The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Idaho BLM manages over 12 million acres of public land. Public lands managed by the BLM include working land, special conservation areas, and recreation areas. Payette River is a wild and scenic river that has been preserved for conservation and recreation. Located a short drive north of Boise, the river offers whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities at all skill levels. Payette River borders the Boise National Forest, known for its dense and extensive stands of pines. Hike the picturesque Payette River Canyon or to the peak of Trinity Mountain. Visit the world-famous Yellowstone National Park or Grand Teton National Park. Both are a few hours’ drive to the east. Relive a part of American history with a hike on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail.
Hike or bike the Bear River Trail up a narrow glacial valley to the headwaters of the Bear River. The trail follows the valley floor between Wolf Mountain and Shepard Peak. Vegetation includes stands of ponderosa pine, fir, and whitebark pine. Bikers may need to dismount at river crossings. Length: 10 miles Intensity: Intermediate
The Weiser River Trail follows an 84-mile historic railroad grade. The mostly compacted gravel trail is accessible to hikers, bicyclists, and cross-country skiers in season. It crosses BLM and state land. The trail passes through three towns and riparian habitats. It provides a view of over 16,000 acres of wilderness otherwise inaccessible to the public. Due to its remote nature, deer, elk, heron, bear, wild turkey, and raptors often share the trail. Length: Up to 84 miles Intensity: Easy
The Payette River system is a whitewater rafting and kayaking mecca. It is also an exciting fly-fishing site. The river system is managed jointly by BLM and the National Forest Service. There are 13 access points for rafting and kayaking along the river, and each access point demands a different skill level from Class 1 to Class 5. Each section of the river features another dominant fish species. An Idaho fishing permit is required for fishing anywhere on the river.
The Lower Owyhee Canyon Watchable Wildlife Area is managed by the BLM, National Parks Service, and volunteer organizations. The meandering Owyhee River creates an extensive riparian habitat. A sharp eye will see amphibians, reptiles, beavers, and otters in and around the water. Mammals, from various mice and rats to beaver, skunk, and mink, populate the brush. The area is most noted for its vast array of local and migratory birds, waterfowl, and raptors.
Bonneville Point stands where Captain Benjamin Bonneville and his men viewed the Les Bois Valley in 1833. The BLM facility contains a pavilion and interpretive signs with historical information about the area. There is also a monument that commemorates the Oregon Trail. A set of Oregon Trail ruts are nearby. The site is a great place to have a quiet picnic, learn some history, or take a short hike.
There are several opportunities for BLM RV camping in and around the Payette River area. Tie Creek Campground is located along the Middle Fork of the Payette River. The campground is situated on the bank of the river among Douglass fir and lodge pole pine trees. All sites have picnic tables and grills or fire pits. Drinking water and a vault toilet are available. The site does not take reservations, and there is a fee. The site can accommodate RV rigs up to 35 feet. For a full-service RV experience, you can visit Hi Valley RV Park just a few miles south of Payette River. The park boasts over 190 back-in and pull-through sites with full hookups. Amenities include a pool, Wi-Fi, showers, a dog park, and good cell reception. The park is on the outskirts of Boise, so restaurants and shopping are close.
There are several Bureau of Land Management Campgrounds in the area. The closest to Payette River is Payette River - South Fork, an undeveloped campground on the shore of the river. There is river and forest access. This site provides Bureau of Land Management free camping. There are no amenities and no fee.
The Payette River area is minimally developed. While the rivers run all year, there is no potable water at any of the campsites or recreation areas. Bring plenty of water. Plan for potential hazards. The wilderness can be dangerous. Take precautions to avoid confrontations with wildlife. Store food and trash in closed containers or lockers when camping at unimproved sites. Be sure to have appropriate clothing for the season and topography. Hiking in the wood requires rugged shoes. In summer, lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants are recommended. The weather can change suddenly in the mountains, so you should have warm clothes available. Waterproof sunblock is necessary if you plan to spend time on the water. Sunlight reflected off the water amplifies the burning power of the sun. Spending time in the forest is a unique experience. The altitude and plentiful moisture around Payette River create a unique habitat that can be experienced in very few locations. Being prepared will help you enjoy your time in nature. Before heading into the region, check out our BLM camping blog for tips and information. If you are having trouble finding an appropriate campsite, do an internet search for "BLM camping near me." You can also check with the local BLM field office for sites, conditions, and restrictions.
The area around Payette River has thousands of visitors every year. The environment is sensitive to human impact. Contribute to preserving nature while enjoying it. Pack out everything you pack in. Review the BLM Outdoor Ethics and "Leave No Trace" guidelines before heading out.
Take Highway 55 north from Boise. Pass Horseshoe Bend. The highway follows the Payette River from that point. Watch for signs on either side of the road for river access points. Four Rivers Field Office - 3948 Development Ave. - Boise, ID 83705 Ready to visit Payette River? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day of exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RV Share.
