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Best Tent Camping near Winchester, ID

261 Reviews

Tent campgrounds near Winchester, Idaho cluster around the Dworshak Reservoir, with Mini Camps 3.5, 4.7, 4.8, and 5.0 offering secluded tent sites accessible primarily by hiking or boating. These primitive campgrounds provide a backcountry camping experience along the Big Eddy Trail within the Dworshak State Park area. Merrys Bay Campground offers additional tent sites with boat-in and drive-in access options for campers seeking proximity to the water.

Most tent sites in the Winchester region feature basic amenities suited for self-sufficient camping. Fire rings and picnic tables are common at many locations, with vault toilets available at Mini Camps and Big Eddy Marina. Campers should pack all water and supplies, as drinking water is not available at these primitive sites. The Big Eddy Trail connects several tent campgrounds, requiring a challenging hike with significant elevation gain at the trailhead. A visitor commented that "the first half mile is difficult but then the trail levels out and is easy for many miles" with free dispersed camping sites starting after 4.5 miles.

The tent camping experience around Winchester offers considerable privacy and natural settings. Sites are typically situated near the water's edge with boat access ramps at many locations. Tree cover varies by site, with some offering wind protection and others more exposed. Summer temperatures reach the 80s during the day with evening temperatures remaining comfortable in the 50s. Fishing opportunities abound directly from many tent sites. Wildlife sightings are common, with birds frequently visiting campsites. The water at Dworshak Reservoir features "spectacular shades of blue" according to a camper's review, though access to the water can be steep at some locations, and the water depth increases rapidly offshore at several camping areas.

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Best Tent Sites Near Winchester, Idaho (39)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Winchester, ID

5 Photos of 39 Winchester Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Winchester, ID

261 Reviews of 39 Winchester Campgrounds

  • Rachel A.
    Jul. 6, 2020

    Mini camp 5.0

    Absolutely lovely

    Views are spectacular. Little wind coverage during the day though it’s very private with quite a distance off the Big Eddy trail to get down to the waterside spot. Vaulted toilet, fire ring and a picnic table make for some comfy accommodations. Marker on trail (approximately 5 1/4mi hiking north from Bid Eddy or 3 7/8mi hiking south from Freeman Creek)

  • Rachel A.
    Jul. 6, 2020

    Mini Camp 3.5

    Sweet little spot

    This is an easy 1mi hike from Big Eddy Recreation area on the Big Eddy trail. Ok, correction, challenging out of the gate with a fairly vertical start but levels out quickly and you’re suddenly submerged in the trees and lush ferns. This spot has a long walkway out from the main trail offering tons of privacy. Great shallow ramp for a boat and easy access the a dip is the res or to get your water to filter. Fire ring, picnic table and vault toilets make for a comfortable stay. The closest site to this is another 3ish miles north. Waters are spectacular shades of blue and the trees in the sunset are hard to beat!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Deyo Reservoir

    Small but beautiful lake campground

    We were riding the Idaho BDR (Backcountry Discovery Route) and needed a place to camp near Pierce.  There aren't many options that are accessible for our Support Truck but found Deyo Reservoir as a welcome spot.   The West sites are very open and close to each other and are what you see first.  I kinda stumbled down to the East Campground which is more for Truck/Tent camping and is wooded and cooler (it was 95 degrees when we rode in).  Typical for Idaho the sites were nicely spaced, well maintained (it is hosted) and the Vault Toilet was very clean.

  • Kelsey G.
    Aug. 30, 2020

    Pittsburg Campground

    Beautiful area, ok camping

    Beautiful area, incredibly scenic and photographable, but a few things to be aware of.

    There is a heck of a drive to get into this place, there’s a very winding and steep road to get there and it took us about an hour from White Bird. That being said, it was a very lovely and scenic drive, and based on the number of trailers and boats that were down there it doesn’t seem to deter many people. Just be aware you’ll want to come prepared with whatever you’ll need while you’re there because it’s not a quick ride back into town to get supplies (and make sure you have enough gas in your tank)

    Also, word of warning to any dog owners; I discovered as soon as we unloaded from the vehicle that there are sticky burs absolutely everywhere on the ground and our furry labradoodle was soon covered with them. The first thing we did when we got back into cell phone range was call and schedule him a grooming appointment to get shaved because they were on every inch of his body and would be impossible to comb out.

    The campsites are all pretty close together and since this is a desert area there are very few trees, so you will be able to see your fellow campers and they will be able to see you. Each site has a little canopy thing for both shade and I suspect some wind protection (it got extremely windy one of the nights we were there).

    It was $8 a night when I was there in August 2020. There was a burn restriction in place from July 1st to September 15th according to posted signs.

    If you do not have a trailer, there are some dispersed camping sites at the “Upper Landing” that are clearly marked. They are walk in only but didn’t appear to be too far to walk and seem that they would afford a bit more privacy if that’s what you’d looking for.

  • Marian J.
    Jul. 24, 2021

    Winchester Lake State Park Campground

    Beautiful tall pines!

    We have come here to fish on several occasions but never camped! We tent camp and we enjoy semi-level ground, which we had! The bathrooms are pit but are kept very clean!

  • Jake Z.
    Feb. 12, 2020

    Big Springs Campground

    Beautiful Dry Camping

    Dry camping with vault toilets. Each site has picnic tables and fire pits.

  • Marian J.
    May. 11, 2022

    Pink House Recreation Site

    Nice and quiet!

    This small, nicely maintained campground is first come first serve! No reservations! Nice clean bathroom with no showers! They have 3 unique elevated campsites with picnic tables! You will need cash or check to pay for your campsite!

  • Nancy C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 20, 2021

    Winchester Lake State Park Campground

    Peace in the pines

    Upon arrival, we immediately felt the peacefulness. Our site was tucked into the pines creating a canopy of coolness in the midst of the oppressing heat of this record breaking year.

    The sites are somewhat level. Easily adjusted to make them work. The space between sites are not as generously spaced as with othe Idaho SP we have stayed in. There are vault toilets throughout the campground with one building that houses flush toilets and 2 shower stalls. They are older but squeaky clean.

    There's a great day use area that has a large covered pavilion, playground and boat launch/ pier. I don't fish, but loaner poles are available at the visitor center. The boat launch is further around the lake and provides ample parking and a vault toilet. No motorized watercraft are allowed on the lake which makes it a wonderful place to kayak and SUP.

    There are a few trails around the lake. Nothing hard. There are tons of thimbleberries bushes along the road yo the boat launch and were just about ripe. They are so delicious!

    Enjoying the peace and quiet of the SP should be your expectation as there is not a lot of other options nearby.

    2 bars AT&T LTE

    Pro note: Wolf Track micro brewery is about 30 min. away in Cottonwood. Good beer. Also, stop at the Bark Park just as you enter the town of Cottonwood. You'll understand once you visit.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 6, 2025

    Pealy Loop Recreation Site Dispersed

    Great and free

    We came upon this site after passing on the White Bird Recreation Site just north of here - it's so much better and we're so glad we came here. It's an established campground, with maybe 4 or 5 sites, all open, spread out, right on the river. There's a picnic table and fire pit for each site, and a porta potty. Verizon was roaming and AT.T. had great reception. Despite being right off the main road, it was very quiet and you couldn't hear or see traffic since you're lower down on the river. Easy access for big rigs. We stayed here two nights. Ranger came through to check on things, always love to see that.

    Beautiful spot. Free! 14 day limit. No trash service, no water other than the river. The campground was nice and clean.

Guide to Winchester

Tent camping near Winchester, Idaho offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying various amenities and activities. With several well-reviewed spots nearby, campers can find the perfect setting for their outdoor adventures.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • At Dworshak National Fish Hatchery, visitors can enjoy educational experiences suitable for all ages, making it a fun stop for families.
  • Mini Camp 4.8 features a picnic table and toilets, providing essential comforts while being surrounded by beautiful views and privacy.
  • Fish Creek Campground offers paved campsites and vaulted toilets, ensuring a clean and convenient camping experience.

Tips for tent camping near Winchester

  • When visiting Mini Camp 5.0, be prepared for a hike-in experience that rewards you with spectacular views and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • At Big Eddy Marina & Lodge — Dworshak State Park, campers can enjoy a challenging backpacking trail that leads to stunning scenery and opportunities for swimming.
  • For a more secluded experience, Mini Camp 4.7 is a great choice, offering a private setting with excellent fishing and friendly wildlife.

Some prices for tent camping range from $12 to $0

  • Camping at Fish Creek Campground costs around $12 per night, making it an affordable option for those looking to stay close to Grangeville.
  • Dworshak National Fish Hatchery provides a free camping experience, perfect for budget-conscious campers seeking educational activities.
  • For a unique experience, Mini Camp 4.8 is first-come, first-served and offers no fees, making it an attractive option for spontaneous trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Winchester, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Winchester, ID is Dworshak National Fish Hatchery with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Winchester, ID?

TheDyrt.com has all 39 tent camping locations near Winchester, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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