Cottonwood Campground

Boise National Forest

Discover your perfect lakeside retreat at Tailwaters Campground, where the pristine waters of Anderson Ranch Reservoir meet the forested shores of the Boise National Forest. This intimate, free campground offers just three secluded sites along the reservoir's western edge, creating an exclusive escape for anglers and nature enthusiasts. Cast your line for trophy trout and bass from the shore, or launch your canoe or kayak from the convenient boat ramp to explore hidden coves and quiet waters. With essential amenities including picnic tables and vault toilets, Tailwaters provides comfortable simplicity for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience. Please note that Elmore County regulations prohibit motorized boats on the Lower South Fork Boise River, preserving the peaceful atmosphere that makes this hidden gem so special.

Boise National Forest

Tucked along the pristine shores of Anderson Ranch Reservoir, Spillway Campground offers an intimate escape with just three secluded campsites perfect for those seeking a peaceful waterfront retreat. This hidden gem draws anglers eager to test their skills against feisty smallmouth bass and prized kokanee salmon, while boaters launch into the expansive blue waters for endless exploration. Adventure seekers will find thrilling whitewater rafting opportunities just south at Reclamation Village, making this compact campground an ideal basecamp for both relaxation and recreation.

Evans Creek Campground, Boise National Forest, Idaho

Tucked away along the pristine shores of Anderson Ranch Reservoir, Evans Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of Boise National Forest. This hidden gem serves as your personal gateway to the sprawling Trinity Recreation Area, where days unfold with the gentle rhythm of lapping water and rustling pines. Whether you're casting a line at dawn or launching your boat for an afternoon adventure, this tranquil retreat provides the perfect basecamp for those seeking solitude without sacrificing access to world-class water recreation.

Castle Creek Campground, Anderson Ranch Reservoir, accessed from State Highway 20

Nestled along the pristine west shore of Anderson Ranch Reservoir, Castle Creek Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape where anglers cast their lines for trophy bass and salmon while camping for free beneath towering pines. This hidden gem in Idaho's backcountry rewards adventurous souls who navigate the mixed road conditions with solitude, spectacular reservoir views, and some of the finest freshwater fishing in the region. With minimal facilities that preserve the wild character of the landscape, Castle Creek provides a back-to-basics camping experience where the splash of jumping fish and the whisper of wind through the forest become your evening entertainment.

Boise National Forest

Nestled along the banks of Fall Creek, Ice Springs Campground offers an intimate escape with just three secluded campsites overlooking the sparkling waters of Anderson Ranch Reservoir. This hidden gem beckons outdoor enthusiasts with premier fishing spots, pristine boating waters, and endless opportunities for watersports adventures. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite provides the perfect basecamp, complete with a crackling campfire ring for evening stories, a convenient grill for lakeside dining, a sturdy picnic table for gathering, and clean vault toilet facilities nearby.

9725 E Highway 21, Boise, Idaho, 83716-9393, United States

Escape to Lucky Peak State Park, where three distinct recreational areas await your discovery. From the family-friendly Discovery unit to the sun-soaked shores of Sandy Point Beach and the full-service Spring Shores Marina, this day-use paradise beckons with endless possibilities. While overnight camping isn't available, visitors can fill their days with exhilarating water sports, leisurely picnics under the Idaho sun, scenic bicycle rides along the shoreline, and refreshing swims in the crystal-clear reservoir waters.

400 ARROWROCK ROAD

Nestled along the sparkling shores of Lucky Peak Lake, Macks Creek Park invites adventurers seeking an authentic outdoor experience. This intimate, primitive campground serves as your gateway to pristine waters and mountain vistas, where tent campers and RV travelers alike can settle in for nights under star-filled skies. Days here unfold with the gentle lapping of lake waters, promising endless opportunities for boating excursions and fishing adventures, all while enjoying the simple pleasures of campground life.

PO Box 83720-0065, Boise, Idaho, 83720-0001, United States

Escape into the pristine wilderness of Boise National Forest with Idaho City Yurts, where six thoughtfully placed backcountry yurts await adventurous souls seeking an authentic mountain retreat. These circular sanctuaries blend traditional nomadic design with modern comfort, offering a unique self-guided experience that puts you in control of your wilderness adventure. Each yurt serves as your personal basecamp for exploring the untamed beauty of Idaho's backcountry, where the only sounds are wind through pines and the occasional call of wildlife.

Boise National Forest

Discover your alpine sanctuary at Big Roaring River Lake Campground, where 12 intimate campsites await beneath a canopy of towering lodgepole pines in the heart of the Trinity Recreation area. This riverside retreat serves as your gateway to adventure, with the Upper Roaring River Trail beckoning from the north and connections to both the William H. Pogue National Recreation Trail and the legendary Lava Mountain Trail just to the south. Wake to the gentle sounds of the rushing river and set out to explore miles of pristine wilderness trails right from your tent flap.

Boise National Forest

Escape to Big Trinity Cabin, where rustic mountain living meets alpine serenity at nearly 8,000 feet in the Boise Mountains. This cozy six-person retreat sits tucked among whispering lodgepole pines and four pristine subalpine lakes, offering a wood stove, seasoned firewood, and the simple pleasures of a picnic table and campfire ring beneath star-filled skies. Due to deep winter snowpack, this high-country haven welcomes visitors only during the summer season.

Lucky Peak Lake

Willow Creek Campground, Middle Fork Boise River Forest Service Road 268, Arrowrock Reservoir, Boise National Forest, Idaho

Tucked away where the Middle Fork Boise River meets the northern shores of Arrowrock Reservoir, Willow Creek Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. This intimate, nine-site campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no fees, making it a hidden gem for adventurous souls willing to navigate the challenging access road. Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, while a vault restroom serves the small community of campers. Days here unfold with the rhythm of the river—cast a line for trout, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, or simply settle in with binoculars to spot soaring osprey and majestic bald eagles. The narrow, rough road leading to this riverside sanctuary ensures that only the most determined travelers discover its rugged charms, preserving the peaceful atmosphere that makes Willow Creek so special.

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Tucked away along the pristine waters of the Middle Fork Boise River, Badger Creek Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape without the price tag. This intimate, no-fee gem in the Boise National Forest features just five peaceful campsites, each equipped with its own picnic table, campfire ring, and grill – perfect for those seeking solitude beneath towering pines. While the journey here requires navigating some adventurous rough roads, your reward is prime access to the stunning Arrowrock Reservoir and two spectacular trails: the winding Corral Creek Trail #129 and the scenic William Pogue National Recreation Trail #122. Basic amenities include a vault toilet, ensuring a comfortable yet rustic camping experience.

Troutdale Campground, Middle Fork Boise River, Boise National Forest, Idaho

Nestled in the heart of Idaho's wilderness, Trout Dale Campground offers an authentic outdoor experience where families can reconnect with nature. From peaceful picnics along the riverbank to world-class trout fishing during special seasons, this mountain retreat provides the perfect basecamp for your next adventure. Well-maintained facilities ensure comfort while you explore the surrounding forest trails and crystal-clear waters.

Boise National Forest

Tucked away in the whispering pines near Idaho City, Bald Mountain Campground offers an intimate escape with just four campsites nestled in a pristine forest sanctuary. This hidden gem promises solitude seekers and nature enthusiasts a chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with the wilderness, where the only sounds you'll hear are rustling leaves and distant bird calls.

Boise National Forest

<p><strong>Essential Information:</strong></p><p><strong>Please note: Due to recent wildfire impacts, Ninemeyer Campground currently operates without standard amenities. The absence of developed campfire rings means that during Stage 1 fire restrictions, all fires are strictly prohibited.</strong></p><p>Tucked away along the scenic Middle Fork Boise River Road (Forest Service Road 268), Ninemeyer Campground offers adventurous souls a gateway to Idaho's stunning backcountry. Here, the rhythm of the river sets the pace for days filled with exploration and nights under star-studded skies.</p><p>From mid-May through late September, the campground welcomes visitors with typically pleasant weather and accessible roads—though be prepared for some bumps and a journey that feels like an adventure in itself. The winding route rewards patient travelers with increasingly spectacular views. Before embarking on your journey, we recommend calling the Mountain Home Ranger District at (208) 587-7961 for current road conditions.</p><p><strong>Wildlife & Natural Splendor:</strong></p><p>Perched beside the flowing waters of the Middle Fork Boise River, the campground serves as a natural amphitheater for wildlife viewing. Early risers might spot deer grazing in the morning mist, while patient observers could glimpse majestic elk moving through the forest shadows. Above, eagles soar on thermal currents while osprey dive for fish, creating a living tapestry of predator and prey along the riverbank.</p><p><strong>Adventures Await:</strong></p><p>The surrounding wilderness beckons with a network of trails suitable for every type of explorer. Whether you prefer hiking boots, mountain bike wheels, horseback, or off-road vehicles, the Mountain Home Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) reveals paths leading to hidden vistas and secret spots.</p><p><a href="http://www.recreation.gov/marketing.do?goto=/safety.htm">Important Idaho OHV safety information available here</a>.<br/><br/>Anglers will discover the Middle Fork Boise River teeming with rainbow and cutthroat trout, while summer visitors can seek out perfect swimming holes carved by centuries of flowing water. When autumn arrives, the forest transforms into prime hunting territory for those pursuing big game in season.</p>

3080 Industrial Way

Perched high in the Boise Ridge Mountains, Shafer Butte beckons adventurers seeking an elevated escape. This mountain sanctuary features intimate walk-in campsites where you'll wake to panoramic views of three majestic peaks: Deer Point, Mores Mountain, and the commanding Shafer Butte summit. Whether gathering with friends at the spacious group picnic areas or settling in for the night beside your campfire ring, you'll find yourself immersed in Idaho's high-country splendor. Thoughtfully designed paved pathways wind through the campground, making this alpine retreat accessible while preserving its wild character.

P.O. BOX 129, IDAHO CITY, ID 83631, USA

Twenty miles from Idaho City, Black Rock Campground emerges as a hidden gem within the Boise National Forest, where simplicity meets serenity. This intimate, off-the-beaten-path retreat beckons those seeking authentic wilderness experiences along the pristine North Fork Boise River. Here, the gentle murmur of flowing water mingles with the whisper of wind through towering pines, creating nature's perfect soundtrack. While amenities remain refreshingly basic—think dirt roads that wind through the forest, rustic vault toilets, and fresh mountain drinking water—the real luxury lies in the untouched beauty surrounding you. Cast a line into the crystal-clear river, take a refreshing dip in natural swimming holes, or explore hiking trails that reveal the forest's secrets. True to its remote character, Black Rock operates on a pack-in, pack-out basis, ensuring this peaceful sanctuary remains unspoiled for generations of adventurers to come.

Boise National Forest

Nestled 36 miles northeast of Boise, Grayback Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its prime location along the babbling waters of Mores Creek. This beloved forest retreat invites anglers to cast their lines in pursuit of native trout, while hikers can explore the winding Grayback Loop Trail through towering ponderosa pines. Though campsites offer generous spacing beneath the dappled shade of ancient trees, visitors seeking complete solitude should note that sites remain visible to neighbors—a feature that often sparks friendly conversations around evening campfires. As one satisfied camper shared, this creates a welcoming community atmosphere where outdoor stories are traded under star-filled skies.

HIGHWAY 21

Nestled into the rolling hillsides of Boise National Forest, Grayback Campground welcomes both solo adventurers and large gatherings with its thoughtfully designed individual and group sites. Towering Ponderosa Pines create a natural canopy overhead, filtering sunlight into gentle, dappled patterns across the forest floor. Each site comes equipped with essential comforts—sturdy picnic tables for family meals, vintage-style lantern posts that cast a warm glow after sunset, and fire grills perfect for evening cookouts. Modern vault toilets ensure convenience while maintaining the campground's rustic charm.

Boise National Forest

Step back in time at Barber Flat Cabin, a beautifully preserved 1935 CCC-era Forest Service retreat nestled along the North Fork Boise River in the heart of the Boise Mountains. This charming six-person cabin combines rustic character with modern convenience—featuring a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom, and cozy wood stove—all accessible by two-wheel-drive vehicle along a scenic mountain road.

P.O. Box 129, Idaho City, Idaho, 83631, United States

Nestled where ancient ponderosa pines whisper secrets to the wind, Ten Mile Campground offers a tranquil escape divided by the scenic Highway 21. This intimate retreat beckons adventurers with its upper and lower sections, each offering unique perspectives of Idaho's wilderness. From spring's vibrant wildflower displays to winter's pristine snowscapes, visitors discover year-round magic along the babbling waters of Mores Creek, where anglers cast their lines and hikers forge memories on sun-dappled trails.

P.O. Box 129, Idaho City, ID, 83631, USA

Tucked away in the heart of Boise National Forest, Bad Bear Campground offers an intimate mountain escape just 48 miles northeast of Idaho's capital. This charming six-site retreat beckons adventurers seeking solitude among towering pines and rushing creek waters. Journey along scenic Highway 21 to discover five cozy single sites and one spacious double site, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and convenient paved parking. Modern vault toilets and the gentle sounds of nature complete this wilderness sanctuary, where the busy world feels wonderfully far away.

HIGHWAY 21, IDAHO CITY, ID 83706, USA

Nestled in Idaho's scenic mountains, Hayfork Group Campground beckons families, friends, and celebration seekers to gather beneath towering pines and starlit skies. This thoughtfully designed group camping destination seamlessly blends modern amenities with the raw beauty of the wilderness, where the gentle murmur of Mores Creek provides nature's soundtrack to your outdoor festivities. Whether you're planning an unforgettable family reunion, an intimate outdoor wedding, or simply bringing together your favorite people for a weekend escape, Hayfork transforms ordinary gatherings into extraordinary memories.

P.O. Box 129, Idaho City, ID, 83631, USA

Tucked away in the mountains 56 miles northeast of Boise, Edna Creek Campground offers an intimate escape for those seeking solitude in nature. This hidden gem features 9 cozy campsites, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and utility tables for groups of up to 6 people. While the gentle rush of Highway 21 provides a subtle soundtrack to your stay, the real star is the nearby Crooked River, whose waters beckon anglers and nature lovers alike. Modern vault toilets and a convenient water pump ensure comfort without sacrificing the authentic camping experience in this tranquil, tree-shaded retreat.

P.O. BOX 129, IDAHO CITY, ID 83631, USA

Step back in time at Deer Park Cabin, where the echoes of forest rangers from 1913 still whisper through the pines. This charming retreat, lovingly crafted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, invites up to six guests to experience the authentic simplicity of mountain living. While you'll find cozy beds and essential furnishings, the absence of electricity and running water adds to the adventure—think candlelit evenings and stories by lamplight in this perfectly preserved piece of wilderness history.

Whoop Um Up Campground, State Highway 21, Boise National Forest, Idaho

Saddle up for an authentic Western camping experience at Whoop Um Up Campground, where six thoughtfully designed equestrian campsites await horse enthusiasts and their four-legged companions. Each site comes complete with sturdy hitching posts, convenient feed boxes, warming fire rings, and grills for evening cookouts. Fresh potable water flows throughout the grounds, ensuring both riders and horses stay refreshed after a day on the trails.

Boise National Forest

Where Willow Creek meets the Crooked River, a hidden gem awaits in the heart of Idaho's Ponderosa pine forest. Willow Creek Campground offers an intimate escape with just four well-appointed campsites, each thoughtfully equipped with a picnic table, grill, and fire ring for those perfect evenings under the stars. The dappled sunlight filters through towering pines, creating a play of light and shadow across this peaceful retreat. While the nearby State Highway 21 provides easy access, occasional road sounds remind visitors they're never too far from civilization. A vault toilet serves the campground, though adventurers should note that potable water isn't available on-site, so come prepared with your own supply.

Beaver Creek Cabin P.O. BOX 129, Idaho City, ID, 83631, USA

Nestled deep in Idaho's wilderness, Beaver Creek Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain retreat. This charming hideaway transforms with the seasons – arrive by car during summer months when wildflowers dot the meadows, or embark on a magical winter journey via cross-country skis or snowshoes through pristine powder. Inside, you'll discover a cozy sanctuary complete with a warming wood stove, modern propane cooking facilities, comfortable futon and twin beds for restful nights. Gather around the outdoor fire ring under star-studded skies, sharing stories of the day's adventures.

Willow Creek Campground, Middle Fork Boise River Forest Service Road 268, Arrowrock Reservoir, Boise National Forest, Idaho

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Troutdale Campground, Middle Fork Boise River, Boise National Forest, Idaho

Boise National Forest

Boise National Forest

P.O. BOX 129, IDAHO CITY, ID 83631, USA

Boise National Forest

P.O. Box 129, Idaho City, ID, 83631, USA

Boise National Forest

Boise National Forest

P.O. Box 129, Idaho City, Idaho, 83631, United States

400 ARROWROCK ROAD

3080 Industrial Way

HIGHWAY 21, IDAHO CITY, ID 83706, USA

HIGHWAY 21

P.O. Box 129, Idaho City, ID, 83631, USA

9725 E Highway 21, Boise, Idaho, 83716-9393, United States

Boise National Forest

Whoop Um Up Campground, State Highway 21, Boise National Forest, Idaho

Boise National Forest

Sawtooth National Forest

Tucked away from the modern world, Redfish Lake Inlet Campground offers an exclusive wilderness experience that rewards the adventurous. This pristine hideaway can only be reached by paddling across crystal-clear waters or following scenic hiking trails, ensuring a peaceful escape where the only sounds are lapping waves and rustling pines.

FOREST RD 2000, GRANGEVILLE, ID 83530, USA

Nestled in the untamed wilderness of north central Idaho, Fish Creek Group Camp offers an authentic backcountry experience within the majestic Nez Perce National Forest. This primitive, horse-friendly sanctuary welcomes groups seeking adventure off the beaten path, with space for up to 75 people and 20 vehicles. Here, where towering pines whisper ancient stories and mountain trails beckon riders and hikers alike, you'll discover the raw beauty of Idaho's rugged heartland.

Boise National Forest

Tucked away in a pristine mountain meadow where solitude meets wilderness, Ice Hole Campground beckons with 10 intimate campsites that promise an authentic backcountry experience. Here, towering pines frame your mountain retreat while the melodic waters of Johnson Creek provide nature's soundtrack. This hidden gem offers the perfect escape for those seeking to trade city lights for starlit nights in one of Idaho's most peaceful settings.

Idaho Panhandle National Forests

Nestled in the heart of Idaho's pristine wilderness, Geisinger Campground beckons adventurers with three thoughtfully appointed campsites that balance comfort with untamed nature. Each site comes equipped with a crackling fire ring for evening gatherings, sturdy picnic tables for lakeside meals, and bear-proof storage boxes that keep both wildlife and provisions safe. True to its wilderness spirit, the campground embraces a Pack it In, Pack It Out philosophy, inviting visitors to leave only footprints and take only memories from this unspoiled corner of the world.

Sawtooth National Forest

Nestled along the babbling waters of East Fork Baker Creek, this secluded primitive campground offers an authentic wilderness escape for those seeking solitude and simplicity. With essential amenities including vault toilets and sturdy fire rings, adventurers can settle in for nights under star-filled skies while their horses graze peacefully nearby. This equestrian-friendly haven welcomes riders and pack animals, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the surrounding backcountry trails on horseback or foot.

South Fork Salmon River Campground, Cascade, Idaho

Nestled within a majestic old-growth ponderosa pine forest, South Fork Salmon River Campground offers 11 intimate campsites where the whisper of ancient trees mingles with the gentle murmur of the South Fork Salmon River. This serene mountain retreat invites you to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in nature's timeless rhythms. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, exploring forest trails, or simply watching wildlife pass through camp, this peaceful sanctuary promises memories that will last long after your tent is packed away.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Escape to the untouched wilderness at Reservoir Creek Campground, where simplicity meets serenity. This intimate hideaway features just two secluded campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring for authentic outdoor living. While you'll find a vault toilet for convenience, this back-to-basics destination embraces the primitive camping experience—pack your own water and remember to carry out what you bring in, as no garbage services are available here.

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Tucked away in the rugged wilderness, Hawley Creek Lower Campground offers an authentic backcountry experience with four secluded camping sites perfect for those seeking solitude. While you'll need to bring your own water, modern restrooms provide a touch of comfort in this remote setting. Cast your line into the pristine waters of Hawley Creek or the nearby reservoir, where trout dance beneath the surface. Adventure seekers will discover a hidden spur trail that connects to the legendary Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, opening up endless exploration possibilities. The designated trails welcome ATV and motorcycle enthusiasts, adding an extra dimension of excitement to your wilderness escape.

Cape Horn Winter Rental (ID) 311 North U.S. Highway 93, CHALLIS, ID, 83226, USA

Escape to a winter wonderland at Cape Horn Winter Rental, where a cozy cabin nestled in the pristine Elk Meadow becomes your basecamp for unforgettable alpine adventures. This charming retreat sleeps up to 8 guests and invites you to explore miles of untouched powder on cross-country skis, trek through snow-laden forests on snowshoes, carve fresh tracks on your snowmobile, or discover hidden backcountry slopes for downhill skiing. After a day of exploration, return to the warmth of your wood stove, where crackling firewood and modern electricity create the perfect blend of rustic comfort and convenience.

Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

Discover the intimate charm of Rackliff Campground, where six secluded campsites await along the pristine Selway River. This hidden gem offers more than just a place to pitch your tent—cross the scenic footbridge spanning Rackliff Creek, cast a line into crystal-clear waters, or embark on an adventure up the Rackliff Ridge Trail #702. With convenient picnic areas and essential facilities, this riverside retreat provides the perfect basecamp for explorers seeking authentic wilderness experiences.