COUGAR CG
Season typically begins in June. Occupancy is limited to 10 days within any 30-day period throughout the SNRA.
Weed Free Hay Order 04-2021-03
Prohibited by this order: Possessing, storing, or transporting non-pelletized hay, straw, or mulch in the Intermountain Region, unless it is certified as weed free by the state where the product originated.
Fireworks and Spark Arrestor Order 04-2021-01
Prohibited by this order: Possessing, discharging, or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device. 36 CFR §261.52(t)Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order as described…
Explosives and Exploding Target Order 04-2021-02
This order prohibits the use of explosives and exploding targets on National Forest System lands within the Intermountain Region.
Fox Creek Temporary Trail & Trailhead Closures
Implementation of the Fox Creek Bridge Replacement Project will require intermittent, temporary trail and trailhead closures. Unscheduled closures may be necessary, but here are some target dates for visitors to keep in mind when planning activities in the area:May 11-14, 2026: Trailhead will be…
Over-Snow Vehicle and Bicycle Prohibitions
This order covers over-snow vehicle and bicycle use on the Fairfield and Ketchum Ranger Districts and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.
Sawtooth Wilderness Area Occupancy and Use
This order covers occupancy and use requirements for the Sawtooth Wilderness area on the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.
Hemingway-Boulders and Cecil D. Andrus-White Clouds Wilderness Areas - Occupancy and Use
This order covers occupancy and use requirements for the Hemingway-Boulders and Cecil D. Andrus-White Clouds Wilderness Areas on the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.
Forestwide Occupancy and Use
This order covers occupancy and use prohibitions on all National Forest System lands and roads within the Sawtooth National Forest.
Occupancy and Use - Food Storage
This order covers requirements for possessing and storing food while visiting the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.
About
Cougar Dispersed Camping Area provides a free, primitive camping experience along the scenic North Fork of the Big Wood River in Idaho's Sawtooth National Recreation Area. This designated dispersed camping zone is positioned north of the Caribou developed campground, accessible via the left side of North Fork Road. As a dispersed camping area, Cougar offers minimal amenities. Campers must bring their own water, pack out all trash and waste, and come prepared for self-sufficient camping. The area supports activities including day hiking, backpacking, and picnicking, with easy access to the surrounding Sawtooth National Forest backcountry. The site is subject to SNRA occupancy limits of 10 days within any 30-day period, measured within a 30-mile radius. This applies to all camping equipment including tents, travel trailers, and boats.
Directions
Located north of Caribou developed campground on the left side of North Fork Road, alongside the North Fork of the Big Wood River.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (208) 423-7500 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!