject to fire safety rules.
- Quiet hours are typically enforced but exact times are not provided.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears, and safety guidelines recommend minimizing pest risks by burning local firewood.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 15.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Closest emergency services include Stanley Community Hospital in Stanley, ID (approximately 3 miles away) and Stanley area police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to September 18.
Trash and recyclingWhile the campground is described as clean and well-maintained, no specific trash or recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the Salmon River and nearby lakes such as Stanley Lake and Redfish Lake.
Common complaintsSome users criticize inconsistency in campground host communication and site management. Complaints about fees and host behavior also appear.
HostCamp hosts vary significantly in quality, ranging from highly helpful to rude, as noted in user reviews.
Campground Map
Sawtooth National Recreation, Stanley, ID 83278, USA
Driving directionsFrom Stanley, Idaho, take Highway 75 south approximately 3 miles. Campground is on the north side of the road, between the highway and the Salmon River.
Roads and parking spurs are paved. Accessibility is straightforward via Highway 75.Nearby places
Stanley, ID (3 miles, approximately 5 minutes)
Boise, ID (133 miles, approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes)
Ketchum, ID (60 miles, approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Stanley, ID, which offers groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and small shops.
Camper Reviews
4.6
74 reviews
Sunny Gulch Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Sunny Gulch are generally positive, highlighting its cleanliness, spacious sites, and scenic location. Some negative experiences involve issues with camp hosts and site reservation misunderstandings. "One of the nicest Forest Service campgrounds I've stayed in."
Review Summaries
Based on 74 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, spacious sites, proximity to the Salmon River, and a scenic backdrop of the Sawtooth Mountains. "Restrooms were very, very clean. SG is close to the town of Stanley and Redfish Lake."
Based on 74 reviewsCommon Concerns
Negative interactions with camp hosts were noted: "The hosts, Mike and MJ Smith were two of the rudest and least accommodating campsite hosts I have ever encountered." Reservation and site allocation...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visit during the shoulder season for fewer crowds. Sites near the river offer picturesque views, though they require a short hike down to the water. "Come in shoulder season. There were only four...
Based on 74 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during peak summer months, but reviews suggest quieter experiences during the shoulder season. Late spring and early summer offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Based on 74 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Cleanest, quietest campground I have ever stayed at. The views from the tent, of the starry sky were amazing." "Beautiful campground. Great location. Spacious sites. We will most certainly be back!"...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #36 is noted for its shade and proximity to the river. "We were at the site #36 which is close to the river and it has a lot of shades." Other reviews mention campsites being level and equipped...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility is not explicitly mentioned, but paved roads and parking spurs may assist campers with mobility challenges.
Based on 74 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not highlighted in the provided information.
Based on 74 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025