Cabin camping near Donnelly, Idaho offers visitors access to the Payette Lake area at elevations between 4,800-5,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day and drop to 40-50°F at night. Most cabin rentals in this region operate seasonally from late May through mid-October, with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Ponderosa State Park area features multiple trails for all skill levels. "Be sure to check out the hiking trails and visit the Lily Marsh, Meadow Marsh, and Osprey Point. In the winter, the park offers great snowshoe trails, and groomed trails for cross-country skiing and skate skiing," notes Hannah C.
Swimming spots: The lake water clarity at Warm Lake Campground makes it ideal for summer recreation. "The water is crystal clear and fishing is popular. There is a trail that goes completely around the lake but we turned back when a snake crossed our path," reports Shelly S. The swimming area is designated and separate from motorized boat use.
Winter activities: Cabins near Ponderosa State Park remain open year-round for winter recreation access. "PSP is a great place to stay or spend a day at. I like to go to PSP during the 'off-season' to avoid the crowds. Heading out in the winter, there are great snowshoeing and Nordic skiing options," explains Celine K.
What campers like
Shade coverage: Visitors appreciate the mature tree canopy at many cabin sites. At Alpine Lodge and RV, "The park has mature trees providing ample shade throughout the day. Most sites have a concrete patio and grassy area," according to Cande D. This helps during hot summer days when temperatures can reach the mid-80s.
Lake access: Many cabins sit within walking distance of water. The Shoreline Campground offers waterfront options. "Nice spots, big, flat, clean and paved. Good privacy between sites. Beautiful lake with swimming area and lots of fishing. Lake isn't too rough... good for paddle boarding," reports Kim H.
Indoor amenities: For those seeking more comfort, some cabin rentals include additional facilities. "The indoor pool and spa and steam room made this my favorite park so far on our journey," notes a reviewer at McCall RV Resort. Some locations include enhanced indoor features during shoulder seasons when temperatures drop significantly at night.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for summer cabin stays. "A prime spot to camp in McCall. Plan ahead and book early. Great campsites with full hook ups and amenities," advises Lisa O. about Peninsula Campground. Peak season reservations should be secured 6-9 months in advance.
Privacy levels: Cabin proximity varies significantly between sites. "This campground boasts lovely showers and bathrooms. All well and good if you like to be in a fishbowl. There is no privacy between camp spaces," notes Jamie H. about Peninsula Campground. Research site maps before booking if privacy is important.
Off-season advantages: Shoulder seasons offer quieter experiences with fewer crowds. At Clear Creek Station, "There was plenty of space even though it was Labor Day weekend. The showers/toilets for the men were broken so the lady showers/bathrooms were shared. They were clean," reports Xander V. Most facilities reduce services after mid-September.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Families with children have several designated swimming areas. At Waters Edge RV Resort, they offer a "beach area for swimming WITH lounge chairs, swimming right in front, volleyball court, dog walking trails, fire pits, horse shoe play area," according to C.W.
Playground access: Some cabin areas include dedicated play spaces. "Fun REC for kids, playground, and party fire pit area," notes Isabel about Arrowhead RV Park, though she cautions that "Individual spots were extremely tight."
Fishing locations: Multiple fishing spots accommodate beginners. "For any fisherman, as you leave the park go right about 2 miles to a parking area for Brown Pond. I caught my limit in 20 minutes, and earthworms hanging two feet down from a bobber is the ticket," advises a reviewer at McCall RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most cabin areas with RV sites feature level pads. "Nice paved road. Sites have plenty of space between you and your neighbors. Fishing, swimming, the store is close if you need the basics. Room for your RV," states Mike L. about Warm Lake Campground.
Utilities availability: Electric service varies between locations. At Paddy Flat Guard Station, electricity and sewer hookups are available in the cabin but water must be hauled in during winter months. Check in advance as seasonal changes affect utility access.
Noise factors: Road proximity can affect some cabin locations. At Alpine Lodge, "We were on the Main Street side of the RV park. There is a wee bit of road noise during the day. It is quiet at night," notes Cande D., adding that sites farther from the road are generally quieter.
