Camping at Alturas Lake Inlet Campground
Alturas Lake Inlet Campground Overview
Alturas Lake Inlet Campground is located in the beautiful Sawtooth National Forest in central Idaho. This popular camping destination is known for its stunning scenery, numerous recreational activities, and its proximity to the pristine Alturas Lake. The campground serves as a perfect spot for campers looking to enjoy outdoor activities in a serene and picturesque environment.
Location
Alturas Lake Inlet Campground is situated near the town of Stanley, Idaho. It can be reached by following the Sawtooth National Recreation Area's road signage from State Highway 75. The physical address and GPS coordinates are often provided on the USDA Forest Service website or you can contact the Sawtooth National Recreation Area for specific directions.
Campground Amenities & Facilities
Basic Services:
- Campsites: The campground offers a number of individual camping sites.
- Picnic Tables: Each site typically has a table.
- Fire Rings: Campers can build campfires in the provided fire rings.
- Drinking Water: Potable water is generally available for campers.
- Toilets: The campground is equipped with vault toilets.
Accessibility:
- Some of the sites might be designated as accessible for visitors with disabilities. It's best to check in advance.
Camping Fees
Fees can vary by season and by site. There might be differences in price between standard sites, double sites, and group sites. It is best to refer to the official USDA Forest Service website for the most current pricing or to contact the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.
Activities & Recreation
- Hiking: There are a number of trails suitable for both novice and experienced hikers within the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.
- Boating: Alturas Lake provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and motorized boating.
- Fishing: Anglers can fish for trout and other species in Alturas Lake and the connecting waterways.
- Swimming: While there are no designated swimming areas, the lake can be used for swimming at your own risk.
- Wildlife Viewing: The area is inhabited by a diverse array of wildlife. Always observe wildlife from a distance and store food securely.
- Mountain Biking: Some trails near the campground are suitable for mountain biking.
- Winter Recreation: In the winter months, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities.
Reservations and Regulations
Reservations:
- Reservations can often be made in advance online through Recreation.gov or by phone. Some sites may also be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Regulations:
- Visitors should adhere to the principle of Leave No Trace and keep nature undisturbed.
- Campfire restrictions may be in place during certain periods of the year, especially if there is a high risk of wildfires.
- There are typically limits on the length of stay, commonly around 10-16 days.
- Pets should be kept on a leash and controlled at all times.
- All food and scented items should be stored in bear-proof containers or vehicles due to the presence of wildlife.
Season and Weather
The camping season typically runs from late spring through early fall, as the campground may be closed during winter due to heavy snow. Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, and temperatures can vary greatly between day and night. Campers should come prepared for a range of conditions and check the forecast before heading out.
Contact Information
For more detailed information, updates, and any alerts or closures, it's best to contact:
- Sawtooth National Forest Supervisor's Office or
- Sawtooth National Recreation Area (SNRA) Headquarters
Phone numbers and addresses are available on the USDA Forest Service website or through a quick internet search for 'Sawtooth National Forest contact information'.
