Kennally Creek Campground

For Idaho locals dreaming of a genuine escape into the state’s breathtaking wilderness, where the air is fresh, the stars are bright, and the sounds of nature prevail, Kennally Creek Campground near McCall offers a compelling option. This isn't a bustling, amenity-rich RV park, but rather a charming, rustic retreat nestled within the vast and beautiful Payette National Forest. If you're an Idahoan who appreciates a more primitive camping experience, a tranquil setting, and stunning mountain views, Kennally Creek Campground invites you to disconnect from the everyday and immerse yourself in the serene Idaho outdoors.

Kennally Creek Campground provides a peaceful backdrop for your adventures, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and a true connection with the natural environment. While it offers a basic, no-frills experience, this simplicity is precisely its appeal for many outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a place where the focus is firmly on the natural surroundings, allowing you to unwind and appreciate the serene beauty that Idaho is so famous for. The campground is managed by the US Forest Service, meaning it operates under federal guidelines, which is an important distinction for those accustomed to state park amenities or discount programs.

Reviews from real visitors highlight the undeniable beauty of the area. One camper enthusiastically stated, "Love the location. Absolutely beautiful area. Will be back." This sentiment underscores the magnetic pull of Kennally Creek's natural charm. While acknowledging its rustic nature, another reviewer praised the "pretty well maintained restroom," indicating that essential facilities are cared for despite the primitive setting. The "pack it in, pack it out" philosophy, mentioned by a visitor, is a key aspect of camping at Kennally Creek, reinforcing the commitment to environmental stewardship that many Idaho locals share.

It is important for potential visitors, especially those with equestrian interests, to note a specific detail from a review: "Actual campground is not for horses. Right before the campground, there's only room for possibly 2 trailers and it's not level. Hitches are set in the back and the parking area is not set up for camping. Trails are minimal that we could find. The area was very beautiful. Not sure if I'll be back due to limited riding trails. We hi-lined the horses." This feedback is crucial for managing expectations, particularly if your primary goal is extensive horse riding directly from your campsite. While the area itself is beautiful, those planning equestrian excursions should be aware of these limitations and prepare accordingly, perhaps by utilizing high-lines as the reviewer did.

Kennally Creek Campground is located on Paddy Flat Rd, McCall, ID 83638, USA. This places it within the vast and scenic Payette National Forest, a short drive from the popular resort town of McCall. Being nestled within a national forest, Kennally Creek offers a more secluded and immersed-in-nature experience compared to campgrounds closer to town.

Access to Kennally Creek Campground typically involves driving on unpaved Forest Service roads. While these roads are generally passable, they can be rough in sections, especially after heavy rain or snowmelt. A vehicle with higher clearance is often recommended, particularly if you plan to explore beyond the immediate campground area or if conditions are wet. It’s always a good idea for locals to check current road conditions with the Payette National Forest office before heading out, as seasonal closures or maintenance can affect accessibility.

From McCall, the route generally involves taking Forest Road 21, also known as Paddy Flat Road, which leads directly to the campground. The drive itself is scenic, winding through dense Ponderosa pine forests and offering glimpses of Idaho's stunning mountainous terrain. Despite its rustic nature, the campground is still within a reasonable driving distance of McCall, meaning essential supplies and emergency services are accessible if needed. This balance of secluded wilderness and relative proximity to a town makes it an attractive option for Idahoans looking for a tranquil getaway without being entirely cut off.

The elevation and forest setting mean that temperatures can be cooler, especially at night, even during summer months. This makes it an ideal escape from warmer valley temperatures during peak season. The remote feel of the campground contributes to its quiet atmosphere, allowing campers to truly unwind amidst nature.

As a rustic campground managed by the US Forest Service, Kennally Creek Campground provides essential, yet limited, services designed to support a primitive camping experience. It’s important for visitors to come prepared and be self-reliant.

• Vault Toilets: The campground features well-maintained vault restrooms. Reviewers specifically noted them as "pretty well maintained," indicating a good level of cleanliness for this type of facility.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table, providing a designated surface for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings: Individual campsites are generally equipped with fire rings, allowing campers to have campfires for warmth, cooking, and ambiance. However, it is absolutely critical to check for fire restrictions (e.g., burn bans) with the local Forest Service office before lighting any fire, as conditions in Idaho can be very dry.
• No Potable Water: There is no treated drinking water available on-site at Kennally Creek Campground. Campers must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. Alternatively, water from natural sources (like Kennally Creek) must be filtered, boiled, or chemically treated before consumption.
• No Hookups: This is a primitive campground, meaning there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs or trailers. Campers need to be fully self-contained.
• No Trash Collection: As noted in a review, there is no trash collection service at the campground. Visitors are expected to adhere to "pack it in, pack it out" principles, meaning all trash, including food scraps, must be removed from the site when you leave.
• Limited Parking for Horse Trailers: While the area is appealing to equestrians, the campground itself has "only room for possibly 2 trailers" that are "not level" for horse camping. Horse owners may need to utilize high-lines or other alternative methods for securing horses due to limited designated parking or camping areas for stock.

• Beautiful Natural Setting: The overarching highlight of Kennally Creek Campground is its "absolutely beautiful area" within the Payette National Forest, offering stunning mountain scenery, dense forests, and the tranquil Kennally Creek.
• Quiet and Secluded Atmosphere: For those seeking peace and quiet, this campground delivers. Its rustic nature and somewhat challenging access contribute to a less crowded environment, allowing for true relaxation and immersion in nature.
• Proximity to Kennally Creek: The campground is situated along Kennally Creek, providing the soothing sounds of flowing water and potential opportunities for stream fishing (check local regulations and fishing licenses).
• Access to Forest Service Roads and Trails: While formal, extensive riding trails directly from the campground may be limited for horses as noted by a reviewer, the surrounding Payette National Forest offers numerous Forest Service roads and trails for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring.
• Wildlife Viewing: The forested mountain environment is home to various Idaho wildlife, offering opportunities for observing deer, elk, and a variety of bird species.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution due to its remote location, Kennally Creek Campground provides excellent opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.
• Rustic Charm: For campers who prefer a less developed, more traditional camping experience, the rustic nature of Kennally Creek is a key feature, emphasizing self-reliance and connecting directly with the outdoors.
• Elevation Benefits: Located at a higher elevation, the campground can offer cooler temperatures during the summer months, providing a refreshing escape from the heat of lower elevations.

Address: Paddy Flat Rd, McCall, ID 83638, USA

Phone: (208) 634-0700 (This is the general number for the Payette National Forest Supervisor's Office in McCall, Idaho, which manages this area. This is the best contact for current conditions, fire restrictions, or any specific rules.)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-634-0700

Given the primitive nature of Kennally Creek Campground, it is highly recommended to call the Payette National Forest office before your visit. They can provide essential, up-to-date information on road conditions (especially important for Paddy Flat Road), current fire bans or restrictions, water availability (or lack thereof), and any specific regulations pertaining to primitive camping in the area. This ensures a safe and well-prepared trip.

For Idaho locals, Kennally Creek Campground represents an authentic slice of the state’s wild heart, offering a rustic and deeply immersive camping experience that truly connects you with nature. While it may not boast the extensive amenities of a state park, its very simplicity and seclusion are its greatest strengths, making it an ideal destination for those who cherish genuine outdoor adventure.

The primary appeal for Idahoans lies in the "absolutely beautiful area" and the quiet atmosphere. We locals often seek places where we can truly escape the noise and crowds, and Kennally Creek delivers precisely that. The opportunity to camp amidst stunning mountain scenery, along a tranquil creek, provides a restorative environment that's perfect for unwinding, reflecting, and enjoying the natural world at its purest. The absence of crowds means more privacy and a stronger sense of being alone in the wilderness, which is a highly valued aspect of Idaho's outdoor culture.

Furthermore, the "pack it in, pack it out" philosophy, inherent to camping at Kennally Creek, resonates strongly with the environmental stewardship ethos prevalent among Idaho residents. It fosters a responsible approach to enjoying our natural resources, ensuring that these pristine areas remain beautiful for future generations. This commitment to leaving no trace isn't a burden but an integral part of the experience for those who truly appreciate wild places.

While the reviews highlight limitations for horse trailer parking and extensive riding trails directly from the campground, this specificity helps locals manage expectations. It means that while the broader Payette National Forest offers equestrian opportunities, Kennally Creek itself might be better suited for campers focused on hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the peaceful forest setting. The accessibility of a "pretty well maintained restroom," even in a primitive setting, is a welcome feature that adds a touch of comfort without detracting from the rustic feel.

Finally, the relative proximity to McCall, while offering a sense of seclusion, also provides a safety net of nearby services if needed. This balance makes Kennally Creek an accessible wild retreat for many Idahoans, allowing them to enjoy the backcountry feel without venturing too far off the grid. For those seeking an unpretentious, naturally beautiful, and truly peaceful camping experience, Kennally Creek Campground is a hidden gem that promises a memorable return to Idaho's majestic outdoors.

Kennally Creek Campground

Paddy Flat Rd, McCall, ID 83638, USA