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Established Camping

Upper Payette Lake Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

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.

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Location

Upper Payette Lake Campground is located in Idaho

Detail location of campground

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

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

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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

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

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Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

7 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 7, 2025

The Views

Nice spot with amazing views. Water is best at entrance, the other has quite a bit of minerals. Pump only, no hose bib. Vault toilets were cleaned daily, very nice host.

Site9
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Upper Payette Lake Campground by William P., August 7, 2025
  • Review photo of Upper Payette Lake Campground by William P., August 7, 2025
  • Review photo of Upper Payette Lake Campground by William P., August 7, 2025
Reviewed Jul. 12, 2020

Secluded and Peaceful

This campground is close enough to McCall that you can run in for supplies or fun. However, it is far enough away that it doesn't get a ton of traffic. The campsites are dispersed with one area that is a group camping area. Pit toilets can be found at the beginning and end of the road. The lake is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and leisurely boat rides. There is even a boat ramp to put in and take out at. Close hiking options are available too. Do keep in mind that as the season progresses the water layer will decrease.

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  • Review photo of Upper Payette Lake Campground by Hannah C., July 12, 2020
Reviewed Feb. 16, 2020

Rustic

Quiet, nice canoe lake. Wildlife are present in this area each night. Lots of hiking available. Tight if bringing a longer RV, groups can be accommodated in the circle drive. Nice place to be free of electronics and crowds.

Reviewed Jun. 25, 2018

great camp on payette lake

had a great visit loved the paved trails along the shoreline the lake offers a great place for kayaking fishing or canoeing it's about 20 miles from McCall and is approximately 6000 feet in elevation.

Reviewed Aug. 26, 2016

McCall Idaho & Payette Lake - A beautiful place apart

This site and the surrounding area is filled with lush vegetation and this crisp, cool, blue blue lake. You can see natural waterfalls, a "beach-type" picnic area, and though you're in a campground setting, it feels like it really is your own private Idaho. $10/day, rustic pit toilets, picnic benches...the usual fare. The site itself was nothing new, but the area begs for you to explore! (Busy in summer months!)

  • Review photo of Upper Payette Lake Campground by KelTroy E., August 26, 2016
  • Review photo of Upper Payette Lake Campground by KelTroy E., August 26, 2016
  • Review photo of Upper Payette Lake Campground by KelTroy E., August 26, 2016
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2016

Payette camping

Camping west of boise is always fun. The closer to Oregon we get the more I enjoy the outdoors

Frequently Asked Questions

What do visitor reviews say about camping at Upper Payette Lake Campground?

Upper Payette Lake Campground offers a tranquil retreat with a crisp, blue lake surrounded by lush vegetation. Campers consistently praise its peaceful atmosphere, natural beauty, and family-friendly environment. The campground provides a genuine wilderness experience while remaining accessible. With its dispersed campsites and group camping area, visitors enjoy privacy without feeling isolated. Many appreciate that it's close enough to McCall for convenience but far enough to escape crowds. The natural setting features beautiful views and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to disconnect from electronics and enjoy nature.

What amenities and facilities are available at Upper Payette Lake Campground?

Upper Payette Lake Campground offers rustic amenities including pit toilets that are cleaned daily. Drinking water is available from pumps (no hose connections), with better quality water reported at the entrance area. The campground features individual campsites and a circle drive area that can accommodate groups. Each site typically includes a picnic table. The fee is $10 per day. The campground has a friendly host on-site. Note that the sites may be tight for longer RVs, though group areas can accommodate larger vehicles.

How do I find or access Upper Payette Lake Campground in McCall, Idaho?

Upper Payette Lake Campground is located approximately 20 miles from McCall, Idaho at an elevation of about 6,000 feet. The campground sits on the shores of Upper Payette Lake. While specific driving directions aren't detailed, visitors should plan for mountain driving conditions. The road is accessible for most vehicles, though larger RVs may find navigation challenging in some areas. For precise directions, consider contacting the Payette National Forest office before your trip.

What recreational activities are available at Upper Payette Lake in Idaho?

Upper Payette Lake offers numerous recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake is excellent for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, with its calm waters making it ideal for paddlers of all skill levels. Visitors can enjoy paved trails along the shoreline for walking and wildlife viewing. The surrounding area provides abundant hiking options. There's also a beach-type picnic area for relaxing lakeside gatherings. Wildlife watching is popular, with animals frequently visible in the evenings. The pristine setting at 6,000 feet elevation creates perfect conditions for both water activities and land-based recreation throughout the warmer months.