Mountain View

For Idahoans seeking an idyllic retreat surrounded by towering Ponderosa pines and the soothing sounds of a flowing river, Mountain View Campground near Lowman is a truly exceptional destination. Situated within the expansive Boise National Forest and perched directly along the beautiful South Fork Payette River, this campground offers a classic Idaho outdoor experience. It's a place where families and friends can gather, enjoy breathtaking scenery, and immerse themselves in a wide array of recreational activities, all within easy reach of natural hot springs and scenic byways.

Mountain View Campground is well-regarded for its inviting atmosphere and practical amenities. As one delighted visitor exclaimed, they were "SO glad we decided to go with it!" particularly highlighting the spacious double sites, like Site #13, which provided ample room for two families and offered a mere "10 second walk to this beautiful river access spot." This direct access to the South Fork Payette River is a major draw, allowing campers to spend leisurely days by the water, whether it's for fishing, wading, or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds of the river. The opportunity to observe local wildlife, such as bald eagles soaring gracefully above the river, adds another layer of enchantment to the experience.

The campground thoughtfully provides essential facilities to ensure a comfortable stay. Each of the 15 campsites, including several accessible ones, comes equipped with a picnic table, campfire ring, and grill, perfect for evening meals under the stars. The presence of potable drinking water, vault toilets, and trash collection services further enhances convenience, allowing campers to focus on creating cherished memories rather than worrying about basic necessities. A friendly campground host is typically on-site, providing a welcoming presence and assistance to visitors.

Whether you're looking to cast a line for trout, embark on an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip, or simply unwind amidst stunning natural beauty, Mountain View Campground offers a versatile and rewarding setting. Its combination of scenic splendor, convenient amenities, and prime location makes it a highly recommended choice for Idaho locals eager to explore the best of their state's outdoor offerings.

Mountain View Campground boasts a highly accessible location within the Boise National Forest, making it a convenient destination for Idaho locals. Located just east of Lowman, Idaho, along Highway 21 at milepost 73.2, its address is 7359 ID-21, Lowman, ID 83637, USA. This placement at an elevation of approximately 3,900 feet provides a comfortable climate, especially during the summer months.

The primary route to Mountain View Campground from Boise, Idaho, involves a scenic drive. You would take State Highway 55 north to Banks, then turn east onto the Banks-Lowman Highway (Highway 17). Continue on this highway until you reach Lowman, then turn left onto Highway 21. The campground is a short drive from Lowman on Highway 21. This route is part of the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway and the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway, offering picturesque views and opportunities for wildlife watching along the way, making the journey itself an enjoyable part of the trip.

The campground's direct frontage on the South Fork Payette River provides immediate river access for various water activities. Its strategic location also places it within easy reach of several popular natural hot springs, including the well-known Kirkham Hot Springs, which is less than 3 miles away. This proximity allows campers to combine their outdoor adventures with a relaxing soak in natural mineral waters.

While Lowman itself is a small community with limited services, it can provide some basic necessities. For more extensive provisioning, campers typically stock up in larger towns like Boise before heading out. The ease of access from major population centers, combined with the stunning scenery along the main highway, makes Mountain View Campground an attractive choice for Idahoans looking for a readily available escape into the heart of their national forests.

Mountain View Campground, managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Boise National Forest, provides a range of services designed to offer a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, balancing essential amenities with a natural setting.

• Campsites: The campground features 15 individual sites, including several single-family sites and a few designated double sites (#13 and #4 are noted as double sites). All sites are accessible and are equipped with a picnic table, a campfire ring, and a grill.
• Potable Drinking Water: Drinking water is conveniently provided via a hand pump, ensuring campers have access to fresh water throughout their stay.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available for campers' convenience, providing essential restroom facilities in a natural environment.
• Trash Collection: Trash collection services are provided, with dumpsters available, encouraging campers to maintain a clean environment and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
• Campground Host: A campground host is typically on-site, offering assistance, answering questions, and helping to ensure a pleasant stay for all visitors.
• Paved Roads and Parking Spurs: The roads within the campground and the parking spurs for individual sites are paved, making for easy navigation and setup, even for larger RVs and trailers.
• No Hookups: It's important to note that the campground does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups, catering to those with self-contained RVs or tent campers.
• River Access: Direct access to the South Fork Payette River from the campground allows for easy entry for fishing, wading, or launching non-motorized watercraft like kayaks and rafts.
• Reservations Available: Many sites are reservable through Recreation.gov, with the option to book up to six months in advance, though some sites may also be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Mountain View Campground offers a variety of features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for Idaho locals seeking a memorable outdoor adventure. These attributes combine natural beauty with practical comforts and recreational opportunities.

• Direct River Access: A standout feature is the campground's immediate access to the South Fork Payette River. Campers can enjoy fishing (trout), wading, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. This direct access is a major draw for families and anglers alike.
• Spacious Double Sites: The availability of spacious double sites, such as site #13, is a significant highlight, especially for larger families or groups camping together. These sites offer ample room and a sense of privacy.
• Scenic Beauty: The campground is nestled among towering Ponderosa pines and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and mountains, creating a picturesque and tranquil setting. Observing bald eagles, deer, and elk is a common occurrence.
• Proximity to Hot Springs: Mountain View Campground is ideally located near several natural hot springs, including the popular Kirkham Hot Springs, which is less than 3 miles away. This provides a unique opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Paved Roads and Accessible Sites: The paved roads and parking spurs, along with several accessible campsites, make the campground easy to navigate for all visitors, including those with RVs or accessibility needs.
• Renowned for Rafting and Kayaking: The South Fork Payette River is famous for whitewater rafting and kayaking, and the campground serves as an excellent base for these thrilling activities. Local companies often offer guided trips in the area.
• Friendly Campground Host: The presence of a helpful and friendly campground host enhances the visitor experience, providing assistance and maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.
• Convenient Amenities: Essential amenities like potable water from a hand pump, clean vault toilets, and trash collection contribute to a comfortable and hassle-free camping trip.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With its spacious sites, river access for play, and diverse recreational opportunities, the campground is perfect for families looking to create lasting memories in the outdoors.
• Proximity to Scenic Byways: Located along Highway 21, part of the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway and the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway, the campground offers easy access to scenic drives, wildlife watching, and historical information kiosks.

For reservations, inquiries, and up-to-date information regarding Mountain View Campground in the Boise National Forest, please use the following contact details. It is highly recommended to check current conditions, especially regarding fire restrictions and site availability, before your trip.

Address: 7359 ID-21, Lowman, ID 83637, USA

Phone: (208) 259-3361 (This is the direct number for the Lowman Ranger District office of the Boise National Forest, which manages the campground.)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-259-3361 (Same number, listed for mobile accessibility.)

For making reservations, especially for specific sites (even-numbered sites are often reservable), it is best to use the national reservation system:

Recreation.gov: (877) 444-6777 or visit their website at www.recreation.gov. Many sites at Mountain View Campground are reservable up to 6 months in advance. Some sites may also be available on a first-come, first-served basis, but checking ahead is always advised, particularly during peak season.

Contacting the Lowman Ranger District directly can provide valuable real-time information about road conditions, local recreation opportunities, and any specific campground alerts.

For Idaho locals, Mountain View Campground is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination, offering a quintessential Gem State outdoor experience. Its prime location along the South Fork Payette River within the Boise National Forest means that stunning natural beauty, including towering pines and the soothing sound of flowing water, is literally at their doorstep. This accessibility makes it ideal for weekend escapes or longer family vacations, providing a convenient way to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature.

The campground's thoughtful amenities, such as spacious sites with picnic tables and fire rings, potable water, and clean vault toilets, ensure a comfortable and hassle-free stay. The availability of double sites is a particular boon for larger families or groups, fostering a sense of shared adventure and camaraderie. Furthermore, the direct river access provides endless opportunities for fishing, wading, or simply enjoying the riverside ambiance, which is a significant draw for outdoor enthusiasts.

Beyond the campground itself, its strategic position near popular natural hot springs like Kirkham Hot Springs and along scenic byways adds immense value. Idahoans can easily combine their camping trip with a relaxing soak or picturesque drives, exploring more of their state's diverse landscapes. Whether it's whitewater rafting, trout fishing, or simply unwinding amidst the mountains, Mountain View Campground truly offers a versatile and enriching outdoor experience that resonates deeply with the local appreciation for Idaho's wild and beautiful places.

Mountain View

7359 ID-21, Lowman, ID 83637, USA