Established Camping
Ponderosa Campground
Ponderosa Campground, near Yellow Pine, Idaho, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Tucked away in the Payette National Forest, it offers a serene setting right alongside the Secesh River, making it perfect for fishing and hiking.
The campground features ten sites, each providing a great opportunity to unwind by the fire or enjoy a picnic. Visitors have raved about the beautiful surroundings, with one camper noting, “This is a beautiful campground right on the Secesh River.” While there are no electric hookups or showers, the clean pit toilets and drinking water make for a comfortable stay.
For outdoor adventurers, the area is a treasure trove of activities. You can hike along the river and even forage for wild huckleberries and strawberries in the summer. Plus, the nearby trails are great for biking, ensuring you’ll have plenty to explore during your visit.
While some campers mentioned that the sites can feel a bit close together, the overall vibe is friendly and welcoming. Whether you're camping with family or friends, Ponderosa Campground is a great choice for a memorable outdoor experience.
Description
National Forest
Payette National Forest
Overview
This campground is located adjacent to the Secesh River and offers beautiful river views. There are eleven camp sites. This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app ht tps://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
Recreation
There is fishing and trail access.
Nearby Attractions
The South Fork of the Salmon River is a highly popular area of the Forest and is one of the earlier areas to be snow-free in the spring. Several campgrounds and dispersed campsites can be found along the South Fork Road (FS Rd #674). The southern-most 7 miles of the South Fork Road are on the Boise National Forest.
Location
Ponderosa Campground is located in Idaho
Directions
From McCall, go 31 miles northeast on Lick Creek Road #48. The South Fork corridor is about 30 miles from Cascade along the Warm Lake Highway. Usually by July, Lick Creek Pass (Road #48) is snow-free, providing a faster access from McCall (35 miles) to the South Fork corridor. Please follow posted speed limits and drive carefully, the South Fork Road is a paved, narrow, one-lane road with two-way traffic and many blind corners.
Coordinates
45.062106 N
115.758554 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 46 min from Boise
- 4 hrs 25 min from Lewiston
- 6 hrs 12 min from Walla Walla
- 6 hrs 42 min from Missoula
