Dispersed camping sites and established campgrounds near Corral, Idaho provide access to mountainous terrain between 4,500-6,500 feet elevation in the Boise National Forest. Most camping areas experience seasonal closures due to snow, with peak accessibility from June through September when daytime temperatures average 70-85°F. Winter conditions typically close high-elevation routes from November through April.
What to do
ATV exploration: Three miles of gravel road lead to Trinity View Resort, where campers can access extensive riding opportunities. "We had our E-Bikes and took some amazing rides through the valleys and mountains and still haven't explored all the areas available here," reports Billy M. The resort serves as a gateway to forest service trails.
Disc golf: Trinity View Resort maintains a disc golf course that doubles as a hiking trail. "Nice disc golf trail that I used for hiking with the dogs," notes Beth L. The course winds through the property with mountain views.
Hot springs access: Multiple natural soaking opportunities exist within driving distance of camping areas. At Baumgartner Campground, "The hot spring was super enjoyable, but the pines and river were also just as relaxing," according to Joshua D. Small soaking pools accommodate limited numbers at one time.
Fishing: Several campgrounds provide stream or reservoir access for fishing. The South Fork Boise River runs adjacent to Baumgartner Campground, while Little Camas Reservoir offers shoreline fishing. "It's on the edge of the lake so could potentially have good fishing," writes Dakota S.
What campers like
Solitude: Even during peak season, many camping areas maintain a quiet atmosphere. At Bowns Campground, "All weekend the campground was quiet and still had plenty of sites left over. We drove down the road into Featherville and the whole place was packed. It was amazing our campground still had room," notes Cody E.
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently report deer sightings near campsites. "Woke up at sunrise to find 4 deer wondering through," writes Sonja L. about her stay at Trinity View Resort. Cattle grazing also occurs in this region, with several reviews mentioning livestock encounters: "There is open grazing so we did have cattle close to our campsite by morning," reports Melanie about Little Camas Reservoir.
Cell service: Unlike many remote camping areas, several campgrounds maintain reasonable connectivity. Little Camas Reservoir offers "pretty decent cell service" according to Emily S., while at Trinity View Resort, "We have Verizon hot spot that worked perfectly and AT&T cell phones have good signal as well," reports Billy M.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Reservoir levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year. At Little Camas Reservoir, Sam C. noted, "Didn't end up staying since the water was so low." Water access can be challenging during late summer months.
Bug populations: Proximity to water means increased insect activity, particularly during warmer months. "I would recommend bringing bug repellent or a thermacell to ward off bugs," advises Emily S. about Little Camas Reservoir. Another camper noted, "Tons of bugs but not many mosquitoes" at the same location.
Winter access restrictions: Snow closes many roads from November through April. Jacob D. reports about Little Camas Reservoir, "In the winter it is not plowed, so you can't access it. Found out the hard way, lol."
Shoreline conditions: At Little Camas Reservoir, P S. warns, "Difficult to access the water as it is deep mud near the shoreline." Bring appropriate footwear for navigating marshy areas.
Tips for camping with families
Creek access for kids: Camp near water features for built-in entertainment. At Bowns Campground, sites sit along Big Smoky Creek, providing safe water play opportunities during summer months.
Heated pool option: Three Island Crossing State Park offers amenities uncommon in the region. "Gorgeous state park campground along the Snake River. Spacious sites, clean bathrooms, friendly camp hosts, and dog friendly," according to Sara S.
Museum visits: Three Island Crossing State Park features educational opportunities for children. "This park had an awesome museum area," notes Rachel G., while Corinna B. adds, "Once the visitor center opened up in the morning though, that was an absolute gem."
Wildlife education: Prepare children for wildlife encounters including deer and bears. "Lots of bears in the area and they love dr pepper so hide your soda," cautions Laurie W. about the Baumgartner area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds offer limited large-vehicle access. At Bowns Campground, one camper reports, "We stayed in Sites 4+5, we had plenty of room for a 21' trailer and a 32' motorhome in site 5 and 2 vehicles in site 4."
Road conditions: Approach gravel access roads with caution. For Trinity View Resort, Sonja L. notes, "Road to park has a 3 mile gravel road, took it slow so it was not bad."
Utility availability: Full hookup options remain limited in the region. Jon W. describes Baumgartner Campground: "Nice little campground with paid on one side and free FF on the other next to S. Fork Boise River. Paid side is paved road/spots."
Water and dump stations: Plan water usage carefully as services vary widely. Little Camas Reservoir features vault toilets but limited other amenities, with one camper noting, "There are vault toilets in two locations. No other facilities."
