Mores Creek in the Boise National Forest serves as a gateway to wilderness recreation 45 minutes northeast of Boise. The area features diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 7,500 feet, creating multiple climate zones for year-round camping opportunities. Winter conditions can limit accessibility to high-elevation campgrounds from November through April, with snow levels affecting road conditions.
What to do
Trail riding and horseback exploration: Whoop-Em-Up Equestrian Campground connects directly to extensive forest trails. "Lots of trails due to horses and heard running water in the distance," notes camper Michelle P. The surrounding area offers numerous options for equestrian camping near Boise, Idaho with varied terrain.
Fishing in Snake River Canyon: Swan Falls - Idaho Power provides excellent fishing opportunities. "Fishing was awesome. I caught quite a few smallies, but they were on the smaller side. Still fun to catch," reports Ed E. The dam creates prime conditions for bass fishing along this stretch of the Snake River.
Archeological exploration: Celebration Park features ancient petroglyphs and historical artifacts. "There are a lot of activities there including hiking, swimming, fishing, the information center and atlatl throwing. There are also petroglyphs in the area," writes Amy S. The park includes interpretive trails explaining the site's cultural significance.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area surrounding Deadwood Campground offers diverse wildlife encounters. "Wonderful place to kayak out and watch the osprey dive for dinner," says Laurie W. "If you're lucky you might even hear a pack of wolves howling across the reservoir," adds Simran D.
Hot springs access: Multiple natural hot springs are located within driving distance of several campgrounds. "You aren't too far from several hot springs too," notes Annie C. about Deadwood Campground. Another camper mentions, "The real treasure is the nearby hot springs resort, The Springs at Idaho City" when describing amenities near Grayback Gulch.
Star viewing: The limited light pollution makes this region ideal for astronomy. "Excellent place for stargazing, but avoid the sites closest to the visitor center where the lights interfere with prevent perfect darkness," advises Christine about Celebration Park. Several campgrounds offer unobstructed sky views from higher elevations.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to Grayback Gulch Campground and other forest sites requires preparation. "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. Many forest roads remain unpaved and can become challenging after rainfall.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies throughout the region. "No cell service, except Mores Peak and Idaho City... No service in Lowman (only 1 mercantile with 2 pumps), but an absolutely gorgeous drive!" reports Michelle P. Verizon typically provides the most reliable coverage in outlying areas.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat impacts lower elevation sites significantly. "Very hot with little to no shade. The best part of this place is watching the birds of prey and the scenic canyon views," writes Laurie W. about Swan Falls. Spring and fall typically offer more moderate temperatures for camping comfort.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Reservoirs and rivers provide swimming opportunities during summer months. "The water from the reservoir is great for swimming, fishing and boating," notes Simran D. about Deadwood. Children should always be supervised near water as currents can be unpredictable.
Educational experiences: Halverson Bar/Lake offers nature education opportunities. "Easy hike to a stocked pond. Not much elevation difference, on a good path," reports Miah M. Many locations feature interpretive trails highlighting local ecology and history.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include built-in entertainment options for children. "This is a really nice area for families to fish and hike. The area is kept clean and everyone is super nice," shares Nick P. about Swan Falls. Picnic areas often adjoin play structures at established campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Finding level parking at Whoop-Em-Up and similar equestrian campgrounds requires planning. "Sites are well spaces apart. A quiet spot," notes Kiwi S. Most horse-friendly sites accommodate smaller trailers better than large rigs.
Dump station availability: Limited waste disposal options exist in the region. "We stayed in site 14 for four days. Clean bathrooms. We visited Idaho City, Placerville, Centerville, and Pioneerville. Took one day to see Kirkham hot springs. There really isn't too terrible of a spot to park a trailer. My 24' trailer and truck fit nicely," shares Will M. about camping at Grayback Gulch.
Power considerations: Most forest campgrounds lack hookups. "Had 2 bars of Verizon good enough to stream on. Quiet campground with friendly people and clean amenities," reports Cam T. Solar options work well in open areas, while generators may be restricted at certain times or locations.
