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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Herd Lake Campground

Clayton, Idaho · Custer County · Campground

Herd Lake Campsite is adjacent to Jerry Peak-Jim McClure Wilderness. There is one (1) first come, first served campsite located 10 miles southeast of the East Fork Road on Herd Lake Road. The site is located about 1 mile north of Herd Lake, tucked down below the road and next to Herd Creek. The access road to the camps…

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About Herd Lake Campground

Herd Lake Campsite is adjacent to Jerry Peak-Jim McClure Wilderness. There is one (1) first come, first served campsite located 10 miles southeast of the East Fork Road on Herd Lake Road. The site is located about 1 mile north of Herd Lake, tucked down below the road and next to Herd Creek. The access road to the campsite is narrow with limited turn-around space. Use caution with trailers. A trail provides non-motorized access to the lake. Amenities include: 1 campsite with picnic table and fire ring, 1 vault toilet, trailhead to Herd Lake. This site has limited cell service and no potable water.

How to Get There

From Challis, go 18 miles southwest on US 93 and ID 75, then 16 miles southeast on East Fork Road (Forest Road 120) and Herd Creek Road.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Herd Lake Campground

Heading to Herd Lake Campground? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Herd Lake Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Herd Lake Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/202091) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Herd Lake Campground?

From Challis, go 18 miles southwest on US 93 and ID 75, then 16 miles southeast on East Fork Road (Forest Road 120) and Herd Creek Road.

How do I contact Herd Lake Campground?

You can reach the park at phone: (208) 879-6200 or email: BLM_ID_ChallisOffice@blm.gov.