Bonneville
4.4557 reviewsLOWMAN
Bonneville
$15.00 - $30.00 / 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$5.00
Fees range from $15 to $30 depending on the site type. Reservation fees include an $8 fee for online bookings, $9 through contact center, and $3 for in-person reservations.
About this campground
Perched majestically on a bluff overlooking the rushing waters of Warm Springs Creek, Bonneville Campground offers an enchanting forest retreat where adventure meets relaxation. This hidden gem in the heart of the wilderness beckons with the promise of natural hot springs just a short hike away, while the melodic sounds of the creek create a perfect soundtrack for anglers casting their lines. Whether you're seeking the thrill of whitewater rafting, the serenity of wildlife watching, or simply a peaceful escape among towering pines, Bonneville delivers an authentic mountain experience that captures the soul of the great outdoors.
Bonneville Campground includes options for tent camping, RV camping, and a designated double site for group use. The campground is suitable for small trailers and offers a variety of site types, including walk-in tent sites.
Historical SignificanceJourney through time as you explore the rich heritage of this remarkable region. The nearby Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway and Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway feature fascinating historical information kiosks that tell the stories of early settlers, Native American traditions, and the evolution of this pristine forest landscape. These scenic routes offer more than just breathtaking views—they serve as open-air museums where every turn reveals another chapter in the area's compelling past.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Bonneville brings perfect camping weather, with crisp mornings starting at a refreshing 54°F before warming to comfortable afternoons peaking at 82°F. The dry mountain air and predominantly clear skies create ideal conditions for stargazing and outdoor adventures from late spring through early fall. As winter approaches, the campground transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, though access becomes limited when mountain snows blanket the forest roads—making summer and early fall the prime seasons to experience this mountain sanctuary.
ElevationAt 4,700 feet above sea level, Bonneville Campground offers a refreshing mountain escape where the air is crisp and pine-scented. This elevated perch provides a natural refuge from summer heat, with temperatures typically 15-20 degrees cooler than the valleys below. The altitude creates perfect conditions for spectacular forest vistas and comfortable camping, while offering stunning perspectives of the surrounding wilderness that seem to stretch endlessly toward the horizon.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of towering Ponderosa pines and majestic Douglas firs that filter golden sunlight through their ancient branches. The campground's forest floor comes alive in summer with vibrant wildflower displays—splashes of Indian paintbrush, lupine, and mountain asters creating a natural tapestry of color. Warm Springs Creek weaves through the landscape like a silver ribbon, its gentle murmur providing a constant companion to your outdoor adventures. Keep your camera ready for magical wildlife encounters, as graceful deer often emerge at dawn and dusk, while majestic elk occasionally grace lucky visitors with their presence.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent expanse of Boise National Forest, Bonneville Campground occupies a privileged position at 4,700 feet elevation on a scenic bluff carved by centuries of natural forces. This geological vantage point overlooks the winding Warm Springs Creek below, while massive Ponderosa pines and Douglas firs—some centuries old—stand as silent sentinels over this pristine mountain ecosystem. The surrounding terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, where volcanic activity, glacial movements, and erosion have sculpted a landscape of dramatic beauty and ecological diversity.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible single-family sites. No detailed descriptions of specific accessibility features are available.
Sites SizeSites are described as long and spacious, with some suitable for multiple tents. Specific comments include 'plenty of room for our pair of tents.' The RV loop has long back-in and pull-through sites.
Sites PrivacyCampsite privacy varies. Reviews mention that some sites near the creek are more private with steep drops, while others near the road experience day traffic and less privacy. 'Sites are fairly well spaced with some privacy,' noted one camper.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended Campsites'Sites >#10 are pack-in sites,' requiring a short walk with gear. Sites closer to the creek offer shade and privacy, while sites near the road may experience dust from day traffic.
Best CampsitesSite 016 (double site) is highly recommended for its proximity to water and privacy. Sites along the creek are generally considered better for scenery and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 11:00 AM local time.
Check-out
Check-out by 2:00 PM local time.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Maximum of 2 vehicles allowed per single site
- 4 vehicles at double sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutUpper loop accommodates smaller trailers/motorhomes; lower loop has pull-through sites. There are also four walk-in sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 21, 2025, to September 7, 2025. Between September 8–30, sites are first-come, first-served.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, including their app and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability begins from September 8 to September 30 each year.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are permitted up to one day before the check-in date. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee. Changes cost $10 when switching dates outside the original reservation period.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bonneville Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and access to nearby hot springs. A 1/4-mile trail leads directly from the campground to Bonneville Hot Springs, where visitors can enjoy soaking in natural geothermal pools. Warm Springs Creek and the South Fork Payette River provide opportunities for trout fishing, with the river also suitable for whitewater rafting and kayaking. Wildlife sighting opportunities abound, with deer and elk frequently observed in the area.
Hiking
A 1/4-mile hiking trail leads to Bonneville Hot Springs. Nearby attractions include additional trails along the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway and the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway.Fishing
Fishing is available in Warm Springs Creek and the South Fork Payette River, with trout being a popular catch.Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available in the hot springs pools. Reviewers noted shallow soaking pools at the springs with temperatures ranging from lukewarm to scalding.Boating
Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular activities on the South Fork and Main Payette Rivers. Guided trips are offered by local companies.Wildlife viewing
Frequent sightings of deer and elk are noted. Visitors also reported chipmunks being active around campsites.Water Sports
Hot springs soaking, whitewater rafting, and kayaking are the primary water-related activities available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Standard fire rings provided; fire bans enforced during high-risk periods.
- Quiet hours enforced during night to ensure peaceful camping.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include chipmunks accustomed to human food and biting horseflies. Steep drops to the creek near some sites may pose risks for young children.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Slight rain showers
Precipitation: 2.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (2.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Slight rain showers
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
Lowman Ranger District, contact: 208-259-3361; nearest hospital is in Boise, Idaho.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 21, 2025, to September 7, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but no details about recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresWarm Springs Creek runs directly beside the campground, and Bonneville Hot Springs is reachable via a short hiking trail. The South Fork Payette River is across the highway.
Common complaintsSeveral reviews mention issues with occupied reserved spots upon arrival and the campground host being unavailable. Access road conditions, including potholes, are commonly mentioned. Bathrooms were reported as clean but occasional flies were noted.
HostCampground hosts are frequently praised for being friendly, attentive, and maintaining clean facilities.
Campground Map
LOWMAN
Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, take State Highway 55 to Banks. Turn East on Banks Lowman Highway 17 to Lowman. Turn left on Highway 21. The campground is located at milepost 91.5.
The access road from the highway to the campground reportedly has numerous large potholes and requires grading. This issue has been mentioned in multiple user reviews as a hindrance to smooth access.Nearby places
Lowman, 19 miles east
Boise, approximately 1 hour 45 minutes by car.
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies including fuel, groceries, and camping gear can be found in Lowman, 19 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
57 reviews
Bonneville is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Bonneville Campground has generally positive reviews, with many visitors praising the proximity to Bonneville Hot Springs, the peaceful setting, and the attentive campground host. Some issues include occasional overcrowding at the hot springs and site-specific concerns such as traffic or steep drops near the creek. The access road is described as bumpy.
Review Summaries
Based on 57 reviews
What Campers Love
- Proximity to Bonneville Hot Springs
- Clean and spacious campsites
- Friendly and helpful campground host
- Quiet and scenic environment
- Opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing
Based on 57 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Overcrowding at hot springs during peak times
- Bumpy access road with potholes
- Site-specific issues like steep drops near the creek or odd setups for picnic tables and fire rings
Based on 57 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring firewood as it may not be available on-site.
- Avoid feeding wildlife such as chipmunks.
- Use EZ shades for added comfort.
- Reserve early during peak seasons due to high demand.
Based on 57 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is a peak season with many positive reviews highlighting the hot springs, peaceful setting, and wildlife. Fall sees fewer crowds but may still have bumpy road conditions. Winter and spring...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'This is the perfect camp to listen to the river and the wind blow through the trees, while watching butterflies and chipmunks.'
- 'The hot springs not far away was a perfect touch. There are...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 005: Reported as occupied upon arrival without camp host present.
Site 021: Described as unusable due to downed timber piles.
Site 016: Highly rated as the best site for privacy and water...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No detailed user feedback on accessibility features specific to Bonneville Campground.
Based on 57 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit reviews addressing pet policies or pet experiences.
Based on 57 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025