How much does camping cost at Pine Flats?

Camping fees at Pine Flats are $20 - $40/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Pine Flats first-come first-served or reservation?

Pine Flats 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 Pine Flats before I book?

Yes! Pine Flats has 5 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 Pine Flats?

Pine Flats is open May 19 to September 30. 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 Pine Flats?

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

Can I have a campfire at Pine Flats?

Fire policies at Pine Flats: 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.

How many campsites does Pine Flats have?

Pine Flats has 32 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Pine Flats?

Yes, pets are allowed at Pine Flats. 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 Pine Flats?

Pine Flats 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 Pine Flats?

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

Pine Flats (Id)

4.31

210 reviews

7359 Hwy 21, LOWMAN, ID 83637, USA

Top 6% in IDFall

CReport Card

Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Idaho

Quick Facts

3,700 ft

Price

$20 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

32 campsites

Season

Open from May 21 to ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Boise National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

3,700 ft

Price

$20 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

32 campsites

Season

Open from May 21 to ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Boise National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Pine Flats (Id)

$20.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC-15083: $40.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

Standard Site Fee$15.00

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Provider

208-259-3361

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Campground Map

7359 Hwy 21, LOWMAN, ID 83637, USA

Pine Flats (Id)

7359 Hwy 21, LOWMAN, ID 83637, USA

Nearby places

Lowman (approx. 5 miles), Banks (approx. 28 miles)

Weather at Pine Flats (Id)

Current alerts(4)

Additional single-family sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis
Click here for more information on the Boise National Forest
Idaho OHV Safety Message
Please contact the Lowman Ranger District at 208-259-3361 for off-season camping information

Best Time to Camp at Pine Flats (Id)

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of cooler, stable weather and lower crowds — daytime highs in September are typically in the mid-50s to mid-70s°F with crisp nights often dipping into the upper 20s to 40s°F. River levels have dropped from spring snowmelt, which improves fishing and makes hikes along the canyon safer and more pleasant; elk are often visible during the rut, creating excellent wildlife viewing. Campground use declines after Labor Day so you’ll have easier access to riverside sites, Peak months: September, June, July, August Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 6% in ID

Fall is highlighted as best season: cooler, lower crowds, elk activity and stable weather.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 19 to September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 21 to September 30 annually; reservable only between June 25 and September 7.

About Pine Flats (Id)

Pine Flats sits in the Boise National Forest foothills near Lowman, offering tent and RV camping along a river canyon with access to nearby hot springs. Managed by the Boise National Forest, the campground draws visitors for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, particularly during fall when elk are active and river levels drop. Spacious sites and friendly camp hosts create a welcoming base for exploring the surrounding forest.

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.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of cooler, stable weather and lower crowds — daytime highs in September are typically in the mid-50s to mid-70s°F with crisp nights often dipping into the upper 20s to 40s°F. River levels have dropped from spring snowmelt, which improves fishing and makes hikes along the canyon safer and more pleasant; elk are often visible during the rut, creating excellent wildlife viewing. Campground use declines after Labor Day so you’ll have easier access to riverside sites, Peak months: September, June, July, August Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation3700 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe Middle Fork Payette River cuts through a dramatic canyon where Ponderosa pines grip granite outcrops and volcanic rock. Thermal springs bubble up from fractures in the earth, accessible via a short but rocky hike from camp. Deer browse at forest edges and elk traverse game trails that cross the surrounding slopes. Site shade varies. Some campsites have little tree cover, so a shade structure is worth bringing in warmer months.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available at Pine Flats Campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

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 camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

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.

Site SizeSites vary in size, accommodating both single and double-family groups. Some sites are spacious enough for larger RVs.

PrivacyPrivacy between sites is limited, as noted by several reviewers. Some campsites lack adequate tree cover or separation.

Total Campsites32 campsites

Recommended SitesVisitors seeking shade should bring a canopy. Hiking poles are recommended for accessing the hot springs due to rocky terrain.

Best CampsitesSites 15-20 provide the most shade. Site 14 sits close to the bathrooms. Riverside sites offer better views and quicker access to the water, though they fill first.

Need help booking Pine Flats (Id)?

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

Pine Flats Campground offers several amenities to enhance the camping experience. Facilities include vault toilets, drinking water accessed via hand pumps, trash collection, paved roads, and parking spurs. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a campfire ring with a grill. "Bathrooms were pretty clean," and the "vault restroom was the cleanest I've ever used," according to user reviews. Firewood is provided on-site, and some campsites have paved pads. However, there are no electricity, water, or sewer hookups. Cell phone reception and Wi-Fi are not available at this campground, as noted by multiple user reviews. The campground is pet-friendly, though restrictions apply near the hot springs.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Pine Flats (Id)

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.

Fishing4.0/5

Swimming4.0/5Top 15% in Idaho

Hot springs are a highlight; river swim limited by strong currents.

Boating4.0/5

South Fork Payette suitable for rafting/kayaking; local outfitters available.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Deer and elk commonly seen; elk activity highlighted in fall.

Water Sports4.0/5

River described as suitable for kayaking and supported by outfitters.

Hiking3.0/5

Short 1/4-mile nature trail to hot springs; steep/rocky but not extensive trail network.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The campground provides vault toilets, which received mixed reviews regarding cleanliness.

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).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

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 Pine Flats (Id)

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From Booking Sources

4.3

210 reviews

Satisfactory

Pine Flats (Id) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% 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 210 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 210 reviews.

Site 1Loved
Site 1 offers partial shade but is near the entrance.
Site 17Mentioned
Site 17 requires leveling adjustments due to its slope.

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 210 reviews

Common 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 210 reviews

Pro 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 210 reviews

Seasonal 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 210 reviews

Camper 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 210 reviews

Accessibility 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 210 reviews

Pet-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 210 reviews

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Pine Flats (Id)

$20.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC-15083: $40.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

Standard Site Fee$15.00

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

208-259-3361

Go if

You want forest camping with hot springs nearby and don't mind seasonal generator noise.

Skip if

You need abundant shade or guaranteed quiet hours away from generators.

Nearby Campgrounds

Deadwood Campground sits at the confluence of the Deadwood River and South Fork of the Payette River in Boise National Forest, 6 sites total. Two are double sites. Fees run $15-35/night. The campground fills quickly on summer weekends, so book early.

Pine Flats (Id)

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Weather at Pine Flats (Id)

Current alerts(4)

Best Time to Camp at Pine Flats (Id)

Planning Tips

About Pine Flats (Id)

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Amenities available

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Common Concerns

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Planning Tips

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Need help booking Pine Flats (Id)?

Amenities available

Things to do at Pine Flats (Id)

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns