Barneys Campground (Boise National Forest, Id)
3.8912 reviews7359 HIGHWAY 21, LOWMAN, ID 83637, USA
Barneys Campground (Boise National Forest, Id)
$5.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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
Fees include a $5 vehicle day-use fee and a $12 nightly fee for standard non-electric campsites during peak and first-come, first-served seasons.
About this campground
Tucked away on the pristine shores of Deadwood Reservoir, Barneys Campground offers a refreshing escape from the crowds that flock to more well-known sites. This hidden gem in the Boise National Forest rewards those who seek it out with uninterrupted waterfront access, peaceful mornings filled with birdsong, and the kind of tranquility that's becoming increasingly rare. While its primitive facilities might not suit everyone, visitors consistently praise the campground's ability to deliver an authentic wilderness experience where the natural beauty takes center stage.
Barneys Campground offers primitive camping with waterfront sites. Tent camping is explicitly supported based on user feedback. RV camping may not be suitable, as some reviews mention steep slopes and challenges for trailers.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Barneys into an outdoor paradise, with warm, dry days perfect for swimming and clear nights ideal for stargazing. Mountain breezes sweep across the reservoir, keeping temperatures comfortable even during peak season, though savvy campers come prepared for the occasional gusty afternoon. Early spring visitors should pack layers and rain gear, as the high elevation brings unpredictable weather patterns and chilly mornings that can dip well below freezing. The summer months may bring out some insects, but they're a small price to pay for the spectacular wildflower displays.
ElevationPerched at 5,300 feet above sea level, Barneys Campground offers a natural air conditioning system that provides welcome relief from valley heat. This mountain elevation creates perfect sleeping weather on summer nights and delivers crisp, pine-scented air that makes every breath feel rejuvenating. The higher altitude also means cooler mornings that invite you to linger over coffee while watching mist rise from the reservoir.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering pines provides natural shade throughout the campground, creating dappled light patterns that dance across the forest floor. In summer, the understory explodes with color as native wildflowers paint the landscape in vibrant purples, yellows, and whites. The real showstopper, however, is the sparkling expanse of Deadwood Reservoir, where the shoreline beckons just steps from your campsite. Early risers are rewarded with mirror-like water reflections and the possibility of spotting wildlife coming down for a morning drink.
Geological RegionNestled on the northeast shore of Deadwood Reservoir within the vast Boise National Forest, Barneys Campground sits at 5,300 feet where the mountain ecosystem thrives. The surrounding landscape tells the story of ancient geological forces that carved out this alpine paradise, now cloaked in mixed-growth pine forests that have stood sentinel for generations. Summer brings an enchanting transformation as wildflowers carpet the forest floor, creating a living tapestry that changes weekly throughout the season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with waterfront access for many.
Sites PrivacySites are noted to be spread out, providing a good level of privacy according to user reviews. "We stayed at Barney’s Campground for the first time last weekend... loved how spread out the campsites are," one guest shared.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site #6, described as having zero shade, poor water access, and challenging parking conditions. Site #5 and #8 are recommended for waterfront access and privacy.
Best CampsitesSites #5 and #8 receive positive feedback for water access and scenic views. Site #5 noted for proximity to bathrooms and a 'great beach.'
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 11:00 am.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 pm.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights per stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified.
Groups
Group camping specifics are not detailed in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 8 sites spread out along the reservoir's shoreline. Roads and parking spurs are dirt.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 19, 2025, to September 7, 2025, for reservations. First-come, first-served camping available from September 8 to September 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites available from September 8 to September 30, 2025. Some sites may be available during peak season; users should inquire at the Lowman Ranger District office.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to the day prior to arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (within one day of arrival) forfeit the first night's fee. No refunds for cancellations on the day of arrival.
Amenities available
Potable water
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Barneys Campground offers several recreational activities due to its location near Deadwood Reservoir, including fishing, boating, water sports, hiking, and mountain biking. "Fishing was great! Camp site great!" one review notes. "Boating, canoeing, and kayaking are popular on the lake," confirms the official description.
Hiking
The area features many trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and ATV riding. Specific difficulty levels or lengths are not provided.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include Atlantic, Chinook, and Kokanee salmon, as well as rainbow and cutthroat trout. "Fishing was great!" says one camper.Swimming
Swimming is possible in Deadwood Reservoir. "The lake is the perfect temperature for swimming," according to one review. However, the beach area is minimal until the water recedes later in the summer.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available in the surrounding area, though specific details on terrain or difficulty are not provided.Boating
Boating, canoeing, and kayaking are popular activities at Deadwood Reservoir. A boat ramp is located about 2 miles away at Cozy Cove Campground. "Nice camp shore so you tie your boat," one camper noted.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.Water Sports
Water skiing, canoeing, and kayaking are explicitly mentioned in the authoritative description.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted; users are encouraged to source firewood locally (per 'Don't Move Firewood' guidelines).
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wind, horseflies, and mosquitoes as mentioned in user reviews (Angela B). Additionally, users reported challenging road access and occasional difficulties finding water sources.
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 available at the Lowman Ranger District office (Phone: 208-259-3361). Additional medical services available in nearby towns.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 19, 2025, to September 7, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the northeast shore of Deadwood Reservoir. Sites feature direct shoreline access.
Common complaintsUsers expressed dissatisfaction with campsite #6 due to lack of shade, uneven terrain, and poor access to water. Kevin H reported issues with unauthorized site occupation and lack of staff to resolve disputes.
HostNull
Campground Map
7359 HIGHWAY 21, LOWMAN, ID 83637, USA
Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, take State Highway 55 north. At Banks, take Highway 17 east (Banks-Lowman Highway) to Lowman. Turn left on Highway 21. Continue along Highway 17 over Banner Summit. Turn west on Forest Road 579. Continue on FR 579 to Deadwood Reservoir.
Access requires travel along dirt roads (Forest Road 579) which may be challenging, especially for larger vehicles or RVs. Some users have noted road conditions can be bumpy. Lacey W stated that the route through Cascade is preferable for towing campers.Nearby places
Lowman (approximately 20 miles), Cascade (alternate route, distance not specified)
Nearby supplies
Hower's Campground (nearby) provides drinking water. Supplies for camping, food, and fuel can likely be found in Lowman or Cascade.
Camper Reviews
3.9
12 reviews
Barneys Campground (Boise National Forest, Id) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Barneys Campground are mixed, with high praise for its scenic views, clean facilities, and privacy. However, some complaints focus on issues with campsite orientation, lack of shade at specific sites, and challenges for RVs.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean facilities, waterfront sites with great views, and the spread-out nature of campsites providing privacy. "We loved how spread out the campsites are," one visitor noted.
Based on 12 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include challenges for RV campers, lack of potable water on-site, and specific concerns about Campsite 6. "Campsite 6 has zero shade, has no place to park a camper," was noted in one...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing your own water, avoiding Campsite 6, and taking alternative routes for easier access when traveling with trailers. "Our camping neighbor told us to go back home the...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summers are praised for their scenic beauty and warm lake temperatures. However, the beach area is minimal until the water recedes later in the season, and bugs like horseflies and mosquitoes may be...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Fishing was great! Camp site great!" "Someone took our reserved spot... ruined the weekend," "The scenery is beautiful and the lake is the perfect temperature for swimming," "Campsite 6 needs to be...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 6 is widely criticized for lack of shade, poor orientation, and lack of water access. Campsite 5 is noted for great waterfront access and proximity to bathrooms. "Campsite 6 has zero...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and experiences are not mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025