Eastside Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Idahoans seeking a genuinely refreshing outdoor experience where natural beauty meets thoughtful campsite design, Eastside Campground at Sagehen Reservoir is a destination that consistently earns high praise. Nestled within the expansive Boise National Forest near Ola, this campground is celebrated for its serene atmosphere and the privacy it offers to campers. Unlike some larger, more "inundated with sites" locations, Eastside maintains a sense of spaciousness, allowing visitors to truly feel connected to the surrounding wilderness without being on top of their neighbors. It's a place where the majestic Ponderosa pines, Engelmann spruce, Douglas fir, and grand fir trees provide abundant shade, creating a cool and inviting environment even on warm summer days. Eastside Campground is an ideal spot for those who appreciate tranquil mornings, scenic lake views, and evenings spent under a canopy of stars. It’s a testament to Idaho's commitment to preserving accessible yet pristine outdoor spaces, offering a blend of relaxation and recreation that caters to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, from casual campers to avid anglers and hikers.

Location and Accessibility

Eastside Campground is beautifully situated on Forest Rd 614F, near Ola, ID 83657, USA, specifically on the eastern shores of scenic Sagehen Reservoir. This location places it within the vast and diverse landscape of the Boise National Forest. While Eastside offers a feeling of genuine escape, it remains reasonably accessible for Idaho locals. To reach the campground from Boise, you would typically travel north on State Highway 55 to Horseshoe Bend, then west on Highway 52 to the Sweet/Ola Highway. From there, a journey north through Ola leads to Forest Service Roads 618, 626, and finally 614, which brings you directly to Sagehen Reservoir. The majority of this route after leaving paved highways consists of gravel roads. While generally passable for passenger cars during drier weather, it's always advisable to check current road conditions, especially if traveling with a larger RV or during inclement weather, as forest roads can be bumpy. Despite the gravel sections, the journey is considered well worth it by visitors, leading to a truly picturesque setting where the beauty of the reservoir and surrounding forest unfolds before you.

Services Offered

• Private Campsites: Eastside Campground is known for its spacious and private campsites, offering ample room between sites, which contributes significantly to a peaceful camping experience. As one reviewer stated, "The campsites are private but still close enough that you can visit with your fam in the campground."
• Clean Bathrooms: Visitors consistently praise the campground's "Nice bathrooms," indicating well-maintained vault toilets that exceed expectations for forest service campgrounds.
• Drinkable Water: A significant amenity is the availability of "drinkable water," provided via a hand pump. This eliminates the need for campers to haul in all their own water, enhancing convenience.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meals and outdoor activities.
• Campfire Rings: Sites include campfire rings, perfect for campfires and outdoor cooking (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting any fires).
• Group Site Availability: The campground features several single sites and also offers one reservable, accessible group site that can accommodate up to 50 people and 10 vehicles, making it ideal for larger family gatherings or organized groups.
• No Electrical Hookups: Eastside caters to a more traditional camping experience and does not offer electrical hookups, encouraging campers to enjoy the natural setting.
• Campground Host: A campground host is typically located at the nearby Antelope Campground, offering assistance and information, and often having firewood available for purchase.
• Reservations: While individual sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis if the group site is not reserved, it's generally possible to make reservations for the group site via Recreation.gov.

Features / Highlights

• Absolutely Beautiful Scenery: The campground is situated amidst stunning natural beauty, with towering trees and partial lake views of Sagehen Reservoir. Reviewers consistently highlight the "Absolutely beautiful scenery."
• Sagehen Reservoir Access: Being on the shores of Sagehen Reservoir, the campground offers excellent opportunities for various water activities, including boating, canoeing (with a 15 mph speed limit), and rainbow trout fishing. Boat ramps and docks are available nearby at Antelope and Sagehen Creek Campgrounds.
• Abundant Trails: The area is a hub for recreational trails. The non-motorized Sagehen Reservoir Trail is a 4-mile loop around the lake, perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, offering great fishing spots and wildlife viewing. Additionally, the Sagehen and KYAOTT ATV Trail Systems provide over 35 miles of trails for ATVs and motorcycles, which can also be enjoyed by hikers and mountain bikers.
• Wildlife Viewing: The forest surrounding Eastside is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, elk, black bear, goshawk, woodpeckers, and boreal owls, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.
• Spacious and Private Sites: A standout feature is the design of the campsites themselves. As mentioned by visitors, they are "private but still close enough that you can visit with your fam," providing an ideal balance between seclusion and family connection.
• Shade from Mature Trees: The campground is situated in a forest of mature Ponderosa pine, Engelmann spruce, Douglas fir, and grand fir, ensuring "plentiful shade" for most sites, a welcome relief during summer days.
• Accessible Group Site: The availability of a reservable and accessible group site catering to up to 50 people makes Eastside a fantastic option for large gatherings and events.

Contact Information

Address: Forest Rd 614F, Ola, ID 83657, USA

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is typically the National Recreation Reservation Service number for reservations)

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777 (Same as above, for reservations)

For direct campground inquiries or current conditions, it's often best to contact the Boise National Forest Emmett Ranger District, which oversees Eastside Campground. While not provided directly for the campground, their general information line for the forest supervisor's office is 208-373-4100.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Idaho locals, Eastside Campground offers an exceptional blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and diverse recreational opportunities, making it a highly desirable destination for a truly authentic Idaho outdoor experience. Its location on the shores of Sagehen Reservoir within the Boise National Forest means easy access to a stunning setting, yet it retains a peaceful, uncrowded feel that resonates deeply with those who cherish Idaho's wilderness. Locals will particularly appreciate the "private but still close enough" campsites, providing that sought-after balance between personal space and the ability to connect with family and friends within the campground.

The availability of "drinkable water" and "nice bathrooms" elevates the comfort level significantly for a forest campground, making it more appealing for families and those who prefer a few more conveniences without sacrificing the rustic charm. Beyond the campsite itself, the abundance of recreational activities, from boating and fishing on Sagehen Reservoir to extensive hiking, biking, and ATV trails, ensures there's always something to explore. This versatility makes Eastside suitable for various types of local adventurers, whether they're looking for a relaxing lakeside retreat, a base for motorized trail exploration, or a starting point for scenic hikes amidst towering pines. For an accessible, well-maintained, and incredibly scenic camping experience right here in our beautiful state, Eastside Campground is undoubtedly one of the "best campgrounds" to visit, promising memorable moments in the heart of Idaho's cherished outdoors.

Eastside Campground

Forest Rd 614F, Ola, ID 83657, USA