Boise National Forest tent campsites range from 5,000 to 8,000 feet elevation across diverse mountain terrain. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 75-85°F while dropping to 40-50°F overnight. Several campgrounds remain snow-covered until late May, with July through September offering the most reliable access conditions for tent camping locations throughout the forest.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn: Campers at South Fork Recreation Site can spot various wildlife during early morning hours. The riverside location attracts numerous bird species and occasional larger mammals. One camper noted, "It is a surreal view and area. Dispersed, no amenities, nothing but you, the dirt, rocks, tall pines and little critters."
Mountain hiking: Multiple unmarked trails branch out from Bald Mountain Campground, located 30 minutes above Highway 21. A visitor mentioned it's "Close to the bald mtn lookout," making it an excellent base camp for day hikes with summit views across the forest.
Fly fishing: The Payette River system offers excellent trout fishing opportunities near several forest campgrounds. According to one South Fork visitor, "There are huge fish in the river below and the water is unbelievably clear, albeit 40ft down from the camp sites in most areas."
What campers like
Natural sound barriers: Many tent sites feature sufficient space and vegetation between camping areas. At Whoop-em-up Equestrian Campground, campers appreciate the isolation: "Quiet with restroom and clean water. Lots of firewood laying around... heard running water in the distance."
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. One visitor to Edna Creek mentioned, "It's at about five thousand feet. It's a great place to cool off. Campground is shaded in most cases."
Off-season availability: Several forest campgrounds remain accessible during shoulder seasons. "We arrived on a friday night without reservations and there was plenty of space," reported one Whoop-em-up visitor in July, making these sites practical for spontaneous weekend camping trips from Boise.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Forest roads become progressively more difficult with elevation gain. An Edna Creek camper warned, "The last 20 or 30 minutes Beyond Idaho City going east is a pretty steep Winding Road and a little bit narrow. The longer your trailer and rig the more skill you will need to climb this route."
Limited facilities: Most tent-focused campgrounds offer basic amenities only. According to a visitor at Warm Springs Campground, "Campsites are all along a well-traveled forest road. If you don't mind the occasional car driving by at night, it is a good spot to spend the night."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise despite wilderness settings. One South Fork camper cautioned, "There's a shooting range near the highway and the airport. Guns going off random times all day and into the evening. Ruins the tranquility."
Tips for camping with families
Creek access sites: Locations with water features provide natural entertainment for children. A South Fork visitor shared, "Right along the river, all we heard was the sound of running water. Very big mountains around, plenty for hiking."
Fire safety preparation: Forest fire restrictions vary throughout summer. Campers should check current regulations before arrival and bring alternative cooking methods. One Whoop-em-up camper noted, "Lots of firewood laying around," but this may not be permitted during high fire danger periods.
Dog-friendly considerations: Many campers bring pets to forest campgrounds, but wildlife encounters require vigilance. One camper at Warm Springs mentioned, "Because it was so dusty, we decided to stay in our car rather than pitching the tent," highlighting how environmental factors affect family camping comfort with pets.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Several tent campgrounds have limited turning radius and small parking areas. An Edna Creek visitor explained, "It's more geared toward tent camping. There is limited space for larger RVs. There are no RV type amenities. Just vault toilets, picnic tables and campfire rings."
Access road conditions: High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most forest campgrounds. According to one camper, "It's a small cluster of sights on a loop road and again you'll need to maneuver tightly in a few of the corners. Definitely not for a large or long rigs."
Dispersed alternatives: RVers seeking more space can find dispersed sites along some forest roads. "You'll see a few turn outs, likely with several filled. This is US Forestry or BLM or both land," explained one South Fork visitor describing alternative camping options beyond established campgrounds.
