Josephus Lake Trailhead

Closed — Closed for winter. Forest Road 008 is typically inaccessible due to snow from late fall through early summer. The campground generally opens around July 1 when road conditions allow.

About

Josephus Lake Trailhead sits at the edge of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness in the remote backcountry of Salmon-Challis National Forest. This primitive camping area offers three campsites on Josephus Lake, a small alpine lake too small for motorboats. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring, and the campground has a vault toilet. The trailhead provides access to wilderness trails that head west into a lake-filled region before reaching the Wild and Scenic Middle Fork of the Salmon River. The area is accessed via approximately 18 miles on Forest Road 008 from Highway 21, with the first 10-plus miles being well-graded gravel suitable for travel trailers, though the remaining distance becomes more primitive. This is a free, unmaintained campground that offers a true backcountry experience. Campers should come prepared with their own water and supplies, as no potable water or services are available. The remote location and wilderness access make this an ideal basecamp for hikers, horseback riders, and those seeking solitude in Idaho's rugged central mountains.

Directions

From Stanley, Idaho, drive north 17 miles on Highway 21 and turn onto Forest Road 008. Continue approximately 18 miles north on Forest Road 008 to reach the campground. The first 10-plus miles are well-graded gravel; the remaining road becomes more primitive.

Nearby Campgrounds