Tent campsites near Lake Fork, Idaho typically remain accessible from late May through October, with most high-elevation sites not clearing of snow until mid-June. Located within Payette National Forest, the elevation ranges from 5,000 to 7,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. Many campgrounds feature undeveloped sites with no reservation systems, requiring early arrival during summer weekends to secure spots.
What to do
Paddleboarding and kayaking: The calm waters of Brundage Reservoir provide excellent conditions for paddlesports. Brundage Reservoir Camping Area offers direct water access where "last year I wasn't able to get a spot near the lake but there is so many places to boondock up there," notes camper Sherilyn.
Mountain biking: The area serves as an excellent base for accessing mountain bike trails. Franklin R. explains, "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."
Hiking: Multiple trail systems connect from tent camping areas. At Lick Creek Area, camper Courtney R. shares that "Lick lake is a 3 mile hike into the wilderness and is gorgeous!" The trail climbs approximately 800 feet in elevation through forested terrain.
Hot springs: Several natural hot springs can be accessed from camping areas. Hannah C. at Fourmile Campground notes "About a mile and a half up the road is 16 mile hot springs which was wonderful!" These springs maintain temperatures around 100-105°F year-round.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Lake Fork support diverse wildlife populations. At Northwest Passage Campground, Cindy N. reports "We saw bald eagles, moose, deer and chipmunks." Most wildlife sightings occur during early morning or evening hours.
Riverside sites: Many campers appreciate access to water features. "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," explains a Northwest Passage camper.
Seclusion: The remote nature of many sites provides peaceful camping experiences. Kevin C. at Rapid Creek Dispersed Camping Area shares, "All in all, Rapid Creek dispersed camping is excellent if you just want a quiet place where no one is around. It's amazing but not for the reasons people usually like in my opinion."
Natural soundscapes: The ambient sounds of flowing water enhance many sites. Kevin C. continues, "You can't see rapid creek from the campground but you can hear it. And that's really just as good. The white noise from the creek matched with the occasional bird or other nature sound is one of the most relaxing things on the planet."
What you should know
Access challenges: Roads to remote sites often require high-clearance vehicles. A camper at Picnic Point notes it's "Quite a drive to this beautiful lake but apparently it is well liked by locals because it was crowded!"
Wildlife concerns: Beyond large mammals, small animals can create issues at campsites. At Penny Spring Campground, Lauri P. warns "The squirrels are out of control aggressive, worst I've had to contend with - ever. Make sure everything is secure in a bear canister &/or hung up off the ground, don't even turn your back on your food!"
Cold nights: Even in summer, temperatures drop significantly. Christopher R. at Granite Lake Camping Area describes it as "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." Nighttime temperatures can fall below 40°F even in August.
Limited facilities: Most sites provide minimal amenities. At Lick Creek, Courtney R. describes "Lick creek campground has 3 spots. One large one with stock holding. A CTX toilet and fire rings."
Tips for camping with families
Lake access options: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly water access. Shelly S. at Picnic Point shares "The water is crystal clear and fishing is popular. There is a trail that goes completely around the lake."
Extra mosquito protection: Insect populations can be dense, especially in early summer. Multiple campers mention bringing additional mosquito deterrents beyond just spray.
Temperature preparation: Parents should pack extra layers for children. As Kevin C. at Rapid Creek notes, "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule morning and evening wildlife observation times. At Northwest Passage, families regularly report moose sightings near water edges during dawn and dusk hours.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most tent campsites near Lake Fork can't accommodate larger RVs. At Granite Lake Camping Area, Christopher R. warns it's "not a great place if you need a RV to go camping." Most access roads restrict vehicles over 25 feet in length.
Cost considerations: Non-residents face higher fees at some sites. Michael G. at Northwest Passage Campground notes "$62. No hooks. No cell. Because I'm out of state," highlighting the premium charged to visitors from outside Idaho.
Road conditions: Unmaintained forest roads can challenge RVs. A camper at Penny Spring describes "The road surface through the campground is deep and very soft/fine dusty soil, any vehicle kicks up incredible amount of dust even at 2 mph."
Limited hookups: No sites in the immediate Lake Fork area offer electrical or water connections. RVers must be fully self-contained and prepared for dispersed camping conditions.
