11 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Whoop-Em-Up Equestrian Campground provides dedicated sites for horseback riders in the Boise National Forest near Horseshoe Bend. Located approximately 18 miles from Idaho City, this campground features vault toilets and drinking water, accommodating tent camping with ample space for horse trailers. The sites offer picnic tables and established fire rings in a quiet setting that feels removed from nearby Highway 21. Despite its proximity to the road, campers report a peaceful experience with plenty of trails directly accessible from the campground.
The extensive trail network surrounding Whoop-Em-Up connects riders to miles of forest terrain suitable for day rides of varying difficulty levels. Trails lead through mature pine forests with natural water sources available seasonally for horses. While no permanent corrals are provided, the campground layout allows for highlines and portable corrals in designated areas. Most sites remain first-come, first-served without reservations required. The campground typically sees moderate use during summer weekends but remains relatively uncrowded even during peak season. Forest roads provide good access for truck and trailer combinations, with enough room for turning and parking at most sites. Silver Creek offers another horse-friendly option north of Horseshoe Bend with riverside camping and trail access to mountain terrain.
"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
Check Availability"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. "
from $120 / night
Check Availability"This is a conveniently located campground near all the amenities of Idaho City. Miles of forest for hiking, exploring and fishing. "
from $35 / night
Check Availability"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 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. "
"Lots of firewood laying around. No cell service, except Mores Peak and Idaho City... No service in Lowman (only 1 mercantile with 2 pumps), but an absolutely gorgeous drive!"
"Nice and quiet campground close to highway 21. We arrived on a friday night without reservations and there was plenty of space."
"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
Check Availability"Clean grounds, clean toilets, and within walking distance to the hot spring pool. Highly recommend. Fishing wasn't too bad."
"Drove up to silver creek expecting that if we couldn’t get in we would boondock on the other side of which boasts acres and acres of opportunity all around to boondock."
from $15 - $150 / night
Check Availability"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!"
"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
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
Equestrian campgrounds near Horseshoe Bend, Idaho provide riders with direct trail access in the Boise National Forest. Located approximately 30 miles north of Boise at elevations between 3,000-4,500 feet, these camping areas typically open from late spring through fall. Winter conditions close many forest roads, making accessibility seasonal for most horse campers.
Trail riding from camp: Whoop-Em-Up Equestrian Campground connects to extensive trail networks allowing day rides of varying lengths. According to Michelle P., "Didn't hike, but plenty of trails due to horses and heard running water in the distance." Riders can access both established forest service trails and connect to more remote paths.
Fishing nearby: Silver Creek offers opportunities for anglers just north of Horseshoe Bend. Daniel S. notes, "Absolutely some really great trout fishing here... Right on the river though so could easily use that as a nice pool." The campground provides direct river access with minimal competition even during peak season.
Hot springs exploration: Several natural hot springs are accessible from camping areas in the region. Beth M. reports that "The real treasure is the nearby hot springs resort, The Springs at Idaho City. This is not a big kiddie swimming pool, rather it is a lovely, serene spot and by far one of the nicest in Idaho. They even serve IPA poolside!"
Quiet atmosphere: Cowboy Campground provides a peaceful setting near Idaho City. Amy S. describes it as "conveniently located near all the amenities of Idaho City. Miles of forest for hiking, exploring and fishing." Many campers appreciate the relative seclusion while maintaining proximity to small town services.
Natural water features: Multiple campgrounds offer creek or river access for cooling off. At Grayback Gulch Campground, John G. mentions, "Creek is a short walk away. Nice clean area. Bugs aren't bad." These water sources provide relief during hot summer months.
Cell connectivity: Unlike many forest locations, some campgrounds maintain surprisingly good service. Cam T. reports that at Grayback Gulch, he "Had 2 bars of Verizon good enough to stream on. Quiet campground with friendly people and clean amenities." This allows campers to stay connected while enjoying the outdoors.
Seasonal closures: Forest roads leading to Deadwood Campground and others have limited accessibility. Simran D. notes, "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."
Limited facilities: Most equestrian camping areas offer basic amenities. Ch C. observed at Whoop-Em-Up that it's a "Nice and quiet campground close to highway 21. We arrived on a friday night without reservations and there was plenty of space."
Fire restrictions: Conditions change throughout the camping season. Amy S. mentions that Whoop-Em-Up "is actually one of my favorite place to snow shoe in the winter" but summer fire rules vary based on conditions and can limit open flames.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Celebration Park provides excellent nature observation. Christine explains, "You will awaken to the sound of the ducks and geese and can watch hawks and ravens soar on the winds rushing through the gorge."
Space for children: Look for campgrounds with open play areas. John G. shares that Grayback Gulch is a "Really great place to take the family, bathrooms aren't bad but not great, definitely useable."
Historical exploration: Many areas feature historical sites for educational opportunities. Norm F. notes at Celebration Park, "there's an excellent hiking trail leading to Halverson Lake not far in, forming a 3.9-mile loop. For a more extensive hike, follow the river trail to discover old stone mini huts."
Size limitations: Cold Springs Campground accommodates smaller RVs better than large ones. Amy S. advises there's "Not much room for larger campers or RV, better for smaller campers and tents."
Level sites available: Will M. notes, "There really isn't too terrible of a spot to park a trailer. My 24' trailer and truck fit nicely" at Grayback Gulch Campground.
Bring sufficient water: Many horse camping areas have limited water hookups. While most provide drinking water for humans and horses, capacity may be restricted during dry periods requiring campers to bring supplemental water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Horseshoe Bend, ID?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Horseshoe Bend, ID is Grayback Gulch Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 9 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Horseshoe Bend, ID?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 equestrian camping locations near Horseshoe Bend, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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