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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Iron Lake Campground

Ellis, Idaho · Lemhi County · Campground

Eight campsites with picnic tables and fire rings are along the shores of this high alpine lake. the campground has piped drinking water and vault toilets but no garbage services are available. The trail from campground leads to more lake fishing, at the Hat Lakes to the south. Carry-down access for non motorized boats…

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44.90546, -114.19317
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at Iron Lake Campground

Live forecast for the park. Plan your visit accordingly.

Avg High52°F
Avg Low31°F
Peak Rain Chance22%
Humidity68%
UV (avg)6
Air Quality42 · Good
Today
🌫
Fog
44°/32°
💧 18%🌬 16mph
5:54 AM9:14 PM
Sun
🌫
Fog
42°/28°
💧 14%🌬 14mph
5:54 AM9:15 PM
Mon
☁️
Overcast
51°/30°
💧 22%🌬 11mph
5:53 AM9:16 PM
Tue
☁️
Overcast
59°/30°
💧 5%🌬 13mph
5:53 AM9:16 PM
Wed
☁️
Overcast
62°/35°
💧 4%🌬 10mph
5:52 AM9:17 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Iron Lake Campground

Eight campsites with picnic tables and fire rings are along the shores of this high alpine lake. the campground has piped drinking water and vault toilets but no garbage services are available. The trail from campground leads to more lake fishing, at the Hat Lakes to the south. Carry-down access for non motorized boats to the lakes. The drive in along Salmon River Mountain Road, offers spectacular views of craggy peaks and deep pine forests.

How to Get There

From Salmon, go 5 miles south on US 93, then west 20 miles on Forest Road 021, and 21 miles south on FR 020 (Salmon River Mountain Road). FR 020 is a narrow, rough mountain road requiring slow and careful driving.

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 16 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 (UV 6)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun 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 Iron Lake Campground

Heading to Iron 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 Iron Lake Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Iron Lake Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/239900) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Iron Lake Campground?

From Salmon, go 5 miles south on US 93, then west 20 miles on Forest Road 021, and 21 miles south on FR 020 (Salmon River Mountain Road). FR 020 is a narrow, rough mountain road requiring slow and careful driving.