Ten Mile Campground

For Idahoans seeking a tranquil and scenic retreat within easy reach, Ten Mile Campground, nestled in the heart of the Boise National Forest near Idaho City, offers a charming and well-regarded option. This small but inviting campground is celebrated for its natural beauty, particularly the soothing presence of Mores Creek, which flows nearby and provides a constant, calming soundtrack to your outdoor adventures. It’s a place where families can easily settle in, enjoy the simplicity of camping under Ponderosa pines, and use it as a base for exploring the rich recreational opportunities of the surrounding area. Whether you're looking for a quiet night by a campfire or a convenient spot for an outdoor event, Ten Mile Campground delivers a genuinely pleasant Idaho experience.

Ten Mile Campground is situated in the Boise National Forest, on Forest Road 025I, near Idaho City, ID 83631, USA. It's approximately 48 miles from Boise and about 10 miles past the historic town of Idaho City, along State Highway 21, also known as the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway. This strategic location places it within a beautiful old growth forest of Ponderosa Pine, offering picturesque scenery and abundant wildflowers in the summer months.

One of the distinct characteristics of Ten Mile Campground is its accessibility. It's described as a "quick drive" and "very easy to get to" because it's located directly off State Highway 21. The campground itself is split into two sections (Upper and Lower) by the highway. While proximity to the highway means "some noise from passing traffic is to be expected," reviewers generally agree that "there is not a lot of traffic so it's not really a big deal," suggesting it maintains a relatively peaceful atmosphere.

The campground offers paved parking spurs, making it suitable for a variety of vehicles, including RVs and trailers, although some sites might be "a little tight for our 21 foot trailer." Max equipment length for sites can be up to 45 feet, indicating flexibility for different setups. It's typically open from mid-May to the end of September, with operations dependent on weather conditions. While cell service is generally limited (closest service is in Idaho City or Mores Creek Summit), this encourages a true unplugged experience, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in nature.

Ten Mile Campground provides essential services for a comfortable camping trip, focusing on basic amenities and a well-maintained environment.

• Campsites: The campground features a total of 15 or 16 sites, each equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring (some with grills). Reviewers note that sites are "large with good space between them for decent privacy" and that they are "all a little different," offering variety. Site #3 is identified as a double site, which may have a higher cost.
• Potable Water: A hand pump for potable water is available. However, recent reviews (from 2025) have raised concerns about the water quality or availability from the pump, with one stating, "There is no way this is checked and cleared monthly!!!! Bring your own water." Another noted they "wasn't able to get any water from it." Therefore, it is highly recommended that campers "bring your own water" or have a reliable filtering system as a backup.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides "two newer vault style outhouses," one on each side of the highway. Reviewers praise these facilities, noting they were "immaculately clean without odors" and "clean and well stocked." They are also described as handicap accessible.
• Garbage Services: Garbage service is available, a convenience that helps campers keep the area clean.
• Fire Rings: Each site includes a fire ring, allowing for campfires (always check for current fire restrictions).
• Reservations: While some sources indicate first-come, first-served, Recreation.gov lists all sites as currently reservable up to 6 months in advance. This suggests a mixed system or a recent change towards more reservable sites.

The "price is good also" for overnight fees (around $15 per site), making it an affordable option for many Idahoans.

Ten Mile Campground’s appeal lies in its serene natural features, the diverse recreational activities it facilitates, and its well-regarded facilities.

• Mores Creek Access: A significant highlight is the presence of Mores Creek flowing close by. Campers love the "sound of running water when you camp," and "some campsites have direct access to the creek!" This offers opportunities for limited fishing (whitefish and rainbow trout) and for kids to "play in it and cool down on warm summer days."
• Beautiful Ponderosa Pine Forest: The campground is nestled within a "beautiful old forest of Ponderosa Pine," providing ample shade, stunning scenery, and a classic Idaho mountain ambiance. Wildflowers are abundant during the summer months, adding to the visual appeal.
• Clean and Well-Maintained: Visitors consistently praise the campground for being "nicely kept up," with "immaculately clean without odors" bathrooms and well-maintained sites. The "table we had was newer it seemed wasn't damaged," indicating a high standard of upkeep.
• Proximity to Idaho City: Being just 10 miles from Historic Idaho City offers campers the convenience of easily accessing supplies, dining, and exploring the town's fascinating gold rush history and attractions.
• Diverse Recreational Opportunities: The surrounding Boise National Forest provides a "playground" for various activities:
  • Hiking, Biking, Horseback Riding: Numerous trails are available for land-based exploration.
  • Off-Road Vehicles (OHV/ATV): The area is a popular spot for ATV and side-by-side riding, with access to designated trails.
  • Winter Sports: In winter, the area transforms for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, extending its recreational appeal year-round.
• Event Friendly: One reviewer noted it was "Beautiful area, cabin, and grassy area for an event like this! Fantastic," suggesting it could be suitable for small outdoor gatherings or private events beyond just camping.

Despite some minor concerns about water, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers stating they "would definitely stay here again" and "will continue to stay for many many years."

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Ten Mile Campground, including current conditions, reservation policies, and any specific advisories or fees, it is best to contact the Boise National Forest office that oversees this area, particularly the Idaho City Ranger District.

Address: Boise National Forest, Forest Rd 025I, Idaho City, ID 83631, USA

Boise National Forest (General Information): (208) 373-4100

Reservations (National Recreation Reservation Service): (877) 444-6777

Local Information (Idaho City Ranger District - often cited for nearby campgrounds like Ten Mile): (208) 392-6681

It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially before making a long journey, to confirm campsite availability (as some sites are reservable and others may be first-come, first-served), current water status, any fire restrictions, or road conditions. This ensures you have the most current information for a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.

For Idahoans, Ten Mile Campground offers a quintessential local camping experience that beautifully blends accessibility with the tranquility of nature. Its easy drive from Boise and proximity to historic Idaho City make it a convenient escape, perfect for a spontaneous weekend trip or a longer family vacation without the need for extensive backcountry travel. The continuous positive feedback on its "immaculately clean" bathrooms and "well-kept" sites speaks volumes about the care and pride taken in its maintenance, providing a comfortable environment that locals appreciate.

The soothing presence of Mores Creek, offering the calming "sound of running water" and opportunities for fishing and splashing, directly appeals to the desire for genuine outdoor engagement. Furthermore, its role as a hub for diverse recreational activities – from hiking and biking to the ever-popular ATV and side-by-side riding – means there's something for every Idaho outdoors enthusiast. While the temporary water concerns should be noted, the overall sentiment expressed by locals, as exemplified by the reviewer who'd try to "discourage more people from attending, BUT IT WOULD BE A HUGE LIE!", clearly indicates Ten Mile Campground is a highly valued and enjoyable local gem, promising peaceful nights and memorable adventures under the Idaho sky.

Ten Mile Campground

Boise National Forest, Forest Rd 025I, Idaho City, ID 83631, USA