Payette River Dispersed Camping

We really wanted to check this place out so we made it about 4 miles in before the road really went to crap. We were met by several horse trailers and had to back up around a corner for over 400’ which is not good for a long travel trailer. I would rather camp somewhere where I can get to and camp without the worry. Plus all the camp squatters heard about this place already. Camp Takeover

(Stayed here 8/22/21): Beautiful spots off the highway. Our map app directed us further up the road but we stopped about a mile into the dirt road.

We found a large spot right next to the river. Decent amount of trees for some privacy and hammocks.

Tough to find a place to go to the bathroom far enough away from the river. Had to cross the road and go up the hill.

This is one of my favorite off grid camping spots. It was amazingly quiet, and the kids loved playing in the river. There are small rainbow trout in the river to be caught as well.
There are a number of spots that are big enough to fit several campers in, when we camped here, it was with 2 other families. One in another travel trailer, and one in a huge tent. We were not crowded at all and we had more than enough room to maneuver the trailers. At the time we stayed here last, we had a 29' travel trailer toy hauler, not our 36' 5th wheel. I plan on going back with the larger trailer and don't anticipate any issues maneuvering the larger rig.
The Grandjean cutoff is a little narrow in spots, and around the hot springs you have to watch out for people walking and other motorists. Google maps wanted to take us straight down the road past Sawtooth Ladge, but you cant go through. You will come to a "Y" and there is a sign leading to Sawtooth lodge. Turn left up the hill at this junction. Follow that road about a mile and turn right.
Sacajawea Hot Springs are about 1.5 miles down the road back towards hwy21. There are several pools but they can get somewhat busy at peak hours.
Up the road away from the highway, you will find Grandjean Campground, along with the Idaho Centennial Trail. From there you can embark on epic day hikes or multi day backpacking adventures!