Big Flat
4.006 reviews: null
Quick Facts
Price
$10 - $15/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
12 campsites
Season
May 15 to October 1,...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
$10 - $15/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
12 campsites
Season
May 15 to October 1,...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Big Flat
$10.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fees range from $10.00 to $15.00 for standard non-electric sites during the season from May 15 to October 1, 2025. Fees do not include...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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What Campers Say
4.00
Satisfactory
Based on 6 reviews
15 Google reviews
Most mentioned
peacefullocationsites
Some mention
small
"The Big Flat Campground receives mixed reviews. Some users appreciate its serene and secluded environment with proper spacing between sites and clean facilities, while others experienced overcrowding during peak times or closures without sufficient notice."
Fees & Passes at Big Flat
$10 - $15/night
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: null
Cancellation: This campground uses the Scan and Pay system, which does not allow for refunds, modifications, or ca...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official null website.
Best Time to Camp at Big Flat
From mid-May through October, Big Flat transforms with the seasons, offering campers a diverse range of experiences. Late summer emerges as the crown jewel of camping weather, with crystalline blue skies stretching endlessly above and temperatures that dance between a comfortable 57°F at dawn and a pleasant 82.5°F during afternoon explorations. These golden months bring minimal rainfall, creating perfect conditions for stargazing, riverside relaxation, and forest adventures. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and rushing snowmelt, while early fall paints the landscape in warm amber and gold.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 15 to October 1, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: May 15 to October 1, 2025.
- Current Alerts: The campground has previously been closed due to fire activity, as reported by a user on August 27, 2022. No highway closure signs were present during that incident.
About Big Flat
Tucked away in the heart of Payette National Forest, Big Flat Campground offers an intimate escape with just 12 secluded campsites nestled alongside the gentle waters of the Little Weiser River. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis, welcoming adventurers seeking a peaceful retreat where the sound of flowing water mingles with the whisper of wind through towering pines. Despite its modest size, the campground provides all the essential amenities needed for a comfortable stay in this pristine wilderness setting.
Big Flat Campground offers standard non-electric campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are suitable for tents and other setups but lack advanced facilities.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May through October, Big Flat transforms with the seasons, offering campers a diverse range of experiences. Late summer emerges as the crown jewel of camping weather, with crystalline blue skies stretching endlessly above and temperatures that dance between a comfortable 57°F at dawn and a pleasant 82.5°F during afternoon explorations. These golden months bring minimal rainfall, creating perfect conditions for stargazing, riverside relaxation, and forest adventures. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and rushing snowmelt, while early fall paints the landscape in warm amber and gold.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryThe Little Weiser River serves as the campground's liquid heartbeat, its clear waters carving a melodious path through the dense forest canopy. Ancient conifers stand sentinel over the campsites, their branches creating a natural cathedral that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. This secluded sanctuary offers anglers prime fishing spots where native trout lurk in shadowy pools, while the surrounding wilderness beckons hikers and nature enthusiasts to explore its hidden treasures. The intimate setting creates a perfect balance between accessibility and the feeling of being wonderfully lost in nature's embrace.
Geological RegionBig Flat Campground rests within the remarkable tapestry of Payette National Forest, where the Little Weiser River has carved its course through centuries of geological history. This riparian corridor creates a lush oasis where water meets forest, fostering a thriving ecosystem that showcases the best of Idaho's mountainous wilderness. The interplay between river and forest creates diverse microclimates and habitats, making this small campground a window into the greater ecological wonders of the region.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers handicapped-accessible vault toilets. No other specific accessibility features are detailed.
Sites SizeThe sites vary in size, as one user mentioned most sites are small, but another appreciated that "sites are decent-sized and room in between them."
Sites PrivacyThe privacy of the sites is appreciated by some users. One noted, "Room in between them so you don't feel packed in like sardines."
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome sites are near the river and provide easy access to fishing, but specific site numbers have not been mentioned.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
No group camping information is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 12 individual campsites with picnic tables and fire pits. Sites are spaced to offer privacy, but some may feel small depending on the size of the group or camper.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 15 to October 1, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsPayment may be made on-site using the Recreation.gov Scan and Pay mobile app, which requires advance downloading due to limited cellular service in the area.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not accepted in advance, and visitors must physically arrive at the campground to pay and claim a site.
Cancellation PolicyThis campground uses the Scan and Pay system, which does not allow for refunds, modifications, or cancellations after payment. The policy is akin to inserting cash into a fee tube without refund capability.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Big Flat Campground focus primarily on enjoying the surrounding nature. Fishing for warmwater species like bass in the Little Weiser River is a popular pastime. No other specific recreational activities are highlighted.
Fishing
Fishing in the Little Weiser River is a key activity, with warmwater species like bass being available. The official source notes, "You may pass the day fishing for warmwater fish, like bass, in the river."Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted, with fire pits available at each site.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsThe gravel road to the campground is narrow in spots and may be challenging for large campers or inexperienced drivers. Limited cellular service may pose communication challenges.
Active alertsThe campground has previously been closed due to fire activity, as reported by a user on August 27, 2022. No highway closure signs were present during that incident.
Weather at Big Flat
36
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to October 1, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThe campground follows a Pack-It-In/Pack-It-Out policy, and there are no trash or recycling facilities mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the Little Weiser River, offering opportunities for fishing and river access.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include overcrowding during peak times, small campsite sizes, and challenges maneuvering the gravel road. One user reported that fire fighters occupied the campground without prior signage or notice from the highway.
Hostnull
Campground Map
: null
Driving directionsTwenty six miles south of the town of Council. From Hwy 95 turn east on Road #206 and travel approximately 16 miles to the campground entrance. Long and windy gravel road. Narrow in spots.
The campground is accessed via Hwy 95 and Road #206, which is a long (16 miles), windy gravel road that is narrow in some spots. This road may pose challenges for larger vehicles, such as those towing campers.Nearby places
Council is the nearest town, located 26 miles (approximately 40 minutes) north of the campground.
Nearby supplies
null
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.0
6 reviews
Big Flat is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Big Flat Campground receives mixed reviews. Some users appreciate its serene and secluded environment with proper spacing between sites and clean facilities, while others experienced overcrowding during peak times or closures without sufficient notice.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Users have praised the campground for its scenic and peaceful location. "Nice campground off the beaten path," one user commented. Another highlighted that sites include "picnic tables and fire pits,...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include overcrowding during peak periods and lack of prior notice about closures. A user noted, "This time it was over full... not sure if we will keep this as our main camping...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend visiting during less busy times to avoid overcrowding. It is also advised to prepare for limited facilities and bring essentials due to the Pack-It-In/Pack-It-Out policy.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that peak times can lead to overcrowding. Some users have noted off-peak visits as more serene experiences, with one stating, "There was not one camper there, which was surprising,...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Nice campground. There was not one camper there, which was surprising, since it is usually packed." - Linda DeWitt
"Most sites are small but clean bathrooms." - Troy Haworth
"We have been going for...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Clean bathrooms and sites with good spacing are highlighted. However, specific site numbers and their reviews are not mentioned.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No detailed reviews cover accessibility beyond noting the availability of handicapped-accessible vault toilets.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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