Cascade and McCall offer several yurt camping options with views of mountains and water access. Campers can choose from glamping-style accommodations situated at elevations between 4,700-5,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F while nights cool to 45-55°F, creating comfortable conditions for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Cascade: Rainbow Point Campground provides direct lake access with a "lovely" beach area perfect for swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking. "The sites are spaced far apart and very spacious. Campground host is great and the campground is clean," notes Heidi C., adding that "the beach at the lake is lovely."
Fishing opportunities: Cold Springs Campground offers easy Payette River access for anglers. Located across from the river and just off Highway 55, this campground provides shaded sites with "pretty good privacy" according to Amy S. The campground is "very simple and tranquil" as described by Andrew B., making it ideal for those seeking quieter fishing spots.
Hiking trails: Northwest Passage Campground in Ponderosa State Park connects to numerous trails with wildlife viewing opportunities. "The wild life there is abundant. We saw bald eagles, moose, deer and chipmunks," reports Cindy N. The campground sits within walking distance to the river, which is "perfect for paddle boarding kayaking and floating."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Eastside campground receives consistent praise for maintained amenities. "Great sites has a restroom and drinkable water. Close to hiking and the lake," explains Tim M. Jessica O. adds that the "view of the water is beautiful and there are many trees to provide shade for the entire campground."
Privacy between sites: Rainbow Point Campground offers well-spaced campsites that reduce noise from neighbors. "The sites are spaced far apart and very spacious," notes a reviewer. Another camper mentions the campground is "convenient to Donnelly and McCall, and quite close to Tamarack Resort (7 minutes), if you are riding there."
Pet-friendly options: Several campgrounds welcome pets, with Waters Edge RV Resort offering dedicated dog walking trails. A reviewer notes, "We returned here after staying a few years ago. Staff very friendly and accommodating. Sites are pretty level. Campground within walking distance to town, good river front area."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most yurt camping facilities near Mesa operate between May and October. Farewell Bend State Recreation Area campground remains open year-round, providing an exception for off-season visitors. "Though not free like the dispersed camping the dog and I were doing the days before this, it was a treat to have warm showers, bathrooms, a fenced dog exercise area," writes Emma K.
Reservation requirements: Group yurt facilities like those at Osprey Point require advance booking. During peak summer months (June-August), campsites fill quickly, especially on weekends.
Mosquito presence: Northwest Passage Campground has reports of significant mosquito activity. "One downfall here is the amount of mosquitoes. They are large and thirsty," explains a camper who recommends bringing "lots of mosquito spray and some thermoscell mosquito deterrent."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Arrowhead RV Park on the River provides family-focused amenities including riverside sites. A reviewer describes it as a "Family oriented destination. Big group fun," while another notes the park has a "Fun REC for kids, playground, and party fire pit area."
Swimming areas: Waters Edge RV Resort features a designated beach area with lounge chairs. A visitor explains there's "showers, toilets, beach area for swimming WITH lounge chairs, swimming right in front, volleyball court, dog walking trails, fire pits, horse shoe play area."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Plan morning or evening walks for best wildlife sightings. Parents should supervise children near water, especially at Rainbow Point where boat traffic creates potential hazards. "Good camping close to Town, mountain biking, restaurants, and lake. Be cautious about lake conditions before swimming or letting dogs swim," advises Amanda C.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Waters Edge RV Resort offers leveled sites suitable for larger RVs. "We returned here after staying a few years ago. Staff very friendly and accommodating. Sites are pretty level. Campground within walking distance to town, good river front area," notes Phillip C.
Hookup availability: Some campgrounds like Cold Springs have limited space for larger vehicles. Amy S. notes there's "Not much room for larger campers or RV, better for smaller campers and tents." Travelers with larger rigs should consider Rainbow Point which has "a few pull throughs which make it easy for RVs."
Winter considerations: Prepare for freezing temperatures if camping in early spring or late fall. A visitor to Waters Edge RV Resort shares: "it was chili at night, and our pipes froze the last night," despite enjoying their October stay with "all the fall colors in full display, brisk evening air perfect for a fall fire to warm yourself."
