Upper Payette Lake Campground
4.4229 reviews102 LAKE ST P.O. BOX 1026, MCCALL, ID 83638, USA
Upper Payette Lake Campground
$10.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $10 for individual sites to $30 for group standard non-electric sites during peak season. Reservation fees are $8 online, $9 through the contact center, and $3 in person.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Upper Payette Lake near McCall, Idaho, this tranquil mountain campground offers an authentic wilderness escape. Cast a line into crystal-clear waters, paddle across the glassy lake surface, or explore winding forest trails that reveal stunning vistas at every turn. Modern conveniences like vault toilets and drinking water complement the natural setting, while well-maintained gravel roads provide easy access to your perfect lakeside spot.
Upper Payette Lake Campground offers a mix of camping options, including group sites, single and double-family campsites. Primitive camping is also an option outside of the main campground during peak seasons when sites are full.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Idaho's mountain climate with pleasantly warm summer days that invite endless outdoor adventures, followed by refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire gatherings. Early season visitors are rewarded with the lake at its fullest, creating ideal conditions for water activities, while late-season adventurers should note that water levels may drop, revealing different shoreline perspectives and quieter surroundings.
ElevationPerched at 5,900 feet above sea level, this high-altitude haven transforms summer into a comfortable retreat from valley heat. Cool mountain breezes sweep through camp each evening, while the elevation creates perfect conditions for spectacular wildflower displays that paint the meadows in vibrant colors throughout the warmer months.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering Engelmann spruce and lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral around the campground, their branches offering dappled shade throughout the day. At 5,900 feet elevation, the crisp mountain air carries the scent of pine and wildflowers, while summer brings an explosion of color as alpine blooms carpet the forest floor. This refreshing high-country climate provides the perfect escape from summer's heat.
Geological RegionSet against the dramatic backdrop of the Salmon River Mountains, the campground showcases the raw beauty of Idaho's rugged wilderness. Dense forests of Engelmann spruce and lodgepole pine stretch as far as the eye can see, their deep green contrasting beautifully with meadows bursting with seasonal wildflowers. This stunning geological setting creates an unforgettable base camp for mountain adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAll campsites are accessible, and the campground includes paved pathways to enhance mobility. Accessible vault toilets are also available.
Sites SizeThe campground offers single-family, double-family, and group sites. Group sites can accommodate up to 20 and 30 guests.
Sites PrivacySome campsites have lake views and access, providing options for solitude and scenic enjoyment. Sites are described as 'spacious' and 'nicely socially distanced.'
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites next to the lake offer peaceful views and easier water access.
Best CampsitesLakefront sites are highly rated for their scenic views and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified
Check-out
Not specified
Stay Limit
Not specified
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified
Groups
Two group sites are available. One accommodates up to 20 guests, and the other up to 30 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features single and double-family sites, as well as two group sites accommodating up to 30 guests. Roads and parking spurs are gravel.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from July 1 to September 15, though opening day depends on snow levels.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov mobile app, online, and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available outside the reservation season.
Cancellation PolicyScan & Pay reservations are non-refundable and non-modifiable.
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.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to the Upper Payette Lake Campground can enjoy various recreational activities such as fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The no-wake lake offers a serene environment for water-based activities, while nearby trails cater to both hikers and bikers.
Hiking
The campground features the paved, mile-long Shoreline Trail and additional hiking trails nearby. User reviews note the presence of overgrown vegetation and fallen trees on some trails, which may limit accessibility in certain areas.Fishing
The no-wake lake provides opportunities for fishing, including fly-fishing and fishing from kayaks. Evening hours are highlighted as an excellent time for fishing.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are available near the campground. The 20 Mile Creek trail, located on the opposite side of the lake, is notable for its challenging terrain and scenic views. However, user reviews mention occasional trail blockages due to fallen trees.Boating
The lake supports non-motorized boating activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The presence of a boat ramp enhances accessibility for these activities.Wildlife viewing
Campers have observed deer and other wildlife in the area. The serene, natural setting makes it an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts.Winter Activities
Some off-season activities may be limited due to snow levels. The campground's opening day depends on snow conditions.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted with locally sourced wood to prevent pest spread.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsNo cell service. Lake drawdowns after September 1 may impact boating access.
Active alertsLake levels may be low after September 1, affecting boat ramp usability.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10 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
McCall: nearest emergency services include hospitals and police stations approximately 16 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 01 - September 15
Trash and recyclingAs a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility, there is no trash or recycling service available. Campers are required to remove all waste from the site.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Upper Payette Lake, a no-wake zone ideal for kayaking and fishing.
Common complaintsCrowded conditions, lack of maintenance, overgrown trails, and occasional reservation issues.
HostHosts Lloyd and Charlotte are praised for their kindness and attentiveness.
Campground Map
102 LAKE ST P.O. BOX 1026, MCCALL, ID 83638, USA
Driving directionsFrom McCall, Idaho, take Highway 55 north to Warren Wagon Road/Forest Highway 21. Turn right and continue for 16 miles to gravel Forest Road 495 and follow for a mile into the campground.
The campground is accessible via Warren Wagon Road/Forest Highway 21, which is paved and generally well-maintained. The final mile is on gravel Forest Road 495, which may require caution but is passable for most vehicles.Nearby places
McCall (16 miles)
Nearby supplies
McCall (16 miles away) offers groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other necessities.
Camper Reviews
4.4
29 reviews
Upper Payette Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty and serene environment. Guests appreciate the cleanliness of the vault toilets and the helpfulness of the hosts. However, some complaints mention overgrown vegetation, trail maintenance issues, and challenges with the reservation process.
Review Summaries
Based on 29 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praise the 'beautiful and quiet' setting, 'clean and sanitized' vault toilets, and the supportive camp hosts. Many reviewers emphasize the lake's no-wake policy, which contributes to the...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes issues with trail maintenance (e.g., fallen trees and overgrown plants), lack of trash service, and reservation mishaps where reserved sites were occupied or unavailable....
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing potable water or filtration systems as the hand-pump water may not be ideal for drinking. Early-season visits are preferred for a full lake experience. It is also advised...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Guests note that the lake is at its fullest during early summer, making it ideal for kayaking and fishing. Late-season visits may find the lake drawn down, affecting water-based activities. Snow...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The camp hosts were the sweetest couple.' - Erica Siegel
2. 'The vault toilets were among the cleanest I've seen.' - Michelle W.
3. 'Great for kayaks, SUPs, and fly-fishing tubes.' - Catherine...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 009: 'Beautiful place, lots of room.'
Site 014: 'Nice site but hadn’t been swept off for weeks.'
Site 013: 'Nice campground but getting quite overgrown.'
Group Site GA2: 'Lots of room and...
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Accessibility Features
Several reviews highlight the campground's paved pathways and accessible vault toilets. Camp hosts provided assistance to guests with mobility challenges, earning praise for their kindness and...
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Pet-Friendly Features
There is no specific information about pet policies in the source materials, and user reviews do not elaborate on pet-related experiences.
Based on 29 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025