SISCRA Campground

For us Idahoans, finding that perfect camping spot often involves balancing great amenities with a serene natural setting. We're fortunate to have a wealth of options, and in the heart of our central mountains, SISCRA Campground (also known as Willow Creek Campground) emerges as a significant player, particularly for those looking for a comfortable base to explore the beauty of Lake Cascade and its surroundings. Managed by the Southwestern Idaho Senior Citizens' Recreation Association (SISCRA), this campground provides a unique, amenity-rich experience that caters to a diverse range of campers.

SISCRA Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a well-maintained facility situated on a picturesque peninsula on the banks of Lake Cascade. It's a place where you can enjoy the convenience of modern comforts while being immersed in the stunning Idaho wilderness. While some experiences with staff, as noted in reviews, can sometimes be challenging, the core offerings of cleanliness, amenities, and the beautiful location consistently draw people back. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of SISCRA Campground, highlighting its features and why it remains a popular choice for us Idaho locals seeking a comfortable and active outdoor adventure.

SISCRA Campground is located at 12991 Siscra Rd, Donnelly, ID 83615, USA. This address places it just a few miles southwest of the charming town of Donnelly, and crucially, on a 66-acre peninsula directly on the banks of Lake Cascade. This lakeside location is a major draw, offering immediate access to one of Idaho's most popular recreational lakes for fishing, boating, and various water sports.

Access to the campground is generally straightforward. From Idaho Highway 55, a scenic route traveling north along the Payette River, you would typically turn onto Loomis Lane, then right on Siscra Road, which leads directly to the campground. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering views of pristine forests and wildlife as you journey through central Idaho's beautiful landscapes. Its proximity to Donnelly (a small town offering basic services and supplies) and being within a reasonable two-hour drive from Boise makes it highly accessible for many Idaho residents. This combination of a convenient drive and a prime lakeside setting ensures SISCRA Campground is a highly desirable destination for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy the Lake Cascade area.

• Extensive Campsites: The campground features a large number of campsites, with public information indicating around 190 to 198 sites, accommodating both RVs and tents. Most of these sites come with electric hookups.
• Electric Hookups: A significant majority of the RV sites are equipped with 30 amp electric hookups, providing essential power for recreational vehicles. Some sites may offer 20 or 50 amp service as well.
• Picnic Tables and Campfire Pits: Each campsite includes a picnic table and a campfire pit (or fire ring), allowing for comfortable outdoor dining and traditional campfire experiences. (Always check for fire restrictions.)
• Public Restrooms with Hot Showers: A key amenity, the campground boasts clean public restrooms equipped with hot showers, a welcome comfort after a day of outdoor activities.
• Firewood: Firewood is often available at a minimal cost on-site, adding convenience for campers.
• Boat Launch Ramp: For those bringing watercraft, the campground features a boat launch ramp, providing direct and easy access to Lake Cascade for fishing and pleasure boating.
• Group Camping Area: A designated group camping area is available for reservation, ideal for family reunions, youth camps, weddings, or other events. This area may include electric RV sites and ample tent space.
• Rental Facilities: A kitchen, pavilion, and recreation hall are available to rent, providing additional options for larger gatherings or events.
• RV Dump Station: A free RV dump station is available for guests to empty their waste holding tanks. Some sources also mention a sewage disposal service for a nominal fee (a "honey wagon" service).
• Potable Water: Fresh water holding tanks can be filled from nearby taps.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground is dog-friendly, although dogs must typically be on a leash and under control at all times.
• Reservations: While some sources state campsites are primarily first-come, first-served, the official SISCRA website indicates that reservations can be made for long-term (one month or more) and short-term (up to fourteen days) stays, typically starting in March. A non-refundable deposit may be required.
• Volunteer Management: The campground is developed and maintained by SISCRA volunteers, with all proceeds reinvested into improvements and upkeep.

• Prime Lakefront Location on Lake Cascade: Being situated on a peninsula on Lake Cascade is a major highlight, offering scenic views, easy access for swimming, and excellent opportunities for fishing and boating.
• Comprehensive Amenities: The availability of electric hookups, hot showers, clean restrooms, and a boat launch ramp provides a high level of comfort and convenience for a public campground.
• Fishing Paradise: Lake Cascade is renowned for its fishing, and direct access from the campground makes it an ideal spot for anglers looking to catch various species.
• Managed by SISCRA (Non-Profit): The fact that it's managed by the Southwestern Idaho Senior Citizens' Recreation Association, a non-profit, means that fees collected are reinvested into campground improvements and upkeep, benefiting all visitors.
• Variety of Site Types: With 190+ sites for both RVs and tents, and many with electric hookups, the campground caters to a broad range of camping preferences. Pull-through sites are also available.
• Group Facilities: The reservable group area, complete with kitchen, pavilion, and recreation hall, is a significant feature for larger gatherings, reunions, or events.
• Proximity to Outdoor Activities: Beyond the lake, the central Idaho mountains offer abundant recreational opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and access to nearby hot springs (at an additional cost).
• Scenic Views and Natural Setting: The campground is set amidst pristine forest, offering beautiful views and a peaceful environment, despite its size.
• Volunteer-Driven Upkeep: The dedication of a volunteer Board of Directors and staff ensures the campground is well-maintained, with efforts focused on keeping the area in good condition and safe for visitors.

Address: 12991 Siscra Rd, Donnelly, ID 83615, USA (Note: Mail delivery to this address is not available; a PO Box in Meridian, ID, is used for mailing).

Phone: (208) 315-1589

Mobile Phone: +1 208-315-1589

Email: siscra@gmail.com

Website: For the most up-to-date information on rates, availability, reservation policies, and any specific alerts (like fire restrictions or seasonal closures), it is highly recommended to visit the official SISCRA Campground website or contact them directly using the provided phone numbers or email. While some staff interactions, as noted in reviews, can be perceived differently, direct communication with the campground management is the best way to clarify policies and ensure a smooth visit.

For us Idahoans, SISCRA Campground offers a compelling and often excellent choice for our outdoor adventures, particularly for those drawn to the beauty and recreation of Lake Cascade. Its suitability for locals lies in its robust amenities, strategic location, and its commitment to providing a well-maintained public space, despite occasional challenges with individual staff interactions.

Firstly, the prime lakeside location on Lake Cascade is a major draw. We appreciate having direct access to such a popular body of water for fishing, boating, and swimming right from our campsite. This makes it incredibly convenient for family outings, weekend getaways, or simply enjoying the peaceful Idaho scenery. The presence of a boat launch ramp further enhances its appeal for water sports enthusiasts.

Secondly, the extensive amenities, including abundant electric hookups, hot showers, and clean restrooms, offer a significant level of comfort that isn't always available at more primitive public campgrounds. These conveniences make SISCRA particularly attractive for RVers and families who appreciate a less rustic experience without sacrificing the natural setting. The availability of firewood and a dump station on-site further streamline the camping process.

While the provided reviews highlight some concerning interactions with certain staff members regarding rule enforcement, it's important to weigh these against the overall positive feedback about the campground's cleanliness, amenities, and location. Many campers still report having an "amazing time," enjoying the "great views" and "decent fishing," and finding the atmosphere "usually quiet and calm." The fact that it's managed by a non-profit focused on senior citizens, with proceeds reinvested, speaks to a foundational commitment to the campground's long-term quality, a value many Idahoans can appreciate.

Ultimately, SISCRA Campground remains a strong option for Idaho locals seeking a comfortable, amenity-rich base to explore Lake Cascade and the central Idaho mountains. By being aware of potential interactions as noted in reviews, and focusing on the consistently praised facilities and location, visitors can plan for an enjoyable and memorable outdoor experience in our beautiful state.

SISCRA Campground

12991 Siscra Rd, Donnelly, ID 83615, USA