About TRAP CREEK CAMPGROUND
Overview Trap Creek Campground is located in a beautiful valley at the foot of the Sawtooth Mountain Range in central Idaho. Recreation Trap Creek is situated in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. A myriad of excellent hiking and biking opportunities are available, with an estimated 750 miles of trails crisscrossing the valley and surrounding mountains, including the Idaho Centennial Trail, which passes through the site. Expansive and scenic Elk Meadow is near the campground, providing a great location for bird and wildlife watching.Facilities This small campground offers one group site that consists of three smaller sites. If the group site is not reserved, the individual sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Vault toilets are provided. The road to the site and the parking spur within are paved.Natural Features Summer wildflowers are plentiful and a mixed stand of pines provides partial shade. Trap Creek flows nearby. The campground sits at an elevation of 6,670 feet, and temperatures are cool, with an average summer high of 78 degrees and a low of 40 degrees. Nearby Attractions Numerous sparkling lakes and streams, including the Salmon River, dot the area, making for great rainbow and native Westslope cutthroat trout fishing. Stanley and Redfish Lakes are nearby, offering great boating, water skiing, canoeing, kayaking and fishing. Popular area events include an Arts and Crafts Fair in July, and Wagon Days, Salmon Festival, Quilt Fair and Fireman's Ball in September.
How to Get There
From Stanley, Idaho, take State Highway 21 west 12 miles. Take Forest Road 540 to Trap Creek Campground, located adjacent to State Highway 21.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 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 TRAP CREEK CAMPGROUND
Heading to TRAP CREEK 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 TRAP CREEK CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for TRAP CREEK CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232116) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to TRAP CREEK CAMPGROUND?
From Stanley, Idaho, take State Highway 21 west 12 miles. Take Forest Road 540 to Trap Creek Campground, located adjacent to State Highway 21.
How do I contact TRAP CREEK CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 928-537-8888 or email: camping@rrmofa.com.
References & Official Resources
