Payette River: Deer Creek

About Payette River: Deer Creek

The South Fork Payette River is a classic pool-drop river cooperatively managed by the BLM and Boise National Forest. Deer Creek launch is a main put-in spot for the Class III-IV, "Staircase" section of the South Fork Payette River. many boaters will launch here to avoid the three miles of calm water from the Confluence Site. The site is essentially a very broad gravel area adjacent to the Banks-Lowman Highway. The facilities include a steep, steel and wood boat ramp, portable toilet, and information kiosk. This is a fee parking area - $5.00/day or $30.00 season pass for the Boise National Forest Annual Day Use Pass. Day passes are available on-site.Purchase online Boise National Forest Annual Day Use PassPayette River Maps (Boater's Guide)

How to Get There

Deer Creek Launch Site is located along the Banks-Lowman Highway four miles east of Banks, Idaho and six miles west of Garden Valley, Idaho.

Plan Your Visit to Payette River: Deer Creek

Heading to Payette River: Deer Creek? A few things to know before you go:

• Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
• Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
• Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
• Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
• Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

References & Official Resources

• Official Recreation.gov page
• View on OpenStreetMap
• Driving directions (Google Maps)