Glamping options near Banks, Idaho center around the Payette River and surrounding forests at an elevation of approximately 3,000 feet. The area experiences hot summer days with cool nights, and winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing. Seasonal access varies significantly with mountain roads often closing after first snowfall, typically in late October through mid-May.
What to do
Fishing access points: Cold Springs Campground offers excellent fishing spots along the Payette River. According to Amy S., "This is a small campground right off Highway 55 and across from the Payette River. There are 4 small campgrounds right in a row near here."
Hiking trail networks: Several trail systems can be accessed from Cowboy Campground. The campground serves as "a great base camp for exploring the area" with "miles of forest for hiking, exploring and fishing," as noted by reviewer Amy S.
River recreation: The Payette River provides multiple water activity options. Randy I. mentions, "We had great waterfront access, there is no real beach and the slope into the water is steep. My kids are older so it was not a problem."
Cross-country skiing: Winter visitors can access trails near Idaho City Yurts. As Amy S. notes, "I have only been to there in the winter but I imagine that hiking in is just a beautiful! You need to bring everything but a bed and stove, which are in the yurt."
What campers like
Waterfront campsites: Sites at Mountain View Campground offer direct river access. Janet K. reports, "Nice campground. Some sites next to beautiful Payette River. Not very crowded on a Monday evening. Bald eagle flying up and down river!"
Wildlife viewing: The riverside locations provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. Jennifer T. shares about Mountain View Campground: "Beautiful view of the river from many sites. Reservations seem to be accepted but we did not have a reservation."
Privacy between sites: Cold Springs Campground offers good separation between campsites. Andrew B. called it a "hidden gem" with a "very simple and tranquil campsite," while Amy S. noted "there is plenty of shade and pretty good privacy."
Group camping options: Eastside Campground has designated group areas. Jessica O. shares, "Great spot for groups! Limited spaces and not super close together -- which we love. View of the water is beautiful and there are many trees to provide shade for the entire campground."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most glamping facilities have limited operating seasons. Waters Edge RV Resort runs "May 1 to Oct 15" while Arrowhead RV Park operates "May 1 - Oct 1."
Reservation requirements: Many sites require advance booking, especially for group areas. At Eastside Campground, Jessica O. notes it's a "Group Campground, Reservation Only."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. At Cold Springs Campground, Amy S. reports, "I did not get cell service here."
Site size restrictions: Arrowhead RV Park has tight spacing for some units. Isabel notes: "Individual spots were extremely tight. Employee had to help us park (even though we didn't feel like we needed it)."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Look for designated swimming zones at riverside campgrounds. C.W. at Waters Edge RV Resort mentions they have a "beach area for swimming WITH lounge chairs, swimming right in front."
Recreation facilities: Some campgrounds provide additional activities for children. Waters Edge has a "volleyball court" and "horse shoe play area" according to C.W., who also notes it's "right next to the lake!"
Safety considerations: Be aware of water conditions when camping with children. Randy I. cautions about River Side's access: "there is no real beach and the slope into the water is steep. My kids are older so it was not a problem."
Proximity to amenities: Caldwell Campground offers family-friendly facilities. Rachele B. shares it "feels like living outside of town but still close to everything town offers" and notes "the bathrooms and showers are excellent! Clean, secure."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most RV sites require minimal leveling. Waters Edge RV Resort has "clean, leveled" sites according to C.W.
Bridge clearance: Watch for low-hanging branches at some campgrounds. At Mountain View Campground, Mike W. reports, "This campground has some decent sites down near the river, but the sites up higher are noisy due to the highway, and don't have much shade."
Utility access: Many sites lack full hookups. Mike W. notes Mountain View Campground has "no hookups or dump station, so this is a weekend site for most. There is a water spigot to get water from."
Winter access: Most RV parks close for winter, but some can accommodate cold weather camping. Campfiresandcoffee94 shares about Waters Edge: "With all the fall colors in full display, brisk evening air perfect for a fall fire to warm yourself... though it was chili at night, and our pipes froze the last night."
