Established Camping
Upper Payette Lake Campground
Upper Payette Lake Campground, near McCall, Idaho, is a peaceful retreat that offers a rustic camping experience surrounded by stunning natural beauty. With its close proximity to the lake, it’s a prime spot for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, making it a favorite for water lovers.
The campground features dispersed sites that provide a sense of seclusion, allowing you to unwind away from the hustle and bustle. Visitors have noted the charm of the area, with one reviewer mentioning, “It feels like it really is your own private Idaho.” While there are no electric hookups or drinking water available, the rustic charm is part of what draws campers here.
For those who enjoy hiking, there are plenty of trails nearby to explore the lush vegetation and wildlife. The campground is also a great place to disconnect from electronics and enjoy the serenity of nature. As one camper put it, “Nice place to be free of electronics and crowds.”
If you're looking for a quiet getaway with beautiful lake views and outdoor activities, Upper Payette Lake Campground is worth considering. Just remember to bring your own supplies, as there are no markets nearby, and enjoy the tranquility that this area has to offer.
Description
Overview
Upper Payette Lake Campground is located 16 miles from McCall, Idaho, on the shores of beautiful Upper Payette Lake. Visitors enjoy fishing, canoeing and exploring local trails. 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 https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
Recreation
Upper Payette Lake is a no-wake lake that offers great fishing, canoeing and kayaking opportunities. The paved, mile-long Shoreline Trail begins in the campground and several additional hiking and biking trails begin just across the road from the entrance.
Facilities
The campground offers two group sites that can accommodate up to 20 and 30 guests. Several additional single and double-family sites are available as well. All sites are accessible; some have lake views and some have lake access. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. A boat ramp, day-use site and several paved pathways are located in the campground. Roads and parking spurs are gravel.
Natural Features
The lake is situated at the foot of the Salmon River Mountains at an approximate elevation of 5,900 feet. Engelmann spruce and lodgepole pine forest the site, providing partial shade. Summer wildflowers are abundant. Summer days are typically warm and nights are cool.
Location
Upper Payette Lake Campground is located in Idaho
Directions
From McCall, Idaho, take Highway 55 north to Warren Wagon Road/Forest Highway 21. Turn right and continue for 16 miles to gravel Forest Road 495 and follow for a mile into the campground.
Address
102 LAKE ST P.O. BOX 1026
Mccall, ID 83638
Coordinates
45.1225 N
116.0288889 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Detours Nearby
Kennally Creek
2 hrs 3 min away
Ponderosa Campground
2 hrs 33 min away
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 31 min from Boise, ID
- 3 hrs 38 min from Lewiston, ID
- 5 hrs 25 min from Walla Walla, WA
- 5 hrs 54 min from Missoula, MT
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
