The best camping near Payette National Forest

Lakes, creeks, and peaks, oh my! Payette National Forest has ‘em all. Salmon-Challis National Forest and Nez-Pearce Clearwater National Forest are its neighbors, while its Victor Peak, Loon Creek, Loon Lake, North Loon Mountain, Bruin Mountain, Bear Pete Mountain, and Boulder Creek could keep you busy for months. Forage for mushrooms or berries, fish in the chinook salmon hatchery at the South Fork of the Salmon River, or snowboard down Brundage Mountain. Hike to the three historic fire lookouts, or check out the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, the second largest wilderness area outside Alaska (don’t worry, plenty before you have visited and returned).

In this wealth of outdoor activity, it’s hard to tear yourself away for a visit into town. However, you will be glad you took the time to visit the closest town of McCall, where luxury mountain lodges have thermal spas perfect for resting your aching bones in between treks up or down the mountains.