Amanita
P.O. BOX 696, CASCADE, ID, 83611, USA
Amanita
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly fee for standard non-electric campsites during peak season is $15. Reservation service fees may apply, ranging from $3 (in-person) to $9...
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Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$15.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider208-382-7400
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine western shores of Lake Cascade, Amanita Campground offers an intimate escape into Idaho's stunning mountain wilderness. This charming, small-scale retreat sits beneath a canopy of towering mixed conifers, where lucky visitors can claim one of the coveted lakefront sites with direct access to the sparkling shoreline. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite comes equipped with its own picnic table, fire ring, and grill, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground maintains a rustic charm with gravel roads winding through the forest, while modern conveniences like fresh drinking water, vault toilets, and regular trash service ensure a comfortable stay in nature's embrace.
The campground is tailored towards traditional camping experiences, primarily for tents and small trailers. RV accommodations are possible, but some sites are noted as challenging for larger trailers.
Weather and SeasonsFour distinct seasons paint Amanita Campground in dramatically different palettes throughout the year. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, with heavy snowfall creating a pristine alpine environment. As spring arrives, the forest awakens with new life, giving way to glorious summers where temperatures climb to a pleasant 86°F (30°C) - ideal for swimming and lakeside relaxation. The region's characteristically dry climate and moderate breezes create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures, while autumn brings crisp air and golden light filtering through the forest canopy.
ElevationPerched at 4,850 feet above sea level, Amanita Campground enjoys the sweet spot of mountain elevation - high enough to escape the valley heat, yet accessible for comfortable camping. This elevation blessing means crisp, pine-scented mornings, refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfires, and breathtaking views across the surrounding forested mountains. The altitude creates an ideal microclimate where alpine and lower-elevation species mingle, offering campers a diverse natural experience.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where majestic conifers frame views of Lake Cascade's shimmering waters. The campground serves as a front-row seat to nature's grand theater - watch white pelicans glide gracefully across the lake while bald eagles soar overhead, their distinctive calls echoing through the forest. Summer brings an explosion of wildflowers that carpet the forest floor in vibrant colors, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. The melodic symphony of songbirds greets each morning, while evenings often feature the haunting calls of waterfowl settling in for the night along the peaceful shoreline.
Geological RegionAmanita Campground claims its place in the heart of west-central Idaho's remarkable landscape, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a paradise of mountains, forests, and pristine waters. This mixed-growth conifer forest represents centuries of natural succession, creating a diverse ecosystem at 4,850 feet elevation. The surrounding terrain tells the story of Idaho's volcanic past and glacial sculpting, resulting in the magnificent Lake Cascade basin that serves as your backyard during your stay.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not explicitly detailed, but the campground is described as having gravel roads and spurs. Some campsites are noted as being difficult to access with trailers due to orientation and size limitations.
Sites SizeThe campsites vary in size, accommodating small trailers and tents. Specific concerns were raised about some sites being too small or improperly oriented for backing in trailers.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are well-spaced among trees, offering a level of privacy. One reviewer stated, "The camp sites are nicely spaced among the trees so that neighbors are not too close."
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with lakefront access for better views and water activities. Avoid sites near the vault toilets (e.g., site #7) due to odor complaints.
Best CampsitesCampsites #7 and #5 are highly recommended. Site #7 is lakefront with easy water access, while site #5 is well-maintained and offers privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM local time.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11:00 AM local time.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has a small loop layout with 12 individual campsites. Roads and parking spurs are gravel, and certain sites require unconventional backing methods for trailers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 17, 2025, to September 15, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability may exist, but reservations are highly recommended, especially in summer.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival for a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (after midnight one day prior to check-in) will forfeit the first night's recreation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of outdoor activities centered around Lake Cascade. Boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking are among the most popular activities. Water sports such as water skiing, canoeing, windsurfing, and sailing are also possible, with a boat ramp located at the nearby Rainbow Point Campground. Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of bald eagles, pelicans, and other species. However, some activities may be affected by conditions such as algae blooms.
Hiking
The area features many hiking trails, although specific trail details such as difficulty or length are not provided. ATV trails are also mentioned in the vicinity.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant in Lake Cascade, with anglers targeting rainbow trout, coho salmon, smallmouth bass, and perch. One reviewer shared that their party caught 31 perch in one day, with sizes ranging from 6 to 10 inches.Swimming
Swimming is available along the shores of Lake Cascade. Some sites provide direct access to small beaches, which were described as "beautiful" and "pristine." However, a toxic algae bloom was noted during a mid-September visit.Boating
Lake Cascade accommodates a range of boating activities, including water skiing, canoeing, windsurfing, and sailing. A boat ramp is accessible at Rainbow Point Campground, situated nearby.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes bald eagles, pelicans, and various waterfowl. Songbirds are also commonly seen, and the surrounding forest provides a habitat for diverse fauna.Beach activities
Beach-related activities include sunbathing and beachcombing. Reviewers described the beaches as "pristine" and "beautiful." Some campsites provide direct access to the lake's shore.Water Sports
Lake Cascade is suitable for water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, sailing, and water skiing.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but must be managed responsibly due to bear activity and the preservation of surrounding forests.
- Quiet hours are Noise generally decreases after midnight, but occasional disturbances from nearby roads and weekend visitors may occur.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include falling trees (as noted in user review where a tree fell on a camper's trailer), bear activity, and toxic algae blooms in the lake during certain periods.
Active alertsBear activity noted in the area; toxic algae blooms reported in mid-September. Campers advised to exercise caution.
Weather forecast
32
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 61%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Cascade Medical Center in Cascade, ID; closest police station and fire department in Cascade; emergency support also available via Boise National Forest ranger services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 17, 2025 - September 15, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but recycling facilities are not mentioned. Several water spigots are available throughout the campground for filling containers.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the west shore of Lake Cascade, with easy access to boating, swimming, and fishing activities. Some sites are directly on the shoreline.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby West Mountain Road; some sites have broken amenities (e.g., picnic tables, camper pads). Issues with shade due to tree removal for beetle control.
HostA shared campground host is available at Rainbow Point Campground. User reviews praise hosts Jim and Tom for their friendliness and helpfulness.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 696, CASCADE, ID, 83611, USA
Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, take Highway 55 north for 95 miles to Donnelly. Turn west on West Roseberry Road and travel 1.5 miles to Norwood Road. Turn south and continue one mile to Tamarack Falls Road. From there, turn west and go just over a mile to West Mountain Road. Turn south and go a mile to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved road up to the entrance. Inside the campground, roads and parking spurs are gravel. The roads are reported to be in good condition as per user reviews (e.g., 'paved road to the campground and dirt road inside').Nearby places
Donnelly (approx. 15 minutes)
Cascade (approx. 20 minutes)
McCall (approx. 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Nearby Cascade and Donnelly towns provide access to groceries, fuel, and camping supplies. State parks near Rainbow Point also offer picnic areas.
Camper Reviews
4.4
32 reviews
Amanita is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Amanita Campground is well-regarded for its cleanliness, scenic beauty, and proximity to Lake Cascade. Common themes include the well-maintained facilities, the natural setting, and friendly campground hosts. However, some users highlighted concerns about road noise, limited shade due to tree removal, and challenges with certain sites for trailers.
Review Summaries
Based on 32 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets, scenic views, proximity to the lake, friendly campground hosts, and well-maintained grounds. Many reviewers appreciated the spacing between campsites, which offered privacy.
Based on 32 reviewsCommon Concerns
Road noise from West Mountain Road, challenges with trailer access and orientation at some sites, limited shade in certain areas, and isolated issues like broken picnic tables.
Based on 32 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Secure reservations early for summer visits, as the campground is very popular during peak season. Reviewers highlighted campsite 5 as highly desirable, with direct shoreline access. Some advised...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with high activity on weekends. Algae blooms were noted in September, which may affect water-based activities. Some reviewers suggest visiting early in the season...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The cleanest vault toilets ever experienced." "Best tree cover of all the Lake Cascade campgrounds." "Nice campground, running water and vault toilets." "Road noise from West Mountain road was a...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 5 is highly praised for its lakefront view and access. Campsite 7 is also recommended for its proximity to the water, but odors from nearby vault toilets were a drawback. Campsite 2 was...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Information on accessibility is sparse. Gravel roads and parking spurs may present challenges for some visitors. Larger trailers may have difficulty accessing certain sites.
Based on 32 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and one reviewer noted their struggle with an anxious rescue dog during their stay. No specific pet-friendly features or facilities are mentioned.
Based on 32 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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