Tent camping near Council, Idaho provides access to numerous primitive sites within the Payette National Forest. Most locations sit between 4,500 and 7,000 feet elevation, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. Access roads to many dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rainfall when dirt roads become rutted and slippery.
What to do
Mountain biking opportunities: Brundage Reservoir serves as an excellent base camp for mountain biking enthusiasts. Franklin R. notes, "We went here for mountain biking (if you go, check out Groupon for the lift) this campground was awesome because it was so close to Brundage resort, and the ski lift up, it was such an enjoyable stay, filled with awesome people!"
Lake activities: Paddleboarders and kayakers can access multiple water bodies in the region. At Northwest Passage Campground, Cindy N. reports, "The river is walking distance from all sites. It is perfect for paddle boarding kayaking and floating. There is a beach area for the campers that is perfect for kids to play and to relax and watch for floaters."
Hiking alpine trails: Several wilderness access points exist within 30 miles of Council. At Lick Creek Area, Courtney R. shares, "Lick lake is a 3 mile hike into the wilderness and is gorgeous!" Many trails open by late June but remain accessible only until first snowfall, typically mid-October.
What campers like
Waterfront accessibility: Direct lakeside camping draws many visitors to the area. Ted-Kelli T. describes Brundage Reservoir: "We then spotted a beautiful lake through the trees. Both of us, as well as our pup, were amazed as we made our way through some brush, at which point we saw an open spot right next to the water."
Privacy between sites: The forested terrain provides natural separation at many campgrounds. Cindy N. explains Northwest Passage Campground has "only 22 sites so not a huge amount of campers and most of the sites are pretty private with woods separating them."
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings enhance the camping experience throughout the Payette National Forest. Cindy N. reports, "The wild life there is abundant. We saw bald eagles, moose, deer and chipmunks." Wildlife activity increases near dawn and dusk at lower elevation sites.
What you should know
Water availability: Most dispersed camping areas lack potable water sources. At Paradise Campground, Ryan C. advises, "Make sure to bring all gear for dispersed camping and pack out everything! The creek is fast running, echoing throughout the canyon so fishing or swimming are not an option."
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for cold nights even during summer months. Kevin C. reports about Rapid Creek, "It's high enough in elevation that this place gets nippy at night. I stayed in early August and the temps dropped into the upper 30s at night."
Road conditions: Access routes to many sites deteriorate after rain or snow. Sherilyn notes about Brundage Reservoir, "The gps for this site was off. It says to take a left at the fork. But the reservoir is to the right. Just follow the posted sign."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for safety: Choose campsites with appropriate terrain for children. Ryan C. warns about Paradise Campground, "Most of these designated campgrounds are right off the fire roads which can be a bit exposed and tricky if you have children or dogs with you. As you continue to drive there are a few areas on the east side of the road which provide more privacy."
Beach access for kids: Some sites offer child-friendly water access. At Northwest Passage Campground, "There is a beach area for the campers that is perfect for kids to play and to relax and watch for floaters."
Insect protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in early summer. Cindy N. advises, "One downfall here is the amount of mosquitoes. They are large and thirsty. We came prepared this year with lots of mosquito spray and some thermoscell mosquito deterrent. It helped immensely."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many forest roads restrict larger vehicles. At Granite Lake Camping Area, Christopher R. notes it's an "awesome place for tent camping and hiking lots of trails to explore but not a great place if you need a RV to go camping."
Cost considerations: Out-of-state visitors face higher fees at developed sites. Michael G. comments about Northwest Passage Campground, "62$. No hooks. No cell. Because I'm out of state."
Arrival timing strategies: Competition for limited spots intensifies on weekends. Cindy N. recommends, "This campsite is non-reservable. It's first come first serve and usually very busy. The best time to get a spot is Sunday afternoon or Monday and Tuesday. Towards the weekends most spots are full."
