Helende Campground

For Idaho locals seeking a peaceful and well-maintained campground nestled in the heart of our state's stunning scenery, Helende Campground near Lowman, ID, offers an excellent choice. Situated within the expansive Boise National Forest, at an elevation of 4,100 feet, this campground provides a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the diverse recreational opportunities of the region. If you appreciate clean facilities, proximity to a beautiful river, and the chance to discover natural hot springs, Helende Campground is a destination that perfectly blends rustic charm with essential comforts.

Helende Campground is known for its inviting atmosphere and its commitment to providing a pleasant stay for all visitors. While there have been recent tree reduction efforts, ensuring safety, the campground retains its natural allure with plenty of standing trees. It's a place where you can truly relax and immerse yourself in the natural world, whether you're enjoying a quiet evening by the campfire, taking a short walk to the river, or embarking on a longer adventure to nearby attractions. This campground truly embodies the spirit of an Idaho outdoor escape, offering a memorable experience for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike.

Helende Campground is conveniently located approximately 10 miles east of Lowman, Idaho, along Highway 21 at milepost 82, within the Boise National Forest. The physical address is listed as Forest Rd 025JB, Lowman, ID 83637, USA. From Boise, Idaho, a common route is to take State Highway 55 north to Banks, then turn east onto Forest Highway 24 (Banks-Lowman Highway) to Lowman, and finally a left turn onto Highway 21 to reach the campground.

Access to Helende Campground is generally straightforward, being directly off Highway 21. While some internal roads within the campground might be gravel, the sites themselves are often described as having paved driveways and being easily accessible. A significant highlight for many campers is that "all of which are accessible," indicating a commitment to accommodating visitors with various mobility needs. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers ranging from 25 to 65 feet, making it suitable for a wide variety of camping setups. This ease of access, combined with its prime location near both the South Fork Payette River and popular hot springs, makes Helende a highly sought-after destination for Idaho locals.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides well-maintained vault toilets. Reviewers consistently praise their cleanliness, noting they are "well maintained" and "cleaner than most."
• Drinking Water Pump: Potable water is available from a hand-pump-equipped well. While "pumping the water is a chore," it ensures a fresh water supply on-site.
• Trash Collection: Unlike some more primitive campgrounds, Helende offers trash collection services, with trash dumpsters available, making waste management more convenient for campers.
• Picnic Tables: Each single-family campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table.
• Campfire Ring with Grill: Every site includes a campfire ring, often with an attached grill, perfect for cooking over an open fire (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting).
• Reservable Sites: Most (10 out of 12) sites are reservable up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov, offering convenience for planning trips. Some sites may also be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Camp Host: While some older reviews note no host on site, more recent information suggests friendly and knowledgeable camp hosts who contribute to the campground's positive atmosphere and cleanliness.
• Fee-Based Camping: Helende is a fee campground, with nightly rates typically ranging from $12.00 to $24.00 for campsites. A day-use fee of $5 may apply for non-campers entering the campground.
• Dog-Friendly: Dogs are allowed at the campground, making it a great option for those who travel with their furry companions. Campers are reminded to keep dogs leashed and be mindful of other campers.

• Proximity to South Fork Payette River: The campground is located just a few hundred yards from the South Fork Payette River, offering easy walking access for fishing, rafting, kayaking, or simply enjoying the riverside environment.
• Nearby Kirkham Hot Springs: A significant highlight is its short drive to the popular Kirkham Hot Springs, less than 5 miles west on Highway 21. A trail with staircases leads down to the soaking pools, providing a unique and relaxing natural amenity.
• Shaded Campsites: Helende is situated in a dense forest of lodgepole and Ponderosa pine, providing "plentiful shade in most sites," which is a welcome relief, especially during warm summer days. However, recent tree reduction efforts mean some areas might have less shade temporarily.
• Accessible Sites: All single-family sites are designed to be accessible, making the campground inclusive for a wider range of visitors.
• Wildlife Viewing: Deer and elk may be seen wandering through the area, and summer wildflowers dot the landscape, enhancing the natural experience. This is also bear country, requiring proper food storage.
• Extensive Trail Access: Helende is near the extensive Kirkham Ridge Trail, a premier trail stretching for 35 miles and connecting with many other trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Sections are also open seasonally to off-road vehicles.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: The consistently clean vault toilets and overall well-kept nature of the campground are frequently praised by visitors, reflecting good management.
• Chipmunk Entertainment (and Caution): While charming, chipmunks are noted for being adept at "robbing anything left unattended," including food items, adding a humorous but cautionary tale about securing provisions.
• Seasonal Operation: The campground is typically open from mid-May to the end of September, offering camping during Idaho's prime outdoor seasons.
• Nearby Amenities: A small restaurant providing Wi-Fi is located about 2 miles up the road, offering a convenient spot for occasional connectivity or a meal.

Address: Forest Rd 025JB, Lowman, ID 83637, USA (often listed with 7359 Hwy 21, Lowman, ID 83637)

Phone: (208) 259-3361 (Lowman Ranger District Information)

Reservations: (877) 444-6777 (via Recreation.gov)

For the most current and detailed information regarding Helende Campground, including real-time site availability, specific road conditions (especially after recent tree work), fire restrictions, and any updates on amenities, it is highly recommended to contact the Lowman Ranger District of the Boise National Forest directly or visit Recreation.gov for reservation details.

For Idaho locals, Helende Campground truly offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse themselves in the beloved Boise National Forest without venturing too far off the beaten path. This campground strikes an excellent balance between accessibility and a genuine wilderness feel. While recent tree reduction efforts are noted, the underlying natural beauty remains, with ample opportunities for shaded sites and the soothing presence of the South Fork Payette River just a short walk away. The accessibility of all single-family sites is a significant plus, ensuring that more Idahoans, regardless of mobility, can enjoy this beautiful area.

The consistent praise for the cleanliness of the vault toilets and the presence of trash collection demonstrate a commitment to visitor comfort that is highly valued in a national forest setting. Furthermore, the close proximity to the renowned Kirkham Hot Springs provides a unique and incredibly appealing highlight – imagine a day of hiking followed by a relaxing soak in natural geothermal pools, right in our own backyard! Whether you're planning a family camping trip with kids who love to explore and watch chipmunks (just remember to secure your snacks!), or a quiet retreat for fishing and accessing extensive hiking and ATV trails like the Kirkham Ridge Trail, Helende Campground serves as an ideal base. Its mix of natural beauty, essential amenities, and access to iconic Idaho attractions makes it a perfectly suitable and highly recommended destination for any local looking to experience the best of our state’s outdoor offerings.

Helende Campground

Forest Rd 025JB, Lowman, ID 83637, USA