Ten Mile Campground
4.2746 reviewsP.O. Box 129, Idaho City, Idaho, 83631, United States
Ten Mile 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
The nightly rate for a standard nonelectric campsite is $15. Extra vehicle fees may apply. Reservation fees are additional ($8 online, $9 via contact center).
About this campground
Nestled where ancient ponderosa pines whisper secrets to the wind, Ten Mile Campground offers a tranquil escape divided by the scenic Highway 21. This intimate retreat beckons adventurers with its upper and lower sections, each offering unique perspectives of Idaho's wilderness. From spring's vibrant wildflower displays to winter's pristine snowscapes, visitors discover year-round magic along the babbling waters of Mores Creek, where anglers cast their lines and hikers forge memories on sun-dappled trails.
Ten Mile Campground provides a mix of camping options suitable for both tents and certain types of RVs or trailers. It includes 16 sites, some of which are reservable while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The sites are divided into two loops on either side of Highway 21, with some sites offering creekside access.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds in the shadow of history, just moments from the legendary Idaho City, where gold rush dreams once sparkled in miners' pans. As part of the storied Boise National Forest, this land holds centuries of stories - from indigenous peoples who first walked these paths to the prospectors who sought fortune in nearby streams. Today, you become part of this continuing narrative, adding your own chapter to this ecologically precious landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full symphony as warm summer days invite lazy afternoons beneath towering pines, while crisp mountain evenings remind you to pack that extra layer. When winter transforms the landscape into a glittering wonderland, deep snowfall creates a playground for cross-country skiers and snowshoers seeking solitude among frosted branches. The elevation brings refreshing coolness even on summer nights, perfect for stargazing around crackling campfires.
ElevationPerched at a mountain elevation that gifts campers with naturally air-conditioned evenings, Ten Mile Campground offers a refreshing retreat from valley heat. Reviewers consistently praise the cool nighttime temperatures that make for perfect sleeping weather, even during summer's peak. This mountain setting creates an ideal climate where afternoon warmth gives way to comfortable evenings under star-filled skies.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering old-growth ponderosa pines stand as ancient sentinels, their vanilla-scented bark telling tales of centuries past. Summer transforms the forest floor into a painter's palette of wildflowers - Indian paintbrush, lupine, and mountain daisies creating natural bouquets at every turn. The melodic waters of Mores Creek weave through the landscape, offering both a soothing soundtrack and prime fishing spots where rainbow trout dance beneath the surface.
Geological RegionTen Mile Campground sits within the remarkable tapestry of Boise National Forest, where millions of years of geological artistry have sculpted a landscape of rugged beauty. Ancient ponderosa pine forests dominate the terrain, their roots anchored in soil enriched by volcanic activity and shaped by glacial movements. The presence of Mores Creek carves through this mountainous canvas, creating riparian corridors that burst with biodiversity. Summer wildflower meadows paint the understory in brilliant hues, while the varied topography offers everything from gentle streamside strolls to challenging ridge-line adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets. However, no further details on specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are provided.
Sites SizeThe sites vary in size. Some are described as small and only suited for tents, while others can accommodate trailers or RVs.
Sites PrivacyMany reviews highlight the privacy of the sites, with brush and trees providing a sense of seclusion. William Dvorak noted, 'The camp sites are far enough away so you don't hear your neighbor.'
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor creek access, choose sites 1, 2, 3, 12, and 14. Avoid sites near the highway (e.g., 1, 8, 9, 10, 15) if you prefer solitude.
Best CampsitesSites 1 and 2 in Lower Ten Mile Loop are praised for creek proximity and privacy. Site 12 in Upper Ten Mile Loop is noted for peace and scenic water features.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
No group-specific camping areas are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into upper and lower sections by Highway 21. Sites are spaced for privacy but vary in size and proximity to key features.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 22 to September 29. Reservations can begin from June 28.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available on Recreation.gov. For questions regarding reservations and refunds, contact Recreation.gov customer service.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are first-come, first-served. User reviews indicate mixed experiences with site availability for walk-up campers.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival are refunded minus a $10 fee and reservation fees. Late cancellations (midnight before check-in) incur an additional fee of forfeiting the first night's recreation fee for individual campsites.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ten Mile Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle use. In winter, it transforms into a hub for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. The nearby Mores Creek provides fishing opportunities, and some sites offer access directly to the creek.
Hiking
Numerous hiking opportunities are available nearby, although specific trail details such as difficulty levels or lengths are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is available in Mores Creek. Christopher Weston commented, 'The creek is beautiful and does have fish.'Biking
The area supports biking, although no specific trails or terrain details are mentioned.Winter Activities
The campground is popular for winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.Water Sports
No specific water sports are mentioned apart from fishing and potential creek-related activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted in designated fire rings unless restrictions are in place.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsHighway noise may affect sites close to the road. Wildlife presence and environmental hazards (e.g., fallen trees, sinkholes) have been noted.
Active alertsWater pump availability is subject to monthly testing for potability and may be shut off unexpectedly. Fire restrictions may apply during dry periods.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.5 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
Nearest emergency services include Idaho City Ranger District (10 miles away) and medical facilities in Boise, Idaho (48 miles). For ranger services, call (208) 392-6681.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - September 29, 2025
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates as a pack-in-pack-out facility, meaning there are no trash or recycling services provided. Valerie W mentioned, 'Unfortunately there is no dumpster. You have to haul out the trash.'
Proximity to water featuresMores Creek runs alongside the campground, with direct access from multiple sites (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, and 15).
Common complaintsNegative reviews highlight small site sizes, proximity to the highway, and occasional maintenance issues such as tree roots, fallen debris, and water pump failures.
HostThis campground is unstaffed. Contact the main office at (208) 373-4100 for assistance.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 129, Idaho City, Idaho, 83631, United States
Driving directionsFrom Idaho City travel State Highway 21 north for about 10 miles to the campground. There are signed entrances on the left and right sides of the road, dividing the campground into two sections.
Road access is paved and accessible year-round. Highway 21 provides straightforward navigation, though sites near the highway may experience vehicle noise.Nearby places
Boise, Idaho (48 miles, approximately a 1-hour drive)
Idaho City (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Mores Creek Summit (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Idaho City, including fuel, groceries, and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.3
46 reviews
Ten Mile Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Ten Mile Campground are generally positive, with an average sentiment of 4.2 for general reviews and 3.96 for campground-specific reviews. Many highlight the peaceful environment, privacy, and proximity to the creek as major advantages. However, proximity to the highway and occasional maintenance issues are common criticisms.
Review Summaries
Based on 46 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the natural beauty, privacy offered by the sites, and the proximity to Mores Creek. Lisa Rankins remarked, 'Plenty of shade at most sites and brush/trees between sites allows...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include noise from the highway, occasional maintenance problems like vault toilets not being stocked with toilet paper, and issues like tree roots or sinkholes in certain sites. Jennifer H...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing extra toilet paper and drinking water, given the occasional rusty tinge in the potable water. Selecting sites away from the highway is advised for reduced noise. Keith P...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is identified as the most popular season, with activities such as fishing and enjoying the creek being highlighted. However, it can get colder at night due to the elevation, as noted by Dylan...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This place is beautiful and peaceful. The camp sites are far enough away so you don't hear your neighbor.' (William Dvorak) 2. 'We really love this little campground along Hwy 21 above Idaho...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 12 is consistently praised for its privacy and proximity to the creek. Sites 1, 2, and 3 in the lower loop are noted for their creekside access. Site 14 in the upper loop is described as 'quiet...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Specific accessibility-related reviews are limited, but vault toilets are noted to be accessible.
Based on 46 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. No specific reviews address the experiences of pet owners.
Based on 46 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025