Glamping accommodations near Payette, Idaho sit at elevations between 2,000-2,500 feet with mild summers and cold, sometimes snowy winters. The Snake River forms the western border of the region, creating opportunities for water activities during the summer months when temperatures reach 90°F. Proximity to multiple reservoirs makes this area popular for fishing enthusiasts throughout spring and fall.
What to do
Riverside fishing access: At Rivers Edge RV Park, campers can fish directly from the shoreline or private docks. "Our first camping trip for 2022. Rivers Edge RV park was available and made a no hassle, easy on line reservations. I enjoyed the fact that you can kayak from the camp area on the Snake River, and within just a couple miles, you officially kayaked to Oregon," notes camper Matt S.
Biking on paved greenbelts: The Caldwell-Boise corridor offers paved cycling paths connecting to campgrounds. At Caldwell Campground and RV Park, "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," according to reviewer Kelsey G.
Stargazing in remote areas: The less developed camping areas provide exceptional night sky viewing away from city lights. "Very hot with little shade. Large camping spots. Lots of cute little snakes. Great for star gazing and searching for thunder eggs," writes Laurie W. about Succor Creek State Natural Area.
What campers like
Private river access: The direct water access points are highly valued by visitors seeking glamping close to Payette. "The water was so warm I swam at midnight! That's 5 stars," reports Mary D. about Rivers Edge RV Park, noting the comfortable water temperature even after dark.
Well-maintained grassy areas: Unlike many desert campgrounds, several sites near Payette feature irrigated grass. "What a wonderful place to stay. Spent 9 delightful days sitting under the trees or out by the river. The grounds are well kept and the grass is GREEN! They water just about, if not, every day!" reports Lawrence P. about Snake River RV Resort.
Proximity to vineyards: The agricultural area around Payette includes wineries within short driving distance. "We found a local vineyard that is a pleasure to visit. Good food, good wine and a great view of the vineyard while eating," shares Matt S. about his stay near Payette.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Quality of restroom facilities differs drastically between locations. "The bathrooms... horror movie material! Showers, I'm pretty sure have never been cleaned. There was large mice or rat feces every where. Spiders in the showers," warns Geneva B. about Rivers Edge RV Park.
Weather conditions can be extreme: Summer heat and wind can impact camping comfort. "We had reserved a spot in C loop with a view of the water but it was so windy when we got there the site was not very comfortable. The camp host graciously let us move up to B loop, since it wasn't very busy mid-week. Thank goodness we did, it was the windiest night I've ever experienced camping," writes Caitlyn R. about her stay at Farewell Bend State Recreation Area.
Insects can be problematic: Mosquitoes are particularly abundant in certain areas. "Well-kept state park. No playground for kids. Dog park. Very quiet. Right on the highway but it's not loud at all. Very many mosquitos, like swarms of them," reports Beth L. about Farewell Bend State Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with amenities: When glamping with children near Payette, prioritize locations with essential facilities. "Clean facilities... Roads are dusty, if people would drive slow it would be nicer. Busy place, this is a flat rate place. No discounts but same price depending on length or stay, back i to river view spot, fishing if your up to it, have tent sites by the lake," notes Kenneth B. about Caldwell Campground.
Consider fishing-focused trips: Many sites offer excellent access for family fishing outings. "When the weather warms up in the spring this is a great place to catch channel catfish in the shallows. I live in Caldwell and take my motor home here occasionally just for the quiet serenity and the fishing, is not bad at all (in the spring)," advises Fishin' R. about Snake River RV Resort.
Seek private accommodations: For families wanting more glamping comforts, private cabins provide separation from other campers. "This summer we tried Rivers Edge Rv Park for the first time and had a great experience. On our drive up to Pacific Northwest in early August we did tent camping here and in late September we tried the cabins along the river," explains Jacqueline L., though she cautions the ladder steps to the cabin bedroom were challenging.
Tips from RVers
Access for larger rigs: Some campgrounds accommodate bigger RVs better than others. "As stated in description it's rustic. Not much to it but it did offer a sheltered place to build a fire/get warm and weather a bad storm. In the summer, the long rough road into it is not for everyone," mentions Lance C. about Buck Park Cabin, indicating access challenges for larger vehicles.
Consider seasonal facilities: Water access may be limited in early spring at certain campgrounds. "Only the Brownlee loop was open in mid-March. There were plenty of sites to choose from with great views of the river. The water was of at sites, but the sites and bathrooms were good," notes Kellie T. about early season conditions at Farewell Bend.
Check site privacy levels: RV parks in the area offer varying degrees of separation between sites. "A and C loops are very open with no privacy. The B loop has some trees and bushes between the sites which makes it a little more inviting," advises Caitlyn R. about site selection when glamping at Farewell Bend.
