Tent camping near Weiser, Idaho features access to the Payette National Forest where elevations range from 2,200 to 5,000 feet in the immediate vicinity. The climate brings hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August. Winter camping opportunities remain limited due to snow accumulation at higher elevations, with most campgrounds operating seasonally between April and October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Owyhee River below the dam offers exceptional brown trout fishing in a rugged desert setting. According to Ed E., "If you enjoy Fly Fishing for Brown Trout, this place is awesome. There is dispersed camping all along the river below the dam. It is very rugged, but there are amenities for camping."
Hiking access: Justrite Campground provides direct access to forest trails within minutes of setting up camp. "Feels like another world! Surrounded by tall amazing trees and the bridge across the river is so wonderful you easily feel hidden away," notes Hanah O., highlighting the immediate immersion into nature without long drives.
Lake activities: Caldwell Campground offers fishing pond access and walking paths suitable for day visitors. Rachele B. mentions, "The lakeside location and walking trails are beautiful. Feels like living outside of town but still close to everything town offers."
What campers like
River proximity: Many dispersed camping areas along the Owyhee River provide direct water access. "Lots of great spots as you river along the river, not necessarily the coordinates provided here. Epic fishing," shares Jennifer R. about the areas below Owyhee Dam.
Shade availability: During hot summer months, shaded sites become premium options. "It has shade and that's a huge plus," notes Benjamin about Caldwell Campground and RV Park, emphasizing the importance of tree cover when temperatures climb into the 90s.
Budget-friendly options: Free camping exists throughout the region with flexible stay options. Jim F. appreciates that "most of the areas that are dispersed sites are free! Many to choose from and right on the river!" at the Owyhee River area.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many campgrounds near Weiser lack basic amenities. Andy S. advises about Owyhee River - Below Dam - Owyhee Dam Park, "don't follow your GPS to the coordinates given here, if you follow it to the point on Google maps you'll end up at one of the highest points in that valley," suggesting visitors need local knowledge or careful planning.
Water conditions: Creek access doesn't always mean swimming opportunities. Fast-moving water creates specific challenges at several sites, requiring campers to plan accordingly for water activities or fishing.
Seasonal considerations: Several campgrounds operate with limited seasons. Sage Hen Dam Picnic Area runs only from May 16 to Labor Day, while others remain open year-round but with reduced accessibility during winter months due to unpaved access roads.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: For families with children, choosing the right camping location requires additional considerations. Benjamin notes about Caldwell Campground, "Good site for RV camping but if you're tent camping there are probably better options depending on what you're looking for. The tent sites are super close together and there is a lot of highway noise."
Safety awareness: Rugged terrain demands attention to natural hazards. Ed E. cautions at Herrick Reservoir Access, "It is a bit deserty, so beware of snakes," highlighting the need for proper footwear and situational awareness with children.
Facility planning: Family camping requires preparation for limited facilities. Leah G. describes Herrick Reservoir Access: "There is only one single pit toilet for the whole reservoir and someone was set up right next to it like it was their own," indicating the need to plan bathroom breaks or bring portable options.
Tips from RVers
Site layouts: RV campers should research specific site dimensions before arrival. At Catfish Junction RV Park and Campground, Hugh S. reports, "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."
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites exist primarily at private campgrounds rather than public lands. Jenna M. shares about Caldwell RV Park, "We pulled in after the office closed. We didn't receive a packet, which we have become accustomed to, but we had a site map and found our camp space. We were right next to the lake #69. We had a pull through for our 40' fifth wheel and were happy."
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed camping areas often present challenges for larger rigs. Tom K. notes about Banks, "Located on I55 between Boise and McCall it is a convenient stopping point but with so many National Forest sites on 55, this wasn't a preferred site and we moved on," indicating the need to research road conditions before committing to forest routes with larger vehicles.
