PONDEROSA STATE PARK
Ponderosa State Park covers most of a 1,000-acre peninsula that juts into beautiful Payette Lake near McCall. The scenic overlook at Osprey Point offers a spectacular view of the lake. The park offers hiking and biking trails, guided walks with park naturalists and evening campfire programs. The North Beach Unit has a beach and picnic area. The topography ranges from arid sagebrush flats to dense forests. Wildlife that can be viewed at the park include Canada geese, osprey, bald eagles, wood ducks, mallards, songbirds, deer, moose, beaver, muskrats and even bear. Winter activities include Nordic skiing on one of two USSA-certified cross-country courses.
The park?s namesake, the 150-foot-tall ponderosa pine, is the most noticeable species of tree. Douglas fir, grand fir, lodgepole pine and western larch also grow in the park. The character of the park is molded by its diverse topography. It ranges from arid sagebrush flats to forested lakeside trails; from even ground to steep cliffs; and from dense forest to spongy marsh. The park is rich in wildflowers, especially along the interpretive trail that winds around the Meadow Marsh. Nature trails and gravel roads have been developed so visitors can enjoy opportunities to view wildlife in these areas.
Day-UseHiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bike Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Cabin Amenities The unit sleeps four and is equipped with electricity, lockable windows and doors, heat and A/C.
Reservation Season Reservations for Ponderosa State Park cabins are available year-round.
You may make cabin reservations by calling 208 634-2164.Park Yurts
Yurt amenities The unit is furnished with a bunk bed, futon, table and chairs. There is an electric light inside, and are heated with propane. Outside, you can cook on the fire ring. Each yurt sleeps five. Please, NO PETS inside the Ponderosa Yurts
Reservations Reservations for Ponderosa State Park yurts are available year round.
Make a reservation online, or call 866 634-3246.
Northwest Passage
Available Campsites Standard Campsites
Amenities include individual sites with central water and vault toilets.
Reservation Season Camping in Northwest Passage Campground at Ponderosa State Park is available on a first-come, first-served basis and is available from mid-June weather conditions permitting through the end of October weather conditions permitting.
Peninsula Campground
Available Campsites Serviced Campsites/W,E and Companion Serviced Campsites/W,E
Amenities include individual sites with water and electrical hook-ups, and central shower and restroom facilities.
Reservation Season You may reserve campsites in the Peninsula Campground from the Thursday prior to Memorial Day through Labor Day. Camping on a first-come, first-served basis is available from the beginning of May to the Thursday prior to Memorial Day weekend weather conditions permitting, and from the day after Labor Day through the end of October weather conditions permitting.
Make a reservation online, or call 866 634-3246.Multiple Site Reservation Considerations For groups wishing to book multiple sites seven 7 campsites or more Chokecherry Loop is available multiple site reservations for seven 7 campsites or more must be made through the call center at 866-634-3246.
1. Ponderosa State Park offers two public swimming areas: North Beach and Peninsula.
2. Both beaches have sandy shores, perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles.
3. The water is clear with a gradual depth increase, suitable for all ages to swim safely.
4. Lifeguards are not present at the beach; swimmers should exercise caution when entering deeper waters.
5. Swimming off boats in Payette Lake's open water zones is also allowed within park boundaries.
6. The lake temperature can be chilly even during summer months so it may not suit everyone's preference.
7. Pets are prohibited from both designated swimming areas but they're permitted on leashes elsewhere in the park.
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is a boat ramp available at the Peninsula Unit, allowing easy access to Payette Lake where motorized and non-motorized boats can be used. The North Beach Unit also has water access but does not have an official launch site; it's more suitable for hand-launching small crafts like kayaks or paddleboards. Boat rentals including pontoon boats, fishing boats, stand up paddle boards (SUPs), jet skis etc., are offered by local vendors around the lake.
Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of options. The park's waters are home to rainbow trout, smallmouth bass and perch. Anglers have the choice between lake fishing or ice fishing in winter months. Boat rentals are available for those who prefer deep water angling.