Lake Cascade State Park
00 reviewPO Box 709, Cascade, Idaho, 83611-0709, United States
Lake Cascade State Park
$7.00 - $7.00 / 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
A $7.00 Motor Vehicle Entrance Fee (MVEF) is required for every vehicle entering Idaho State Parks. This fee is included in campsite fees but applies to additional vehicles.
About this campground
Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of water against the shore, surrounded by Idaho's breathtaking mountain wilderness. Lake Cascade State Park beckons adventurers with more than 200 individual campsites spread across 12 thoughtfully developed campgrounds, along with secluded dispersed camping areas and two spacious group facilities perfect for family reunions or outdoor gatherings. Whether you're casting a line through winter ice, carving fresh powder on snowmobile trails, or harnessing summer winds for an exhilarating day of sailing and windsurfing, this sprawling outdoor playground transforms with the seasons. From sunrise hikes through meadow trails to sunset paddles across glassy waters, Lake Cascade State Park invites you to write your own adventure story in the heart of Idaho's spectacular landscape.
Lake Cascade State Park offers a variety of camping options, including primitive, RV, and tent camping. Group camping facilities and yurts are also available.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of Lake Cascade, where winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow and transforms the reservoir into a frozen wonderland perfect for ice fishing enthusiasts. As temperatures dip below freezing, the park becomes a haven for winter sports lovers. Come summer, the mercury rises to create those perfect Idaho days—warm enough for swimming and water sports, yet refreshingly comfortable for ambitious hiking expeditions. The shoulder seasons bring their own magic, with spring wildflowers dotting the meadows and autumn painting the surrounding forests in brilliant golds and crimsons.
ElevationNull
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself standing at the edge of a vast, mirror-like reservoir that stretches toward the horizon, perfectly reflecting the surrounding peaks and endless Idaho sky. Lake Cascade's waters are cradled by a diverse tapestry of evergreen forests that give way to wildflower-studded meadows, creating a constantly changing vista that captivates photographers and nature lovers alike. The mountainous terrain provides a dramatic backdrop to every outdoor adventure, while hidden coves and scenic overlooks offer intimate moments of solitude. Whether shrouded in morning mist or bathed in golden sunset light, the panoramic views across Lake Cascade create memories that linger long after you've returned home.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of central Idaho's rugged mountain country, Lake Cascade State Park showcases the raw beauty of the American West. This stunning reservoir, carved into the mountainous landscape, serves as the centerpiece of a diverse ecosystem where dense coniferous forests meet open meadows in a breathtaking display of natural harmony. The surrounding peaks and valleys tell the ancient geological story of Idaho, offering visitors a chance to explore a landscape shaped by millennia of natural forces, now transformed into one of the state's premier outdoor recreation destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-accessible yurts, cabins, and group facilities are available. These facilities do not require proof of disability for use.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size to accommodate different needs, with some companion sites allowing up to 16 people.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some users have described sites as 'sunny sardine-like,' while others appreciated the spacious layout with significant distance between sites.
Total Campsites200 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Ridgeview for hookups and scenic views. Poison Creek is ideal for full hookups.
Best CampsitesCompanion sites are well-placed for larger groups. Ridgeview offers sites with power, water, and some sewer.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping is allowed in designated areas only.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most campsites allow a maximum of 8 people, with companion sites accommodating up to 16 people.
Groups
The park provides two group camping opportunities, including a group camp and the Osprey Point Group Yurt complex. While specific site capacities are not mentioned, these facilities cater to larger groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into multiple loops, including Ridgeview, Sage Bluff, and Poison Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, with seasonal recreational activities such as ice fishing and snowmobiling in winter, and hiking and boating in summer.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Idaho Parks and Recreation's website www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov or by phone at 208-382-6544.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited due to high demand during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyNo refunds are offered due to wildfires or other natural events. Exceptions for health issues are not accommodated.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The park is a hub for diverse outdoor activities throughout the year. Activities range from hiking, boating, and fishing in the summer to ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing in the winter.
Hiking
Hiking trails in the park are described as easy, making them suitable for casual hikers and families. Details on specific trail lengths or difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity with opportunities to catch rainbow trout, Coho salmon, smallmouth bass, and perch. Anglers can fish from the shore or a boat, with ice fishing available in winter.Biking
Mountain biking is accessible within the park, but specifics regarding trail terrain and difficulty are not mentioned.Boating
Boating is a major attraction, with specific emphasis on sailing and windsurfing due to prevailing winds. There are six boat ramps available for visitor use.Wildlife viewing
The park is well-suited for bird watching and wildlife observation, though details on specific species or optimal viewing locations are not provided.Winter Activities
Winter recreation includes ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. These activities make the park a year-round destination.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing are popular during warmer months.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated areas only.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildfires pose a recurring safety risk. Severe asthma reaction noted in reviews due to smoke.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Medical clinic within less than 1 mile in Cascade; nearest hospital located in McCall (~25 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season occurs during warmer months, with heavy activity during summer.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but additional details about pickup schedules or specific locations are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresLake Cascade's 41 square miles and 86 miles of shoreline offer ample water recreation opportunities.
Common complaintsComplaints include overcrowded campsites, high fees, and limited toilet facilities. Fire pits and trash sometimes left uncleaned.
HostCampground hosts and park rangers are noted to be friendly and helpful according to user reviews.
Campground Map
PO Box 709, Cascade, Idaho, 83611-0709, United States
Driving directionsTurn west onto Lake Cascade Parkway, off of Highway 55 in the town of Cascade (follow signs to golf course). Multiple campgrounds can be accessed from this point, including Ridgeview (north on Lakeshore Dr.), Sage Bluff (1 mile down Lakeshore Dr.), and Cabarton (3 miles south). Crown Point can be reached by turning west on Vista Point Blvd. Off Highway 55, Sugarloaf and Boulder Creek can be accessed via Stonebreaker Ln and Loomis Lane respectively. Campgrounds on the west side of the lake, including Poison Creek, are accessible via Roseberry Rd. off Highway 55.
Roads leading to the campground are paved, with clear signage directing visitors to various loops. Seasonal accessibility may depend on weather conditions.Nearby places
Cascade (~1 mile)
Donnelly (~16 miles)
Boise (~75 miles)
McCall (~25 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, camping supplies, and other essentials can be found in Cascade, less than a mile from the park.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Lake Cascade State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lake Cascade State Park are a mix of praise for its natural beauty, spacious sites, and diverse activity offerings, as well as criticism regarding some facilities' maintenance and cost.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many users appreciated the park's scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. For instance, Gene noted, 'What a beautiful state park right on Lake Cascade. Many different loops to enjoy for tent...
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Common Concerns
Complaints include high costs (e.g., Sharon Mendoza: 'WAY OVER PRICED') and maintenance issues, particularly with toilets and showers. Other users found the park too crowded or expressed frustration...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early for better site selection, and book in advance to avoid last-minute surprises, especially during peak seasons. Ensure to check for updates on facilities and water availability.
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews highlight the park's popularity for ice fishing and snowmobiling, while summer reviews emphasize water sports and hiking. Crowding appears more frequent in summer.
Camper Quotes
1. 'The drive here is amazing! Gorgeous during both seasons.' (Jess Or, 2022) 2. 'Camp hosts and park rangers are very nice!' (Myrah Small, 2021) 3. 'Nice place but way too crowded.' (Shay Hossman,...
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Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews for individual sites are available, although some users noted that companion sites are spacious enough for larger groups.
Accessibility Features
No specific user feedback on accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed across all sites, but no detailed user feedback focusing on pet-related facilities was provided.
Last updated August 10, 2025