Summary
It offers stunning views of the mountain range, rugged terrain, and beautiful lakes and rivers. The forest has a diverse range of flora and fauna and is home to several endangered species. Visitors can enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, and boating.
One of the main attractions in Payette National Forest is the Brundage Mountain Ski Resort, which offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities during the winter months. Another popular destination is the Burgdorf Hot Springs, where visitors can soak in natural hot springs and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, which is part of the forest, is also a must-see destination. It is the deepest river gorge in North America, and visitors can enjoy rafting, hiking, and camping in the area.
In addition to these attractions, the forest also offers several scenic drives, including the Payette River Scenic Byway, which offers stunning views of the Payette River Canyon. There are also several hiking trails, including the popular Boulder Lake Trail, which offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The best time to visit Payette National Forest is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, visitors can also enjoy winter activities such as skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months.
Overall, Payette National Forest is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, scenic views, or relaxation, this forest has it all.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Kiwanis Campground
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Justrite Campground
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Mann Creek Campground
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Hitt Mountain Dispersed Campground and Trailhead
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