The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Williams Lake Campground provides Bureau of Land Management camping directly on beautiful Williams Lake in Idaho. The Bureau of Land Management is dedicated to preserving public lands for future enjoyment. They provide camping opportunities on many of the lands they manage. At this BLM campground, guests can enjoy stunning views of the water, a lovely picnic area, fishing, and hiking while visiting. The campground sits at the trailhead for the Thunder Mountain National Historic Trail, and there’s a full-service resort on the south side of the lake, where you’ll find a restaurant and a tackle shop. Salmon-Challis National Forest is waiting to be explored nearby, or you can enjoy a drive in your RV along the Salmon River Scenic Byway. Many visitors to the area make a point of taking a dip in the water at Goldberg Hot Springs too. Both Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park are within 240 miles of this campground.
This is a primitive trail created for mountain bikes. It goes through pine and Douglas fir forest, along with a few sagebrush meadows. Length: 2.4 miles Intensity: Difficult
This trail goes to the Goldburg Hot Springs. It’s dog friendly and open all year. It begins with an uphill climb and then levels out and follows a creek. The last portion is uphill to the hot springs. Length: 3.6 miles Intensity: Moderate
This trial starts as a dirt road and then turns into more of a game trail. You’ll enjoy spectacular views along the way, and you’ll want to watch for wildlife such as coyotes and deer. Length: 3.8 miles Intensity: Moderate
This is an easy walk along the river where you’ll see a lot of the local history, including several old buildings and a teepee. Length: 1.2 miles Intensity: Easy
This trail takes you through the area’s rolling sage hills. You’ll discover beautiful views of the mountains along the way. Be prepared for the sun, as there’s not much shade. Length: 7.6 miles Intensity: Moderate
You can fish for rainbow trout in Williams Lake or go fly-fishing in the inlet. During the winter months, the lake offers opportunities for ice fishing. A tackle shop can be found at the resort on the south side of the lake. The day-use areas and the Forest Service’s boat ramp provide access to the lake.
Big game found in the area includes elk, black bear, mule deer, white-tailed deer, cougar, moose, and mountain goats. Overhead, you may spot bald eagles, red-tail hawks, and osprey.
The Williams Lake Campground has a lovely picnic area on the lake with five tables. The connecting walkways offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
BLM RV camping at Williams Lake Campground includes 11 standard RV or tent sites. Each large campsite has its own fire ring. While staying at this pet-friendly campground, you’ll have access to a vault toilet, and they do offer trash disposal for your convenience. Rates are $5 per night for each site.
Bureau of Land Management free camping isn't available on Lake Williams, but free dispersed camping is allowed in most areas of the nearby Salmon-Challis National Forest. A quick internet search for “BLM camping near me” should help you locate other dispersed camping opportunities in the area. Amenities like toilets and potable water aren't available at these types of campsites.
The weather at Williams Lake Campground sees temperatures in the high 70s to the mid-80s during the summer. Be prepared for evening temperatures to drop into the high 40s. Spring and fall daytime highs range anywhere from the mid-40s to the low-70s, while winter temperatures stay in the 20s and 30s. Summers are warm and dry, and winters are snowy, freezing, and cloudy. When packing for your trip be sure to include a pair of good hiking boots with proper grip. You’ll enjoy the trails much more with these, as many areas have rough terrain that gets slippery due to moisture or loose rocks. Plan on wearing layers so that you’re prepared for cold mornings, warm afternoons, and chilly evenings. During the summer months, you’ll want a light raincoat. Winter will require a heavy coat. Bring along food supplies and cooking equipment for meals, as well as bottled water and snacks to take along on hikes. Each campsite has a fire ring where you can prepare meals and snacks. Picnic tables are nearby. If you forget anything, there are several markets in the town of Salmon. You’ll also find a restaurant on the south side of the lake. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
When staying at Williams Lake, you’ll want to be respectful of Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. Make sure that you leave no trace of your stay behind. Pick up all of your trash and dispose of it properly. Don't disturb the natural setting or wildlife either. Your goal should be to leave the campsite ready for the next visitor to enjoy. If you don't do your part, these beautiful areas won't be here for people to take advantage of in the future.
The campground is roughly 13 miles from the town of Salmon. Take Highway 93 South for 5 miles. Turn right onto Shoup Road. The lake will be 8 miles ahead. Follow the signs to the campground. Latitude/Longitude: 45.024068, -113.965163 Ready to visit Williams Lake Campground? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
