Tie Creek Campground
4.5322 reviewsTie Creek Campground
$15.00 - $35.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on site type, ranging from $15 for basic tent sites to $35 for RV sites. Firewood is available for purchase nearby for $5.
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About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of the Middle Fork Payette River, Tie Creek Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic Idaho wilderness experience. Here, spacious campsites tucked beneath towering evergreens offer the perfect basecamp for adventure. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear river, exploring scenic hiking trails, or navigating the extensive ATV network that crisscrosses this stunning landscape, each day brings new discoveries. Recently upgraded with modern amenities including new fire pits and level sand tent pads, the campground seamlessly blends comfort with the raw beauty of the backcountry.
Tie Creek Campground caters primarily to tent and RV campers, with spacious sites and amenities for both types of visitors. There is no mention of glamping or highly developed accommodations.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Tie Creek basks in Idaho's signature dry summer climate, where sun-drenched days invite endless outdoor exploration. While afternoon clouds occasionally deliver refreshing showers and passing vehicles may stir up dust along the dirt access roads, the weather remains remarkably pleasant for camping. As autumn fades, winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, though heavy snowfall often renders nearby trails impassable, creating a seasonal rhythm that defines this mountain retreat.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of Douglas fir and lodgepole pine creates a natural canopy above Tie Creek, filtering sunlight into dappled patterns across the forest floor. This verdant ecosystem thrives with remarkable biodiversity, where morning mists reveal grazing deer, majestic elk move through the understory, and hawks circle overhead against azure skies. The interplay of ancient trees, vibrant undergrowth, and the ever-present sound of flowing water creates an immersive wilderness atmosphere that rejuvenates the soul.
Geological RegionPerched along the dynamic Middle Fork Payette River, Tie Creek Campground occupies a spectacular setting where water has sculpted the landscape over millennia. Sandy river bends invite barefoot exploration, while the surrounding forest of Douglas fir and lodgepole pine speaks to the region's volcanic past and glacial history. This diverse riparian corridor serves as a vital wildlife highway, supporting an impressive array of species from browsing deer and elk to soaring hawks, all thriving in this unique convergence of river, forest, and mountain ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo detailed accessibility features are mentioned in the provided materials.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with one reviewer detailing space for a 12-person tent, a 3-person tent, and room for an additional larger tent. Another noted, "All of the spots are large."
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer a decent level of privacy, with some reviews mentioning that the sites are fairly private and shaded, though proximity to other visitors is noted as a downside by others.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure creek-side sites for privacy and water access. Sites closer to the back of the campground are less affected by road dust.
Best CampsitesCreek-side campsites with direct water access are highly praised for their beauty and convenience.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14-day maximum stay limit
Guests Allowed Per Site
8guests per site
Groups
Group camping details are unavailable.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites organized in a loop with 8 individual units, spacious and well-marked.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May to September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the Emmett Ranger District or the Boise National Forest website.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites fill quickly, especially during weekends and holidays. Walk-up availability is limited.
Cancellation PolicyContact Emmett Ranger District or visit the Boise National Forest official site for details on cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Tie Creek Campground is popular for a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, biking, and picnicking. The nearby Middle Fork Payette River provides excellent fishing opportunities, and there are trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and ATV use.
Hiking
Several trails are accessible from the campground, including the One Spoon Trail, Rattlesnake Trail, and 465 ATV Trail. These trails cater to various activities like hiking, mountain biking, and ATV riding. Reviewers recommend consulting the Boise National Forest map and the Emmett Motor Vehicle Use Map for detailed trail information.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight at the campground, with the Middle Fork Payette River offering good to excellent fishing conditions for whitefish and rainbow trout. A user stated, "Great fishing and camping on the river."Biking
Mountain biking is a popular activity in the area, with trails accommodating various skill levels. Specific details about trail difficulty or terrain were not provided.Wildlife viewing
The campground's natural surroundings allow for wildlife viewing, including deer, elk, and red-tailed hawks.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned, but the campground operates from May through September, outside the winter season.Water Sports
No specific information on non-motorized water sports is provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits.
Hazards
General hazardsSlippery rocks in the river and highway noise are mentioned in user reviews. Wildlife such as deer, elk, and bears are common.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6 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
Emergency services can be found in Crouch, ID, approximately 10 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate Spring through Summer (May to September).
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are not available, as confirmed by user reviews: "No trash." Campers are required to pack out their waste.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the Middle Fork Payette River, offering fishing and wading opportunities.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby highways, unleashed dogs, and inconsiderate campers detract from the experience for some.
HostThe campground host is described as friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, take State Highway 55 north 35 miles to Banks, Idaho. At Banks, turn east onto the (Banks-Lowman Road) State Highway 17 and proceed to Crouch, Idaho. From Crouch, continue north on Forest Service Road 698 (Middle Fork Payette River Road) approximately 10 miles to Tie Creek Campground.
Roads to the campground include a mix of paved highways and unpaved forest roads. Seasonal road conditions may affect accessibility, particularly during heavy rain or snow. As noted by users, dust is commonly kicked up along the dirt road.Nearby places
Boise, ID (approx. 1.5 hours, 35 miles)
Crouch, ID (approx. 10 miles, 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, are available in Crouch, ID, approximately 10 miles away. Firewood can be purchased 1/4 mile before the campground from a local resident at $5 per store-sized pack.
Camper Reviews
4.5
22 reviews
Tie Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, visitors praise Tie Creek Campground for its natural beauty, spacious sites, and proximity to outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. However, some reviewers noted issues such as limited trash facilities, occasional noise, and inconsiderate fellow campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently mention the campground's prime location by the river, spacious campsites, and clean facilities. Comments include "Great campground by the river!" and "Each site has a newish fire...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include limited trash disposal facilities ("No trash"), occasional disturbances from other campers, and highway noise at times. One reviewer mentioned, "Not very many access points...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a site, as spots fill quickly. Choose sites near the river for better views and access. Bring your own trash bags for waste disposal.
Based on 22 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is operational from May through September, with visitors praising the spring and summer for fishing and hiking opportunities. However, dust from dirt roads is mentioned as a minor...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"There is a spot for people to get into the river at that can get busy." "Very beautiful and decent amount of shade." "Slippery rocks in the river but a very nice campsite." "Right on the water but...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites near the creek are highly recommended for their beauty and accessibility. One reviewer noted, "If you get a site on the creek side, there are short paths that lead down to the water."
Based on 22 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific user feedback on accessibility features.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and there are areas to leash dogs. However, one reviewer criticized some pet owners for letting dogs roam freely.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025