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Big Eddy Campground
Big Eddy Campground is located approximately 15 miles north of Banks, Idaho, just off Highway 55 at an elevation of 4,000 feet. The North Fork Payette River flows next to the highway, where whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular activities.
Big Eddy used to be a water stop for the old steam engines. The foundation of the old water tower can still be seen across the river.
Big Eddy Campground is one of 4 campgrounds that lie along State Highway 55, on the North Fork of the Payette River between Banks and Smiths Ferry.
Natural Features:
The campground is situated is a scenic canyon just above Highway 55. The mountains are forested with a mix of Ponderosa and lodgepole pines and shade is plentiful within most of the campground. Summer days are warm, reaching 80-90 degrees; nights are cooler.
Recreation:
The North Fork Payette River is a very popular location for whitewater rafting and kayaking. The Payette Whitewater Roundup is held annually in July along different sections of the river.
Anglers will find good to excellent fishing for whitefish and rainbow trout.
At a Glance
| Reservations: | No reservations are necessary. This campground is on a first come, first serve basis. This is a fee campground. Fee envelopes and a collection box are provided near the entrance. Please bring cash or check. Extra vehicle fees may apply. This campground only has 4 sites and is a very popular area. Don't expect a site to be open. |
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| Open Season: | Mid-May - End of September |
| Closest Towns: | Horseshoe Bend, Idaho |
| Water: | Not available for drinking |
| Restroom: | Vault |
General Information
Directions:-
From Boise, Idaho travel north along State Highway 55 for approximately 38 miles to Banks, Idaho.
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From Horseshoe Bend, continue north along State Highway 55 for approximately 15 miles to the campground sign.
General Notes:
Facilities:
The campground contains single-family sites, each with a picnic table and campfire ring. Roads and parking spurs are paved.
Because of its proximity to the highway, some noise from passing traffic is to be expected.
Parking:
Three of the units have paved parking and can accommodate small to medium RV's up to a length of 30 feet.
Activities
Campground Camping
Total of 4 sites.River and Stream Fishing
The Idaho Department of Fish and Game manages the river fisheries. Fishing is good to excellent most of the year. Fishing occurs from the riverbanks. Whitefish and rainbow trout are the predominate species.| Difficulty Level: | Intermediate |
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Day Hiking
Trails are not in this area. However, trails may be nearby.| Difficulty Level: | Intermediate |
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Big Game Hunting
Hunting is good on both sides of the river during the legal season. Due to the heavy highway traffic, hunting is best on the higher slopes. Big game (deer, elk & bear) is located throughout the surrounding mountains.| Difficulty Level: | Difficult |
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