River Side (Id - Boise)
3.858 reviews7359 HWY 21, LOWMAN, ID 83637, USA
River Side (Id - Boise)
$12.00 - $12.00 / 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
There is a $5 fee for vehicles entering the campground for day use. For overnight stays, the fee is $12 during both peak and non-peak seasons. Rates exclude taxes, discounts, or additional charges.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of the Deadwood River, River Side Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape at the northern shores of Deadwood Reservoir. This hidden gem within Boise National Forest beckons adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty. Wake up to the gentle murmur of the river just steps from your tent, where primitive waterfront sites provide unparalleled access to the water's edge. While the campground maintains its rustic charm with vault toilets and basic amenities, fresh drinking water ensures comfort during your stay. Navigate the winding dirt roads to discover secluded parking spurs that lead to your own riverside retreat.
River Side Campground offers primitive camping options in a scenic location with direct river access.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms River Side into a camper's paradise, with warm days perfect for riverside relaxation and cool mountain evenings ideal for campfire gatherings. While winter blankets the landscape in deep snow, creating a wonderland inaccessible to most visitors, the warmer months reveal why this destination shines. Expect refreshing breezes that whisper through the pines and low humidity that makes even the warmest afternoons comfortable. The moderate winds keep bugs at bay while providing nature's own air conditioning during peak season.
ElevationPerched at 5,300 feet above sea level, River Side Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air is crisp and clear. This elevated position creates a natural climate haven, delivering temperatures that can be 10-15 degrees cooler than the valleys below. From this vantage point, visitors are treated to sweeping vistas of the surrounding wilderness while enjoying the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering pines create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. During summer months, the understory erupts in a painter's palette of wildflowers - Indian paintbrush, lupine, and mountain daisies transform the landscape into a vibrant tapestry. The star attraction remains the Deadwood River itself, its crystal-clear waters providing both a stunning backdrop and endless entertainment as it winds through the ancient forest, reflecting the sky and trees in its glassy surface.
Geological RegionRiver Side Campground occupies a special corner of Idaho's wilderness where the Deadwood River has carved its path through centuries of geological history. This remote sanctuary, cradled by mixed-growth pine forests at the confluence of river and reservoir, offers visitors a front-row seat to nature's grand theater. The surrounding landscape tells the story of volcanic activity and glacial sculpting, while today's peaceful setting provides a stark contrast to the powerful forces that shaped it. Here, in this quiet corner of Boise National Forest, the only sounds breaking the silence are the river's song and the wind through ancient pines.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeBased on reviews, sites are described as small, which may not always accommodate larger RVs or trailers. One reviewer mentions, 'These are not big spots.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Notable mentions include: 'Grab campsite 7 for a semi-secluded experience,' while other reviewers noted noisy neighbors and less privacy.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites closest to the river offer the best views and ambiance. User reviews emphasize reserving spots early to ensure suitability for specific needs, such as larger vehicles or privacy.
Best CampsitesUsers recommend Campsite 007 for semi-seclusion and proximity to lake and reservoir access.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Capacity per campsite is not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of small campsites, including sites with direct river access. Dirt roads and parking spurs are present.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins June 19, 2025, and closes September 7, 2025, for reservations. Outside this period, sites are first-come, first-served.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov via website, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome first-come, first-served sites may be available during off-season dates (September 8 - September 30).
Cancellation PolicyYou can cancel the reservation anytime before the date of your scheduled arrival. Refunds will deduct a $10 cancellation fee plus reservation fees (if applicable). Late cancellations starting from midnight one day prior to check-in additionally forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
River Side Campground supports a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and water sports. The nearby Deadwood Reservoir is a hub for recreational opportunities due to its tranquil location and abundant fish species.
Hiking
Numerous trails in the area support hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle exploration.Fishing
Fishing at Deadwood Reservoir includes Atlantic, Chinook, and Kokanee salmon, as well as rainbow and cutthroat trout. The location's remote nature reportedly offers 'great fishing.'Biking
Trails for mountain biking are available within the area.Boating
Boating options include canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing at the nearby Deadwood Reservoir. A boat ramp is located about 2 miles away at Cozy Cove Campground.Wildlife viewing
The campground offers opportunities for wildlife observation, with one reviewer mentioning 'lots of deer in the area.'Winter Activities
Snow camping may be possible during colder months, as weather data indicates 'moderate snow' conditions for winter weeks.Water Sports
Water skiing, canoeing, and kayaking are popular recreational options at Deadwood Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campers are advised not to move firewood to prevent the spread of tree-killing pests. Firewood should be obtained near the destination and burned on-site.
- Quiet hours are enforced, though complaints indicate inconsistent adherence to these rules by other campers.
Hazards
General hazardsUser-reported hazards include shooting noises from nearby areas during evenings, non-campsite visitors using facilities, and ATV traffic causing disturbances. The remote location requires awareness of wildlife and road difficulties.
Active alertsThere are no active alerts or warnings indicated in the authoritative data.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.4 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
Lowman Ranger District Office (contact: 208-259-3361) for off-season inquiries. Closest hospital information is null.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 19, 2025 - September 7, 2025.
Trash and recyclingUser reviews mention issues with trash, such as 'campsites were filled with small bits of trash.' No recycling facilities are specified.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated near the Deadwood River and is about 2 miles from a boat ramp at Cozy Cove Campground on Deadwood Reservoir.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include lack of toilet paper in vault toilets, noisy neighbors, small campsite sizes unsuitable for larger vehicles, and absence of onsite rangers or hosts.
HostNo camp hosts are currently on-site.
Campground Map
7359 HWY 21, LOWMAN, ID 83637, USA
Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, take State Highway 55 north. At Banks, take Highway 17/Banks-Lowman Highway east to Lowman. Turn left on Highway 21. Continue along Highway 17 over Banner Summit. Turn west on Forest Road 579. Continue on FR 579 to Deadwood Reservoir.
Roads leading to River Side Campground are dirt and may be challenging for larger vehicles. User reviews recommend scouting the site beforehand and being aware of road conditions, as they can be bumpy and dusty. Some campsites may not accommodate RVs or trailers despite listings suggesting otherwise.Nearby places
Lowman (approximately 20 miles), Boise (approximately 100 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies for groceries, camping essentials, and fuel can be accessed in Lowman, ID, approximately 20 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
3.9
8 reviews
River Side (Id - Boise) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users provide mixed feedback, with some praising the 'tranquil' setting and 'beautiful location,' while others flag maintenance issues such as lack of toilet paper and noisy campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Beautiful location along the river with opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and observing wildlife. Campsite 7 is noted for its semi-secluded nature.
Based on 8 reviewsCommon Concerns
Recurring cleanliness issues: 'Bathrooms out of toilet paper for multiple days,' 'small bits of trash on campsites.' Lack of camp hosts and noisy neighbors are also frequent concerns.
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Scout sites before reserving, particularly for RVs and trailers, as site sizes vary. Avoid weekends to minimize noise from other campers.
Based on 8 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Weekends are noisier and less tranquil. Summer sees more visitors, while winter may offer seclusion but poses challenges tied to snow and cold weather.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful small campground along the middle fork of the Boise river.' 2. 'Grab campsite 7 for a semi-secluded experience.' 3. 'It was relaxing and peaceful, but it's a long, dusty, bumpy road to...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 7: Semi-secluded and well-regarded. Site 4: Maintenance issues with bathrooms reported. Site 5: Neighbor noise and rule violations noted.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025