Whoop-Em-Up Equestrian Campground serves as one of several equestrian-focused destinations in the Boise National Forest near Banks, Idaho. Located at 4,500 feet elevation in pine forest terrain, the area offers trail access that extends throughout multiple connected forest routes. Weather typically allows camping from late spring through early fall, with summer temperatures ranging from 45°F at night to 85°F during peak daytime hours.
What to do
Trail riding networks: Access multiple interconnected riding trails directly from Grayback Gulch Campground. The trails extend in various directions, offering both day rides and longer excursions. "This is a great campground between Boise and Idaho City. What is nice about this campground is that it is up the mountain away from the highway so the campsites are bigger and there is less road noise," notes Amy S.
Fishing spots: Find productive fishing areas within 5-10 miles of most campgrounds, particularly along creek access points. At Silver Creek, campers can fish right from the campground. Daniel S. reports, "Stayed here for a night completely alone. Once again some really great trout fishing here. Right on the river though so could easily use that as a nice pool."
Hot springs access: Several natural hot springs are accessible within 30-45 minutes of Banks. "We visited Idaho City, Placerville, Centerville, and Pioneerville. Took one day to see Kirkham hot springs," mentions Will M. from Grayback Gulch. Another camper at Silver Creek adds, "The real treasure is the nearby hot springs resort, The Springs at Idaho City. This is not a big kiddie pool, rather it is a lovely, serene spot."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention the spacing between sites at Cold Springs Campground. Amy S. notes, "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. There is plenty of shade and pretty good privacy."
Reliable water sources: Many campgrounds maintain drinking water access through most of the season. At Cowboy Campground, potable water is available from late spring through early fall. Amy S. describes it as "a conveniently located campground near all the amenities of Idaho City. Miles of forest for hiking, exploring and fishing."
Off-highway locations: Though close to main roads, several campgrounds offer quieter environments. "Quiet with restroom and clean water. Lots of firewood laying around. No cell service, except Mores Peak and Idaho City," reports Michelle P. about her experience at Whoop-Em-Up Equestrian Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to equestrian campgrounds near Banks vary in quality. Certain routes require high-clearance vehicles, especially after spring thaw or rain. As one camper at Deadwood Campground explains, "Deadwood is deep in the mountains and the roads can be a bit rough. Wonderful place to kayak out and watch the osprey dive for dinner."
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal or no cell reception. "No cell service, except Mores Peak and Idaho City... No service in Lowman (only 1 mercantile with 2 pumps), but an absolutely gorgeous drive!" notes Michelle P. at Whoop-Em-Up.
Site availability patterns: Weekends fill quickly during summer months. "Nice and quiet campground close to highway 21. We arrived on a friday night without reservations and there was plenty of space," reports Ch C. about Whoop-Em-Up Equestrian Campground, though this experience likely varies by season.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trails: Several shorter trail loops under 3 miles start directly from campgrounds. "This campground is near Highway 21 but far enough off the road for a quiet camping experience. Lots of room for all kinds of vehicles and choices of camping styles here," explains Amy S. about Whoop-Em-Up Equestrian Campground.
Swimming access: During summer months, several creek and river spots offer safe swimming areas for children. At Bull Trout Lake Campground, "We had a lakefront spot, tons of trees around, and enough space to have privacy from other campsites... The lake is shallow and perfect for paddle boarding and kayaking," writes Vivi W.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing times. "We saw a lot of chip monks and pretty birds. Thankfully we did not see any bears although it is bear country!" reports Vivi W. at Bull Trout Lake.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most equestrian campgrounds accommodate trailers up to 30 feet, though turning radius can be tight. "My 24' trailer and truck fit nicely," mentions Will M. about his stay at Grayback Gulch.
Site leveling requirements: Bring leveling blocks as many sites have slight to moderate slopes. As Amy S. notes about Cold Springs, "Not much room for larger campers or RV, better for smaller campers and tents."
Preparation for limited services: Pack all supplies as services are limited. "The closest grocery store and gas station is about 45 minutes from the campground so make sure you have everything you need, unless you plan on driving around!" advises Vivi W. about camping in the region.
