The New Meadows area offers diverse camping spots at elevations between 3,800-6,000 feet, nestled within mountainous terrain near the Payette National Forest. Most camping areas remain open from late May through September, with higher sites receiving snow as early as October. Local camping costs range from free dispersed sites to $15-30 for established campgrounds with basic amenities.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Access the Goose Creek Falls trail directly from Last Chance Campground, a moderate 2.8-mile route to impressive falls. "The hike up the river to the falls is one of the better short hikes in the area but there is evidence of bears," notes one visitor, while another camper explains "the trail is exceptionally well designed and has boardwalks over muddy stretches."
Huckleberry picking: Harvest wild huckleberries from mid-July through August on trails surrounding camping areas. "This is a great place to access Goose Creek Falls. A great hike for the family. It is also a good place to pick Morels in the spring and Huckleberries in the summer," shares a Last Chance camper.
Fishing in smaller lakes: Try fishing at Brundage Reservoir or Lost Valley Reservoir for trout. At Lost Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping Area, one camper reports, "Great spot tucked into the trees. Some sites are a bit cramped, but enjoyable. Cool trails and nearby water to keep the kids occupied."
What campers like
Indoor amenities during bad weather: The McCall RV Resort offers unexpected comforts just 15 minutes from New Meadows. "Wow this park is amazing, very well run 10 out of 10 on this one. The indoor pool and spa and steam room made this my favorite park so far on our journey," writes one visitor.
Privacy between sites: While some campgrounds have tightly packed sites, others offer more seclusion. At Grouse Campground, campers appreciate the natural separation. "The campsite is clean and right by the water. There's a ton of access to hikes and different places around the lake. Hiking up to granite mountain lookout was a highlight," notes one review.
Clean facilities: Many campers comment on the well-maintained bathrooms in the area. "Ponderosa State Park receives more visitors than any other state park in Idaho. It is on a peninsula that juts into Payette Lake. In the summer you will find vast amounts of huckleberries, wonderful swimming, and many deer," shares a visitor to Peninsula Campground.
What you should know
Site availability and timing: The most popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. "Plan ahead and book early. Great campsites with full hook ups and amenities. Much to do around McCall, yet this campground is good for resting and enjoying the outdoors," recommends a Peninsula camper.
Water level changes: Lake levels drop throughout summer at several reservoirs. At Lost Valley Reservoir, "The road continues along the lake edge and over a small dam. There are several small, dirt access roads that lead to the lakes edge with camping sites at the end of each. Several roads are VERY rough and have deep ruts in them."
Road conditions: Many camping areas require navigating unpaved roads. At Cold Springs Campground, "The road and drive spurs are gravel, but nice and not too dusty. People were pretty good about driving slow around the loop which was nice."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Look for sites with safe swimming areas for children. "PSP is a great place to stay or spend a day at. There is great lake access, hiking trails, and the Ponderosa's are superb! I like to go to PSP during the 'off-season' to avoid the crowds," advises a Peninsula Campground visitor.
Bug protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic in early summer. "Campground is well maintained and provides access to toilets and water (hand pump). Nice fire rings and picnic tables at each site. But the sites are close together and the mosquitos were swarming," notes a Cold Springs camper.
Campground activities: Some sites offer special amenities for kids. "Great RV park! Park has a food truck on the property which was a nice treat. Clean showers and laundry service. Also have decent phone service for the area," explains a visitor to Black Bear RV Park.
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Many forest service roads have tight turns and clearance issues. "Spent Labor Day weekend here. Close to lost lake. A bit tight road around the camp, but I've seen 5th wheelers in there. Clean sites, even some ADA sites. When you see the sign, hang a left or it's 2 more miles before you can turn around with a trailer," advises a Cold Springs visitor.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited to commercial campgrounds near McCall. "Close to McCall, several pull-thrus; even indoor hot tubs! No restaurant but you'll be close to many great ones," notes a visitor to McCall RV Resort.
Parking assistance: Some RV parks provide help with parking. "Great place where there are lots of amenities. Escorted to our spot and helped us back in. Cable as well. We had bad weather, but the site, 115, felt pretty isolated," shares another McCall RV Resort camper.
