How much does camping cost at Cartwright Ridge Campground?

Camping fees at Cartwright Ridge Campground range from $20-$50/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Cartwright Ridge Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Cartwright Ridge Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit Cartwright Ridge Campground?

Cartwright Ridge Campground is open Mid-May to end of September. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Cartwright Ridge Campground?

Cartwright Ridge Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Cartwright Ridge Campground?

Fire policies at Cartwright Ridge Campground: Fires are permitted but no firewood sales are noted; deadfall can be gathered.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Cartwright Ridge Campground have?

Cartwright Ridge Campground has 5 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Cartwright Ridge Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Cartwright Ridge Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Cartwright Ridge Campground?

Cartwright Ridge Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Cartwright Ridge Campground?

Popular activities at Cartwright Ridge Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Cartwright Ridge Campground

4.67

11 reviews

Cartwright Ridge Campground, Sage Hen Reservoir, Boise National Forest, Idaho

Peace & QuietSummer Destination

Featured in:Hiking Camping Idaho

Quick Facts

4,800 ft

Price

$20 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Mid-May to end of Se...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Set up an alert →Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,800 ft

Price

$20 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Mid-May to end of Se...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Set up an alert →Official Website

Get Directions

Cartwright Ridge Campground

$20.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Exact fee details are unavailable, but user reviews and sources imply fees range between $20 and $50.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

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

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What Campers Say

4.67

Top-Rated

Based on 11 reviews

9 Google reviews

Most mentioned

privacycleansites

"Users generally appreciate the campground's cleanliness, seclusion, and proximity to recreational activities such as ATV trails and mountain biking. However, the lack of host and firewood sales is noted."

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Campground Map

Cartwright Ridge Campground, Sage Hen Reservoir, Boise National Forest, Idaho

Cartwright Ridge Campground

Cartwright Ridge Campground, Sage Hen Reservoir, Boise National Forest, Idaho

Nearby places

Boise (approximately 65 miles), Horseshoe Bend (approximately 30 miles), Ola (approximately 16 miles from Horseshoe Bend)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel would be accessible in Boise or Horseshoe Bend. No details are provided for closer smaller-scale supply locations.

Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, travel north on State Highway 55 to Horseshoe Bend, Idaho approximately 30 miles. At Horseshoe Bend, turn west and travel State Highway 52 for 9 miles to the junction with the Sweet/Ola Highway. Then turn north and travel 16 miles to Ola, Idaho. From Ola, continue 10 miles northeast on Forest Service (FS) road 618, then 7 miles on FS road 626. Lastly, travel approximately 2 miles northeast on FS road 614 and you will arrive at Sage Hen Reservoir. Cartwright Ridge Campground is on the north end of the reservoir.

The road access includes several miles on dirt roads, described as 'fairly bumpy' in user reviews. It is recommended not to attempt the route with vehicles unable to handle rough terrain.

Best Time to Camp at Cartwright Ridge Campground

Summer delivers the best conditions, with daytime temperatures typically between 80 and 90°F and cool nights. The dry season keeps trails clear and water levels up for boating and warm-water fishing. Wildflowers bloom through the warmer months. Early and late season bring possible snow. Weekend crowds stay moderate even during peak times. Five sites don't draw the masses that lower-elevation campgrounds see.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Top 23% in ID

Open mid-May–end Sept; warm 80–90°F days ideal for boating, fishing and hiking.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Mid-May to end of September

About Cartwright Ridge Campground

Cartwright Ridge Campground sits at 4,800 feet in Boise National Forest, offering just five sites near Sage Hen Reservoir. Nightly fees range from $20 to $50. The small size and well-spaced sites create a secluded feel, though the access road is fairly bumpy and there's no potable water on-site.

Cartwright Ridge Campground provides traditional camping options. Official sources mention proximity to Sage Hen Reservoir and describe the campground's natural features.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers the best conditions, with daytime temperatures typically between 80 and 90°F and cool nights. The dry season keeps trails clear and water levels up for boating and warm-water fishing. Wildflowers bloom through the warmer months. Early and late season bring possible snow. Weekend crowds stay moderate even during peak times. Five sites don't draw the masses that lower-elevation campgrounds see.

ElevationPerched at 4,800 feet above sea level in the heart of Boise National Forest, the campground offers that perfect high-altitude escape where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath feels refreshingly pure.

Natural Features and SceneryStands of Ponderosa pine, Engelmann spruce, Douglas fir, and grand fir surround the campground, each species marking this elevation zone where forest meets reservoir. Sage Hen Reservoir provides water access for boating and fishing. The forest supports elk, deer, black bears, goshawks, and boreal owls. Wild berries and mushrooms appear seasonally on the forest floor.

Geological RegionRising 4,800 feet into Idaho's mountain wilderness, Cartwright Ridge occupies a spectacular setting within Boise National Forest's diverse ecosystem. The landscape tells an ancient story through its magnificent stands of Ponderosa pine, Engelmann spruce, Douglas fir, and grand fir—each species perfectly adapted to this unique elevation where the campground meets the sparkling waters of Sage Hen Reservoir.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Likely up to 14 days per common Forest Service rules.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not specified but typically standard for Forest Service sites.

Groups

There is no information available about group sites.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe five sites circle Sage Hen Reservoir. Spacing between sites creates privacy despite the small total count. Shade comes from the surrounding conifers.

Reservation PlatformsContact the Emmett Ranger District or check official Boise National Forest reservation platforms.

Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews indicate no host sales, so walk-up might be available but not confirmed.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not stated.

AccessibilityThere is no information provided regarding accessibility features.

Site SizeSite sizes are not specified in the available information.

PrivacyUser reviews mention that campgrounds are far apart and provide a sense of seclusion.

Total Campsites5 campsites

Recommended SitesSites with partial lake views are likely preferable. Bring firewood due to lack of sales on-site.

Need help booking Cartwright Ridge Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Cartwright Ridge Campground provides a range of recreational activities centered around the scenic Sage Hen Reservoir. Official sources highlight boating and fishing opportunities, a 4-mile hiking trail loop around the lake, and nearby ATV, biking, and horseback riding trails. User reviews also note the popularity of ATVs and mountain biking.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife like black bears and uneven terrain on access roads.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted but no firewood sales are noted; deadfall can be gathered.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are likely in Boise, Horseshoe Bend, or Ola, but specific facilities are not detailed.

Trash & RecyclingThere is no information available regarding trash and recycling facilities.

Water FeaturesOn the shores of Sage Hen Reservoir. A boat ramp and dock are available within the campground.

Camp HostUser reviews mention no host availability for Cartwright Ridge.

Weather at Cartwright Ridge Campground

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.7

11 reviews

Top-Rated

Cartwright Ridge Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Users generally appreciate the campground's cleanliness, seclusion, and proximity to recreational activities such as ATV trails and mountain biking. However, the lack of host and firewood sales is noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 11 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include clean campgrounds, a sense of privacy due to spaced-apart sites, and access to ATV and mountain biking trails.

Based on 11 reviews

Common Concerns

There are complaints about the bumpy dirt road leading to the campground and the lack of firewood sales.

Based on 11 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing firewood due to the lack of on-site sales. Vehicles capable of handling rough roads are advised.

Based on 11 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No specific seasonal trends are mentioned, but the campground is open from mid-May to the end of September.

Based on 11 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Campgrounds were clean and far enough apart that it felt secluded.' 2. 'The road to get to the campgrounds was dirt and fairly bumpy, so don't attempt if your car can't take getting jostled...

Based on 11 reviews