Edna Creek Campground
4.1231 reviewsP.O. Box 129, Idaho City, ID, 83631, USA
Edna Creek 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
Standard non-electric campsite fees are $15 per night during the peak season (May 22 - September 29, 2025). Additional reservation fees of $8 if booked online or via app, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person.
About this campground
Tucked away in the mountains 56 miles northeast of Boise, Edna Creek Campground offers an intimate escape for those seeking solitude in nature. This hidden gem features 9 cozy campsites, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and utility tables for groups of up to 6 people. While the gentle rush of Highway 21 provides a subtle soundtrack to your stay, the real star is the nearby Crooked River, whose waters beckon anglers and nature lovers alike. Modern vault toilets and a convenient water pump ensure comfort without sacrificing the authentic camping experience in this tranquil, tree-shaded retreat.
Edna Creek Campground primarily caters to tent camping but also accommodates small RVs and pop-up campers. Sites vary in size and can host up to 6 people each.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure places you at the doorstep of living history. Just down the road lies Historic Idaho City, where fortune seekers once flooded the streets during the gold rush boom. Today, this preserved mining town offers a fascinating glimpse into the Wild West, complete with original buildings and tales of prospectors who struck it rich in these very mountains.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Edna Creek into a high-country paradise, where daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 81°F before cooling to a refreshing 54°F under star-filled skies. The dry mountain air and virtually rain-free conditions create perfect camping weather, with endless blue skies stretching overhead. This reliable sunshine makes every day ideal for outdoor adventures, whether you're casting a line in the river or exploring nearby trails.
ElevationPerched at 5,700 feet above sea level, Edna Creek Campground provides a refreshing mountain retreat where the air is crisp and clean. This elevation brings naturally cooler temperatures that offer sweet relief from valley heat, though visitors should take time to acclimate to the thinner air. The altitude rewards campers with spectacular night skies and that distinctive mountain atmosphere that makes every breath feel rejuvenating.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic Ponderosa pines tower overhead, creating a natural cathedral that shelters the campground in dappled shade. At 5,700 feet, this forest sanctuary comes alive with curious deer browsing through camp and playful squirrels chattering in the branches. Summer brings a painter's palette of wildflowers dotting the forest floor, while the melodic Crooked River promises excellent fishing for whitefish and rainbow trout. The surrounding landscape tells a story of renewal, as nature reclaims areas touched by the 2016 Pioneer Fire.
Geological RegionNestled within a recovering Ponderosa pine forest along the scenic Highway 21 corridor, Edna Creek sits at the intersection of mountain majesty and river beauty. At 5,700 feet elevation, the campground occupies a unique position where the Crooked River has carved its path through ancient geology. The landscape bears witness to nature's resilience, as new growth emerges throughout the 2016 Pioneer Fire burn scar, creating a fascinating mosaic of forest regeneration that offers unique photographic opportunities and ecological education.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are labeled as available. However, detailed accessibility information for campsites is not provided.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some suitable for tent camping and others capable of accommodating smaller RVs or pop-up campers. User reviews suggest that maximum RV size is approximately 35 feet but may feel cramped.
Sites PrivacySites are relatively spaced out, providing moderate privacy. "Clean, spaces not too close"—review by Bernard A.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 8 is particularly recommended for its creekside location. Site 9 is first-come-first-serve and offers similar benefits.
Best CampsitesSites 7, 8, and 9 are often praised for proximity to the creek and spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out required by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 guests per site.
Groups
No specific group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites arranged in an open area with shade; parking spurs are graveled.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 22 to September 29.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are primarily reservable, but walk-up availability may exist. Users noted some sites were empty despite being booked.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before scheduled arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies along with any reservation fees. Late cancellations (less than 1 day before check-in) incur additional penalties such as forfeiting the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Edna Creek Campground offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and winter sports. The nearby Crooked River provides opportunities for whitefish and rainbow trout fishing. Trails in the region cater to hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and off-road vehicle enthusiasts.
Hiking
Numerous trails are located nearby, suitable for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and ATV riding. "Great activity is Crooked Creek and trail 1.1 miles away"—review by Alan Carwile.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in Crooked River, which is near the campground. Species include whitefish and rainbow trout.Biking
Nearby trails accommodate biking. "We hike the road and the trails"—review by Cher W.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, including deer, squirrels, birds, and other species. "We've seen deer and all kinds of squirrels. There's beautiful birds everywhere"—review by Cher W.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, as the area transforms into a winter sports playground.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports opportunities are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are officially 10 PM - 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBurn scar from 2016 Pioneer Fire presents a risk of falling hazard trees. Campers advised not to move firewood to prevent pests.
Active alertsNo active alerts at this time.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 in Idaho City, approximately 17 miles away, including ranger station and limited medical services. The nearest major hospital is in Boise.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 - September 29, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo trash service is available; visitors must pack out trash. "Bring it in carry it out policy"—review by Merilie J.
Proximity to water featuresCrooked River adjacent to campground; small creek runs through some areas.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of trash service, non-functional water pump, and toilet maintenance issues. Traffic noise may disturb some campers. Users also reported disruptive parties and lack of enforcement of quiet hours.
HostNo on-site hosts available; main office can be contacted for general inquiries.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 129, Idaho City, ID, 83631, USA
Driving directionsFrom Idaho City, drive north on Hwy 21 for about 18.5 miles. Edna Creek Campground will be on the right, at the start of the FS-384 road. It’s at milepost 56.8.
Highway 21, also known as the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, provides paved access to the campground, but some noise from passing traffic is to be expected due to proximity.Nearby places
Idaho City: 11 miles south
Boise: 56 miles southwest.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are located in Idaho City, 17 miles away, offering groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.1
31 reviews
Edna Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, with strong praise for the natural beauty, spacious sites, and recreational opportunities, but criticism for maintenance issues and lack of trash service. Noise complaints and large parties have been reported during peak times.
Review Summaries
Based on 31 reviews
What Campers Love
Natural beauty, wildlife viewing, well-maintained trails, proximity to Crooked River, peaceful atmosphere (except noisy weekends). "We love Edna Creek. It's beautiful, mountainous, and the creek...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Maintenance issues (broken bathroom doors), lack of trash service, noisy parties during peak times, overgrown creek areas, and small parking spurs. "Trash service advertised was not available"—Leanne...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water as the pump may not always be functional. Avoid weekends if looking for peace and quiet due to noise complaints from large party groups. Consider reserving ahead as sites fill up...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer receives positive reviews for wildlife viewing and recreational activities, but also sees peak crowds and noise problems. Winter activities like skiing are well-loved but not extensively...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"We love Edna Creek. It's beautiful, mountainous, and the creek makes it perfect"—Cher W. "Stream was completely covered with weeds and bathrooms were absolutely HORRID"—Krystal Henry. "Sites 8 & 9...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #8 is highly praised for creek proximity. Site #6 has complaints about parking layout and noise issues. "Sites 8 & 9 are great"—Dheeraj Kumar. "Site was listed as 35ft max and we were crammed...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are generally not detailed in reviews, but accessible vault toilets are mentioned.
Based on 31 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no reviews specifically address pet-friendly features.
Based on 31 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025