Tailwaters Campground

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Peace & QuietSummer Destination
Featured in:Fishing Idaho

Quick Facts

3,914 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

3 campsites

Season

End of May - End of ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Mountain Home Ranger District site

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Tailwaters Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are required for this site.
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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Campground Map

Tailwaters Campground

43.3531, -115.4662

Driving directionsFrom Mountain Home, Idaho, travel 21 miles along State Highway 20 northeast to the FS 134 road turnoff approximately 21 miles toward Anderson Dam. Continue along FS 134 road for approximately 6 miles. When arriving at the dam, turn south on FS 121 road and go south for about a mile to Tailwaters Campground.
The campground is accessed via a mix of State Highway 20 and Forest Service roads, including FS 134 and FS 121. The final stretch is unpaved, and weather conditions may affect accessibility.
Nearby places
Mountain Home (21 miles)

Best Time to Camp at Tailwaters Campground

Experience the best of Idaho's mountain summers at Tailwaters, where the campground welcomes visitors from late May through late September. During these golden months, you'll enjoy pleasantly warm days perfect for fishing and exploring, with temperatures typically reaching a comfortable 70-75°F. As evening falls, the mercury dips to a refreshing 50-55°F, ideal for gathering around the campfire under star-filled skies. The dry summer climate means you can count on plenty of sunshine for your outdoor adventures. When autumn arrives, the campground closes as winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall making the area inaccessible until spring's return.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open late May–late Sept; summer described as pleasantly warm and the main visiting season.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Open through late September — early fall likely pleasant but limited by seasonal closure timing.

Spring(Mar-May)
2.0 / 5

Only late spring (late May) open; most spring season closed to visitors.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside late May–late September; winter not available.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: End of May - End of September

About Tailwaters Campground

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.
Tailwaters Campground features 3 primitive-style campsites on the west shore of Anderson Ranch Reservoir. The facilities are minimal, with no potable water or advanced amenities.
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Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a variety of outdoor activities suitable for nature enthusiasts. 'There are plenty of opportunities to fish for trout and bass,' and the location is adjacent to Anderson Ranch Reservoir, which supports activities such as non-motorized boating and picnicking. Hiking trails are available for day hikes, and the area is noted for scenic views.
HikingDay hiking opportunities are available, although no specific trails, distances, or difficulty levels are mentioned.
FishingFishing for trout and bass is a key recreational activity. The campground's location near the river and reservoir is ideal for anglers.
BoatingBoating is supported at the Tailwaters Campground, with a boat ramp providing access for rafts and non-motorized boats. However, 'There is an Elmore county ordinance restricting any motorized equipment on the Lower South Fork Boise River.'
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Tailwaters Campground

Reviews

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Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Tailwaters Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews are explicitly provided, so no aggregated summary can be given.
Review Summaries

What Campers Love

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Common Concerns

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Pro Tips & Recommendations

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Seasonal Insights

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Site-Specific Reviews

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Accessibility Features

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Pet-Friendly Features

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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