Paradise Campground offers dispersed camping options near Weiser, Idaho for equestrian travelers. The campground sits within the Payette National Forest at approximately 4,500 feet elevation. The surrounding area features a mix of coniferous forest and open meadows with access via unpaved forest roads that can be challenging during wet conditions.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At Cold Springs Campground, horseback riders can access multiple trail systems. Amy S. notes, "This is a small campground right off Highway 55 and across from the Payette River. There is plenty of shade and pretty good privacy."
Explore nearby hot springs: Cow Hollow Park provides a convenient base camp for exploring thermal features. David B. mentions, "It's located on a dead-end road and is very peaceful. It's about 15 minutes from the nearest city and about 15 minutes from Snively Hot Springs."
Wildlife viewing: The open meadows and forests near Buck Park Cabin offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. Lance C. reports, "Scenery is good and very quiet. If you want remote with the bare basics, this is the place."
What campers like
Seasonal advantages: Winter visitors appreciate Paradise Campground for its year-round accessibility. Ryan C. explains, "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."
Natural soundscape: The running water creates a peaceful backdrop at many sites. Andrew B. describes Cold Springs as a "Very simple and tranquil campsite."
Historical significance: Some campgrounds feature interesting historical connections. MeLinda W. shares about Cow Hollow Park: "From a stop on the Oregon Trail, to CCC camp, to Japanese Internment camp and now a privately run park...loads of history."
What you should know
Water considerations: Many sites lack potable water sources. At Bully Creek Park, Liesje B. warns, "They do have water, but it is a very high concentration of arsenic in it, which they don't tell you about when you make a reservation or an any signage other than the bathroom door."
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. Cecilia M. advises about Bully Creek Park: "DO NOT take S. Road G! Go into Vale and take Graham to Bully Creek, it's paved all the way. The other road is 8 miles of rough dirt road through a cattle farm!"
Terrain challenges: The area features uneven ground and potentially hazardous natural features. Kay mentions about Cow Hollow Park: "It has a huge grass area, that when you walk through it you can tell it was a field at one point. There are also good size kind of deep whole all through the grass."
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection: Choose sites away from main roads when possible. Ryan C. suggests about Paradise Campground: "As you continue to drive there are a few areas on the east side of the road which provide more privacy."
Recreation options: Some campgrounds offer developed recreation facilities. MeLinda W. notes that Cow Hollow has "tons of grass and swings, teeter totters, tennis & basketball, baseball fields."
Weather preparation: Summer temperatures can be extreme in this region. Brad L. shares about equestrian camping near Weiser, Idaho: "I'm traveling with two big dogs who hate the heat, it's been over a 100° for about a week around the region and this place made it bearable."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most dispersed equestrian sites have minimal or no hookups. Peter H. notes about Bully Creek Park: "$15/night for electric(20/30/50 Amp) & real toilets and showers."
Site selection for large rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger trailers. Jill T. explains, "Cow Hollow Park is like staying in a big school playground. There is playground equipment, a baseball field, a basketball court/tennis court, and a horseshoe pit. It's big and open with plenty of space for tents and a couple of dozen spots for RV's."
Facility limitations: Prepare for minimal amenities at most equestrian camping sites. Rob K. advises, "As an overnight it was sufficient for our needs since we are self-contained."
