Meadow Lake Campground

For Idahoans who dream of escaping to the high country, where the air is crisp and the views stretch endlessly, Meadow Lake Campground near Leadore offers a truly fantastic experience. Tucked away in the breathtaking Lemhi Mountain Range within the vast Salmon-Challis National Forest, this high-altitude gem provides a serene and invigorating retreat. It's a place where the grandeur of Idaho's wild landscapes is on full display, inviting visitors to reconnect with nature and unwind from the demands of everyday life.

Meadow Lake Campground stands out for its pristine setting, nestled beside a beautiful mountain lake at an impressive elevation of 9,160 feet. This elevation guarantees cooler temperatures, even in the height of summer, making it a perfect antidote to warmer valley days. As one visitor raved, it's a "Fantastic high mountain lake" that leads you to "a slice of heaven." Whether you're an avid angler, a dedicated hiker, or simply someone seeking a tranquil spot to enjoy phenomenal scenery and abundant wildlife, Meadow Lake Campground caters to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts. It embodies the rustic charm and natural splendor that Idaho locals cherish, promising an unforgettable camping adventure for families and individuals alike.

Meadow Lake Campground is located within the Salmon-Challis National Forest, at the address Salmon Challis National Forest, Leadore, ID 83464, USA. This places it approximately 22 miles from the small town of Leadore, deep in the Lemhi Mountain Range. Its high-alpine setting means accessibility is largely seasonal, generally open from around the first part of July through the first weekend of September, weather permitting, due to snow levels.

Reaching this "slice of heaven" involves a journey that adds to its secluded charm. From Leadore, visitors will drive approximately 17 miles south on State Highway 28. Then, turn right (west) onto Forest Service Road #002, located at the old Gilmore Townsite. From this turn-off, follow the gravel road for about 6 miles as it steadily climbs approximately 2,080 feet to the campground. As noted by a past visitor, the road is "steep and narrow," and while larger trailers (over 30ft) have successfully navigated it, the forest service generally recommends trailers under 24 feet due to the shorter lengths of most sites and the challenging access road. Drivers should be prepared for unpaved surfaces and a slow, careful ascent.

The remote nature of Meadow Lake Campground is a significant part of its appeal. There is no cell service available in the area, offering a true opportunity to disconnect. This requires visitors to be self-sufficient and plan accordingly, bringing maps and any necessary supplies. The drive is incredibly scenic, winding through forests and offering glimpses of the expansive mountain landscape, building anticipation for the stunning views that await at the lake. Its elevation ensures cooler temperatures, providing a refreshing escape from the heat of lower elevations during peak summer months, making the journey well worth the effort for an authentic Idaho mountain experience.

• Campsites: Meadow Lake Campground features 17 campsites. Of these, 13 are single sites, and 4 are double sites designed for larger groups. Each site includes a gravel RV pad or tent pad, a picnic table, and a fire ring with a prep table. Two of the sites are reservable, while the rest operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov for the reservable sites.

• Restrooms: The campground provides two outhouses (vault toilets), ensuring basic restroom facilities are available for campers.

• Drinking Water: A small well provides drinking water, but visitors should be aware that it "runs out mid season," as noted by a past customer. It is highly recommended to bring your own ample supply of potable water, especially later in the season.

• Day Use Area: There is a dedicated day-use area with a few picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for those visiting for a day of fishing or enjoying the lake without overnight camping.

• Fee System: There is a pay box at the entrance, and campers are advised to "Take exact cash" for the overnight fee. Single sites cost $10/night, while double sites are $20/night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount on single campsites.

• No Garbage Cans: Adhering to Leave No Trace principles, there are no garbage cans on-site. Visitors are expected to "pack it in and pack it out," responsible for taking all their trash with them.

• No Cell Service: As a highlight for those seeking to unplug, Meadow Lake Campground has no cell service, ensuring a truly undisturbed wilderness experience.

• Pet Policy: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash and their waste picked up and packed out.

• Accessible Parking: While there are no paved roads or paths within the campground, accessible parking spots are available near the lake, enhancing access for all visitors.

• Phenomenal High-Altitude Lake Views: Located at 9,160 feet, the campground offers stunning, phenomenal views of Meadow Lake and the surrounding Lemhi Mountain Range. This high elevation provides a dramatic backdrop and cooler temperatures.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Meadow Lake is regularly stocked by Idaho Fish and Game (twice a year), providing excellent fishing for both kids and adults. It's a prime spot for catching trout from the bank or from a non-motorized boat.

• Stocked Lake, No Motorized Boats: The lake is managed to enhance fishing, and the restriction on motorized boats ensures a peaceful, quiet environment, ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or canoeing.

• Variety of Campsites: With 17 campsites, including 4 double sites and 13 single sites, Meadow Lake accommodates various group sizes. Gravel RV pads and tent pads at each site provide comfortable setups.

• Wildlife Abundance: The area is rich in wildlife. Visitors frequently spot deer, mountain goats, eagles, various other birds, and chipmunks. It is bear country, so preparedness and proper food storage are essential.

• Rustic, Off-Grid Experience: The absence of cell service and limited amenities promotes a true disconnect from modern distractions, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness and enjoy unpolluted night skies.

• Nearby Hiking Trails: Several smaller hikes branch off from the campground, including Trail #342, a gentle loop around the backside of the campground, and Trail #057, which ascends to the steep ridge above for more challenging options.

• Cool Summer Temperatures: Due to its high altitude, Meadow Lake Campground offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat, making mid-summer camping much more tolerable and enjoyable.

• Well-Maintained Campsites: Despite its rustic nature, reviews indicate that the campsites are well-developed and clean, providing a comfortable base for outdoor adventures.

Address: Salmon Challis National Forest, Leadore, ID 83464, USA

Meadow Lake Campground is managed by the Salmon-Challis National Forest. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the campground, including seasonal opening and closing dates, road conditions, current fire restrictions, and water availability, it is best to contact the relevant Ranger District office directly. While there is no direct phone for the campground itself (and no cell service at the site), the managing forest service can provide comprehensive details.

You can reach the Leadore Ranger District of the Salmon-Challis National Forest using the following phone numbers:

Phone: (208) 756-5209 (Recreation Personnel)

Leadore Office Phone: (208) 768-2500

It is strongly recommended to call these numbers before planning your trip, particularly to confirm road accessibility and water availability, as the well can run out mid-season. Checking the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Salmon-Challis National Forest (fs.usda.gov/scnf) for alerts and detailed recreation information is also a wise practice.

For Idahoans, Meadow Lake Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an iconic representation of the pristine, high-mountain wilderness that defines their state. Its unique blend of challenging accessibility, stunning natural beauty, and off-grid tranquility makes it an ideal destination for locals seeking an authentic Idaho outdoor experience.

The journey to Meadow Lake itself, involving a "steep and narrow dirt road" six miles off the highway, is often viewed by Idaho locals not as a hindrance, but as a filter. It ensures that those who arrive are truly committed to the wilderness experience, creating a more intimate and respectful community of campers. As one local noted, this challenging access leads to a "slice of heaven," a reward for those willing to venture a little further off the beaten path. This commitment to seeking out less crowded, more natural spaces is a hallmark of many Idaho outdoor enthusiasts.

The phenomenal views, excellent fishing opportunities in a regularly stocked lake (with no motorized boats allowed), and the constant presence of diverse wildlife like deer, mountain goats, and eagles, speak directly to the recreational passions of Idaho residents. It’s a place where children can experience the joy of catching their first fish, and adults can find peace in the quiet rhythms of nature. The consistently cooler temperatures, even in mid-summer, make it an especially appealing escape when the valleys become hot, offering a refreshing respite that only high-altitude camping can provide.

Furthermore, the lack of cell service is a significant draw for Idahoans looking to genuinely disconnect. In a world of constant digital noise, Meadow Lake offers a rare chance to unplug, engage deeply with companions, and simply soak in the natural surroundings without interruption. This focus on true immersion, coupled with the "pack it in, pack it out" philosophy, reinforces a strong sense of environmental stewardship that is deeply valued by the local community. Meadow Lake Campground truly encapsulates the adventurous, nature-loving spirit of Idaho, making it a perfect, albeit challenging, destination for residents to explore the wild heart of their home state.