Swinging Bridge

Star3.75
51 reviews
BOISE

Quick Facts

4,000 ft

Price

$18/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025; P...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Swinging Bridge
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates by season vary. Peak season rates are $18 for non-electric RV sites from May 23 to September 01, 2025.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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

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Provider
541-351-1182
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What Campers Say

3.75

Mixed Reviews

Based on 51 reviews

33 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanfriendly

Some mention

noiseroad noise

"User reviews provide a mixed but detailed perspective of Swinging Bridge Campground. Key highlights include its scenic beauty, proximity to the Payette River, and well-maintained vault toilets. However, its location next to a busy highway results in significant road noise, which is a frequent complaint."

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Campground Map

BOISE

Swinging Bridge

BOISE

Driving directionsFrom Horseshoe Bend, ID, take State Rt. 55 north for 21.5 miles to the campground sign. Turn left after the sign into the campground(on west side of highway).
The campground is just off Highway 55, providing paved access. However, some noise from passing traffic is expected due to proximity to the highway.

Best Time to Camp at Swinging Bridge

Summer transforms this mountain sanctuary into an outdoor paradise, with golden days reaching a comfortable 80-90°F perfect for river adventures and trail exploration. As evening approaches, the elevation works its magic, bringing refreshingly cool nights ideal for campfire gatherings and stargazing. The region's characteristically dry climate means rain rarely interrupts your plans, while winter snow remains a distant memory, creating an extended season of camping perfection from late spring through early fall.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer called an 'outdoor paradise' with warm days, ideal for river activities (peak season).

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Less info available; likely pleasant but fewer visitors and less activity data.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Open starting May 23; late spring season is short and offers variable conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside May–Sept; winter access/use not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23 to September 01, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 23, 2025; Peak reservations available starting June 25, 2025; Closes September 01, 2025.

About Swinging Bridge

Nestled in a breathtaking canyon just 10 miles north of Banks, Idaho, Swinging Bridge Campground offers an intimate escape into nature at 4,000 feet elevation. This pristine, well-maintained hideaway serves as the perfect basecamp for adventure seekers drawn to the rushing waters below. Whether you're navigating the rapids on a whitewater rafting expedition, casting your line into the crystal-clear waters, or gliding through the current in your kayak, this scenic riverside retreat delivers unforgettable outdoor experiences. While the nearby Highway 55 provides convenient access, its presence can be heard echoing through the canyon walls.
Swinging Bridge Campground is primarily designed for single-family camping. It offers sites for both tent and RV camping, but its proximity to the highway and limited site sizes may not suit all RV setups.
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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
14 days.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Swinging Bridge Campground is situated near the North Fork Payette River, making it a hotspot for water-based activities. "The North Fork of the Payette River is a very popular location for expert kayaking." Anglers can enjoy fishing for whitefish and rainbow trout, described as good to excellent. While there are no hiking trails immediately within the campground, "small hiking trails up the mountain can be found all over the site," according to one review.
HikingWhile official sources do not highlight hiking trails, reviews note, "small hiking trails up the mountain can be found all over the site." These trails seem limited in scope and accessibility.
FishingFishing opportunities are rated as good to excellent, with targets including whitefish and rainbow trout. Visitors frequently mention that the North Fork Payette River provides great fishing.
BoatingBoating is possible on the Payette River, but no specific details about facilities or boat types are provided.
Wildlife viewingThe campground's location in a forested canyon offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, although specific species are not mentioned.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNoise from adjacent Highway 55 is a common concern. Additionally, some reviews mention sediment in the water and steep/sloped campsites.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Swinging Bridge

Reviews

3.8
51 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Swinging Bridge has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews provide a mixed but detailed perspective of Swinging Bridge Campground. Key highlights include its scenic beauty, proximity to the Payette River, and well-maintained vault toilets. However, its location next to a busy highway results in significant road noise, which is a frequent complaint.
Review Summaries
Based on 51 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the campground's cleanliness, friendly hosts, and scenic setting. "Stunning flowers and landscape" and "cleanest outhouse so far on this trip" were notable mentions.
Based on 51 reviews

Common Concerns

Major complaints include loud highway noise, lack of garbage facilities, and challenges with site sizes for trailers. Some reviewers also encountered issues with water quality and availability.
Based on 51 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early to secure a more desirable site, especially during peak times. Bring potable water and consider earplugs for the road noise. Site 1 is noted for its privacy.
Based on 51 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight warm days with cool nights. Road noise is more bothersome during peak tourist seasons.
Based on 51 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The only bad thing is that it is right off the busy touristy highway and VERY noisy with traffic." - Hope McCain. "The outhouse was very clean and smelled relatively decent." - Paul Loeffler....
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Based on 51 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 1 is noted for its privacy. Site 8 received criticism for being unsuitable for trailers.
Based on 51 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific feedback from users with disabilities was noted.
Based on 51 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and one user mentioned walking their dog at the campground.
Based on 51 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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