Equestrian camping opportunities near Boise National Forest offer direct trail access and natural experiences in varying terrain. The forest maintains several designated equestrian sites across elevations ranging from 3,000 to 9,800 feet. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F during the day but can drop significantly at night, especially at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing adventures: Bull Trout Lake Campground provides excellent fishing access directly from campsites. A visitor noted, "Lots of trout in the pond and saw about an Osprey catch fish every morning," making it an ideal spot for anglers of all skill levels.
Hot springs exploration: Several natural hot springs lie within easy driving distance from Silver Creek, creating relaxing post-ride destinations. One camper reported, "Within walking distance to the hot spring pool," while another mentioned that "you will drive by [hot springs] on your way to the grounds."
Trail riding: From Grayback Gulch Campground, riders can access numerous forest paths leading into higher elevations. "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," providing easier trailer access and more space for equestrian camping needs.
What campers like
Year-round accessibility: Some equestrian campgrounds remain open during winter, offering alternative activities. At Whoop-Em-Up Equestrian Campground, visitors appreciate seasonal flexibility: "This is actually one of my favorite place to snow shoe in the winter," showing the area's multi-season appeal.
Spacious layouts: Most horse-friendly sites feature generous spacing between campsites. One camper at Cowboy Campground noted, "Lots of room for all kinds of vehicles and choices of camping styles here," making it comfortable for those traveling with horse trailers and equipment.
Privacy factor: Despite proximity to roads, many equestrian sites maintain peaceful surroundings. A camper at Decker Flats Dispersed described it as a "Beautiful and quiet area along a creek and against the forest," offering natural buffers between campsites.
What you should know
Water access: While most equestrian campgrounds provide drinking water, availability varies seasonally. At Pettit Lake Campground, campers report that "Water [is] accessible in an adjacent trailhead (Tin Cup) parking lot," requiring short walks from some sites.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity ranges from non-existent to spotty across most equestrian camping areas. One visitor to Deadwood Campground mentioned, "No cell service, except Mores Peak and Idaho City... No service in Lowman," highlighting the need for advance planning.
Weather preparedness: Mountain conditions change rapidly regardless of season. A camper at Deadwood noted: "It was very smokey due to fires," reminding visitors to check current forest conditions before travel, particularly during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Look for camping areas with natural barriers between sites. At Grayback Gulch, "Sites are well spaces apart. A quit spot," making it easier to contain children and horses within your designated area.
Activity planning: Consider campgrounds with mixed recreation options beyond riding. Bull Trout Lake offers alternatives as "The lake is shallow and perfect for paddle boarding and kayaking," providing non-equestrian activities for family members.
Safety considerations: When camping with both children and horses, select sites with adequate separation between animal areas and play spaces. Cowboy Campground provides "ample space between campsites for privacy," allowing safer segregation of horse activities from children's play areas.
Tips from RVers
Access routes: Many forest roads leading to equestrian sites have seasonal limitations. For Silver Creek, visitors warn, "The roads are not paved so make sure your tires are in good conditions so you don't get a flat. You would be on your own cuz there is no cell signal."
Site dimensions: Confirm that equestrian sites can accommodate both living quarters and horse trailers. At Decker Flats, RVers report, "Although, it was quite windy due to it being an open area so just stake your tent down well," indicating the need for secure setup in open equestrian areas.
