Hazard Lake
Hazard Lake
$0.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $0 to $15 depending on the site type, season, and availability.
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
ProviderAbout this campground
Tucked along the pristine shores of Hazard Lake, this intimate 12-site campground offers a perfect escape from the crowds. Wake up to gentle lapping waves at your lakeside site, spend your days paddling across mirror-like waters, and discover hidden trails that wind through the surrounding wilderness. This peaceful retreat rewards those seeking solitude with an authentic backcountry experience where tranquility reigns supreme.
The campground offers both standard and lakeside campsites accessible on a first-come, first-served basis. It is suitable for tent camping and small trailers, though larger RV setups may face limitations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Hazard Lake into an alpine paradise, with July through September offering the ideal window for camping adventures. During these precious months, moderate temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor exploration, and fresh potable water flows throughout the campground. While winter brings a dramatic blanket of heavy snow that closes access, those who time their visit right will discover why summer at 7,000 feet feels like nature's air conditioning—crisp mornings give way to warm afternoons, and cool evenings are perfect for campfire conversations.
ElevationPerched at 7,050 feet in Idaho's high country, Hazard Lake Campground delivers the refreshing mountain experience that only true elevation can provide. Here, the air is crisp and clean, temperatures stay comfortably cool even on summer days, and sweeping alpine vistas stretch in every direction. This lofty setting puts you above the heat of the valleys below while immersing you in a world of towering peaks and endless sky.
Natural Features and SceneryHazard Lake sparkles like a jewel in its alpine setting, its calm waters creating a natural playground for kayakers and a mirror for the surrounding peaks. Dense forests of pine and fir embrace the campground, their fragrant boughs providing shade and shelter. Hiking trails beckon from the shoreline, leading adventurers through wildflower meadows and up to breathtaking viewpoints. Early risers are often rewarded with mist dancing across the lake's surface, while evenings bring alpenglow painting the mountains in shades of rose and gold.
Geological RegionDeep within the Payette National Forest's mountainous embrace, Hazard Lake Campground sits at 7,050 feet where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of dramatic peaks, pristine lakes, and verdant valleys. This corner of Idaho's wilderness showcases the raw beauty of the Northern Rockies, where glacial activity has carved out perfect mountain lakes and left behind a network of trails that traverse through diverse ecosystems. The surrounding forests tell the story of centuries of growth, creating a living cathedral of towering conifers that frame spectacular alpine scenery at every turn.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeEach site accommodates standard camping setups, with space for tents or small trailers.
Sites PrivacySome sites offer lakeside views, but privacy is not explicitly described. User reviews suggest that campers looking for a quiet experience may avoid sites near generators.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors recommend choosing campsites away from trailers with generators for a quieter experience; tent sites without a lake view may offer more tranquility.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Group camping is not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 12 first-come, first-served sites equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. Sites are spaced out for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonTypically open July through September, with potable water available during the same timeframe.
Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made in advance; sites are first-come, first-served and payment is facilitated via the Recreation.gov mobile app's Scan and Pay feature.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors must arrive physically to secure a site.
Cancellation PolicyThis is a Scan and Pay campground with no refunds, modifications, or cancellations permitted.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Hazard Lake Campground offers a variety of activities set against the backdrop of lush natural surroundings. The Upper Hazard Lake Trail #169 originates directly from the campground, providing ample opportunities for hiking. The lake itself is regulated for 'no wake' motorized use, making it ideal for kayaking with lightweight, portable watercraft. Nearby lakes and trails further extend recreational opportunities, and the area is described by users as 'peaceful with very few people.'
Hiking
The Upper Hazard Lake Trail #169 departs directly from the campground. User reviews describe the trails as 'pretty easy, just long' and suitable for multiuse enjoyment.Boating
Motorized boating is restricted to 'no wake,' and there is no boat ramp, making the lake suitable for portable, lightweight watercraft such as kayaks.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, but with its elevation and regional climate, snow-related activities are a possibility during colder months.Water Sports
Kayaking is identified as a suitable activity given the lake's 'no wake' policy.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted, with fire rings provided at each campsite.
Hazards
General hazardsReviews mention noise from generators near lakeside campsites as a negative aspect. No wildlife hazards were explicitly noted.
Weather forecast
25
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 - September 15
Trash and recyclingInformation about trash and recycling facilities is not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated directly on Hazard Lake. There is another lake half a mile away, and Big Hazard Lake is within hiking distance.
Common complaintsComplaints include generator noise disrupting the peaceful atmosphere, and bathroom facilities occasionally being smelly.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom McCall, travel five miles west on Highway 55. Turn right on Goose Lake Road/Forest Road #257. Follow the paved road to Brundage Mountain Resort where the road turns to gravel and continue approximately 18 miles to the campground.
The road to the campground involves a combination of paved and gravel roads. The paved portion ends at Brundage Mountain Resort, after which the road turns into gravel for an additional 18 miles.Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Hazard Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the peaceful and beautiful setting of the Hazard Lake Campground. Common themes include a serene atmosphere, easy hiking trails, and the enjoyment of kayaking in a less crowded environment. However, there are occasional complaints about noise from generators and the smell of vault toilets.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the 'calm atmosphere,' 'peaceful' setting, and the beauty of the surrounding lakes. Hiking opportunities and the absence of crowds are frequently mentioned as standout features.
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues raised by users include vault toilets that 'can get pretty smelly' and noise from generators, especially near prime lakeside sites.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to avoid sites near generators if seeking a quieter experience. Bringing lightweight, portable watercraft is recommended due to the lack of a boat ramp.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is noted as an opportune time for camping due to the availability of potable water (July–September). The area is described as less crowded overall, suggesting a more relaxed experience during...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Great place to camp! There are bathrooms nearby which is nice, but sometimes they can get pretty smelly.' - Kassi
2. 'Beautiful. Great time at Hazard and surrounding lakes. Kayaking around the...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground consists of 12 sites. User 'Edith S.' noted that 'the prime lake view campsites' are popular but may have noise from generators.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no user reviews discussing pet policies or experiences.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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