How much does camping cost at Grayback?

Camping fees at Grayback are $20 - $100/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Grayback first-come first-served or reservation?

Grayback accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Grayback before I book?

Yes! Grayback has 37 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Grayback?

Grayback is open May 22 to October 01. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Grayback?

Grayback does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Grayback have?

Grayback has 20 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Grayback?

Yes, pets are allowed at Grayback. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Grayback?

Grayback offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Grayback?

Popular activities at Grayback include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Grayback

Q: Can I have a campfire at Grayback?

Fire policies at Grayback: Don't Move Firewood: Help prevent the spread of tree-killing pests in our national forests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.50

215 reviews

HIGHWAY 21

Top 19% in IDSummer

B-Report Card

Featured in:Family-Friendly Campgrounds Idaho Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Idaho Best Campgrounds Idaho

Quick Facts

4,200 ft

Price

$20 - $100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Open May 21 to Septe...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Idaho City Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,200 ft

Price

$20 - $100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Open May 21 to Septe...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Idaho City Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Grayback

$20.00 - $100.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $100.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE: $40.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction...

Group Site Fee$100.00

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Provider

208-392-6681matthew.nance@usda.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

HIGHWAY 21

Grayback

HIGHWAY 21

Nearby places

Boise: 36 miles northeast

Idaho City: 2 miles north.

Weather at Grayback

Current alerts(9)

Campfires are allowed in fire rings ONLY, unless fire restrictions are in place. Contact Idaho City Ranger District for updates regarding fire restrictions.
Due to limited parking space at the group site, large groups of RVs or trailers cannot be accommodated; tent camping is encouraged
For questions regarding reservations and refunds, please contact Recreation.gov customer service.
For questions regarding the campground, please contact the Idaho City Ranger District at (208) 392-6681

Best Time to Camp at Grayback

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most comfortable and reliable conditions at Grayback — expect crisp mountain mornings in the 30s–40s °F and warm afternoons in the upper 60s (often 60–75 °F), ideal for long hikes, lake and stream fishing, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Wildflowers and active songbirds peak from late June through August, and trail access and campground services are fully available. Weekends can be busy, especially July–August, so reserve early; watch for summer fire restrictions on very Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 19% in ID

Summer is best season; crisp mornings and warm afternoons; busiest and most reliable conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22 to October 01. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 21 to September 29 during peak season.

About Grayback

Grayback sits in mid-elevation Boise National Forest near Idaho City, operated by the Idaho City Ranger District. This small seasonal campground offers tent, RV, and group sites with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Visitors hike forest trails, fish nearby streams, and watch for wildlife during summer months when crisp mornings give way to warm afternoons.

Grayback Campground caters to a variety of campers, including those seeking individual, group, and RV camping experiences. It offers single-family, double-family, and group sites, accommodating both tents and RVs. However, there are no hookups or glamping options available.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most comfortable and reliable conditions at Grayback — expect crisp mountain mornings in the 30s–40s °F and warm afternoons in the upper 60s (often 60–75 °F), ideal for long hikes, lake and stream fishing, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Wildflowers and active songbirds peak from late June through August, and trail access and campground services are fully available. Weekends can be busy, especially July–August, so reserve early; watch for summer fire restrictions on very Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation4200 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryPonderosa pines dominate the landscape, filtering sunlight onto a forest floor that bursts with seasonal wildflowers from late June through August. The elevation and moisture balance support butterflies, hummingbirds, squirrels, deer, and occasional elk. Birds of prey circle overhead. Mores Creek runs nearby. The hillside terrain creates gentle slopes and small valleys, though tree coverage between sites is limited enough that privacy suffers.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is provided; camping is limited to sites for tents and RVs.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered at this campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Group sites can accommodate up to 150 people for Site A and 100 people for Site B.

Groups

Group Site A can accommodate up to 150 people and 20 vehicles, while Group Site B can host up to 100 people and 15 vehicles. Both sites feature picnic tables, grills, and campfire circles.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov using their website or mobile app.

AccessibilityThe group sites share an accessible bathroom facility and an accessible hand pump for drinking water.

Site SizeCampsites include both single-family and double-family options, as well as two large group sites accommodating up to 150 and 100 people respectively.

PrivacyCampsites are described as being well-spaced but lacking significant privacy due to the limited tree coverage between sites.

Total Campsites20 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 009 is the sunniest and may lack shade; bring an umbrella or popup canopy. Site 006 is far enough from the highway to avoid road noise.

Best CampsitesSites 005, 014, and 016 earn consistent praise in reviews. Group Site A stands out for spaciousness and amenities, accommodating up to 150 people.

Need help booking Grayback?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Grayback Campground offers a variety of amenities designed to accommodate both individual and group campers. The campground features 15 single-family sites and 3 double-family sites, all equipped with picnic tables, lantern hooks, and campfire rings with grills. Additionally, there are two group sites, Site A and Site B, with capacities of 150 people and 20 vehicles, and 100 people and 15 vehicles, respectively. Both group sites offer picnic and serving tables, grills, and campfire circles. Drinking water is available through hand pumps, while trash collection and vault toilets are conveniently located throughout the site. The campground has paved parking spots, providing easy accessibility.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Grayback

Grayback Campground offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and ATV trails. Winter activities such as backcountry skiing and snowmobiling are also popular in the area. The nearby Mores Creek provides opportunities for fishing, while the Grayback Loop Trail offers a 1-mile hiking experience starting within the campground.

Hiking4.0/5

Grayback Loop Trail starts in campground; numerous surrounding trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding.

Fishing4.0/5

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Ponderosa forest supports butterflies, hummingbirds, squirrels, deer and occasional elk; birds of prey noted.

Winter Activities3.0/5

Area popular for backcountry skiing and snowmobiling, though campground is seasonal and closed in winter.

Water Sports1.0/5

Mores Creek is present but no kayaking or paddling opportunities are noted or promoted.

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Wildflowers, ponderosa light, creek, wildlife and stargazing give varied photo subjects and good optics.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; the campground is equipped with vault toilets.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Help prevent the spread of tree-killing pests in our national forests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is available, and dumpsters are located for easy access by campers.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception is not guaranteed at Grayback Campground. Some reviewers have noted a lack of service, while others reported T-Mobile coverage specifically.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Grayback

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From Booking Sources

4.5

215 reviews

Top-Rated

Grayback is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight Grayback Campground's proximity to Boise and Idaho City, well-maintained facilities, and variety of activities. Common themes include the lack of privacy due to minimal tree coverage, occasional noise from the highway, and clean but basic amenities.

Review Summaries

Based on 215 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback includes clean and spacious campsites, good maintenance of vault toilets, and ample opportunities for hiking and fishing. Many reviewers appreciate the proximity to Idaho City and...

Based on 215 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include limited privacy between campsites, noise from nearby houses and the highway, and occasional issues with the water quality from the hand pumps.

Based on 215 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 2, 4, 7, 8, 11, and 15 are first-come-first-serve and not listed on Recreation.gov. Site 001 is noted for accommodating a 35-foot motorhome, and Group Site A is praised for its large flat area...

Based on 215 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing extra water due to inconsistent potability of the campground's water supply, as well as bug spray for gnats and mosquitoes. They also advise arriving early to secure...

Based on 215 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest in summer, with some reviewers noting that weekends tend to be particularly crowded. The area is also popular for winter recreation, such as skiing and snowmobiling.

Based on 215 reviews

Camper Quotes

"We loved this campsite so much that me and my fiancé are getting married here." - Baily Dekker. "Great little loop of individual non-electric paved campsites. Far enough from the highway, up a small...

Based on 215 reviews

Accessibility Features

The group sites share an accessible restroom facility, and an accessible hand pump for drinking water is available.

Based on 215 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Campers frequently bring dogs, and the campground is described as dog-friendly.

Based on 215 reviews

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Grayback

$20.00 - $100.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $100.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE: $40.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction...

Group Site Fee$100.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

208-392-6681matthew.nance@usda.gov

Go if

You want a maintained seasonal base camp for hiking and fishing in Boise National Forest.

Skip if

You need site privacy or want to avoid occasional highway noise from Highway 21.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.5

(100)

Grayback Campground And Group Sites - Reserve

Boise National Forest

Grayback Campground sits in mid-elevation ponderosa forest along Mores Creek in Boise National Forest, 30 miles northeast of Idaho City. Operated by the US Forest Service, this mid-sized campground offers tent, RV, primitive, and group sites with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Visitors hike nearby trails, fish the creek, and watch wildlife in a setting valued for clean facilities and proximity to Boise.

Grayback

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Weather at Grayback

Current alerts(9)

Best Time to Camp at Grayback

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About Grayback

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Amenities available

RV details

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What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

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Current alerts(9)

Best Time to Camp at Grayback

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Grayback?

Amenities available

Things to do at Grayback

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews