Evergreen Picnic Site and Campground

For those of us who cherish Idaho's natural beauty and seek a comfortable, convenient base for our outdoor adventures, Evergreen Picnic Site and Campground near Council is a truly appealing destination. We Idahoans understand the allure of escaping to the pine-scented air, the sound of birdsong, and the simple tranquility of a well-maintained campsite. This campground, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Payette National Forest, offers a unique blend of accessibility and a sense of seclusion that makes it ideal for locals. It's more than just a place to park your RV or pitch your tent; it's a gateway to some of our state's most beloved recreational opportunities, including the famous Weiser River Trail. Whether you're planning a quick overnight stop on a longer journey or a peaceful weekend retreat to immerse yourself in nature, Evergreen Picnic Site and Campground provides the welcoming atmosphere and essential amenities to make your stay enjoyable and memorable. Its commitment to cleanliness and a generally peaceful environment, despite its convenient location, makes it a consistently good choice for Idaho families and solo adventurers alike.

Evergreen Picnic Site and Campground is strategically located in Council, ID 83612, USA, situated directly off U.S. Highway 95. This makes it exceptionally accessible for travelers coming from various parts of Idaho. From the town of Council, you'll simply follow Highway 95 north for approximately 14 miles to reach the campground. If you're approaching from New Meadows, you'll travel about 12 miles southwest on Highway 95. The campground entrance, marked by clear signage, is conveniently on the east side of the highway. While the campground is right off a main highway, which can lead to some daytime road noise, many visitors note that it significantly quiets down at night, allowing for a restful sleep. The ease of access from a major thoroughfare means less time navigating remote backroads and more time enjoying your camping experience. Furthermore, its location offers a quick connection to nearby towns like Council, providing access to any last-minute supplies or local eateries you might need. The immediate surroundings are characterized by beautiful pine trees, wild roses, and dogwood, offering a vibrant natural setting that feels both convenient and connected to the Idaho wilderness.

Evergreen Picnic Site and Campground provides a selection of well-maintained services designed to offer a comfortable yet authentic camping experience in the Payette National Forest. While it operates without full hookups, its essential amenities are highly valued by visitors.

• Individual Campsites: The campground offers a variety of single and double-family sites, including options for tents and paved spots suitable for RVs and trailers. These sites are designed to provide a good level of privacy, with ample trees and natural foliage separating them.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient and sturdy surface for outdoor meals, games, and gathering with your fellow campers.

• Fire Rings: Every site includes a designated fire ring, perfect for enjoying a classic campfire experience, staying warm on cool evenings, and cooking over an open flame.

• Hand Pump Water: Potable drinking water is available via a hand pump, typically located near site #11 or similar central points within the campground. This provides a reliable source of water for cooking and hydration.

• Vault Toilets: Clean and regularly maintained vault toilets (pit toilets) are accessible throughout the campground. These facilities are a key comfort amenity, ensuring a sanitary experience in a rustic setting.

• No Trash Service: It is important for campers to note that Evergreen Picnic Site and Campground does not provide trash service. Visitors are required to pack out all their trash, adhering to Leave No Trace principles to help maintain the cleanliness and natural beauty of the area.

• Camp Host On-Site (Seasonal): During the typical season of use (mid-May through mid-September), a welcoming camp host is often present. They provide assistance, answer questions about the area, and contribute to the friendly atmosphere of the campground.

Evergreen Picnic Site and Campground stands out with several key features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts exploring Idaho.

• Direct Access to the Weiser River Trail: A major highlight is its direct access to the popular Weiser River Trail. This 85-mile non-motorized rail-trail is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, offering stunning views, diverse ecosystems, and the chance to spot abundant wildlife. Being able to jump on the trail directly from your campsite is a significant advantage.

• Privacy Between Sites: Despite being located off a highway, the campsites are thoughtfully designed to offer privacy. Large trees and natural vegetation create natural barriers between sites, allowing campers to feel secluded and enjoy their own space.

• Peaceful Nights: While there can be some road noise during the day, reviewers consistently note that the highway quiets down significantly at night, allowing for peaceful and restful sleep. The sounds of the nearby creek and singing birds often replace the traffic noise.

• Natural Beauty: The campground is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Payette National Forest, featuring fragrant pine trees, blooming dogwood, and wild roses in season. This creates a vibrant and pleasant natural ambiance.

• Proximity to the Weiser River: The campground is situated next to the cool Weiser River, providing pleasant sounds and potential fishing opportunities.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The forested environment and proximity to natural habitats mean excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including various bird species (many heard singing) and occasional deer. While bears can be on nearby trails, camp hosts generally advise they don't frequent the campground itself.

• Convenient Location: Its placement directly off Highway 95 makes it an excellent stop for those traveling through Idaho, offering an easy on/off for overnight stays or a longer base for exploring the region. It's also only about 30 minutes from downtown McCall and 10 minutes from Lost Valley Reservoir.

For inquiries or to plan your visit to Evergreen Picnic Site and Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: Council, ID 83612, USA

Phone: (208) 253-0100

Mobile Phone: +1 208-253-0100

For us Idahoans, Evergreen Picnic Site and Campground is a truly suitable and appealing choice for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, its prime location right off Highway 95 offers unparalleled convenience, making it easily accessible whether we're on a long road trip across the state or seeking a quick weekend escape from nearby communities like McCall or Council. We appreciate destinations that are simple to find and minimize driving time, maximizing our time in nature. The campground’s design, with sites that offer a sense of privacy amidst the trees, resonates with our desire for personal space and connection to the wilderness, even when other campers are nearby. The presence of a welcoming camp host and consistently clean facilities, including the pit toilets and hand pump water, demonstrates a commitment to a comfortable and well-managed experience, which we value highly. Furthermore, the direct access to the iconic Weiser River Trail is a major draw for Idahoans who love to hike, bike, or ride horses through our stunning landscapes. This trail, with its "peaceful" and "great views," truly enhances the appeal for local outdoor enthusiasts. While some highway noise is present during the day, the fact that it "quiets down" at night, allowing the sounds of nature to prevail, ensures a restful experience that aligns with our desire for tranquility. Evergreen Picnic Site and Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a convenient, clean, and nature-rich launchpad for experiencing the authentic outdoor lifestyle that defines living in Idaho.

Evergreen Picnic Site and Campground

Council, ID 83612, USA