Area Activities
Idaho, right outside camp
Garden Valley is surrounded by the kind of recreation people drive hours for — hot springs, whitewater, hiking, and golf, all minutes away.
Base yourself on the river and explore from there. A few of our favorites nearby:
Hiking
Miles of well-marked trails through the Boise National Forest — mountain views, meadows, and creeks, with deer, elk, and eagles along the way.
Hot springs
One of Idaho's great soaking regions is right outside camp — from a developed resort pool a couple miles away to natural, primitive pools up the Middle Fork. Natural springs are unsupervised and temperatures vary with the river, so come prepared and check conditions before you go.
Water sports
Kayaking, tubing, fishing, and world-class whitewater on the Payette — the Middle Fork for rafting, calm stretches for a lazy summer float.
Golfing
Terrace Lakes is a scenic 18-hole course about 10 minutes away, with mountain views, a pro shop, and a clubhouse restaurant and bar.
Mountain biking
Singletrack for every level, from the Scott Mountain Loop's Sawtooth views to the Terrace Lakes trail along the Payette.
Off-roading
Everything from rocky climbs to mellow forest trails across the Boise National Forest — great for four-wheelers and dirt bikes.
Horseback riding
Guided trail rides through forest, meadow, and mountain, with panoramic views and a chance to spot elk, deer, and foxes.
Winter on the river
The valley gets deep snow — snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snow tubing, capped by a soak in a hot spring. The yurt's open all winter.
Live theater
Starlight Mountain Theatre stages Broadway musicals outdoors along the Payette all summer — a memorable evening out, and a hit with groups.
Scenic drives
The Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway winds 33 miles along the South Fork of the Payette — gorgeous, easygoing, and no gear required.
Dining
Small town, surprising range — mountain-view breakfasts, steaks, coffee, and a classic saloon, all a short drive away.
Groceries
Stock up on the essentials before you head in — the last easy chance for ice, snacks, and anything you forgot.
Make the river your basecamp
Reserve a teepee or the yurt and explore Garden Valley from the quietest spot around.