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Big Trinity Lake Campground
Overview:
Big Trinity Lake Campground is within the beautiful Trinity Recreation Area. There are17 campsites on Big Trinity Lake and there are more sites near the beautiful smaller lakes in Rainbow Basin.
The campgrounds in the Trinity Recreation area offer a quiet retreat in a beautiful high alpine landscape. The sites are situated within a popular summer recreation area with many activities to enjoy.
There is a limited season due to late snow melt, but they are accessible by car.
Natural Features:
The campgrounds are located in a dense lodgepole pine forest close to the East Fork Roaring River at an elevation of 7,900 feet. Nestled among four subalpine lakes: Big Roaring River Lake, Little Roaring River Lake, Big Trinity Lake and Little Trinity Lake. The peaks of the Boise Mountains surround the cabins, and Trinity Mountain, the tallest in the range at 9,700 feet, is just to the south.
Snow can make this area inaccessible until early July, but soon afterward, the land is blanketed by colorful summer wildflowers. This area is a haven for elk and deer, but wildlife watchers may also spot an occasional black bear.
Recreation:
Hikers can access the 4-mile Rainbow Basin Trail System from Big Trinity Lake. The William H. Pogue National Recreation Trail and Lava Mountain Trail are for off-road vehicle enthusiasts, mountain bikers, hikers and horseback riders. Both of these trails can be accessed near Big Roaring River Lake. The Little Roaring River Trail at Little Roaring River Lake is also open to mountain bike, off-road vehicles and hiking. Click here for an Idaho OHV Safety Message.
Anglers can fish in any of the nearby lakes for rainbow and cutthroat trout. The lakes are also ideal for exploring by canoe or kayak.
Nearby Attractions:
The summit of Trinity Mountain is the highest drivable point in Idaho, although the road may be blocked by snow until early July. A short, steep hike takes visitors to the lookout tower for panoramic views of several subalpine lakes and other mountains in the Boise Range.
Fish Your National Forests: This site can be accessed by Passenger Car; Fish available include: Trout; Types of fishing available include: Wade, Shore, Non-motorized boat, Float tube, Fly, Spin, Bait, Ice; Boat Launch available
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | Trinity Recreation Area normally opens in mid July. Call District for updates. (208-587-7961) |
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| Operational Hours: | July 15 - October 1 (or until closed by snow) |
| Reservations: | No reservations are necessary. First come, first serve. |
| Fees: | This is a fee campground. Fee envelopes and a collection box are provided near the entrance. 17 sites / $10.00 - overnight. |
| Closest Towns: | Mountain Home, Idaho |
| Water: | Drinking Water |
| Restroom: | Vault |
General Information
Directions:From Boise, Idaho, travel east on Interstate 84 (I-84) to Mountain Home, Idaho.
At the I-84 and State Highway 20 junction, take Highway 20 east for 35 miles to Pine/Featherville turnoff.
Travel north on Forest Highway 61 for 29 miles to Forest Service (FS) road 172.
Proceed 15 miles northwest to FS road 129.
Continue 3 miles to the Guard Station junction. The roadway is paved up to the junction of FS road 172.
FS road 172 is native material (dirt) and trailer traffic is not recommended. There are signs noting each of the junctions.
Activities
Campground Camping
Total of 17 sites.Lake and Pond Fishing
Wraps around the crystal clear Big Trinity Lake: Rainbow trout.| Difficulty Level: | Intermediate |
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Day Hiking
Rainbow Basin #180 (foot) - 4 miles| Difficulty Level: | Intermediate |
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Viewing Wildlife
Wildlife is in the area. Watch and you may get a glimpse.| Difficulty Level: | Easy |
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Picnicking
Picnic tables are in the surrounding area.Scenic Driving
Take a drive and enjoy the beautiful scenery that surrounds you.Boating - Non-Motorized
Wraps around the crystal clear Big Trinity Lake and is well suited for canoes.
Location