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Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Warm Lake Campground sits on the eastern shore of Warm Lake in Boise National Forest, roughly 21 miles northeast of places to camp around Cascade via a paved road that reviewers consistently describe as easy to navigate with RVs up to 60 feet. The campground runs from late May through mid-September, with sites featuring concrete pads, picnic tables, and fire pits. No pets are allowed, and cell service is essentially nonexistent here, so paper maps are worth packing.

Water access is the main draw. Warm Lake is close enough to walk to, and a trail circles the full perimeter of the lake, though some sections pass through dense forest where wildlife sightings are not uncommon. A boat ramp provides entry for kayaks and canoes, and motorized boats are restricted after 6 p.m. Trout fishing draws consistent interest, and a small swim beach sits near the Warm Lake Lodge, which also operates a restaurant and a camp store for basic resupply needs. Boise National Forest Shoreline Campground, about half a mile west, is an alternative for campers who want to stay close to the lake with a different site configuration.

The campground draws crowds, particularly from local visitors on summer weekends, so reservations are worth making in advance. Misty J. describes it as "clean and well maintained," and notes that dark skies make it a good spot for stargazing after the day's activity winds down. Rates run $20 to $40 per night depending on site type, which includes drinking water and trash service.

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RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsBoise National Forest Warm Lake Campground is located in Idaho near Cascade

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

From Boise, Idaho, travel 85 miles north on Highway 55 to Cascade. Turn east on Warm Lake Highway and travel 25 miles to Forest Road 579KA. Turn south and travel a short distance to the campground.

Address

P.O. BOX 696
Cascade, ID 83611

Coordinates

44.6522222 N
115.6555556 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • Trash
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time


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Reviews9 Camper Reviews - Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

78%
11%
11%
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4.5

out of 5

9 Reviews

Campers regularly cited level, well-maintained sites with good amenities and lake access for swimming and fishing. Some visitors reported crowding during peak times, though many found it peaceful and remote.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Apr. 8, 2021

Gorgeous campground

We loved this campground! Nice place to bring bikes, very close to beautiful lake, fishing, camp store, swimming etc. 

 Had concrete pads for tents. Very peaceful place.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Kaylene H., April 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Kaylene H., April 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Kaylene H., April 8, 2021
  • (9) View All
Reviewed Nov. 6, 2020

Worth the drive

Warm Lake Is BEAUTIFUL! Peaceful, dark and REMOTE.

Quite a drive to this beautiful lake but apparently it is well liked by locals because it was crowded! People fishing everywhere, people all around the lodge, trail and beach.

The water is crystal clear and fishing is popular. There is a trail that goes completely around the lake but we turned back when a snake crossed our path.

There are several options to include a group camping area, a shoreline primitive area, rental cabins and a Rec vehicle area. The lodge offers pretty much everything you could need, but considering how busy they are I would try to bring what I needed.

  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Shelly S., November 6, 2020
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Shelly S., November 6, 2020
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Shelly S., November 6, 2020
  • (14) View All
Reviewed Nov. 6, 2020

Remote and beautiful

Warm Lake Campground

Quite a drive to this beautiful lake but apparently it is well liked by locals because it was crowded!

The water is crystal clear and fishing is popular. There is a trail that goes completely around the lake but we turned back when a snake crossed our path.

There is a tent area, rental cabins and a camper area. I had no signal, bring a map.

The forest fires were further into the forest but the smoke haze was ever present.

  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Shelly S., November 6, 2020
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Shelly S., November 6, 2020
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Shelly S., November 6, 2020
  • (13) View All
Reviewed Jul. 9, 2019

Nice campground

Nice paved road. Sites have plenty of space between you and your neighbors. Fishing, swimming, the store is close if you need the basics. Room for your RV.

  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Mike L., July 9, 2019
Reviewed Aug. 7, 2018

Secluded mountains with small lake for fishing and recreation!

Campground was clean and well maintained! Isolated with fantastic views! Many hiking trails make for an adventurous day. Lake is close by for recreation with canoes, kayaks, canoes and swimming. If you search, you may find rope swings in trees! The area is secluded and not crowded which makes for quiet and restful evenings. The stars are absolutely amazing! If you are a stargazer, this is the place!

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Misty J., August 7, 2018
Reviewed Aug. 6, 2018

Beautiful place for campers of all kinds

Great places to hike, kayak, swim, or go boating. After 6pm motorized boats are not allowed on the water. It has cabins as well as tent sites. Not very secluded, to many people for my liking so if you dont want neighbors try another place. It does haave a little store which is nice.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed May. 23, 2018

A Pleasant Camping Area North of Boise, Idaho

This campsite is located east of Cascade Lake and Donnelly, Idaho. It's a scenic road to get there. The camsite we were in was dry camping with no hook-ups. The camping pad for our 27' Travel Trailer was nice and level. Each campsite had a picnic table and a firepit. There are some nice hiking trails in the vicinity. Mountain biking and horse riding is acceptable there as well. Since we had kayaks, we had a short drive to the boat ramp. There is excellent trout fishing. There is a small swim beach near the Warm Lake Lodge and Restaurant, near where the cabins are. All in all, a great stay, away from the city :-) It's a nice peaceful setting.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Ed E., May 23, 2018
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Ed E., May 23, 2018
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Ed E., May 23, 2018
  • (22) View All
Reviewed May. 16, 2017

Camping on the lake

It's a perfect summer spot. One of my favorite campgrounds. Tons of pretty drives to take around the area. There's a cute little lodge near the campground as well. The campground itself has parking in an outer gate and then you must walk all your belongings in through the gate and to your spot. There's only a few spots. The walk isn't too bad and it's well worth the views. There's plenty of trees to tie a hammock to as well. Nothing beats the view of this campground.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Simran D., May 16, 2017
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Simran D., May 16, 2017
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Simran D., May 16, 2017
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Sep. 16, 2016

Tent camping

Easy to get to the camp sites! Warm lake is a wonderful place to go swimming, enjoy a picnic, or camp! It's a beautiful area! All roads are paved and there is plenty of room for rv/camper.

  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Stephanie L., September 16, 2016
  • Review photo of Boise National Forest Warm Lake Campground by Stephanie L., September 16, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Warm Lake Campground located in Idaho and how do I get there?

Warm Lake Campground is located east of Cascade Lake and Donnelly in central Idaho. To reach the campground, take a scenic paved road that leads from Cascade. The drive is somewhat lengthy but rewarding with beautiful mountain views. The campground is situated on the shores of Warm Lake, making it a popular destination for water recreation. All access roads to the campground are paved, providing easy navigation for vehicles including RVs and campers.

Is Billy Rice Swim Beach accessible from Warm Lake Campground?

Yes, swimming areas are accessible from Warm Lake Campground. While the reviews don't specifically name Billy Rice Swim Beach, there are swimming opportunities close to the campground. The lake features crystal clear water and is popular for swimming during summer months. Some visitors have even mentioned finding rope swings in trees near swimming areas. The beach areas are within easy walking distance from the campsites.

Do I need reservations for Warm Lake Campground in Idaho?

While specific reservation requirements aren't detailed in the information provided, it's highly recommended to secure reservations for Warm Lake Campground, especially during peak summer months. The campground is very popular with locals and visitors, often becoming crowded during prime season. The campground features both tent sites and cabin options. For current reservation policies and availability, contact the campground directly or check with the Boise National Forest reservation system before planning your trip.

What fishing opportunities are available at Warm Lake?

Warm Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities with its crystal clear waters. Fishing is highly popular at the lake, with many anglers visible along the shoreline. The lake supports various fish species and provides both shore fishing and boat fishing options. After 6pm, non-motorized boats have exclusive access to the water, creating peaceful fishing conditions for kayakers and canoeists. For the best fishing experience, bring your gear and consider asking at the nearby store for local fishing tips and conditions.

What is the elevation of Warm Lake Campground in Idaho?

The specific elevation of Warm Lake Campground isn't provided in the available information. However, the campground is located in a mountainous region east of Cascade and Donnelly, Idaho. Given its location in the Boise National Forest, visitors should prepare for typical mountain elevation conditions, which may include cooler nights even in summer and the possibility of weather changes. For the exact elevation figure, check with the Boise National Forest office or the campground's official information.