Camping sites near Sweet, Idaho offer diverse options between 2,600 and 3,800 feet elevation, with significant temperature variations depending on site location. The Payette River corridor provides water access at multiple locations, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 45°F nights to 90°F days. Many campgrounds maintain seasonal operations from late May through early October with limited winter accessibility.
What to do
River activities along Payette River: At Riverlife RVing, campers enjoy direct river access. "Spent some time at the community firepit which was also very enjoyable," notes Barry S., who also mentions "fantastic views, great owners, and prime location." Many visitors appreciate fishing options when water levels decrease.
Visit historic small towns: The area surrounding Sweet contains several historic communities worth exploring. "The small towns of Sweet and Ola are within easy touring range. There's not a lot to see, but very historic and interesting," explains a camper who visited Montour WMA.
Mountain biking and hiking: Near Shafer Butte, campers can access trails and resort amenities. "Bogus Basin is very close. During the Summer Season they have scenic chairlift rides; inner tubing, mountain coaster, climbing wall, live music on weekends, food and beverage, mountain biking with lift service, mountain bike rentals, and hiking," explains Thomas K.
What campers like
Quiet riverside locations: Many camping sites near Sweet, Idaho provide peaceful water settings. Frank B. from Riverlife RVing appreciates "camping on the Payette River. Abundant wildlife and so wonderful and relaxing watching the river. Firepit available right beside the river."
Well-maintained facilities: Campers frequently mention cleanliness as a highlight. At Montour WMA Campground, Daniel P. notes: "What a beautiful spot! There are fire pits and picnic tables throughout. The sites are well shaded with ample space between each space. There is a Dump station, bathrooms, and lots of room for the kids to play."
Hot springs access: Beyond just camping, thermal springs attract many visitors. Price V. who stayed at Roystone Hot Springs RV and Camping advises: "Reserve in advance as well as reserving slots for the pool or hot tub, they only allow 25 people on the pool for 1 1/2 hour increments so it's not cramped."
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds require advance planning. At Roystone Hot Springs, "You must make a reservation. Grounds are well kept. 20 min drive to Emmett, ID. Reservations required to use the Hot Springs pool/tub," explains Denise F.
Road access considerations: Highway proximity affects noise levels at certain sites. Kurt Z. notes that at Swinging Bridge, there's "traffic noise during day, didn't notice at night" but also that it's a "very well maintained site with a clean pit toilet."
Seasonal limitations: Weather affects campground operations. Shafer Butte operates from June 15 to September 30, with early season challenges: "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," reports Tara L.
Tips for camping with families
Open, flat terrain for supervision: Parents appreciate campgrounds with visible boundaries. Jeff M. recommends Shafer Butte as the "perfect place to teach young ones the joy of camping; campground is open, mostly flat and easy to keep your eyes the tykes."
Sites with recreation space: Look for campgrounds that offer room for children's activities. Daniel P. highlights that Montour WMA Campground has "lots of room for the kids to play" making it suitable for family camping trips.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some locations offer family-oriented facilities. Joe R. who camped at Montour WMA reports: "Took a couple scouts up here for an overnight campout and had a good time. There are several fire pits, bathroom, and a fairly large field good for games."
Tips from RVers
Site access evaluation: RV campers should assess entry points before committing. The guide at Country Corners Campground "escorted to our gravel pull through site #6," according to Char P., who also praised the "clean facility: showers (good water pressure) and bathrooms."
Hookup availability: Electric, water and sewer connections vary significantly between campgrounds. Chelann L. notes Country Corners offers "some of the cheapest rates around the country" while including "24/7 free showers, and laundry @1.25."
Late arrival options: Some RV parks accommodate evening check-ins. Cole W. shares: "Traveling across the state and we looked for a place to roll into later in the evening. Called this campground to see if there were any spots available and talked to a very nice woman on the phone who was able to get us in a tent spot immediately."
