Pettit Lake Campground

Star4.40
10 reviews
Pettit Lake Campground
$15.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fee varies between $15-18 according to user reviews.
Standard Site Fee$18.00
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$18.00

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About this campground

Escape to Pettit Lake Campground, where adventure seekers find their mountain paradise on a first-come, first-served basis. This hidden gem beckons with crystal-clear waters perfect for morning paddles and an extensive network of trails that wind through pristine wilderness. Whether you're casting a line at dawn or setting off on a backcountry trek, this natural playground offers endless possibilities for those ready to embrace the wild beauty of Idaho's high country.
Pettit Lake Campground caters to first-come, first-serve campers and offers standard nonelectric sites. User reviews suggest suitability for tent camping and some RV use, but with limitations in space and amenities.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Pettit Lake into an outdoor enthusiast's dream, with July emerging as the crown jewel of camping months according to seasoned visitors. While winter blankets the area in dramatic snowfall, creating a wonderland for the hardy few, the warm season brings reliably dry conditions perfect for stargazing and campfire gatherings. The mountain climate delivers refreshingly cool nights even in midsummer, making it an ideal escape from valley heat.
Natural Features and SceneryCradled in the heart of the Sawtooth National Forest, Pettit Lake Campground offers a front-row seat to nature's grandest theater. The namesake lake stretches before you like a sapphire mirror, reflecting jagged peaks that pierce the sky. Mountain streams tumble through the landscape, their melodic rushing providing a natural soundtrack to your stay. From your campsite, watch as morning mist dances across the water while eagles soar overhead, and discover why visitors describe this place as where streams, rivers, and mountains converge in perfect harmony.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityNo specific information available regarding accessibility features.
Sites SizeUser reviews described campsites as small, with Craig Walker calling it a 'small campground,' and Bb noting that the sites are 'really tight spots.'
Sites PrivacyMixed reviews about privacy. Craig Walker praised a lack of crowding, saying it was 'perfect lake and camp ground without the crowds,' while Bb complained about tight spacing, noting, 'Your neighbor is literally a couple feet away.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesDuring busy periods like Labor Day, the campground gets overcrowded; recommended to arrive early and avoid holidays.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight sites managed directly by hosts as particularly well-maintained.

Reserving a campsite

Groups
No specific information available regarding group site details.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSite layout described as tight and cramped by some users, but others appreciate privacy at select spots.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the Recreation.gov mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with a Scan & Pay feature available via Recreation.gov mobile app.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be done prior to the check-in date but incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fees for late cancellations.

Amenities available

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Pettit Lake Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities suitable for nature enthusiasts. Reviewers highlight hiking, mountain biking, and water-based activities. For example, Chris Kastner emphasized 'good mountain biking right out of the campground and amazing wilderness hiking.'
Hiking
Chris Kastner described 'amazing wilderness hiking' accessible directly from the campground. Michael Parker stated that the campground is 'nestled between the picturesque lake and main trailhead to the mountains,' indicating excellent hiking opportunities.
Biking
Chris Kastner highlighted 'good mountain biking right out of the campground,' showcasing biking as a popular activity.
Winter Activities
No details available for winter-specific activities.
Water Sports
No details available for water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed

Hazards

General hazardsUser reviews raised concerns about poorly maintained restrooms and picnic tables, and proximity to wildlife in bear country.

Weather forecast

29
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Humidity: 42%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 4.5 mph

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Good to know

Trash and recyclingNo direct information in the source materials regarding trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is located adjacent to Pettit Lake, offering easy access for water activities.
Common complaintsComplaints include small and cramped sites, limited beach space, and inadequate toilet facilities.
HostMultiple user reviews praise hosts like Kelley and Keith for their friendliness and dedication. 'The host made our trip amazing and memorable,' says one reviewer.

Campground Map


Camper Reviews

4.4
10 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Pettit Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Pettit Lake Campground are generally positive, with an average sentiment of 4.2 for campground-specific experiences. Highlights include excellent hosting, natural beauty, and proximity to outdoor activities. However, concerns about space, privacy, and toilet facilities were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews

What Campers Love

1. 'Perfect lake and camp ground without the crowds' - Craig Walker. 2. 'Amazing wilderness hiking' - Chris Kastner. 3. 'Fantastic dark skies for photos, hiking, beautiful views' - Santosh...
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Based on 10 reviews

Common Concerns

1. 'Inadequate number of toilets' - Santosh Johnson. 2. 'Place is jam-packed, really tight spots' - Bb. 3. 'Little shade in some areas' - Bb. 4. 'Picnic tables in poor condition' - Santosh Johnson.
Based on 10 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

1. Visit midweek and avoid holidays for more space and less crowding - Chris Kastner. 2. Arrive early in the day for better site selection - Chris Kastner. 3. Consider alternative dispersed camping...
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Based on 10 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer seems to be the most popular season for camping at Pettit Lake Campground, with numerous reviews praising July stays. However, Labor Day weekend is noted for extreme crowding and chaos.
Based on 10 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Never in all of my camping experiences have I ever had a host that is not only 100% invested in his grounds but as well as his guests.' - Tina Esparza. 2. 'Absolutely gorgeous campground nestled...
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Based on 10 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific site reviews with numbers or detailed preferences noted.
Based on 10 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features or experiences from users with disabilities.
Based on 10 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences.
Based on 10 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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