[Boise National Forest](https://thedyrt.com/camping/idaho/near/boise-national-forest) Bad Bear Campground is situated near Idaho City, surrounded by forested terrain. Temperatures range from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Visitors can explore the nearby Kirkham Hot Springs and the historic Idaho City area.

## Overview

 Bad Bear Campground is located 48 miles northeast of Boise, Idaho, in the scenic Boise National Forest on the Idaho City Ranger District, along Highway 21 at an elevation of 5,100 feet. Wildlife and summer wildflowers are abundant. Historic Idaho City is just 11 miles south. Mores Creek runs adjacent to the site, offering whitefish and rainbow trout fishing. Highway 21, also known as the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, snakes along Mores Creek to Mores Creek Summit, Gold Fork, and Banner Ridge with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forest. 
## Recreation

 Numerous trail opportunities are in the area, offering hiking, biking, horseback riding, and ATVing. In winter, the area becomes a playground for backcountry skiers and snowmobilers.
## Facilities

 This campground contains 5 single sites that can accommodate up to 6 people each, and one double site that can accommodate 12. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided, and most sites also have lantern hooks. The site is in an open area with shade in all sites. Vault toilets are provided. Parking spurs are paved. Due to its proximity to the highway, some noise from passing traffic is to be expected. No trash service. Pack-in-pack-out. 

## Contact Info

 This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (208) 392-3700.

Boise National Forest Bad Bear Campground

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Idaho City, ID has a lot to offer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Idaho City is surrounded by family-friendly activities. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Idaho City, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Idaho City

The Best Camping Near Idaho City, Idaho

Bad Bear is a nice little campsite outside of Idaho City. The sites are good size with adequate privacy. There is lots of tree cover for shade during those warm summer days, and a babbling brook at the back of the campground. Each site had a picnic table, fire ring, and there is a well for water and a vault toilet. We enjoyed our stay here, mostly because there wasn't anyone else camping in the campground when we were there in mid-July! Score! We grabbed the big site, but the other sites seemed a bit small. Would recommend for a easy campsite close to Idaho City and just a quick little jaunt from Boise.

Nice little campground. Small sites.

This is a large camping and day use area.  Most of the campsites are across Highway 21 (not on the river side).  There is a picnic area/day use area on the river side with its own restroom, so you don't have to cross the road back to camp if you need one.  The campsites are spacious with lots of room to park.  It is right on Highway 21 so there is a little road noise.  That said, there is not a lot of traffic so it's not really a big deal.

Photos of Boise National Forest Bad Bear Campground

Real photos from real campers