Glamping sites in Boise National Forest vary widely in size and setting. Located in central Idaho with elevations from 3,000 to 9,800 feet, the forest contains numerous lakes and rivers that shape the camping landscape. Many glamping accommodations remain open through early October, though weather becomes unpredictable after mid-September.
What to do
Fishing access points: Mountain View campground offers direct access to fishing on the Payette River. "Nice campground. Some sites next to beautiful Payette River. Not very crowded on a Monday evening. Bald eagle flying up and down river!" noted Janet K.
Hot springs exploration: Several natural hot springs are accessible within short drives from campgrounds. "Great sites lined up along the South Fork of the Payette River, pristine waters! Bathrooms and potable water. Hot springs nearby," reports Cece H. about her stay at Mountain View.
Hiking trail connections: Alturas Inlet Campground provides access to numerous forest trails. "We saw plenty of birds, chipmunks and tiny wildflowers were all over our site in early July. The lake is a short walk but some campers drove over just to make it easier to tote their chairs and water gear," explains Jeane L.
Paddling opportunities: The calm waters at several glamping locations are perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking. "The lake is shallow and perfect for paddle boarding and kayaking. We saw one person fishing!" shares a visitor to Bull Trout Lake.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Bull Trout Lake Campground offers roomier glamping accommodations than many other locations. "All of the campsite we've seen were very spacious. We had a camper van and other people had tents. The sites fit a 5-person tent plus a 2 person tent, hammocks, camping table plus camping stove," notes Vivi W.
Private lake access: Many campers appreciate the individual water access points at certain sites. "All of the lakefront sites on our side had individual access to the lake," explains a Bull Trout Lake visitor, highlighting a feature unavailable at other glamping locations.
Digital disconnection: Cell service is limited or non-existent at most glamping sites. "This campsite is remote, no cell phone signal and that's what we were looking for. We were able to disconnect, relax and reset!" reports a camper from Bull Trout Lake.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Guests frequently report wildlife sightings near luxury accommodations. "We saw plenty of birds, chipmunks and tiny wildflowers were all over our site in early July," shares a visitor to Alturas Inlet Campground.
What you should know
Preparation requirements: Salmon River Campground and other remote glamping sites require advance planning. "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 a Bull Trout Lake visitor.
Site variations: Glamping accommodations vary widely in size and amenities between locations. "First impression when you pull in? It looks bare and small but, the farther you drive in, the more appealing it becomes," explains J S. about Mountain View campground.
Temperature fluctuations: Pack appropriate clothing for significant daily temperature shifts. "Bring layers - it can is cool in the evenings and at night (40s F) even in July but warm in the day, especially if you are out by the lake," recommends a visitor to Alturas Inlet.
Reservation windows: Most glamping sites require advance booking, often 6 months ahead for summer dates. "We were there in the middle of the week so it wasn't busy but it started getting crowded as we were leaving (on a Friday)," notes a Bull Trout Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Biking routes: Kids can enjoy safe cycling areas at certain glamping spots. "There's a small area for kids to go biking around these campsites," mentions a Bull Trout Lake visitor, providing an activity option beyond water recreation.
Wildlife education opportunities: Helende Campground offers opportunities to observe forest recovery. "It didn't look like much as we pulled up, because there were a lot of trees that had been burned in a recent fire. However, we had a lot of fun. We discovered the river that ran behind the campground there and spent quite a bit of time there just hanging out," explains Tara L.
Swimming spots: Identify safer swimming areas for children. "We could also wade right into the shallows of the river," notes Beth D. about her Mountain View stay, indicating good options for families with young children.
Noise considerations: Some glamping locations experience highway noise. "You could definitely hear the roar of cars since it was pretty close to the highway, but it wasn't overly distracting," reports Tara L. about Helende Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Cowboy Campground provides strategic access to amenities. "This is a conveniently located campground near all the amenities of Idaho City. Miles of forest for hiking, exploring and fishing. Right off Highway 21, it's easy to find with ample space between campsites," advises Amy S.
Length limitations: Many glamping sites have specific vehicle size restrictions. "We would fit in many of them in our 26' Class C but larger rigs may have a problem," notes Laura M. about Salmon River Campground.
Levelness assessment: Look for sites with level parking areas, especially for larger rigs. "Everything is very flat here so no worries about finding a level site," reports Annie C. about Helende Campground.
Electrical considerations: Most glamping accommodations have limited or no hookups. "No dedicated tent pads, but lots of cushy pine needles for under your tent. Lots of trees that are good for hammocks, just know that you might get a drop or two of pine sap dripping on you," advises Annie C.
