If you're looking for a place to pitch your tent near Nampa, look no further. Finding a place to camp in Idaho with your tent has never been easier. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Nampa's most popular destinations.
Swan Falls - Idaho Power is a solid spot for those looking to camp near the river in Idaho. This place offers some pretty stunning views, especially if you manage to snag a spot right by the water. The sunsets down in the canyon are something else, and if you're into stargazing, the minimal light pollution makes for some incredible starry nights.
The campground is free, which is always a bonus. It's got the basics covered with picnic tables, fire rings, and pit toilets. You won't find any electric or water hookups here, so come prepared. Pets are welcome, and you can have a campfire, which is great for those chilly evenings.
Fishing is a big draw here, with the dam providing some prime spots. There's also a little trail system that offers some nice views if you feel like stretching your legs. The historical power station buildings nearby add a bit of character and are worth a look.
Some visitors have mentioned that the area can get a bit buggy, especially near standing water, and there's not a lot of shade, so it can get pretty hot. But the scenery and the convenience of the location make it worth it. Just be mindful of the trash situation—pack out what you pack in to keep the place nice for everyone.
Overall, Swan Falls is a great spot for a quick getaway, especially if you're coming from Boise or Meridian. Whether you're into fishing, hiking, or just relaxing by the river, this place has a little something for everyone.
$28 - $43 / night
Shafer Butte is located atop the scenic Boise Ridge Mountains, near Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, at an elevation of 7,000 feet. Visitors enjoy hiking and biking on various trails in the surrounding area, and simply relaxing and taking in the area's beautiful views.
Popular activities in the area include hiking and mountain biking, the Mores Mountain Trail begins in the campground. This 2-mile interpretive nature trail is family friendly.
Popular activities in the area include hiking and mountain biking, the Mores Mountain Trail begins in the campground. This 2-mile interpretive nature trail is family friendly.
Shafer Butte offers scenic views of Deer Point, Mores Mountain and Shafer Butte summits, as well as the expansive valley below. The campground is situated among Douglas fir and aspen trees, which offer partial shade in most sites. Wildlife and summer wildflowers are abundant in the area.
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area is close by and offers more hiking and biking trails, as well as other summer activities, check out this link for more information http://bogusbasin.org. The Ridge to River trail system is near by as well, check out this link for more information http://www.ridgetorivers.org
$50 / night
This small campground is located in a partially restored 19th-century mining town. Please plan to bring your own water. Don't use the water running through the campground from Jordan Creek because it may contain mercury from prior mining activity in the area.
Overview: A stay at Cottonwood Campground enables guests to enjoy all the beauty and recreation offered around the Middle Fork Boise River and Arrowrock Reservoir. The tiny campground hosts 3 campsites. Weather is usually good from mid-May through late September and is easily accessible by car in good weather, although the road is sometimes rough and the drive can be seemingly long. Checking with the Mountain Ranger District (208-587-7961) on road conditions before heading out is recommended. Natural Features: The campground is situated just north of the reservoir along Cottonwood Creek. There is at a switchback of Forest Service (FS) roads 268 and 377. It is located less than a mile along FS road 377. Wildlife watchers may want to look for deer and elk. Waterfowl, eagles and osprey are attracted to the river. Recreation: Cottonwood Trail begins nearby, leading to Bald Mountain. Check the Idaho City Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for trails in the area that are open to hikers, equestrians, mountain bikers and off-road vehicles. Click here for an Idaho OHV safety message. Arrowrock Reservoir is a premier fishing destination in southwest Idaho. It offers excellent trout fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout. There are also good swimming holes. Big game hunting is a popular activity in season. The Middle Fork Boise River is just north of the campground and also offers great fishing.
ALERT - The Swirly Canyon segment of the South Fork Payette River stretch offers opportunities for camping and fishing in a scenic mountain area. The BLM's South Fork Recreation Site is an undeveloped camping spot along the river.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Nampa, ID?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Nampa, ID is Swan Falls - Idaho Power with a 3.9-star rating from 15 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Nampa, ID?
TheDyrt.com has all 15 tent camping locations near Nampa, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.
