COLD SPRINGS CAMPGROUND

For Idaho locals who cherish a peaceful escape into the heart of their state's stunning natural landscapes, Cold Springs Campground offers an ideal destination. Nestled within the expansive Payette National Forest, just a short drive from Council, this Forest Service campground is a beloved spot for those seeking quietude, natural beauty, and a range of outdoor activities without the overwhelming crowds. It’s a place where the fresh mountain air, the sounds of nature, and the nearby Lost Valley Reservoir create a perfect setting for relaxation and adventure.

Cold Springs Campground is celebrated for its quaint and pleasant atmosphere. It provides a mix of well-spaced sites, some offering more seclusion and shade, making it adaptable for families with young children or individuals seeking a more private experience. While some sites might be closely tucked together, the overall ambiance remains comfortable and "doable," as noted by visitors. The campground caters to both tent campers and those with RVs or trailers, offering essential amenities that enhance the rustic camping experience.

Beyond the campsite itself, Cold Springs Campground serves as a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding Payette National Forest. Its proximity to Lost Valley Reservoir means easy access to boating, fishing, and swimming, making it a great choice for water enthusiasts. For those who love to hike or simply enjoy being surrounded by Idaho's rich flora and fauna, the area offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature observation. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the digital world and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Idaho, making memories that last a lifetime.

Cold Springs Campground is conveniently located on Highway 95, near Council, ID 83612, USA, within the beautiful Payette National Forest. More precisely, it's situated approximately 8 miles west of New Meadows on US Highway 95. From there, you turn east onto Forest Road No. 89 (also known as Lost Valley Reservoir Road or at the Pine Ridge Store junction) and follow this improved gravel road for approximately 2 to 3 miles to reach the campground. The campground itself is located about 0.75 miles from Lost Valley Reservoir.

The access road to Cold Springs Campground is generally an improved gravel road, making it accessible for most vehicles, including those towing RVs and trailers. Reviewers indicate that while the road and drive spurs are gravel, they are "nice and not too dusty," and "people were pretty good about driving slow around the loop," contributing to a pleasant environment. The elevation of the campground is approximately 4,850 to 5,000 feet, offering cooler temperatures during the summer months, which can be a welcome relief from valley heat.

Despite being relatively close to Highway 95, the short drive on Forest Road 89 helps create a sense of peaceful seclusion. The campground is about 20 minutes from New Meadows, which provides basic services and supplies, ensuring that campers can easily restock if needed. The location offers a balanced blend of accessibility and quiet wilderness, making it a convenient choice for Idahoans seeking an escape into nature.

Cold Springs Campground provides a range of essential services and facilities designed to support a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, particularly for those who appreciate a more traditional forest camping setting.

• Campsites: The campground features a total of 33 campsites, including 24 single sites and 6 double sites, with some sites specifically designated as accessible. Additionally, there are two group campsites available: Group Site A can accommodate up to 75 people, and Group Site B can accommodate up to 50 people. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate, perfect for outdoor cooking and campfires. Sites are generally well-spaced, offering a degree of privacy, though some might be closer than others.
• Toilets: Clean vault toilets are available on-site. While one review noted that the bathrooms were "not attended to" at one point, other reviews generally praise the restrooms for being "clean." These are basic, non-flushable facilities, but are maintained for camper convenience.
• Water: Potable drinking water is available at the campground, typically from centrally located hand pumps. This is a significant convenience for campers.
• Camp Host: A volunteer camp host is usually present on-site from May to September. They can provide assistance, local information, and help maintain the campground facilities.
• Trash Collection: Unlike many primitive Forest Service campgrounds, Cold Springs Campground offers trash collection services, providing a convenient way to dispose of waste and encouraging a cleaner environment.
• No Electrical Hookups: As a standard Forest Service campground, there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available at any of the campsites. Campers should be prepared for dry camping.
• Reservations & Fees: Some individual sites (11 of the 24 single sites) can be reserved up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov. The two group sites can be reserved up to 12 months in advance. The remaining 19 individual sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Fees are typically $10 per night for a single unit and $15 for a double unit. Group Site A costs $30/night, and Group Site B costs $20/night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount on single campsites.
• Firewood: Firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host.
• Boating Access: A boat ramp is located on the southeast shore of Lost Valley Reservoir, providing convenient access for motorized and non-motorized boating.

Cold Springs Campground offers several key features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for Idaho locals seeking a memorable outdoor experience:

• Proximity to Lost Valley Reservoir: Located just 0.75 miles from the campground, Lost Valley Reservoir is a major draw. It offers excellent opportunities for boating (motorized and non-motorized), fishing (stocked with trout), canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. A boat ramp is conveniently available at the reservoir.
• Quiet and Peaceful Ambiance: Despite its accessibility from Highway 95, the campground maintains a remarkably quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Reviewers consistently praise its tranquility, making it ideal for relaxation and escaping daily noise.
• Varied Campsites: The campground features a mix of sites set in an open meadow lined with Ponderosa Pine and Douglas Fir. While some sites are in full sun, others are more "closely tucked" or offer "more shade/more seclusion," allowing campers to choose a spot that suits their preference.
• Potable Water and Clean Toilets: The availability of potable drinking water from hand pumps and the presence of generally clean vault toilets are significant conveniences for a Forest Service campground, enhancing the comfort of the stay.
• Family and Pet-Friendly: The quaint and pleasant atmosphere, along with the allowance of dogs on leash, makes it suitable for families with children and pets, allowing everyone to enjoy the Idaho wilderness.
• Wildlife Viewing and Birding: The location within the Payette National Forest, particularly near Lost Valley Reservoir, provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including deer, and bird watching, especially at the Lost Creek Interpretive Site at the north end of the reservoir.
• Mix of First-Come, First-Served & Reservable Sites: The combination of reservable and first-come, first-served sites offers flexibility for both planners and spontaneous adventurers.
• Camp Host Presence: A friendly and attentive camp host enhances the overall experience by providing assistance and maintaining the facilities.
• Starry Nights: Being away from major light pollution, the campground offers excellent opportunities for stargazing.

For inquiries and information regarding Cold Springs Campground, it is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Payette National Forest. You can contact the relevant Ranger District for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Address: Highway 95, Council, ID 83612, USA (This address generally points to the area; the specific access is off Forest Road 089 from Highway 95.)

Phone: (208) 634-0400 (This is the phone number for the New Meadows Ranger District, which oversees this portion of the Payette National Forest and the Cold Springs Campground.)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-634-0400 (This is the same primary contact number for the Ranger District.)

It is highly recommended to contact the New Meadows Ranger District directly or visit the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Payette National Forest (fs.usda.gov/payette) before planning your trip. Key information to confirm includes:

• Current operating season dates (typically May to September)
• Any alerts or closures (e.g., fire restrictions, road conditions)
• Availability of sites, especially if you are planning to use the first-come, first-served options
• Specific directions and road conditions for Forest Road 089

For Idaho locals, Cold Springs Campground truly embodies the essence of a perfect outdoor escape within their home state. Its location within the vast Payette National Forest, near the accessible town of Council, provides a wonderful balance of peaceful seclusion and convenient access to supplies. This campground is ideally suited for the Idahoan who cherishes quiet natural settings, offering a tranquil alternative to more bustling recreational areas, allowing families and individuals to genuinely disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.

The mix of site types, from secluded spots to those with ample sun, ensures that every camper can find their ideal setup. The reliable availability of potable water, along with clean vault toilets and trash collection, significantly enhances the comfort of this otherwise primitive setting. Moreover, the direct access to Lost Valley Reservoir for fishing, boating, and swimming, combined with opportunities for wildlife viewing, aligns perfectly with Idaho's outdoor-centric lifestyle. Cold Springs Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a cherished local resource for making lasting memories, embracing the simplicity of nature, and enjoying the very best of Idaho's wild landscapes.

COLD SPRINGS CAMPGROUND

Highway 95, Council, ID 83612, USA