Riverside Campground (Lowman) - reserve

For us Idahoans, the pursuit of tranquility in nature is a cherished pastime. We often seek out those special places where the sounds of the city are replaced by the gentle murmur of a river and the whisper of pines. Riverside Campground, located near Lowman, Idaho, offers precisely such an escape. Tucked away within the stunning Boise National Forest, this reservable campground provides a peaceful setting for families, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts to reconnect with the wild beauty of our state. While wilderness experiences often come with their unique challenges, Riverside Campground aims to offer a comfortable and accessible basecamp for your Idaho adventures.

Riverside Campground (Lowman) is situated at NF-555, Garden Valley, ID 83622, USA. It’s important for local users to understand that while the address is in Garden Valley, the campground is actually located along the Deadwood River at the north end of scenic Deadwood Reservoir, at an elevation of 5,300 feet. This location places it deep within the Boise National Forest, providing an authentic mountain camping experience.

To reach Riverside Campground from Boise, you'll typically take State Highway 55 north to Banks. From Banks, turn east onto Highway 17 (Banks-Lowman Highway) towards Lowman. In Lowman, turn left onto Highway 21. You'll continue along Highway 17 over Banner Summit, then turn west onto Forest Road 579, which leads to Deadwood Reservoir and the campground. The roads leading to the campground, while scenic, can be unpaved and a bit rugged in sections, especially as you approach the reservoir. It is always a good idea to check current road conditions with the Boise National Forest before heading out, particularly during the spring or late fall. The remote nature of the location means that once you're there, you're truly immersed in the forest, offering a genuine escape from urban life. Its reservable status is a significant advantage for planning, ensuring you have a spot waiting for you upon arrival.

Riverside Campground (Lowman) offers a selection of services designed to provide a comfortable, albeit rustic, camping experience within the national forest.

• Campsites: The campground features standard, non-electric campsites. These sites are equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, complete with a grill grate, perfect for cooking over an open flame. Some sites, like the recommended Campsite 7, offer a more semi-secluded experience within the established campground, providing a sense of privacy.

• Vault Toilets: A vault toilet facility is available within the campground. These are typically maintained by the Forest Service to provide basic sanitation.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is provided at the campground, which is a significant convenience for campers, reducing the need to pack in large quantities of water.

• Waterfront Sites: The campground offers waterfront sites with direct river access to the Deadwood River, appealing to those who enjoy being right by the water.

• No Hookups: It is important to note that this is a primitive campground, meaning there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available at the individual campsites. Campers should be prepared for a dry camping experience.

• Reservations Accepted: Unlike many first-come, first-served campgrounds, Riverside Campground (Lowman) is reservable through Recreation.gov. This allows campers to secure their spot in advance, which is particularly beneficial during peak season to avoid disappointment.

• Trash Collection: While not explicitly stated for this particular Riverside Campground in every source, many developed Forest Service campgrounds offer trash collection services. However, campers should always be prepared to pack out what they pack in, especially in more remote areas.

Riverside Campground (Lowman) offers several features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for us Idahoans seeking outdoor adventure:

• Scenic Riverside Location: Nestled along the Deadwood River, where it empties into Deadwood Reservoir, the campground provides a picturesque setting. The natural beauty of the surrounding forest and water is a significant draw, offering calming views and sounds.

• Access to Deadwood Reservoir: The campground provides direct "private lake and reservoir access." Deadwood Reservoir is a popular location for fishing, boating (both motorized and non-motorized), and general water recreation. Idaho Fish and Game reportedly stocks the waters with Chinook and Kokanee salmon and rainbow trout, making it a prime spot for anglers.

• Boating Opportunities: For those with boats, the reservoir offers no limitations on boat type and features boat ramps, providing excellent opportunities for exploring the water.

• Hiking and Exploration: The surrounding Boise National Forest offers numerous trails for hiking, allowing campers to explore the diverse landscapes and potentially spot local wildlife.

• Spacious Campsites: Reviews indicate that the sites are "spacious," providing enough room for comfortable setups and a degree of privacy, even within an established campground setting. Site 7 is specifically highlighted for its "semi-secluded experience."

• Family-Friendly Potential: While challenges with noise from across the river have been noted, the amenities provided, the natural setting, and the opportunities for outdoor activities make it a place with potential for family camping.

• Boise National Forest Experience: Being located within the vast Boise National Forest offers campers a true Idaho wilderness experience, with abundant trees, fresh air, and a sense of remoteness.

• Challenges with Dispersed Campers: It's important to acknowledge a recurring highlight/concern from reviews: "people will camp across the river in forest land," and some instances of "belligerent campers" staying up late with "coarse language." While the Forest Service acknowledges this "will happen" due to the nature of dispersed camping in national forests, it is a factor campers should be aware of. Choosing a "semi-secluded" site like #7 might help mitigate this, and being prepared with earplugs or having clear expectations about potential noise is advisable.

To contact Riverside Campground (Lowman) or the managing Forest Service district for current information, use the following details:

Address: NF-555, Garden Valley, ID 83622, USA (This indicates its location within the National Forest system.)

Phone: (208) 373-4100

Mobile Phone: +1 208-373-4100

This phone number typically connects to the Boise National Forest's main office or the Lowman Ranger District, which oversees this area. It is highly recommended to call ahead for the most current information regarding road conditions, fire restrictions, seasonal closures, or any specific concerns about noise from surrounding dispersed camping areas.

For reservations, you will need to use the Recreation.gov platform, as this campground is reservable. Searching for "Riverside (ID - Boise), Boise National Forest" on Recreation.gov should lead you to the correct reservation page.

For us Idahoans, Riverside Campground (Lowman) offers a valuable opportunity for a reservable camping experience in a truly beautiful forest and river setting. Its accessibility to the Deadwood Reservoir for fishing and boating, combined with the convenience of making reservations in advance, makes it a practical choice for planning family trips or group outings. While the challenge of occasional noise from dispersed campers across the river is a real consideration, it speaks to the broader context of Idaho's vast public lands where various recreational uses coexist. For those seeking established amenities like vault toilets and potable water within a forested environment, and who appreciate having a guaranteed campsite, Riverside provides a solid option. It's an ideal spot for locals who want to launch their boats, cast a line into the Deadwood River, or simply enjoy a peaceful night under the Idaho stars, knowing they have a confirmed spot in a beautiful part of the Boise National Forest. By managing expectations regarding potential external noise, campers can fully embrace the beauty and recreational opportunities that this riverside escape provides.

Riverside Campground (Lowman) - reserve

NF-555, Garden Valley, ID 83622, USA