Overview Meadow Lake Campground is located on the Leadore Ranger District of the Salmon-Challis National Forest. This high alpine campground sits at an elevation of 9,160 feet in the Lemhi Mountain Range, 22 miles from Leadore, Idaho.Recreation There's no lack of recreational opportunities around Meadow Lake Campground…
Overview Meadow Lake Campground is located on the Leadore Ranger District of the Salmon-Challis National Forest. This high alpine campground sits at an elevation of 9,160 feet in the Lemhi Mountain Range, 22 miles from Leadore, Idaho.Recreation There's no lack of recreational opportunities around Meadow Lake Campground. The lake is stocked twice a year so the fish are always biting. Fish from the bank or carry your boat down to the lake and try from the water, as there is no boat ramp or boat dock at the lake.Hiking opportunities are available right out of the campground and include trail # 342 which provides a gentle loop around the backside of the campground. Try trail # 057 which takes you up to the steep ridge above the campground (the trail to Meadow Lake Peak is not maintained by the Forest Service). If a slower pace is appealing, pull up a chair and soak-up the incredible views from the campground. Facilities Meadow Lake Campground consists of 17 campsites and a day use area with picnic tables, fire rings and barbecue pedestals. The campground offers 2 vault toilets, drinking water and day use parking. 4 double campsites are available for larger groups with each site including 2 picnic tables, 2 tent pads, a campfire ring, a prep table, and expanded parking for 2 vehicles. The campground also offer 13 single campsites each with a picnic table, tent pad, campfire ring, prep table, and parking for 1 vehicle.Natural Features Meadow Lake Campground is located at the base of the 10,720-foot Meadow Lake Peak and along the banks of the 13.3-acre Meadow Lake. The high elevation campground is dotted with lodge pole pine and white bark pine trees and is frequented by deer and mountain goats. Nearby Attractions There are plenty of other attractions in the vicinity of Meadow Lake including the Gilmore Ghost Town and a number of other Forest Service recreation sites and trails. Stop at the Leadore Ranger Station and pick up a visitor map for more information.Charges & Can
Photos
Site 3 (Single Site) Tent Pad - View of Tent Pad Looking Toward Campsite — USDA Forest ServiceOne of Two Tent Pads at Site 3 (Double Site) - View From Tent Pad Looking Toward Campsite — USDA Forest ServiceOne of Two Tent Pads at Site 3 (Double Site) - View From Tent Pad Looking Toward Campsite — USDA Forest ServiceSite 3 (Double Site) Amenities - 2 picnic tables, campfire ring and preperation table — USDA Forest ServiceMeadow Lake Campground and Meadow Lake Peak — USDA Forest ServiceEntrance to Site 3 (Double Site) — USDA Forest ServiceEntrance to Site 12 (Single Site) - Campsite with Meadow Lake Peak in Background — USDA Forest ServiceSite 3 (Single Site) Amenities - 1 picnic table, campfire ring and preperation table — USDA Forest Service
How to Get There
From Leadore drive 17 miles south on Highway 28 and turn right (west) on to Forest Service Road #002 at the old Gilmore Townsite. Follow the gravel road for 6 miles as it climbs 2,080 feet to the campground.
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 MEADOW LAKE CAMPGROUND
Heading to MEADOW 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 MEADOW LAKE CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for MEADOW LAKE CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/260558) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to MEADOW LAKE CAMPGROUND?
From Leadore drive 17 miles south on Highway 28 and turn right (west) on to Forest Service Road #002 at the old Gilmore Townsite. Follow the gravel road for 6 miles as it climbs 2,080 feet to the campground.
How do I contact MEADOW LAKE CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: RECREATION PERSONNEL (208)756-5209 OR LEADORE OFFICE (208)768-2500.
