Cathedral Pines

Is there anything better than relaxing by a stream, camping alone in the wilderness and reading a book? I didn’t think so. Welcome to the Sawtooth National Forest. A great place to bike, camp, soak in hot springs and fish. Located just north of Sun Valley Idaho on highway 75 there are plentiful spots to recreate either in paid Forest service campgrounds or off the beaten path. Wood Campground and Easley campgrounds are the two closest campgrounds to Ketchum, Idaho. Easley campgrounds offers close access to the Easley Hot Springs but is usually full on weekends. For us, we wanted to get away from the crowds so we opted in camping off of road 175. You could drive up any of these service roads and camp off the side as everyone is fighting for space down by the river.

There are several great camping options in the Ketchum, Idaho area, including:

1. Redfish Lake Campground – located in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, it offers a variety of camping options, including RV hookups and tent camping.
2. Petit Lake Campground – also located in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, it offers a peaceful and secluded camping experience.
3. East Fork Campground – located on the East Fork of the Big Wood River, it offers RV hookups and tent camping.
4. Iron Creek Campground – located in the Sawtooth National Forest, it offers a variety of camping options and is a popular spot for fly fishing.
5. Stanley Lake Campground – located in the Sawtooth National Forest, it offers RV hookups and tent camping with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

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.

Rules for camping on Forest Service areas in Idaho

When camping in a national forest in Idaho, there are several rules and regulations that you should be aware of. Some of the key rules include:

1. Camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds or areas.
2. Campfires are generally allowed, but you should check for fire restrictions before starting a fire.
3. You may be required to have a permit for certain types of camping, such as group camping or backcountry camping.
4. You should always practice Leave No Trace principles and properly dispose of all trash and waste.
5. You should be aware of any local wildlife and take appropriate precautions to avoid conflicts.
6. You should also be aware of any rules and regulations specific to the campground you are staying in, such as quiet hours or pet restrictions.
7. You should also be aware of the weather conditions and be prepared for it accordingly.
8. Always check for the availability of the campsite and book it in advance, in case of peak season or weekends.

It is always a good idea to check with the ranger district of the national forest you plan to visit to learn about the specific rules and regulations in place, as well as any current conditions or closures.

What should you do if you see a moose?

Moose can be dangerous animals, especially if they feel threatened or are protecting their young. If you encounter a moose while in the wild, it is important to take the following steps to ensure your safety:

1. Stay calm and do not panic. Moose can sense fear and may become aggressive if they feel threatened.
2. Give the moose plenty of space. Moose can charge if they feel threatened or cornered, so it’s important to give them a wide berth.
3. Keep a safe distance. Moose can be unpredictable, and it is best to stay at least 50 yards away from them.
4. Do not approach or touch a moose. Moose can become aggressive if they feel cornered or threatened, and they have been known to attack humans.
5. Keep pets on a leash or under control. Moose can be aggressive towards pets, especially dogs.
6. Do not block the moose’s escape route. Moose can feel trapped and defensive when they cannot escape.
7. If the moose charges, slowly back away and try to find cover, such as a large tree or building.
8. In case of an emergency, contact the park authorities or the local wildlife management department.

It is also important to keep in mind that Moose can be found in many national parks, forests, and wilderness areas. Always be aware of the wildlife in your surroundings and follow the park’s guidelines and recommendations.