Tent camping near Idaho City offers remote forest experiences at elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet in the Boise National Forest. Campers can expect cool summer temperatures with nighttime lows dropping into the 40s even in July and August. Access roads to many campsites require careful navigation on narrow forest service routes with occasional washboard conditions.
What to do
Fishing access: The South Fork Recreation Site provides direct river access with exceptional fishing opportunities. "There are huge fish in the river below and the water is unbelievably clear, albeit 40ft down from the camp sites in most areas," notes Jonathan A.
Winter yurt stays: Idaho City Yurts offer year-round backcountry accommodations with hiking or cross-country skiing required for access. "You need to bring everything but a bed and stove, which are in the yurt. Lots of hiking or cross-country skiing in the area," explains Amy S.
Mountain biking: Trails near Shafer Butte connect to Bogus Basin Mountain Resort's extensive trail system. "Bogus Basin is very close. During the Summer Season they have scenic chairlift rides, mountain coaster, climbing wall, mountain biking with lift service, mountain bike rentals, and hiking," shares Thomas K.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities to spot deer, elk, and various bird species throughout the forest. Early morning hikes offer the best chance for wildlife sightings, especially along creek corridors.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Whoop-em-up Equestrian Campground attracts campers seeking solitude without cell service interruptions. "Quiet with restroom and clean water. Lots of firewood laying around. No cell service, except Mores Peak and Idaho City... an absolutely gorgeous drive!" writes Michelle P.
Family-friendly layout: Shafer Butte features an open campground design that parents appreciate. "Perfect place to teach young ones the joy of camping; campground is open, mostly flat and easy to keep your eyes the tykes," reports Jeff M.
Riverside camping: The South Fork Recreation Site offers riverside camping with the constant sound of flowing water providing a natural soundtrack. "Right along the river, all we heard was the sound of running water. Very big mountains around, plenty for hiking," notes Shariah T.
Natural shade: Most tent sites feature substantial pine tree cover, creating comfortable daytime temperatures even during hot summer months.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most primitive tent sites provide basic facilities only. "Just vault toilets, picnic tables and campfire rings. I believe there is also a water pump," explains Amy S. about Edna Creek.
Unpredictable conditions: Early season camping may encounter unmaintained sites. "We came here the first weekend of the summer it was open, so it was definitely cold. Our campsite hadn't been used since fall, so it was pretty overgrown when we got there and we had to our our tent on top of smashed down long grass," explains Tara L.
Road challenges: Access requires careful driving, with steep sections on Highway 21. "The last 20 or 30 minutes Beyond Idaho City going east is a pretty steep Winding Road and a little bit narrow. The longer your trailer and rig the more skill you will need to climb this route," warns Mike E.
Water availability: Only Whoop-em-up and Edna Creek provide drinking water pumps. All other tent sites require bringing sufficient water or filtration systems.
Tips for camping with families
Smaller campgrounds: Cottonwood Campground offers just three sites, creating a more controlled environment for families. "This is a super small campground with only three sites. Getting there, you will need to look for FS 377. The road is not very long and it's easily passable by any vehicle in decent mechanical condition," explains Allison W.
Tent-only advantages: Several of the best tent camping areas near Idaho City prohibit RVs, creating a quieter atmosphere. "I like this campground because it is more geared toward tent camping. There is limited space for larger RVs," notes Amy S.
Educational opportunities: The nearby Bald Mountain fire lookout provides educational hiking destinations within a 30-minute drive of the highway, perfect for day trips with children.
Temperature planning: Higher elevation campgrounds experience significant temperature drops at night, even in summer. Pack extra layers and warm sleeping bags for children regardless of season.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Bald Mountain Campground and similar forest service campgrounds typically can't accommodate larger rigs. "Nice primitive USFS site. It's about 30 min above the highway so a bit far," notes Dominik S.
Longer access times: Most tent-oriented campgrounds require additional driving time from Highway 21, adding 20-30 minutes of travel on forest service roads that may be challenging for larger vehicles.
Limited maneuverability: Edna Creek has tight corners on its loop road. "Again you'll need to maneuver tightly in a few of the corners. Definitely not for a large or long rigs," cautions Mike E.
Water access concerns: No RV hookups are available at any of the forest service campgrounds near Idaho City, requiring self-contained water systems for overnight stays.
