Boise National Forest, Idaho

Pitch Your Tent
Beside a
Rushing River

Set on the banks of the North Fork Boise River, Big Eddy Campground offers shady, riverside campsites and cozy cabins — no reservations required. Just pull in, settle in, and let the forest do the rest.

30+ Riverside Sites
4 Cabins
Free Forest Access
Aerial view of a forested river valley in Boise National Forest

Choose Your
Riverside Retreat

Whether you're hauling a full trailer or rolling up with a backpack, there's a spot for you along the water.

Shaded tent campsite next to a river with evergreen trees Most Popular

Tent & RV Sites

Spacious, shaded sites right along the riverbank. Each spot includes a fire ring, picnic table, and easy walk to the water's edge. Pull-through and back-in options available.

  • Riverside location
  • Fire ring & picnic table
  • No reservations needed
Rustic wooden cabin nestled among pine trees near a river Cozy Option

Cabins

Simple, clean cabins with basic amenities — perfect for a comfortable night under the pines. Each cabin sleeps up to six and offers a porch with river views.

  • Sleeps up to 6
  • River-view porch
  • Basic amenities included
Camping campfire at dusk with stars above and forest surrounding Evening Vibe

Group & Walk-In Sites

Designated areas for walk-in camping and small groups. Set up your tent in a quiet, secluded spot surrounded by old-growth cedar and fir — just bring your own gear.

  • Secluded & quiet
  • Bring your own gear
  • First-come, first-served
Sunlight filtering through pine trees onto a forest campground
Close-up of the North Fork Boise River flowing over smooth rocks

A Quiet Corner of
Boise National Forest

Big Eddy Campground sits on a gentle bend of the North Fork Boise River, where the water slows down and the canopy closes overhead. It's been a favorite stop for families, fly fishers, and anyone looking to unplug — long before the internet made it hard to find places like this.

Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the campground offers a laid-back, no-fuss experience. There's no store, no hookups, and no crowds — just firewood, river sound, and the kind of silence you can only find deep in the woods.

US Forest Service Managed and maintained by the Boise National Forest
Leave No Trace We ask that all guests pack out what they pack in
Year-Round Access ID-55 is open all year — each season brings something different

Adventure at
Your Doorstep

The Boise National Forest is one of the most visited in the country, and Big Eddy puts you right in the middle of it all.

Fly Fishing

The North Fork Boise River is legendary for trout — the bend right at Big Eddy is one of the best spots on the entire stretch.

Hiking Trails

Miles of forest trails start right from the campground, leading to alpine lakes, high meadows, and old logging roads with sweeping views.

Wildlife Viewing

Black bears, elk, deer, and bald eagles all call this stretch of river home. Bring binoculars and keep a respectful distance.

Stargazing

With zero light pollution, the night sky here is something else. Grab a blanket, sit by the fire, and lose yourself in the Milky Way.

Forest Service Info

Trail maps, fire conditions, and current alerts are available at the ranger station. It's worth a stop before heading out.

Photography

Misty mornings on the river, golden-hour light through the pines, waterfalls just a hike away — this place is a photographer's dream.

Things to Know
Before You Go

No — Big Eddy Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites fill up quickly on weekends during peak season (May through September), so arriving early in the day gives you the best selection.

There are no hookups at the campsites. Potable water is available from a central spigot, and restrooms with flush toilets are on-site. For cabins, basic amenities are included but don't expect full RV hookups.

Cell service is spotty to nonexistent at Big Eddy. That's part of the appeal — but it also means downloading maps and trail information before you arrive is a smart move.

June through September is peak season — warm days, cool nights, and the river is at its best for fishing and swimming. Spring and fall offer solitude and stunning colors, though some roads may see temporary closures from snow.

Yes — pets are welcome as long as they're kept on a leash and cleaned up after. Wildlife is active in the area, so never leave pets unattended and keep them away from the river's edge.

Big Eddy Campground is located along ID-55 in Boise National Forest, Boise County, ID 83611. It's roughly a two-hour drive from downtown Boise. Call (208) 373-4100 for current road conditions.

Ready to Escape
to the River?

Big Eddy Campground is open year-round. No reservations are required — just show up and claim your spot. If you have questions before you head out, give us a call.

(208) 373-4100 ID-55, Boise National Forest, Boise County, ID 83611
Call to Inquire
Campfire glow beside a calm river at dusk in a pine forest
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