Situated at approximately 3,600 feet elevation, Ola, Idaho lies in a region characterized by mountainous terrain and the Payette River watershed. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Camping options range from riverside sites along the Payette River to mountain forest settings, with several locations offering glamping accommodations as alternatives to traditional tent camping.
What to do
River recreation on Payette River: The South Fork of the Payette River provides numerous recreational opportunities near Mountain View. "Beautiful view of the river from many sites. Reservations seem to be accepted but we did not have a reservation. We camped here to be near white water rafting. Consider rafting with payette river company 208-720-7039. They are awesome and take rafts out at the end of this campground," notes Jennifer T.
Fishing opportunities: Anglers can access multiple fishing spots throughout the area. At Cold Springs Campground, campers appreciate the proximity to fishing. "This is a small campground right off Highway 55 and across from the Payette River. There are 4 small campgrounds right in a row near here. There is plenty of shade and pretty good privacy," reports Amy S.
Wildlife observation: Many camping areas offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Nice campground. Some sites next to beautiful Payette River. Not very crowded on a Monday evening. Bald eagle flying up and down river!" shares Janet K. about her Mountain View camping experience.
What campers like
Water access and activities: Many glamping sites near Ola, Idaho provide direct water access. At Caldwell Campground and RV Park, "The bathrooms and showers are excellent! Clean, secure. The lakeside location and walking trails are beautiful. Feels like living outside of town but still close to everything town offers," according to Rachele B.
Proximity to town amenities: Several camping and glamping locations offer convenient access to nearby towns. Waters Edge RV Resort visitors appreciate this aspect. As Phillip C. notes, "Staff very friendly and accommodating. Sites are pretty level. Campground within walking distance to town, good river front area. Fairly quiet, we will come again!"
Recreation paths: The area features several designated trails and paths for walking, hiking and biking. "The Greenbelt, a 3 mile paved path can be accessed right at the front of the campground. It crosses an old train bridge and then runs along the water," explains Kelsey G. about Caldwell Campground.
What you should know
Site limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on RV size or tent placement. Cold Springs Campground has "Not much room for larger campers or RV, better for smaller campers and tents," according to Amy S.
Weather preparedness: The area can experience significant temperature fluctuations. "What a beautiful place, and location to spend a week in October. With all the fall colors in full display, brisk evening air perfect for a fall fire to warm yourself... though it was chili at night, and our pipes froze the last night, it was the best October birthday week we have had in a long time," shares a Waters Edge RV Resort camper.
Reservation requirements: Many sites, especially glamping accommodations, require advance booking. Eastside campground has specific reservation protocols. Jessica O. explains: "Group Campground, Reservation Only. Great spot for groups! Limited spaces and not super close together — which we love. View of the water is beautiful and there are many trees to provide shade for the entire campground."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: When glamping near Ola with children, seek sites with safe water entry points. "The tent sites are super close together and there is alot of highway noise. If you're looking for a quick site with amenities this is good though. It has shade and thats a huge plus," notes Benjamin about Caldwell Campground.
Playground amenities: Some camping areas include dedicated play areas. "Fun REC for kids, playground, and party fire pit area. Individual spots were extremely tight. Employee had to help us park (even though we didn't feel like we needed it)," mentions Isabel about Arrowhead RV Park on the River.
Site spacing considerations: Family groups should consider how close camping sites are to each other. "The sites are spaced far apart and very spacious. Campground host is great and the campground is clean. There are a few pull throughs which make it easy for RVs. The beach at the lake is lovely. Site #7 backs up to a large beach area," recommends Heidi C. about Rainbow Point.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some RV glamping sites near Ola have specific approach requirements. "The guide took us to our site. He had the people in the next site move their car so we could pull through and back in. Then he directed my husband pull through an area where there was a dead tree with the branches cut off," reports Karen G. about her challenging experience.
Leveling information: RVers should note site conditions regarding levelness. "Sites are all fairly close together with not a lot of privacy. The lake is beautiful, but expect noise from boats. The vault toilets were clean," advises Joshua D. about Rainbow Point.
Hookup quality: Check water and electric connections upon arrival. "We found the 30 amp outlet melted & broken and the 110 outlet blackened from spark damage. The office was closed but I managed to find a maintenance man to come look at the outlet," cautions Dave S. from his experience at Boise Riverside RV Park.
