RV Camping Around Payette Lake and McCall: RV camping around Payette Lake and McCall, Idaho is an awe-inspiring journey into one of America’s most picturesque outdoor playgrounds. Located in the Payette National Forest, this area blends pristine natural beauty, rich cultural history, and modern amenities that make it the perfect destination for campers of all types and experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or a first-time explorer, this guide offers practical tips, detailed campground options, local history, and actionable advice to help you create an unforgettable trip.
RV Camping Around Payette Lake and McCall
RV camping at Payette Lake and around McCall offers an unparalleled combination of natural beauty, recreation, and comfort. From serene lakeside spots immersed in wilderness to luxurious, full-service RV resorts, this region caters to every type of traveler. Its deep history, vibrant community, and endless outdoor adventures make it a must-visit destination for the discerning RVer. With smart planning and respect for the environment, your journey to this Idaho treasure will be safe, enriching, and unforgettable.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Payette Lake & McCall, Idaho |
| Elevation | About 5,000 feet |
| Lake Size | 5,330 acres; max depth: 392 feet |
| Popular RV Campgrounds | Upper Payette Lake, McCall RV Resort, Creekside RV Park |
| RV Amenities | Full hookups, water, sewer, electricity (20-50 amps), laundry, Wi-Fi |
| Camping Limits | 14 days stay per 30-day period |
| Seasonal Activities | Summer boating, winter skiing, fishing, hiking, festivals |
| Visitors | Thousands annually, increasing tourism trends |
Discovering Payette Lake and McCall
At around 5,000 feet elevation, Payette Lake is a vast glacial lake covering over 5,300 acres and reaching depths up to 392 feet. Carved by a massive glacier more than 10,000 years ago, the lake sits surrounded by towering Engelmann spruce, lodgepole pine, and Douglas fir trees. It is half protected by Ponderosa State Park, which boasts over 1,000 acres of wilderness, hiking trails, campsites, and natural beauty. The clear blue waters and sandy beaches make it a haven for boating, fishing, swimming, and simply soaking in the mountain views.
Rich History and Culture
Before the arrival of Euro-American hunters and miners in the 1830s, the Payette Lake area was inhabited for thousands of years by the Nez Perce and other Native American tribes. They used the lake and surrounding forests for fishing, hunting, and spiritual ceremonies. The discovery of gold in the 1860s brought miners, and by the 1880s, the town of McCall was founded along the lake’s southern shore. The arrival of the railroad in 1914 opened McCall to tourism, laying the groundwork for its future as a recreational hotspot.
McCall’s heritage interweaves four critical elements: recreation, mining, forestry, and agriculture. The town preserves historic buildings on the National Register of Historic Places and hosts the Central Idaho Historical Museum, where visitors can delve into artifacts and stories reflecting the area’s unique past. Annual events, including the McCall Winter Carnival, celebrate this rich cultural tapestry alongside the natural wonders that continue to define the community.
Top RV Campgrounds and Resorts
Upper Payette Lake Campground: Rustic Nature Immersion
Located 16 miles north of McCall, Upper Payette Lake Campground offers a rustic camping experience ideal for those seeking a deep wilderness vibe. With 20 family sites and a few group areas, the campground has picnic tables, fire rings, potable water, and vault toilets but does not offer sewer or electrical hookups. This means campers must be prepared for a more primitive stay. Cell service is often spotty, which provides a great chance to unplug and enjoy lake activities like fishing for rainbow trout and bass, kayaking among coves, and hiking nearby trails.
Because of the rugged terrain, large RVs may find some sites difficult to access, so it’s recommended that drivers scout beforehand or consider vehicle size when booking.
McCall RV Resort: Modern Comfort in a Scenic Locale
For RVers who want to combine outdoor adventure with luxury conveniences, McCall RV Resort is hard to beat. Situated just minutes from McCall’s town center along the Payette River, this full-service resort offers spacious paved sites, full hookups (water, sewer, electric up to 50 amps), cable TV, high-speed Wi-Fi, laundry, and an indoor swimming pool. The resort is pet-friendly, boasts a fitness center, and features a lodge where social gatherings and events are hosted regularly.
Being winterized with snow removal services, this resort stays accessible year-round, offering comfort during the cold months when nearby ski resorts beckon. Many visitors appreciate the community atmosphere here, with programs and activities for families and solo travelers alike.
Creekside RV Park: Convenience Meets Outdoor Fun
Just 8 miles west of McCall, Creekside RV Park balances amenities and access to nature. It offers full hookups and provides guest bathrooms, hot showers, laundry facilities, BBQ areas, and is pet-friendly. Those staying here can easily venture out to nearby hiking, fishing, and boating spots. The quieter atmosphere makes it a top choice for visitors wanting both convenience and tranquility.
What To Pack for RV Camping Around Payette Lake and McCall?
Packing smart maximizes your trip comfort and safety.
- Clothing: Layered outfits with warm jackets, rain gear, moisture-wicking base layers, sturdy hiking boots, gloves, hats, and sunglasses.
- Camping Gear: Quality firewood (buy locally if possible), lanterns, chairs, insect repellent (especially mosquito and tick sprays), a first aid kit, and multi-tools.
- RV Supplies: Include sewer and water hoses, electrical adapters, a dump kit, surge protector, extra batteries, and tire chocks.
- Food & Water: Stock ample drinking water plus meals that are easy to cook on a camp stove or grill, plus coolers for perishables.
- Safety & Navigation: Pack bear spray for outdoor excursions, flashlights, hiking maps or GPS devices with offline maps, and emergency roadside kits.
- Entertainment: Fishing poles, binoculars, cameras, outdoor games, and books for relaxation.
Safety & Environmental Responsibility
Camping in the Payette National Forest requires respect for regulations designed to preserve the environment.
- Fire Safety: Fire restrictions often apply, especially in drought seasons. Always use designated fire rings and fully extinguish fires before leaving your site.
- Wildlife Awareness: Secure food and trash to avoid attracting black bears or other animals. Maintain a safe distance while observing wildlife.
- Leave No Trace: Carry out all trash, avoid damaging plants, and camp on established durable surfaces.
- Weather Preparedness: Mountain weather can shift rapidly. Regularly check forecasts and be prepared for sudden cold, rain, or snow.
- Health Safety: Bring hand sanitizer, water purification methods, and adequate sun protection.
Outdoor Activities Year-Round
- Fishing: Payette Lake’s trout, bass, and perch make it a popular spot for anglers. A fishing license is required and available locally.
- Boating & Kayaking: Calm glacial waters are perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing.
- Hiking: The Payette Shoreline Trail, Turkey Hill Trail, and others offer scenic views suited for all skill levels.
- Winter Sports: Nearby Brundage Mountain and Tamarack Resort offer downhill, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.
- Local Festivals: The McCall Winter Carnival is world-renowned, featuring spectacular snow sculptures, sled races, and a lively atmosphere attracting over 60,000 visitors annually.
Local Culture, History & Attractions
McCall’s unique culture emerges from its deep-rooted history and vibrant community life. The Central Idaho Historical Museum showcases indigenous heritage, early European settlement artifacts, and the evolution of mining, forestry, and recreation industries. The town has preserved historic hotels, lodges, and downtown shops, intertwining past and present.
For craft lovers and foodies, the McCall Ale Trail lets travelers sample local craft beers while exploring the town’s lively social venues. Seasonal farmers markets, art galleries, and live music further enrich the visitor experience. Combined with outstanding local restaurants serving fresh, mountain-inspired cuisine, McCall is much more than a gateway to nature—it stands alone as a destination of culture and relaxation.
How to Find Public RV Dump Stations in Idaho
