Cold Springs Campground - Boise Nf (Id)
02 reviewsEMMETT RANGER DISTRICT, 1857 HIGHWAY 16, SUITE A, EMMETT, ID, 83617, USA
Cold Springs Campground - Boise Nf (Id)
$120.00 - $120.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$120.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The group standard non-electric sites are charged $120 per night during peak season. Fees do not include reservation service fees, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled alongside the rushing waters of the North Fork Payette River, Cold Springs Campground offers an intimate group camping experience where the sounds of the river blend with the whispers of towering pines. This cozy retreat along Idaho's scenic Highway 55 serves as your gateway to endless river adventures, from lazy afternoon floats to exhilarating whitewater runs. While the nearby highway provides convenient access to this riverside haven, it also adds its own symphony to the natural soundtrack. Each of the five spacious group sites comes equipped with sturdy vault toilets, welcoming picnic tables perfect for gathering around hearty meals, and fire rings where stories and s'mores are shared under star-filled skies.
Cold Springs Campground is primarily focused on group camping, with five sites available for reservation. The campground lacks modern amenities like electricity or water hookups but provides a scenic and forested environment for outdoor enthusiasts.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Cold Springs into a sun-drenched paradise where temperatures climb to a comfortable 80-90°F, perfect for splashing in the river or lounging in the shade. As evening falls, the mountain air brings refreshing coolness that makes for ideal sleeping weather under canvas. When winter arrives, the landscape takes on a quieter beauty as temperatures plunge and delicate snowflakes occasionally dust the pines, creating a serene wonderland that's best admired by the hardy few who venture here during the off-season.
ElevationPerched at 3,878 feet above sea level, Cold Springs occupies that sweet spot where the air is crisp and invigorating without leaving you breathless. This moderate elevation creates the perfect conditions for active days exploring the river and surrounding forests, while still allowing for restful nights of deep mountain sleep.
Natural Features and SceneryCold Springs reveals itself as a hidden gem tucked within a dramatic canyon, where ancient ponderosa and lodgepole pines stretch skyward from the mountainsides. The generous canopy provides welcome shade throughout the campground, creating cool pockets of relief during those warm 80-90 degree summer days. As daylight fades, the temperature drops into the perfect range for campfire gatherings, while the surrounding forested peaks frame spectacular sunsets that paint the canyon walls in shades of gold and crimson.
Geological RegionDeep within the heart of Boise National Forest, Cold Springs Campground occupies a stunning canyon carved by centuries of flowing water and time. The dramatic mountainous terrain rises on all sides, clothed in a thick blanket of ponderosa and lodgepole pines that have called these slopes home for generations. This geological masterpiece showcases nature's artistry, where rugged canyon walls meet gentle riverside meadows in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned, and no details about ADA-compliant facilities are available.
Sites SizeThe campground has five group sites, each equipped with basic camping amenities like a picnic table and fire ring.
Sites PrivacySites offer a mix of privacy and open spaces but are close to Highway 55, which may impact the secluded experience due to traffic noise.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights per visit, available year-round.
Groups
The campground offers five group campsites, each designed to accommodate larger groups. Specific limits on the number of people or vehicles per site are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains five group sites situated closely together as a group area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins on May 23 and ends on September 6 for peak periods. No reservations are available from September 1 to May 22 during the off-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via the mobile app, or through their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates primarily on a reservation basis with no information explicitly provided regarding walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before arrival. Refunds will subtract a $10 cancellation fee, reservation fees (if applicable), and the first night's recreation use fee if canceled late. Late cancellations are defined as cancellations made fewer than 14 days before the scheduled arrival date for group facilities.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is located near the North Fork of the Payette River, offering activities such as kayaking, whitewater rafting, and fishing. Anglers can fish for whitefish and rainbow trout, and the scenic canyon setting provides excellent opportunities for relaxation and water sports.
Fishing
Fishing is highly encouraged, with whitefish and rainbow trout as the primary catches. The area's reputation for good to excellent fishing makes it a popular spot for anglers.Boating
Boating activities such as rafting and kayaking are popular due to the campground's proximity to the Payette River. There is easy access to boat and kayak launch areas.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and whitewater rafting are significant activities at this campground. The North Fork of the Payette River is a popular location for expert kayakers.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings are provided at each site. Additional firewood safety guidelines can be found at dontmovefirewood.org.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention the presence of poisonous caterpillars during August 2019 and bears in the area. Campers should exercise caution and ensure proper food storage.
Active alertsNo active alerts were officially listed, but user reviews indicate wildlife concerns like bears and caterpillars.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5 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
Closest emergency services are located in Emmett, Idaho, approximately 41.5 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to September 6.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned. Campers are advised to pack out what they pack in.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the North Fork of the Payette River, a popular destination for kayaking, whitewater rafting, and fishing.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention highway noise and wildlife issues, including caterpillars and bears.
Campground Map
EMMETT RANGER DISTRICT, 1857 HIGHWAY 16, SUITE A, EMMETT, ID, 83617, USA
Driving directionsCold Springs Campground is located in southwestern Idaho, 41.5 miles north of Boise. Take State Highway 55 north to Banks (35 miles). Proceed north on Highway 55 (6.5 miles) to campground on westside of highway. Watch for recreation signs.
The campground is accessible directly off State Highway 55, with paved roads leading up to the site. Noise from passing traffic is common due to the proximity to the highway.Nearby places
Boise (41.5 miles, approximately 50 minutes), Banks (6.5 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, camping gear, and fuel are available in Emmett, Idaho, which is 41.5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Cold Springs Campground - Boise Nf (Id) has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight some environmental concerns and proximity-related issues. Noise from the nearby highway is a frequent complaint, and one camper reported a significant caterpillar infestation during their visit. Another camper mentioned the presence of bears and the lack of response from camp hosts and forest service staff.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground offers a beautiful location near the North Fork of the Payette River, which is ideal for water sports like kayaking and fishing. Shade from the mix of ponderosa and lodgepole pines is...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include noise from Highway 55, seasonal caterpillar infestations, and concerns about wildlife management, particularly bears. One review noted that the camp hosts and forest service staff...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should be prepared for potential traffic noise and seasonal issues such as caterpillars. It is recommended to check for wildlife activity and precautions before arrival. Bringing earplugs...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season, with warm days and cooler nights. However, August saw a notable caterpillar infestation in one reviewer's experience. Wildlife activity, including bears, may vary by season.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Poisonous caterpillars would literally be EVERYWHERE!! They were covering the bathroom doors, inside the bathroom, all over the water pump, and falling out of trees." - Jennifer F.
"There were...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific reviews about group site GS01 noted issues with wildlife management (bears).
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025