Tent camping near Banks, Idaho provides access to diverse terrain ranging from riverside sites to mountain forests. Located at the intersection of Highway 55 and the Banks-Lowman Road, this area sits at approximately 2,800 feet elevation where the North and South Forks of the Payette River converge. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F during daytime hours, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 45-55°F even in peak season.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Tent campers at Shafer Butte can explore multiple hiking paths directly from the campground. "There is a great hike right off the campground suitable for kids or adults," notes one reviewer who found the trails accessible despite early-season conditions.
Fishing opportunities: The South Fork of the Payette River offers productive fishing spots accessible from several primitive camping areas. Anglers report "huge fish in the river" and "unbelievably clear" water, though some fishing spots require navigating steep banks to reach the water.
Mountain biking: During summer months, Edna Creek Campground serves as a starting point for mountain biking trails in the Boise National Forest. Located at 5,000 feet elevation, the campground provides cooler temperatures than valley locations, making it ideal for summer rides on nearby single-track trails.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Tent sites positioned along the Payette River corridor provide natural soundscapes and cooling breezes during summer months. At South Fork Recreation Area, campers appreciate the natural setting where "all we heard was the sound of running water" from riverside tent sites.
Solitude on weekdays: Primitive camping areas throughout the Boise National Forest experience significantly less traffic Monday through Thursday. Campers report finding completely empty sites midweek at many dispersed camping locations, while weekend availability becomes limited from June through August.
High elevation escapes: Whoop-em-up Equestrian Campground provides a cooler alternative during hot summer days. A visitor noted it offers "peace and quiet and no cell" service, making it ideal for those seeking to disconnect while camping near Banks during peak summer heat.
What you should know
Water availability: Most tent camping areas near Banks lack reliable drinking water sources. Campers at Whoop-em-up report "clean water" availability, but this is uncommon for the area. Most sites require bringing all drinking water needed for your stay.
Road conditions: Access to many camping areas requires traveling on forest roads of varying quality. The drive to Edna Creek involves "a pretty steep winding road" where "the last 20 or 30 minutes beyond Idaho City going east is a pretty steep winding road and a little bit narrow," requiring careful navigation with trailers.
Seasonal limitations: The camping season typically runs May through September, with weather dictating exact opening dates. Shafer Butte operates from "June 15 to September 30" with early-season campers reporting: "Our campsite hadn't been used since fall, so it was pretty overgrown when we got there."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly sites: Shafer Butte offers tent camping layouts particularly suited for families with young children. One parent noted: "Perfect place to teach young ones the joy of camping; campground is open, mostly flat and easy to keep your eyes on the tykes."
Swimming areas: During summer months, Banks offers day-use access to swimming holes along the Payette River. While overnight camping isn't permitted directly at this location, a visitor notes it's "a beautiful spot to stop and swim or spend the day" before heading to nearby camping areas.
Activity options: Families looking for structured recreation can base their tent camping trip near Bogus Basin Mountain Resort. "During the summer season they have scenic chairlift rides, inner tubing, mountain coaster, climbing wall, live music on weekends, food and beverage, mountain biking with lift service, mountain bike rentals, and hiking."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many camping areas near Banks cannot accommodate larger recreational vehicles. At Edna Creek, campers note the campground is "more geared toward tent camping" with "limited space for larger RVs" and tight corners requiring careful navigation.
