Helende
4.5727 reviews7359 Hwy 21
Helende
$12.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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
Fees range from $12 to $24 depending on the season and site type. There is also a $5 fee for vehicles entering the campground for day use.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Idaho's wilderness, Helende Campground offers a serene escape for those seeking solitude beyond the crowds. Just 10 miles east of Lowman, this hidden gem sits alongside the rushing waters of the South Fork Payette River, where anglers cast lines into crystal-clear pools and rafters navigate exhilarating rapids. A short drive leads to the renowned Kirkham Hot Springs, while the legendary Kirkham Ridge Trail beckons hikers to explore miles of pristine backcountry right from their tent door.
Helende Campground caters to basic camping preferences with options for tent camping and small RVs. Group camping and primitive camping are not highlighted.
Historical SignificanceThe beloved Kirkham Ridge Trail serves as your gateway to a network of historic pathways that have connected communities and adventurers for generations. These ancient routes wind through the forest, linking scenic byways that tell the story of Idaho's rugged past. At nearby Kirkham Hot Springs, visitors can soak in the same natural pools that have drawn weary travelers for centuries, creating a timeless connection between past and present.
Weather and SeasonsAt 4,100 feet, Helende delivers the perfect mountain climate where warm days give way to refreshingly cool evenings that invite campfire stories and stargazing. Even in the height of summer, you'll want to pack that extra layer as temperatures drop with the setting sun. The sweet spot for camping stretches from late spring's wildflower blooms through early fall's golden aspens, offering months of ideal conditions for your outdoor adventures.
ElevationPerched at 4,100 feet above sea level, Helende Campground occupies that sweet spot where mountain air stays crisp and pine-scented year-round. This elevation brings a delightful temperature swing that transforms hot summer days into cool, comfortable nights perfect for sleeping under the stars.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering lodgepole and Ponderosa pines creates a natural sanctuary where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy above. Come summer, the forest floor erupts in a painter's palette of wildflowers, their vibrant blooms attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. Keep your camera ready for those magical moments when deer emerge from the shadows at dusk, or when a majestic elk pauses to graze in a nearby meadow.
Geological RegionDeep within the vast expanse of Boise National Forest, Helende Campground showcases the region's signature landscape of towering lodgepole and Ponderosa pines. This living tapestry changes with the seasons, from spring's fresh green growth to summer's explosion of wildflower color, creating an ever-changing backdrop for your camping adventure in one of Idaho's most pristine forest environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAll single-family sites are accessible.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as having varying sizes. Some reviews mentioned limited accommodation for larger RVs or trailers, with one user stating that 'only one space will accommodate a 30' trailer or 5th wheel.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is moderate. Some sites are close together, but others are noted for being spacious and quiet.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsite 007 praised for quiet atmosphere; Campsites 001 and 003 for views and layout.
Best CampsitesCampsites 001 and 003 noted for proximity to river and tree cover ("Close to the river had some nice tree cover." - Jeralyn M).
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limit of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- No stated maximum
- typical group size allowed.
Groups
No designated group camping sites or details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOverall layout includes 10 single-family sites accessible by vehicle. Sites are close to Highway 21 and may lack privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 21, 2025 through September 07, 2025 for reservations; first-come, first-served season extends to September 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites available on a first-come, first-served basis outside peak reservation season (September 8-30).
Cancellation PolicyCancellations may be made ahead of arrival date for a refund minus fees. Late cancellations incur additional penalties including forfeiture of first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A variety of recreational opportunities are available nearby. Activities include fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Kirkham Hot Springs and the Kirkham Ridge Trail.
Hiking
The Kirkham Ridge Trail offers extensive hiking opportunities, stretching 35 miles and connecting with other trails. It is open to hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, with some sections open seasonally to off-road vehicles.Fishing
Fishing is available in the South Fork Payette River, but some reviews mention that good fishing spots are a hike or drive away from the campground.Biking
Mountain biking is allowed on the Kirkham Ridge Trail, which features challenging and scenic routes.Boating
Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular on the South Fork and Main Payette Rivers, with guided trips available in the area.Wildlife viewing
Deer and elk can occasionally be seen wandering through the campground. The surrounding forest and byways also offer opportunities for birdwatching and other wildlife encounters.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed unless burn ban is in effect. "Surprised that they allowed campfires; thought there was a burn ban." - Kim H.
Hazards
General hazardsProximity to Highway 21 may result in noise; chipmunks can steal unattended food items according to reviews ("The chipmunks will rob anything left unattended." - Michael C.).
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Light drizzle
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 Station is the nearest emergency service contact (208-259-3361).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 21, 2025 through September 07, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided on-site, contributing to the campground's cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresSouth Fork Payette River is within walking distance; Kirkham Hot Springs is less than 5 miles away.
Common complaintsNoise from Highway 21 and limited river access; "Sites are close together." - Dave E.
HostHosts noted for cleanliness and helpfulness ("Camp host was friendly and helpful!" - Kim S.; "Dave the camp host was great!" - Michael O.).
Campground Map
7359 Hwy 21
Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, take State Highway 55 to Banks. Turn east and travel on Forest Highway 24/Banks-Lowman Highway to Lowman. Turn left on Highway 21. Campground is located at milepost 82.
Accessible via Highway 21; road is paved and suitable for standard vehicles. Seasonal access could be affected by weather conditions.Nearby places
Lowman (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Banks (approximately 50 miles, around 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Lowman (10 miles away) has basic supplies. For more comprehensive options, Banks offers additional amenities (approximately 50 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.6
27 reviews
Helende is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Helende Campground is highly rated for its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to nature and activities. Many reviewers appreciated the friendly and helpful camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the cleanliness of the facilities, the helpfulness of the camp hosts, and the peaceful and shaded environment. The proximity to the South Fork Payette River, Kirkham Hot...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Occasional complaints include the difficulty of using the water pump, the lack of river access directly from the campground, noise from the nearby Highway 21, and issues with campsite reservation...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing all necessary supplies due to the limited amenities. It's also suggested to secure food items to avoid visits from chipmunks. Visiting Kirkham Hot Springs is highly...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the wildflowers and shade but note that it can get cold at night even in July. Many users found it crowded during peak seasons.
Based on 27 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Nice, clean campground. Within walking distance of the river and just a short drive away from some hot springs." - Michael Copenhaver "Lots of space and super clean bathrooms. So so quiet." - Kim...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 and 003 are noted as some of the best, offering close proximity to the river and good tree coverage. Site 007 is praised for its overall quality.
Based on 27 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is rated positively for accessible single-family sites and clean facilities.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground is described as dog-friendly. Visitors are advised to keep their pets under control due to wildlife.
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025