Tent campsites near Payette, Idaho range from primitive riverside spots to established campgrounds with basic amenities. Located in southwestern Idaho at approximately 2,150 feet elevation, the area experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters with camping opportunities varying by season. Fire restrictions typically begin in early July and extend through September due to the region's arid conditions.
What to do
Fly fishing access: Campers at Owyhee River - Below Dam find numerous free dispersed sites along the river. "If you enjoy Fly Fishing for Brown Trout, this place is awesome. It is very rugged, but there are amenities for camping. Just follow Owyhee Lake Rd along the river and you will find spaces to set up your tent or RV," notes Ed E.
River exploration: The South Fork Recreation Site provides multiple dispersed camping spots overlooking the Payette River. "Right along the river, all we heard was the sound of running water. Very big mountains around, plenty for hiking," shares Shariah T. The site features crystal clear water approximately 40 feet below most camping areas.
Summer mountain activities: Tent sites near Shafer Butte provide easy access to Bogus Basin Mountain Resort. "During the Summer Season they have scenic chairlift rides; inter tubing, mountain coaster, climbing wall, live music on weekends, food and beverage, mountain biking with lift service, mountain bike rentals, and hiking. Family friendly," explains Thomas K.
What campers like
River views: Campers appreciate the riverside locations throughout the area. At Catfish Junction RV Park and Campground, one visitor noted, "Clean RV camping on the Snake River. Poor cell service, no WiFi. One shower for 40+ sites. Not crowded for the 2nd week of May."
Fishing ponds: The tent sites at Caldwell Campground and RV Park offer a unique amenity. "Primarily an RV park, but there are grassy spots right on the fishing pond for tent campers. The fishing pond is nice to sit by and watch the ducks," reports Kelsey G. The campground also features access to "The Greenbelt," a 3-mile paved path.
Natural surroundings: Paradise Campground visitors appreciate the secluded feeling of camping in the Payette National Forest. "Most of these designated campgrounds are right off the fire roads which can be a bit exposed and tricky if you have children or dogs with you. As you continue to drive there are a few areas on the east side of the road which provide more privacy," advises Ryan C.
What you should know
Water access limitations: While camping near rivers is common in this region, not all sites offer safe water access. At Paradise Campground, "The creek is fast running, echoing throughout the canyon so fishing or swimming are not an option."
Noise considerations: Some primitive camping areas experience unexpected noise. At South Fork Recreation Site, one camper warns, "There's a shooting range near the highway and the airport. Guns going off random times all day and into the evening. Ruins the tranquility."
Seasonal closures: Many facilities close during winter months. Banks Campground operates as "day use only" during certain periods. "This is a beautiful spot to stop and swim or spend the day but there is no overnight camping here," clarifies Amy S.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly campgrounds: Choose campgrounds with open, level terrain for safer family camping. "Perfect place to teach young ones the joy of camping; campground is open, mostly flat and easy to keep your eyes the tykes," says Jeff M. about Shafer Butte.
Site selection guidance: At Owyhee River, follow this advice: "If you want the site in the pictures, which was fairly quiet other than a few people checking if it was open, take the first right after the bridge and follow the trail down. Lots of trails, more people near the river."
Weather preparation: Early season camping requires extra planning. "We came here the first weekend of the summer it was open, so it was definitely cold. Our campsite hadn't been used since fall, so it was pretty overgrown when we got there and we had to put our tent on top of smashed down long grass," shares Tara L.
Tips from RVers
Amenities availability: RV campsites vary widely in facilities and hookups. "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," reports Rachele B. about Caldwell Campground.
Site selection: When tent camping at predominantly RV-focused campgrounds, look for designated tent areas. "Approx, 10-12 Grassy Tent sites, with shady trees, on a small 6 acre lake with entertaining ducks that do not beg for food. The showers and toilets were clean with lots of hot water," notes Gary M.
Proximity awareness: At some mixed-use campgrounds, tent sites may be closely situated. "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," advises Benjamin about Caldwell Campground.
