Name: Grandjean Campground
Grandjean Campground is in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area on the edge of the Sawtooth Wilderness Area. The South Fork of the Payette River meanders through the valley and is beautiful, crystal clear and cold. Mount Zumwalt, Observation Peak, Grandjean Peak, and several other peaks seem to watch over this area and call to the adventurer in many of us. The trails here lead to Trail Creek Lakes, Baron Lakes, Braxton Lake, Packrat Lake and many, many more. This is an absolutely beautiful area which appeals to many different people. I would encourage you to visit Grandjean even if it is only on a Sunday drive.
Campsites: There are 23 tent / RV camping sites and 8 equine camping sites. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit with grill. These are very roomy sites. Dirt/gravel roads and driveways are outlined with large boulders. The equine sites are grouped together near the Grandjean Hikers Trailhead. These sites are even larger than the regular sites and they include a hitching rail. There is a common unloading ramp which needed some work when we were there.
Host on Site: There is a host but we did not meet them.
Water: There is a hand-pump equipped well for potable water. The water is cold and clear.
Garbage Services: Garbage service is available. I highly recommend you dispose of your garbage at night to avoid a visit from bears.
Restroom: The restrooms are the standard vault style outhouses which are clean and well stocked.
Handicap Accessible: The toilets are handicap style, the campground is not really handicap friendly.
Firewood: Firewood is available from the host for $6.00 per bundle.
Pets: Are allowed but on a leash only.
Recreation: Activities here are geared toward fishing, kayaking or rafting the river. You may hike or horseback ride into the Sawtooth Mountain Recreation Area. One could also relax at Sacajawea Hot Springs, take a few pictures, or just lay around camp. Mountain bikers, avoid the wilderness area.
Fishing: The South Fork of the Payette River is beautiful. There are other streams and one could hike into the Sawtooth Mountains for a little high mountain lake fishing. Check the regulations.
Boating: Boating, no, but kayaking or rafting, yes.
Swimming: Yes, but swimming in the Payette River is at your own risk and very cold.
Wildlife: Wildlife in this area include deer, elk, bear, wolves, mountain lions, mountain goat, and many species of birds.
Additional Camping Opportunities: Check out Bull Trout and Bonneville campgrounds. There are many primitive campsites along the Payette River if you prefer primitive, free camping.
Phone service: Phone service is available at the Sawtooth Lodge. We had no cell reception.
Nearby Services: Sawtooth Lodge offers a pay phone, lodging, swimming in their pool and dining from 8 am to 8 pm. For other supplies, Sourdough Lodge has a small store, or you could travel east to Stanley, Idaho.
RV Dumping Site: None available. I believe the nearest is at Stanley, Idaho.
Location/Driving instructions: From Boise, Idaho, take Hwy 55 North to Banks, Idaho, about 34 miles. Turn right onto the Banks Lowman Road just past Banks. Follow the Banks Lowman Road to Lowman, Idaho, another 33 miles. Turn left on Hwy 21 and travel 21 miles to the Grandjean Road (#524) on your right. It is 5.6 miles to the Grandjean Campground.
Coordinates: 44.149677,-115.152961
Elevation: 5171 Feet
Reviewed Date: July 2010
Fees And Reservations: No reservations. There were many open sites when we visited on a weekend in July. All camping sites are $13.00 with another $5.00 for your extra vehicle per day.
This information is accurate as of the date of the review.
