Campsites near Boise, Idaho range from high-elevation tent sites to riverside RV parks with varied seasonal accessibility. The region sits at the junction of the Boise River Valley and the foothills of the Boise Mountains, with elevations from 2,730 feet in the city to over 7,500 feet at higher camping areas like Shafer Butte. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F during peak season, while spring and fall camping offers more moderate conditions with overnight lows dropping to 40-50°F.
What to do
Mountain biking at Bogus Basin: Located near Shafer Butte Campground, the area offers extensive trail networks with lift service available during summer months. "Bogus Basin is very close. 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," notes Thomas K. about Shafer Butte.
Hiking Mount Heinen: Access this challenging trail directly across from Arrowrock Reservoir camping areas. "There is hiking right across the street. Mt Heinen which is a very strenuous hike. Its over 9 miles (up and back) and over a 3,000 ft gain so be prepared if you try to tackle this summit," advises Laura C. from Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed.
Kayaking and water recreation: The Boise River and nearby reservoirs offer multiple paddling options within 25 miles of downtown. "This is a great campground right on the Boise River. There is a greenbelt that runs from the campground all the way to Lucky Peak Reservoir, a distance of 19 miles," shares Mike H., who stayed at Boise Riverside RV Park.
What campers like
Urban convenience with nature access: Campgrounds within city limits provide quick access to both outdoor recreation and city amenities. "Easy access to central Boise in a park-like setting along the greenbelt path. We rode bikes along the path, enjoyed the river, toured Boise state and downtown, and even ate dinner without ever getting in our car," notes Todd about Boise Riverside RV Park.
Off-season tranquility: Spring and fall campers often find more peaceful experiences at popular spots. "Me and boyfriend enjoy going here in the fall and spring to get away from the city for a day or two. When we come in the fall and spring theres no one other than us there. In the summer it does get quite a few people there," shares Laura C. about dispersed camping options.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards at established campgrounds are consistently noted. "The bathrooms are so well maintained. They look brand new and almost untouched. Showers are the same," reports Brodie D. about Mountain View RV Park, adding, "Would definitely stay again during Treefort. Wayyy better than spending $1000+ on a hotel."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Highway and airport proximity affects certain campgrounds. "The sites themselves are pretty large and spacious. The only downfall to the place is the noise. The freeway and airport are so close that is all your hear. Other than that it's great!!" explains Sarina about Mountain View RV Park.
Road conditions to remote sites: Access to more secluded camping spots requires careful driving. "Be careful as the drive is a little sketchy. The water is clean and there is tons of beach area! Bring the kayaks and get paddling!" advises Brett P. about Arrowrock Reservoir, while another camper notes, "If you don't have a four wheel drive vehicle don't go, all wheel drive won't do it in winter."
Water level fluctuations: Reservoirs experience seasonal changes that affect camping and water recreation. "Last August I stayed at Mack's Creek. I was saddened by the drought and low water level. The docks were laying on dry land and the waterway was 100 feet out and below a drop off cliff," reports Linda G. about Macks Creek Park.
Tips for camping with families
Choose open, accessible sites: Some campgrounds offer layouts better suited for monitoring children. "Tent only, but nicely maintained tent pads, fire rings and picnic tables. Perfect place to teach young ones the joy of camping; campground is open, mostly flat and easy to keep your eyes the tykes," recommends Jeff M. about Shafer Butte.
Prepare for temperature swings: Even summer camping can get cold at higher elevations. "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," reports Tara L., who still enjoyed a "great hike right off the campground suitable for kids or adults" at Shafer Butte.
Heat management at lower elevations: Lower-altitude sites require shade planning. "It gets super hot in the summertime so be sure to bring plenty of water. Good thing is you can take a dip in the cold reservoir to cool off," advises a camper at Arrowrock Reservoir.
Tips from RVers
Site availability challenges: During peak times, securing spots can be difficult. "We got one of the last spots as they were slammed with Oregon wildfire evacuees. We were grateful as we were required to be in Boise for 2 days," explains Dave S. about their stay at Boise Riverside RV Park.
Electrical issues: Some RVers recommend checking hookups before setup. "When we hooked up I found the 30 amp outlet melted & broken and the 110 outlet blackened from spark damage," reports the same camper, emphasizing the importance of inspecting utilities upon arrival.
RV site spacing: Space between rigs varies significantly between campgrounds. "The spaces are pretty close, and the wifi is not great. Those are my only reasons for the 4 star," notes Sarina about KOA Boise Meridian RV Resort, while another camper mentions, "We stayed here for about 3 weeks in our motorhome while waiting to close on our new house. My only complaint is that the spaces are pretty narrow. We had neighbors within 10 feet of us on both sides."
