Payette National Forest offers equestrian-specific campsites with accommodations for riders and their horses at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 8,000 feet. The forest contains over 1,200 miles of maintained trails accessible to horse riders, with terrain varying from gentle river paths to steep mountain slopes. Forest roads connecting campgrounds typically close during winter months due to snowfall.
What to do
Trail riding with water access: Kennally Creek provides accessible trails with creek access for watering horses. According to Max R., "After an hour of driving over a very bumpy and gravely road, you arrive at a serene camp ground. Its right next to a creek and is connected to some hiking loops."
Fishing opportunities: Silver Creek offers quality trout fishing access. Daniel S. notes, "Stayed here for a night completely alone. Once again some really great trout fishing here. Absolutely no shade for the sun. We were here in October so shade was not too important."
Explore backcountry by UTV: The forest roads near Iron Phone Junction Campground provide exploration options. As J C. explains, "You can explore a few miles on the roads by UTV or by pickup while exploring the Salmon River drainage or the Snake River drainage. Traveling to Pittsburgh Landing and Kirkwood from here is considered a short day ride."
What campers like
Remote locations: Many horse campgrounds near Payette National Forest offer isolation. Lance C. describes Buck Park Cabin: "In the summer, the long rough road into it is not for everyone. Scenery is good and very quiet. If you want remote with the bare basics, this is the place."
Mountain viewpoints: Windy Saddle provides panoramic vistas overlooking Hell's Canyon. Max L. shared, "We were the only campers at windy saddle and were able to get a perfect site at the head of the trail over looking hell's canyon and Heaven's gate. Had an absolutely gorgeous view of the devils peaks easy access to trails."
Wild edibles: Forest trails contain seasonal wild berries. Hannah C. reported finding "huckleberries and wild strawberries along the trail at the beginning of July" while visiting the Secesh Horse Camp area.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many equestrian camping areas requires high-clearance vehicles. J C. advises about Iron Phone Junction: "high clearance vehicle recommended - steep in places" and "Forest service maps are recommended for travel since a lot just circle back to start."
Limited services: Ruby Meadows Trailhead and similar areas have minimal facilities. Jersey G. mentions, "Great little campground, until the fire went through. Most of it survived, but fire damage is present adjacent to the road and along the trails."
Seasonal closures: Most horse campgrounds in Payette National Forest operate from late spring through early fall. For example, Kennally Creek has a season listed as "June to September" due to snowfall at higher elevations.
Tips for camping with families
Hot springs access: Silver Creek offers natural hot springs. Will M. notes, "Great campgrounds. Beautiful views. Clean grounds, clean toilets, and within walking distance to the hot spring pool."
Wildlife awareness: Bear and wolf activity occurs throughout the forest. Mikeal warns, "Be bear and wolf aware!" when describing their Memorial Day weekend stay at Silver Creek.
Creek swimming: Many campsites offer natural swimming holes. Mike L. describes Silver Creek: "Nice area to camp. Sparse trees. Swimming in the creek as well as pool. If you're needing cell reception it's spotty at best."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most equestrian campgrounds near Payette National Forest accommodate smaller RVs only. J C. points out that Iron Phone Junction has only "a few spots for smaller RV or campers."
Dusty conditions: Expect dry, dusty sites during summer months. One camper described Secesh Horse Camp as "Dope off grid, dusty, pretty, dusty, epic drive and views along salmon river to hidden gem Secesh river. Flat sites."
Recreational access: Windy Saddle Trailhead Campground connects directly to popular trails. Max L. appreciates the "easy access to trails, devils lake, Heaven's gate trail" directly from the campsite.
