Pine Flats (Id)
4.3282 reviews7359 Hwy 21, LOWMAN, ID 83637, USA
Pine Flats (Id)
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates range between $15-$30 for standard non-electric sites during peak and off-peak seasons. There is a $5 fee for vehicles entering the campground for day use.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Idaho's wilderness, Pine Flats Campground beckons families seeking adventure along the pristine waters of the Middle Fork Payette River. This riverside haven serves as your gateway to natural hot springs hidden in the surrounding mountains, where days are filled with whitewater thrills and evenings bring encounters with wandering elk beneath star-filled skies. Whether you're launching kayaks at dawn or following trails to secluded thermal pools, Pine Flats transforms camping into an unforgettable journey through one of the West's most captivating landscapes.
Pine Flats Campground accommodates a range of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and double-family sites. Primitive camping options are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceYour journey to Pine Flats follows the storied Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway, a route that has witnessed centuries of human passage through these rugged lands. Interpretive kiosks scattered along the way reveal tales of Native American tribes who first called these canyons home, hardy miners who sought fortune in the surrounding peaks, and the logging crews who floated timber down these very waters. Each stop offers a window into the rich tapestry of lives that have shaped this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives at Pine Flats with sun-drenched days perfect for river adventures, while evenings bring a refreshing mountain coolness that makes campfire gatherings all the more inviting. Spring awakens the canyon with rushing snowmelt and blooming wildflowers, though visitors should pack layers for unpredictable mountain weather. Autumn paints the landscape in golden hues, offering crisp days ideal for hiking, though morning frost and afternoon showers remind campers to come prepared for nature's changing moods.
ElevationPerched at 3,700 feet where mountain air stays crisp and pine-scented, Pine Flats provides a refreshing escape from summer's heat. This sweet spot elevation delivers the best of both worlds: warm enough for comfortable camping yet high enough to escape the valley's swelter. Here, afternoon temperatures invite river play while evening's natural air conditioning ensures restful nights under quilts of stars.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient Ponderosa pines stand sentinel over Pine Flats, their vanilla-scented bark and towering crowns creating a natural cathedral above your campsite. Summer transforms the forest floor into a painter's palette of wildflowers—purple lupine, scarlet paintbrush, and sunny balsamroot—while the river's constant melody provides nature's soundtrack. Keep your camera ready for magical moments when deer emerge from morning mist or bugling elk announce autumn's arrival across the canyon walls.
Geological RegionThe Middle Fork Payette River has spent millennia carving its masterpiece through this rugged terrain, creating a dramatic canyon where ancient granite meets volcanic remnants. Pine Flats sits within this geological wonderland, where Ponderosa pines grip rocky outcrops and thermal springs bubble up from deep earth fractures. Wildlife thrives in this diverse ecosystem where mountain meadows meet rushing waters, offering glimpses of deer browsing at forest edges and elk traversing ancient game trails that crisscross the dramatic landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityMost campsites are accessible, and the campground is equipped with paved roads and parking spurs. However, the trail leading to the hot springs may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues due to its steep and rocky terrain.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating both single and double-family groups. Some sites are spacious enough for larger RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between sites is limited, as noted by several reviewers. Some campsites lack adequate tree cover or separation.
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors seeking shade should bring a canopy. Hiking poles are recommended for accessing the hot springs due to rocky terrain.
Best CampsitesSites 15-20 are recommended for shade. Site 14 is close to the bathrooms. Sites near the river offer better views and proximity to water features.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Official check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per site limit not explicitly stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are paved and spaced out, offering varying levels of shade and privacy. Some are double-family sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 21 to September 30 annually; reservable only between June 25 and September 7.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis during off-peak season after September 7, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled for a $10 fee. Late cancellation incurs first night's fee forfeiture. No refunds for cancellations after the scheduled arrival date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pine Flats Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, rafting, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. A 1/4-mile trail leads to natural hot springs by the riverside, which is a highlight for many visitors. The South Fork Payette River provides opportunities for fishing and water-based activities. "Lots of space for kids to play" and "many trails to choose from" were reported by users.
Hiking
The campground features a 1/4-mile nature trail leading to hot springs. The trail is short but can be steep and rocky, making it moderately challenging. "Amazing hike to natural hot springs," said one reviewer.Fishing
The South Fork Payette River offers trout fishing opportunities. "Fishing is available," as highlighted in the official description.Swimming
Visitors can enjoy the hot springs and the South Fork Payette River. However, the river's strong currents and cold water make it unsuitable for young children.Boating
The South Fork Payette River is suitable for rafting and kayaking, with local companies offering guided trips.Wildlife viewing
Deer and elk are occasionally seen in the campground. The surrounding area provides opportunities for birdwatching and observing local wildlife.Beach activities
A small sandy beach near the river offers space for relaxation, though it is limited in size.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Kayaking and rafting are the primary water sports available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings with grills.
- Quiet hours not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsStrong currents in the Payette River pose a danger, especially to children. The surrounding hillsides may still exhibit damage from past fires.
Active alertsThe campground was closed as of April 2021 due to fallen trees but reopened later. Fire damage may still be visible.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely located in Lowman, with no specific details provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 21, 2025 - September 07, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided on-site. However, one user review mentioned "garbage was overflowing the cans" during their visit.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the South Fork Payette River, with a 1/4-mile trail leading to hot springs.
Common complaintsSome reviews cite issues with generator noise, limited shade, fire damage, and improperly maintained facilities such as broken bathroom locks.
HostCamp hosts are frequently mentioned as friendly, helpful, and non-intrusive, ensuring clean facilities and providing local information.
Campground Map
7359 Hwy 21, LOWMAN, ID 83637, USA
Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, take Highway 55 to Banks. Turn east and travel on the Banks-Lowman Highway for 28 miles to the campground.
Roads are paved and accessible, with minimal navigation challenges. Seasonal closures not mentioned.Nearby places
Lowman (approx. 5 miles), Banks (approx. 28 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in nearby towns such as Lowman and Banks, though exact details are not provided.
Camper Reviews
4.3
82 reviews
Pine Flats (Id) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Pine Flats Campground receives positive reviews for its natural hot springs, river access, and clean facilities. However, some visitors have criticized issues like overflowing trash, lack of shade, and crowded campsites. The average sentiment score is approximately 4.05.
Review Summaries
Based on 82 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors highlight the "clean bathrooms," proximity to "hot springs," and "friendly camp hosts." The natural setting and spacious sites also receive praise.
Based on 82 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include limited shade, noisy generators, and maintenance issues such as broken locks on bathroom doors and rebar on picnic tables.
Based on 82 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring shade structures as some sites lack tree cover. Be prepared for a short but rocky hike to the hot springs. Check water availability, as reviews indicate occasional issues with hand pumps.
Based on 82 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention heat and lack of shade, while spring and fall seem to offer more comfortable conditions. Winter activities are not discussed.
Based on 82 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great campsite that has the feel of camping in the trees," "The trail down to the hot springs was worth it," and "Clean, quiet, and peaceful."
Based on 82 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites in the 15-20s range are noted for shade. Site 17 requires leveling adjustments due to its slope. Site 1 offers partial shade but is near the entrance.
Based on 82 reviewsAccessibility Features
The trail to the hot springs may be difficult for individuals with mobility challenges. Campground facilities, such as vault toilets, are accessible.
Based on 82 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in campsites but restricted near the hot springs. "Dogs are allowed on leashes in campsites but not at the hot springs."
Based on 82 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025