The best camping near Payette National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Payette National Forest adventure.

78% (9 reviews)

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Payette National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Payette National Forest

Big Flat Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Cabin Creek Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Huckleberry Campground

8 sites In Payette National Forest

Big Creek Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Buckhorn Bar Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Four Mile Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

100%

(4)

Ponderosa Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Poverty Flat Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Burgdorf Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Chinook Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Jeanette Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Kennally Creek Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Lake Fork Campground

9 sites In Payette National Forest

Shiefer Campground

1 site In Payette National Forest

Justrite Campground

4 sites In Payette National Forest

Paradise Campground

3 sites In Payette National Forest

Deadman Bar Campground

1 site In Payette National Forest

East Fork Cxts-Dispersed Site Camping Area

1 site · RV, Tent In Payette National Forest

Granite Lake Camping Area

7 sites In Payette National Forest

Lake Creek Camping Area

1 site · RV, Tent In Payette National Forest

Rapid Creek Camping Area

2 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Ruby Meadows Trailhead

1 site · RV, Tent In Payette National Forest

Upper Payette Lake Dispersed Camping Area

1 site In Payette National Forest

Evergreen Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Goose Lake Camping Area

1 site · RV, Tent In Payette National Forest

Hard Creek/Upper Hazard Lake Trailhead

1 site · RV, Tent In Payette National Forest

Lost Valley Reservoir Camping Area

1 site · RV, Tent In Payette National Forest

Smokey Boulder Camping Area

1 site · RV, Tent In Payette National Forest

Big Bar Camping Area

1 site · RV, Tent In Payette National Forest

Hitt Mountain Dispersed Campground and Trailhead

1 site In Payette National Forest

100%

(2)

Upper Payette Lake Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Hazard Lake Campground

35 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Mann Creek Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Spring Creek Campground

14 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Paddy Flat Guard Station

1 site In Payette National Forest

Buck Park Cabin

1 site In Payette National Forest

Kiwanis Campground

1 site In Payette National Forest

Lafferty Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Sheep Rock Interpretive Site (minor)

2 sites In Payette National Forest

Indian Point Camping Area

3 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Brundage Reservoir Camping Area

1 site · RV, Tent In Payette National Forest

Cold Springs Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Grouse Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Lake Fork Guard Station

1 site In Payette National Forest

100%

(1)

Brownlee Campground

11 sites In Payette National Forest

Paddy Flat Camping Area

2 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Camp Creek Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Payette National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Payette National Forest

91%

(23)

Tamarack Falls Campground

5 sites · RVs2 acres · Donnelly, ID

Right by the shores of Cascade Lake. Just down the road from Tamarack Resort. Walking distance to the Fishing Bridge and Mountain Meadows Adventure Rentals. You can fish from the bridge, rent a jet-ski and go on the lake, or take an off-road vehicle and ride in the mountains - right from your campsite. There is even a small pond on the property. Some history and geography: Where are the Falls? I wondered that myself when first bought the property. I have asked around and done some research - and come up with two answers, although I can't verify either one. First Answer: The old Tamarack Falls have been covered up by the reservoir. That is, there used to be a waterfall in this vicinity, but now it is covered up by Lake Cascade. Maybe, but I can't find any old photographs showing that, and the reservoir has never gotten low enough to see any falls. In fact, at low level, the upper reaches just look like a meadow with the original channel of the Payette River meandering through. But maybe at the narrows by the Fishing Bridge it is possible there are some submerged falls there. Second Answer: The Falls are still there, but they also are not the classic water falls you might imagine. Instead they are the numerous streams that gush down West Mountain every spring and really never completely dry up, even in a dry autumn. They are quite pretty, but not exactly a roaring mountain waterfall. These streams can be seen everywhere, especially in the spring, and they to tumble down a steep slope. They come right out of the rocky faces of the tamarack forest, so it makes sense to call them Tamarack Falls. They are all over the place. At least two of these streams ( and more in the spring) feed the pond on this property. Hence Tamarack Falls Pond. The pond is "artificial" in the sense that it was created when fill dirt used to build West Mountain Road blocked the stream and created a small pond. The pond stays at a constant level because its outflow is a culvert that runs under West Mountain Road and from there into Lake Cascade. Two main streams feed the pond - one on the northside and one on the southside. The shape of the two little submerged valleys give the pond a lopsided crescent shape with a small peninsula curving out into the middle of the pond's west side.

99%

(87)

Northern Star Pallette Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Wallowa Lake, OR

Built in the 1940's by the late actor Eugene Pallette as a hideaway from Hollywood and a Refuge from looming world disaster after World War 2. There once was a cannery, a power plant a sawmill and a 5,000 sq' concrete warehouse built to withstand anything and house years of provisions. Many buildings are still standing and utilized. The past guest list included Cark Gable (Gone with The Wind) Amelia Earhart and her navigator Fred Noonan and Errol Flynn and many more. Located on the shores of the Imnaha river we have 2 miles of accessible, private spots. There is a lot of wildlife here and there is no better place to "unwind" and regroup. Pitch your tent in total privacy along the shores of the River and then kick back and take in all the sights and sounds of Nature. Surrounded by canyons on all sides tucked away in a private Valley is 300+ acres of room to roam along the river. We have firewood and frozen bottles of water for coolers available for an extra charge And have added 3 outhouses. Potable water, picnic tables, and outhouses on site. Pets are welcome. Camp fires are permitted outside of a fire ban. Our guests love staying here: "Camping at the ranch was pure enjoyment. We did not see or hear anything but the rushing river and the surrounding woods. The stars at night we’re amazing and there was plenty to explore on the property and nearby."

46%

(12)

Creekside RV Park & Campground

31 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · New Meadows, ID

Creekside RV Park and Campground is located approximately 3 miles East of New Meadows and 8 miles West of McCall. The park has 27 full hookups and 10 electric/water hookups with ample open area for you to roam. The campground is a perfect home base for your summertime adventures. Just minutes from MeadowCreek Golf Resort, Brundage Mountain Resort and Downtown McCall.

100%

(1)

Latitude Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · New Meadows, ID

Exclusive camping location, with only four camping vehicles at one time, without size limitations. Unobstructed views of the Brundage Ski Resort, and it backs up to the Little Salmon River. Power options include 110 Volt, 30 amp and 50 Amp 240 volt. Water and septic provided. Plenty of parking for extra toys and vehicles. Only 15 minutes to Brundage Ski Resort, and 30 minutes to McCall. Five minutes from the New Meadows public golf course and pool. Less than ten minutes from New Meadows restaurants (Miss Kitty's Pizza and Such, Intersection BBQ, Granite Mountain Cafe). It is available for year-round camping. This is a very quiet, scenic and private location. If you're looking for a lot of noise and amenities, this might not be the place for you. We offer daily, weekly, monthly and annual rates.

100%

(8)

Peak-A-View RV Parking

1 site · RV2 acres · Mc Call, ID

Escape to the picturesque heart of Idaho! Our welcoming driveway oasis, just between the enchanting mountain towns of McCall / Donnelly. This blend offers the perfect blend of nature's tranquility and modern conveniences for your RV adventure. 🌲⛰️ 🔌 At our Serene McCall / Donnelly Haven, you are greeted on-site amenities to ensure your stay is as comfortable as if you never left home. Tap into our reliable electric hookups (50 amp) to power your portable paradise, enjoy the ease of our fresh water access for all cleaning needs! 💧 🚐 As our valued guest, you'll revel in the charm of McCall, a true gem renowned for its stunning natural beauty and four-season allure. By day, immerse yourself in an array of outdoor activities, including exploring nearby Payette Lake, hiking the rugged trails, or skiing the powdered slopes of Brundage Mountain, Gold Fork Hot Springs, Cascade Lake, Tamarack Ski/Mtn Resort. By night, return to your serene spot beneath a canopy of stars, and Swaying Pines enveloped in the peaceful ambiance of Idaho's great outdoors. - Spacious and level parking area perfect for any size RV or van (50’) - 24/7 access to water and electricity (50 amp) 30 amp adapter available - Pet-friendly space, because furry co-pilots deserve adventure too! 🐾 -Property does have an outdoor camera, this is only used to make sure renters are abiding by the rules. If it is determined that renters are in violation of any of the rules, # of campers paid for, extra charges will be applied. - Fire pit usage to toast s'mores and swap stories under the stars. Central ID is not just a destination; it's an experience. From the glistening waters of Payette and Cascade Lakes to the majestic trails of Ponderosa State Park, to the relaxing water of Gold Fork Hot Springs the area promises diverse scenery and activities to enrich your nomadic journey. Whether you're here to relax, explore, or both, our haven is perfectly positioned to give you easy access to the best of McCall. Don't just pass through - stay, rejuvenate, and create memories that last a lifetime at Serene Haven. Book now and secure your slice of Idaho's natural wonder! 🌟🚐💫

100%

(4)

Twisted Pine Ranch, LLC

1 site · RV, Tent18 acres · Council, ID

Twisted Pine Ranch has a beautiful view of the mountains surrounding Council. Easy access to Hwy 95 to enjoy many outdoor activities (hunting, fishing, horseback riding, hiking, OHV’s, snowmobiling, skiing, boating, etc.). The Weiser Trail is just west of the property. Need a place to overnight while traveling through with Livestock and/or Pets? We can accommodate your needs. 28' RV available for rent; Or use your own LQ/RV and/or bring a Tent.

The best camping near Payette National Forest guide

Overview

About

Lakes, creeks, and peaks, oh my! Payette National Forest has ‘em all. Salmon-Challis National Forest and Nez-Pearce Clearwater National Forest are its neighbors, while its Victor Peak, Loon Creek, Loon Lake, North Loon Mountain, Bruin Mountain, Bear Pete Mountain, and Boulder Creek could keep you busy for months. Forage for mushrooms or berries, fish in the chinook salmon hatchery at the South Fork of the Salmon River, or snowboard down Brundage Mountain. Hike to the three historic fire lookouts, or check out the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, the second largest wilderness area outside Alaska (don’t worry, plenty before you have visited and returned).

In this wealth of outdoor activity, it’s hard to tear yourself away for a visit into town. However, you will be glad you took the time to visit the closest town of McCall, where luxury mountain lodges have thermal spas perfect for resting your aching bones in between treks up or down the mountains.

78%

9 ratings · 2 reviews

July 2018

This is my families campground. My great-great grandfather is buried there which is why its named after us.

Virginia H.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2017

Amazingly beautiful area!