Meadow Lake Campground

If you and your buddy are looking for a true wilderness experience in Idaho’s Salmon National Forest, you’d be barking mad not to consider camping at Meadow Lake Campground! Facilities at Meadow Lake are pretty rustic -- you certainly won’t find any showers, electricity or RV hookups.

But make no bones about it, the location is well worth sacrificing some creature comforts! You and your pooch will be sleeping surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery the entire state has to offer. Situated right on the shores of the beautiful Meadow Lake, the campground is surrounded by stately, mature conifers and features fabulous views of the mountains. You might even see a mountain goat making its way past! It’s no surprise that the US Forest Service has designated Meadow Lake as a heavy-usage campground, but that does mean that it’s best to book your spot early. There’s no entrance fee to the area, and sites go for $10 a night, with two double sites available for $20.

Not only is Meadow Lake in a seriously pretty spot, but it’s close by to all sorts of op-paw-tunities for outdoor recreation. If casting a line is your idea of a good time, you’ll find your entertainment right outside your door (or tent flap) -- the lake is well-stocked with rainbow trout, and you can cook your catch on one of the grills provided with every site.

That being said, hound-dog hikers might get the most out of a stay here! There are several furrific trails that start right outside the campground. The two-mile Meadow Lake to Lehmi Divide Trail is well worth a wander -- it’s ranked as one of the top five trails in the entire forest. The moderate-rated route wanders across trees and past glacial moraines, and rewards hikers with views of striking granite cliffs. The trail also runs past Gilmore Ghost Town, and cultured canines might get a kick out of a visit to this eerie slice of Idaho history. Fitter furry friends looking for a challenge might want to look up a map of the nearby routes.

WiFi isn’t available at Meadow Lake Campground, and cellular coverage varies from network to network. Fires are permitted, but unfortunately, drinking water isn’t available. One further note -- Meadow Lake is the highest campground in Idaho, sitting at over 9,000 feet. This means that it’s essential to wrap up well at night, and that opening dates can vary with the weather. Remember to bring waste bags for your doggo, and have a pawesome trip!