Tent campsites near Cambridge, Idaho occupy varied terrain in the Payette National Forest region at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 7,000 feet. Camping season typically runs May through September, with most sites closing during winter months due to snow accumulation and freezing temperatures. Access roads to many dispersed sites become increasingly narrow and challenging after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Creek fishing opportunities: North Fork Campground in St. Charles Canyon provides easy access to nearby streams. "This beautiful campground lies close to the end of St. Charles Canyon near the Minnetonka Cave," notes reviewer Alan B., who appreciated the "ample room along with metal fire rings and picnic tables" at the tent sites.
Hot springs soaking: Maple Grove Hot Springs offers a unique camping experience with natural thermal pools. Reviewer Jordan H. states, "This is one of my favorite places on earth. They have tent sites, van sites and a selection of shelters to choose from. Camping gets you access to the hot springs from check in until 4pm the next day."
Mountain hiking access: Dispersed camping areas along forest roads provide direct trail access. Peter L., who stayed at Smithfield Dispersed Campsite, mentioned, "Stayed here for two nights, at the end of a dead end road, close to the creek. Real easy place to be."
What campers like
Secluded spots: Many campers value the privacy available at dispersed sites. Bobbie H. described North Fork Overflow as "back in the mountains a couple hours from civilization. Makes you thankful for the Idaho wilderness."
Creek-side locations: Proximity to water ranks high among camper preferences. "It's a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it. Would recommend," notes Brendan J. about camping options beyond the established Smithfield campground.
Amenities at established sites: Some campers prefer the basic facilities provided at designated campgrounds. At Cold Springs Campground, Austin H. found the scenery "breath taking" and enjoyed opportunities to "Camp, Creek fish, hunt there," though noted "the only down side is the narrow roads."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many forest roads narrow considerably and lack turnaround areas. Sarah C. warned about Smithfield Dispersed Campsite: "No warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground, or the trees are overgrown which scratched up my sides."
Limited space at dispersed sites: Most pull-off spots accommodate only small setups. According to a recent review, "Most of the spots are pretty small and would only work for one or two tents or maybe a couple of hammocks."
Seasonal restrictions: Camping areas at higher elevations have shorter seasons. Dry Canyon Campground operates from June to September and lacks water sources on site, with Alan B. noting it "had plenty of place for activities and many picnic tables close to a large cement fire place... Only downside is there's no water there."
Tips for camping with families
Group camping options: Seek locations with adequate space for multiple tents. Dry Canyon Campground is described as a "Great place for group campers" with "plenty of place for activities and many picnic tables."
Water access considerations: Sites near creeks provide both recreation and practical water sources. At Morgans Bridge Campground, reviewer C noted it's "Right next to the river. Would be a nice fall get away spot," though they caution to "expect rough ground" at walk-in camp spots.
Shade availability: Desert and open areas can become extremely hot in summer months. One camper mentioned Morgans Bridge has "Very little shade" despite being a "Great desert camping spot" with "plenty of picnic tables including an ADA table."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions for vehicles: Many camping areas near Cambridge cannot accommodate larger RVs. A reviewer at Smithfield Dispersed Camping reported "The only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied, and all of the car-sized spots were also taken."
Campground sections may be separated: Some campgrounds divide RV and tent camping areas. Alan B. observed at North Fork Campground: "It has 2 sections one of which is mainly for rvs and the 2nd which is for tents and camper Van's. The RV spots seemed kind of close but the tent sites had ample room."
Facility access considerations: Most dispersed camping lacks facilities entirely. At Secluded Maple Creek River Bottoms, while described as a "private oasis in the woods" that "feels secluded," campers should note you're still "6 min away from local amenities."
