April 6, 2018
by

Cathedral Pines, Idaho

Camping spots in Sun Valley Idaho, Cathedral pines area

a photo collage of scenic roads and vistas in idaho with a pop up camper van

Cathedral Pines is one of my favorite places for dispersed camping near Ketchum, Idaho. Tucked beneath a beautiful forest of mature pine trees, this free camping area offers easy access to Sun Valley, the Sawtooth National Forest, hiking trails, mountain biking, and the Big Wood River.

If you’re looking to escape crowded campgrounds without giving up convenience, Cathedral Pines is an excellent option. It’s close enough to town for supplies but still feels quiet and remote once you’re settled into camp.

Quick Facts

Location: Near Ketchum, Idaho

Camping Type: Dispersed camping

Cost: Free

Reservations: None

RV Friendly: Yes, depending on site size

Tent Camping: Yes

Restrooms: None

Water: Bring your own

Best Time to Visit: June through October

Pets: Allowed

Why Camp at Cathedral Pines.

Unlike a developed campground, Cathedral Pines gives you the freedom to choose your own campsite. Large pine trees provide shade throughout the day, and many sites feel surprisingly private.

The location is one of its biggest advantages. Within minutes you can be hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, or exploring Ketchum and Sun Valley before returning to camp for a quiet evening beneath the trees.

a vintage orange van camping in sun valley idaho

map of ketchum idaho and topographic area of the sawtooth mountains

Things to Do Nearby.

Cathedral Pines is an ideal basecamp for exploring central Idaho.

Spend the day hiking in the Sawtooth National Forest, mountain biking around Sun Valley, fishing the Big Wood River, or wandering through downtown Ketchum before returning to camp.

What to Expect.

Most campsites are located along Forest Service roads and vary in size. Some work well for vans and smaller RVs, while others are better suited for tents.

Because this is dispersed camping, you’ll need to be completely self sufficient. There are no bathrooms, potable water or trash services. Pack out everything you bring with you. No one wants to roll up to a gross campsite.

One of my favorite things about Cathedral Pines is how peaceful it becomes in the evening after the day visitors leave.

a photo of a hand chopping wood with a hatchet at dusk with a moose in the background.

a scenic image of the Cathedral pines area with mountains at dusk

What to Bring.

Since there are no services, come prepared with drinking water, food, a camp stove, trash bags, and a shovel if required for proper waste disposal. Nights can be cool even during summer, so warm layers are always a good idea.

Practice Leave No Trace by camping on previously disturbed sites, respecting fire restrictions, and leaving the area cleaner than you found it.

a woman jumping for joy in long john underwear in a lush green field at Cathedral pines camping area in the sawtooth mountains

a photo collage of an Sun Valley Idaho Cathedral pines illustration by Liz Kuz paired with an awesome view of the sawtooth mountains at sunset.

Final Thoughts.

If you’re looking for free camping near Ketchum, Cathedral Pines is one of the best dispersed camping areas I’ve found. The combination of quiet forest campsites, easy access to Sun Valley, and endless outdoor recreation makes it a place I return to again and again.

It is always good to check the availability and the rules of the campsite before planning a trip and also check the weather conditions of the area.plan to visit to learn about the specific rules and regulations in place, as well as any current conditions or closures.