Whoop-em-up Equestrian Campground accommodates horse camping with multiple facilities specifically designed for riders and their animals. Located in the Boise National Forest near Idaho City, this campground provides toilets, drinking water, and picnic tables with trail access for riders. The campground maintains fire rings and permits fires when conditions allow. Sites accommodate tents rather than large RVs, making this an ideal destination for traditional horse camping. Trails directly accessible from the campground connect to the broader forest trail system. The area remains open year-round with sites well-spaced apart for privacy. Campers note the campground's quiet atmosphere and clean amenities make it suitable for multi-day riding excursions.
Trail riders access extensive riding opportunities throughout the Boise National Forest from this location. The forest maintains multiple trail systems suitable for various experience levels, from novice riders to those seeking challenging terrain. Horse trailer parking accommodates standard-sized rigs, though very large trailers may find limited suitable spaces. Group equestrian camping is possible with advance planning. Water sources for horses include drinking water facilities on site. The campground's elevation provides cooler temperatures during summer months compared to nearby Eagle. Sites are first-come, first-served, with no horse corral facilities—riders typically use highlines or portable corrals. The Idaho City area offers additional supplies and services approximately 10 minutes from the campground for emergency tack or feed needs.
"Close to the road but not noisy. Close to Idaho City, which has awesome little spots. Shady, no morning sun. The real treasure is the nearby hot springs resort, The Springs at Idaho City."
"This is a great campground between Boise and Idaho City. "
from $8 - $15 / night
"It is remote and wild with non-stop views from every site and many outdoor activities nearby."
"Sites are next to the river and have amazing views of the surrounding terrain. Trash cans are located at each designated site as well as a level area to set up."
from $2 - $5 / night
"Dyrt found this gem of a free waterfront site while passing through SW Idaho."
"Both the idaho power side and further down the gravel road gives you numerous options for camping. Dam makes for great fishing too!"
"This is a conveniently located campground near all the amenities of Idaho City. Miles of forest for hiking, exploring and fishing. "
from $35 / night
"The hosts were kind enough to let me stay the evening anyway because it’s so far off the beaten path and I’m self-contained in my car with no need for amenities."
"I’m traveling with two big dogs who hate the heat, it’s been over a 100° for about a week around the region and this place made it bearable."
from $5 / night
"One of my favorite campgrounds in all of Idaho. The road out to Deadwood is only open a few months of the year. While the road out can be a little rough, the campground is well worth it."
"Just 6 sites here (try and get #6, it’s really close to the river) on a traditional and ancient campsite that Native Americans used for a long time."
"This is a small campground right off Highway 55 and across from the Payette River. There are 4 small campgrounds right in a row near here. There is plenty of shade and pretty good privacy. "
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $120 / night
"This campground is near Highway 21 but far enough off the road for a quiet camping experience. Lots of room for all kinds of vehicles and choices of camping styles here. "
"Its pretty close to the snake river, and at the trailhead of a non vehicle trail. Its after Celebration Park on Victory Ln, you drive around the park and it turns into a dirt road."
"Not much elevation difference, on a good path."
GuideThis is such a nice place, the river is accessible at many points near camp, the spots are big and maintained, toilets clean, there’s a little floating dock, and the birds of prey reserve is there. Plus the museum area walking distance from camp is really neat. There’s no shade at all. We were roasting in 100 degree plus weather and had to leave. Otherwise it would have been super if it had a little shade relief.
ScoutIt’s was in the 90s when we arrived. Site was mostly clean, a couple bottle caps left behind and a drink cup in the fire ring. Ground was not flat, so our tent was slightly tilted. Very dusty and hot but quiet and overall clean. The toilets were thankfully well maintained, 6 rolls of toilet paper in toilet #4 and we got there toilet #3 had a sign that said wet paint. But #4 was close enough to our reserved spot 5, I’m glad I didn’t have to make a long trek, LOL. The road coming in is vary narrow and I’m surprised we never crossed paths with another car. It got cold later on at night thankfully and going to The Springs was the best decision we made since it helped cool us off. Overall our first camping trip was smooth sailing. Would come back again.
GuideSmall trailer friendly campground. Beautiful trees, good shade, and well maintained. We were in site 13 and loved it here! Easy to back in .
GuideDry and hot. Sites were ok. Can handle RV. A large RV might be hard.
TravelerThis place is a gem! Camping is only $5 a night and the sites are very nice. The only thing lacking is shade, but you have access to the snake river, which in the summertime, is very refreshing. There is also a trail that goes for miles along the river, passing many archaeological sites.
GuideVery nice established sites with trash service and restrooms at the boat ramps. Sites are just about right on the water and each has a fire pit and table.
TravelerCame out for one night. Bathrooms were clean. The bridge was eerie, no ghost train this visit, maybe next time. Coffee next to the river was refreshing. Overall great stay.
GuideEasy to find, clean and quiet. Second time staying here, right on the river.
GuideBig campground with alot to choose from. Some covered spots with trees etc. And others that are more open. The showers have good hot water, they have a pool but it wasn't open during this visit. The hike to the caves is awesome
Whoop-em-up Equestrian Campground sits at approximately 4,500 feet elevation in the Boise National Forest, offering cooler temperatures than nearby Eagle during summer months. The area features pine forests interspersed with meadows that create natural riding areas for equestrians. Trail systems connect directly to the campground, allowing riders immediate access to forest exploration without trailer loading.
Trail riding and hiking: The Boise National Forest trail system provides extensive riding opportunities directly accessible from Whoop-em-up. As one camper reports, "Quiet with restroom and clean water. Lots of firewood laying around. No cell service, except Mores Peak and Idaho City... heard running water in the distance" at Boise National Forest Whoop-em-up Equestrian Campground.
Fishing in nearby waters: Deadwood Reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities about 30 miles from the equestrian camping areas. A visitor notes, "The water from the reservoir is great for swimming, fishing and boating. There are trailheads that start right from within the campground. If you're lucky you might even hear a pack of wolves howling across the reservoir" at Deadwood Campground.
Visit historic sites: Idaho City, just 10 minutes from equestrian camping areas, contains preserved historic buildings. "The town's people we met were amazing. The site takes donations but the city will tell you $10/night" notes a camper discussing the region's historical areas.
Privacy between sites: Equestrian campsites in the area typically offer good spacing between camping spots. A camper at Cold Springs notes, "There is plenty of shade and pretty good privacy. Not much room for larger campers or RV, better for smaller campers and tents" at Cold Springs Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds serving horse riders maintain basic but functional amenities. "Nice and quiet campground close to highway 21. We arrived on a friday night without reservations and there was plenty of space" reports a visitor to Whoop-em-up Equestrian Campground.
Escape from connectivity: Many equestrian camping areas provide a true digital detox. A camper mentions, "No cell service, except Mores Peak and Idaho City... No service in Lowman (only 1 mercantile with 2 pumps), but an absolutely gorgeous drive!"
Seasonal considerations: Campgrounds at higher elevations have limited accessibility during winter months. "The road out to Deadwood is only open a few months of the year. While the road out can be a little rough, the campground is well worth it," explains a visitor at Grayback Gulch Campground, noting "Sites are well spaces apart. A quit spot."
Insect activity: Horse-friendly camping areas often have insects, particularly during warmer months. A camper notes, "Only downside is the flies late morning to evening. But overall an awesome 2 days of peace and quiet and no cell."
Trailer parking limitations: Horse trailer accommodations vary between sites. One camper advises, "Four wheel drive is recommended. The campground itself is serene, with so much to do!"
Day trips from camp: Plan activities that allow you to base from camp while exploring surrounding areas. "We visited Idaho City, Placerville, Centerville, and Pioneerville. Took one day to see Kirkham hot springs," suggests a camper describing regional exploration options from Celebration Park.
Water activities: Nearby waterways provide cooling options during summer months. A camper notes, "It is hot during the day, which I love...just warning. Lots to do and to see, quiet during the day but cows crying at night."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain nights offer exceptional astronomical viewing. "I recommend taking a hike at dark across the bridge and up the Mesa and stargaze. Good hiking that is pretty flat and mtn biking as well."
Site selection for horse trailers: Most equestrian camping areas have limited spaces for larger combined rig setups. "We were able to get into the last or furthest campsite up stream. We were able to launch our kayaks for fishing and paddling for a couple of days. It is dry camping with no hookups," explains a camper at Swan Falls - Idaho Power about finding suitable parking.
Water access challenges: Plan for limited water hookups at most equestrian sites. A visitor notes, "The drive down from the top is pretty steep. Ensure your vehicle is powerful enough to pull your rig back up the grade."
Campground approach roads: Access roads to horse-friendly camping areas often require careful navigation. "A front wheel drive sedan can do this drive, but the road is bumpy. It was dry when I went to maybe if it's muddy it would be more treacherous."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Eagle, ID?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Eagle, ID is Grayback Gulch Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 9 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Eagle, ID?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 equestrian camping locations near Eagle, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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