Big Eddy Campground
4.4923 reviewsBig Eddy Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Single campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis for $15 per night. Extra vehicle charges may apply. Payment is accepted via fee envelopes and a collection box near the entrance (cash or check only).
About this campground
Nestled along the rushing waters of the North Fork Payette River, Big Eddy Campground offers an intimate retreat within the majestic Boise National Forest. This charming riverside sanctuary sits at 4,000 feet elevation, where towering Ponderosa and lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral of shade and tranquility. While Highway 55 provides convenient access to this mountain hideaway, the gentle hum of passing traffic serves as a subtle reminder of civilization's proximity to your wilderness escape.
Big Eddy Campground is a small and semi-primitive area with only four single-family sites. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is suitable for tent camping. RVs are not explicitly supported, and reviews suggest it is not ideal for larger rigs due to limited space and lack of turnaround areas.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Big Eddy, where echoes of the steam engine era still linger among the pines. This historic spot once quenched the thirst of mighty locomotives, and eagle-eyed visitors can still spot the weathered remains of the old water tower standing sentinel across the river—a testament to the campground's role in Idaho's railroad heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Idaho's mountain climate from mid-May through September, when daytime temperatures dance between a comfortable 80-90°F before giving way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire conversations. Winter transforms this riverside haven into a snow-dusted wonderland, though adventurous souls should note that river access becomes limited as nature wraps the landscape in its frozen embrace.
ElevationPerched at 4,000 feet where mountain air meets river mist, Big Eddy offers the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere. This sweet spot elevation gifts campers with delightfully cool summer nights that invite deep sleep under starlit skies, while winter visitors discover a snow-kissed landscape that transforms familiar trails into pristine wonderlands.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the dramatic beauty of Idaho's canyon country, where forested mountains rise like ancient guardians around your riverside camp. The North Fork Payette River commands center stage, its crystalline waters beckoning whitewater enthusiasts and offering a natural soundtrack of rushing rapids. Summer unveils this natural amphitheater in full glory, with warm 80-90°F days perfect for river adventures followed by cool evenings that remind you why mountain camping captures the heart.
Geological RegionDiscover the breathtaking convergence of river and ridge at Big Eddy, where Highway 55 winds through a spectacular canyon carved by time and water. This pocket of Boise National Forest showcases nature's artistry through stands of stately Ponderosa pines mingling with slender lodgepoles, creating the quintessential Idaho forest experience that defines this remarkable region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo accessibility features are mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campground has four single-family sites, each equipped with paved parking spurs.
Sites PrivacyReviews highlight that the campground has a small and peaceful nature, with limited space and proximity to other campers. Some reviews mention that the site closest to the creek offers the most privacy due to the sound of the rushing river.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIt is recommended to choose campsites closer to the river for calming water sounds and reduced traffic noise from Highway 55.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight sites closer to the river for minimizing road noise.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
No group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 4 single-family sites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Sites near the river offer better views and reduced road noise.
Open and Closed SeasonMid-May to end of September
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews confirm that all 4 sites are first-come, first-served and fill quickly due to the campground's popularity.
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is ideally located for outdoor activities, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Nearby attractions include the scenic North Fork Payette River, which offers opportunities for both relaxation and adventure.
Fishing
Fishing is described as 'good to excellent,' with anglers often catching whitefish and rainbow trout. User reviews mention: 'Looks like a good place to fish' and 'Love fishing and camping here! It's our home away from home :)'.Swimming
Swimming is highlighted in user reviews, with one stating: 'Fun place to hang out, swim, and even fish. We saw a crawdad walking around in the eddy, pretty cool!'Boating
Non-motorized boating opportunities are available, as noted in the official recreation opportunities.Beach activities
The campground features a small beach area, described as cozy. User reviews note that the beach is 'small and will fit two families at the most,' and it's a great place for sunbathing and relaxing by the river.Winter Activities
No winter-specific recreational activities are mentioned.Water Sports
The North Fork Payette River supports water sports such as rafting and kayaking, with the area being especially popular for whitewater activities. The Payette Whitewater Roundup occurs annually in July in various sections of the river.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsRoad noise from Highway 55 might be bothersome, especially for sites closer to the road. User reviews also highlight potential conflicts with campground hosts over amenities usage.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
null
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo information about trash and recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the North Fork Payette River, featuring a cozy beach and large eddy suitable for swimming and fishing.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention rude interactions with the campground host, noting intrusive behavior and lack of clear signage regarding restroom access.
HostMixed reviews about the campground host, with some praising cleanliness of restrooms, while others describe the host as rude and intrusive.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho travel north along State Highway 55 for approximately 38 miles to Banks, Idaho. From Horseshoe Bend, continue north along State Highway 55 for approximately 15 miles to the campground sign.
The campground is located just off Highway 55, offering paved access and proximity to the road. However, user reviews note that there is potential noise from highway traffic.Nearby places
Banks (15 miles north of the campground), Garden Valley (approximately 20 miles south), Boise (38 miles south)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.5
23 reviews
Big Eddy Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews convey mixed sentiments about Big Eddy Campground. While many praise its serene location, cleanliness, and proximity to the river, others voice dissatisfaction with the campground host's behavior, describing them as intrusive or rude. The small size of the campground is frequently mentioned as both a positive and negative feature.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects noted include: 'clean restrooms,' 'beautiful scenery,' 'excellent fishing opportunities,' and 'proximity to the river and a cozy beach.'
Based on 23 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include intrusive behavior by the campground host, proximity to the highway leading to noise, and the small size of the beach and campsite areas. Specific user complaints include:...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
User tips suggest arriving early due to the campground's popularity and limited availability of only four sites. It's recommended to bring your own water, as no potable water is available. Campers...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer are mentioned as the best seasons to camp, with warm days and cool nights. Reviews suggest that the campground can get crowded during peak summer months, as it is a popular spot for...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The restroom is right next door and was pretty clean and not smelly.' 2. 'Fun place to hang out, swim, and even fish.' 3. 'Proximity to the river and beautiful surroundings make this a hidden...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback indicates that the site closest to the creek is preferred for its reduced highway noise, as noted by one reviewer: 'The site closer to the creek drowns out the road noise.'
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific mentions of accessibility features or experiences from users with disabilities are provided.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no explicit mentions of pet policies or pet-related amenities in the source material.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025