Deadwood Campground

Hello, fellow Idaho outdoor enthusiasts! If you're looking for that perfect blend of peaceful riverside ambiance and exciting recreational opportunities, all within a convenient reach for a quick getaway, then Deadwood Campground near Garden Valley is a spot you absolutely need to know about. Tucked away in the beautiful Boise National Forest, this charming campground offers a quintessential Idaho experience that allows you to truly unwind and reconnect with nature. It’s a favorite among locals who appreciate its serene setting and easy access to some of the state's most beloved rivers and trails.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into what makes Deadwood Campground such a special place for us Idahoans. We'll explore its unique location right by two major rivers, detail the essential services and features that contribute to a comfortable stay, and highlight the abundance of activities you can enjoy from your campsite. Whether your passion is casting a line, watching rafters float by, or hitting the backcountry trails, Deadwood Campground serves as an excellent basecamp for your next adventure. Get ready to discover a true Idaho gem that promises both relaxation and thrills!

Deadwood Campground is perfectly positioned on Banks Lowman Road, near Garden Valley, ID 83622, USA, within the sprawling Boise National Forest. Its location is a significant draw, situated at the scenic confluence of the Deadwood River and the South Fork of the Payette River. This means you have "the Deadwood River runs along the back of the camp and the Payette River is right across the street," providing immediate water access.

Access to the campground is generally straightforward, located directly off the Banks Lowman Road (State Highway 17). This makes it a "nice little campground for quick getaways" with "easy access." While it's "right next to the road," camper reviews note that "traffic really tapers off to nothing around 9 PM," allowing for peaceful nights. The campground is also well-suited for a variety of vehicles, accommodating both "trailers and tenths" (tents), and has "paved roads and driveways." For those coming from Boise, it's roughly a 30-mile scenic drive east on the Banks-Lowman Road after turning off Highway 55 at Banks. From Lowman, it's a mere 3.1 miles west. This excellent accessibility makes it a convenient choice for locals looking for a hassle-free trip into the forest.

• Campsites:

  Deadwood Campground is a relatively small and intimate camping area, featuring "about 6 sites, two of which are doubles." This limited number of sites contributes to its private and less crowded atmosphere. Each campsite is equipped with essential amenities, including a "picnic table, fire ring and grill," perfect for enjoying meals and campfires (when regulations permit).

• Restroom Facilities:

  The campground provides "outhouse" (vault toilet) facilities. While one review noted that the "outhouse rarely has TP because all of the river rafters that put in across the street use it before launching," another review, more recent, stated the "bathroom is always clean." This suggests that maintenance efforts are in place, and the US Forest Service "comes by and checks on everything quite often," ensuring a generally comfortable experience.

• Potable Water:

  A significant amenity for campers is the availability of "hand pump 4 water" (hand pump well with potable water). This means you don't need to haul in all your drinking water, a convenient feature for a primitive setting.

• Garbage Services:

  The campground offers "garbage service," which helps campers maintain a clean site and minimizes their impact on the environment.

• No Hookups:

  It's important to note that "No power" is available at the campsites, meaning no electric, water, or sewer hookups. Campers should be prepared for a primitive experience and bring their own power solutions, such as "solar generator," as suggested by one user.

• No Reservations:

  Deadwood Campground operates on a "first come, first served" basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. This offers spontaneity for quick trips but also means it's advisable to arrive early during peak times to secure a spot.

• Prime River Access and Views:

  The standout feature of Deadwood Campground is its direct access to both the Deadwood River and the South Fork of the Payette River. Campers can "go down to the river, sitting on a big rock there enjoying the river and the trees, and watching river raft groups and kayakers launching off down the river." There's also a "river rafting access ramp into the Payette River provided across the road." This makes it an ideal spot for enjoying the sounds of the river, picnicking by the water, or simply observing the lively river scene.

• Fair Fishing Opportunities:

  For anglers, the "Pretty fair fishing" in both the Payette and Deadwood Rivers is a major draw. The South Fork Payette River is known for rainbow trout, and the Deadwood River, while challenging, can also offer good fly fishing, especially in spring and late summer.

• Campfire Friendly:

  The ability to "have a campfire" in the provided fire rings is a cherished highlight for many campers, allowing for classic outdoor evenings under the stars (always checking for current fire restrictions).

• Nearby Hot Springs:

  The campground is a "short drive to hot springs," with several natural hot springs pools found along the Banks-Lowman Highway (Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway). This offers a fantastic opportunity for a relaxing soak after a day of outdoor activities. Examples include Pine Flats Hot Springs and Kirkham Hot Springs (day use only).

• Access to Off-Road Trails:

  For those who enjoy motorized recreation, there's "quick access to the mountain trails to ride UTVs and ATVs," making it a convenient hub for exploring the extensive trail networks in the Boise National Forest. The "Deadwood Ridge trailhead is located in this campground," providing a starting point for hiking as well.

• Peaceful Evenings:

  Despite being next to the road, the "traffic really tapers off to nothing around 9 PM," contributing to a peaceful and quiet camping experience during the evening and night.

Address: Banks Lowman Rd, Garden Valley, ID 83622, USA

Phone: (208) 373-4100

Mobile Phone: +1 208-373-4100

These phone numbers generally route to the Boise National Forest Supervisor's Office. For the most current and specific information regarding Deadwood Campground, such as real-time conditions (including vault toilet status or TP supply), fire restrictions, or road conditions, it is highly recommended that Idaho locals contact the Lowman Ranger District directly at (208) 259-3361. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date details to help plan your visit.

For Idaho locals, Deadwood Campground offers an appealing combination of convenience, natural beauty, and diverse recreational opportunities right in our backyard. Its accessibility from areas like Boise and Garden Valley makes it an ideal spot for "quick getaways," allowing for spontaneous trips without extensive travel. The small, private nature of its "about 6 sites" creates a welcoming and intimate atmosphere, perfect for families or small groups seeking a peaceful escape.

The true allure for Idahoans lies in its direct connection to the state's renowned natural features. Being nestled between the Deadwood and Payette Rivers provides endless enjoyment, whether you're "sitting on a big rock there enjoying the river and the trees," trying your hand at "pretty fair fishing," or simply watching the exciting flow of whitewater rafters and kayakers launching nearby. The availability of clean vault toilets and a hand pump for water adds essential comfort to this primitive setting. Furthermore, the "quick access to the mountain trails to ride UTVs and ATVs" and the proximity to relaxing natural hot springs ensure there's always something to do for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Deadwood Campground truly embodies the spirit of Idaho outdoor living—comfortable, convenient, and surrounded by the stunning landscapes we all cherish. It's a spot that many locals would highly recommend for its peaceful ambiance and endless adventure potential.

Deadwood Campground

Banks Lowman Rd, Garden Valley, ID 83622, USA