payette lake

So beautiful in the winter, and for the winter carnival, lots of people out walking on the frozen lake

The lake is a beautiful gem in the forest. McCall is right on the shore. We visited in autumn so there were few other visitors. There's lots of town or private property right on the lake, so the best place to experience the lake is Ponderosa State Park. $5 to get in, visitor's center, boating, hiking. We were surprised to learn this is a natural lake (as opposed to a man-made reservoir).

I own a home in the city of McCall. I was born in Payette, Idaho, and first visited McCall in 1929. I have always liked it and had many friends there. Sadly, most are gone now. Fishing, golfing, relaxing are the things I liked most. Among my memories, the moonlight on the water of the lake is one of my fondest. Although there are many more folks there now, it is still a great vacation location as well as a beautiful place to live, especially if you like winter sports. I watched Alf Engen jump at what is now called the Little Ski Hill, back in the 30's. .

Not actually sure how one reviews a lake, but here goes.Payette lake is beautiful. Spectacular views all times of year and all times of day. Looking from the South the lake goes on and on, a fascinating vista.It's also varied. Good little beach areas on the East and South sides, secluded houses dot the shore on all sides, and forest on the rest.Recreationally great. Swimming both at the downtown McCall beach, and if you want a little more privacy you can swim at the Rotary beach across the bridge from the Shore Lodge on the south side.Boating, canoeing,jet skis and water skiing are very much fun with the broad expanse of the lake in front of you. Note that it can get a bit crowded on summer weekends.Winter not so much. While Payette lake freezes solid, it also has inches of snow on it in the winter so ice skating is not generally possible.If you want a super fun experience go up on 4th of July, get (or bring) a boat and watch the sunset and then the fireworks from the lake.

Beautiful view at the top of the lake. It was a bit foggy in the morning on the first day there, so this may be better in the afternoon.

One of the prettiest lakes in Idaho! Lots to do and see! There are plenty of water park equipment rental places around the lake. If that isn't your cup of tea. There is always staying on land and admiring it on a bench in one of the many parks located around it! Rain or shine, snow or fog. This large lake never disappoints.

This is one of the most beautiful lake I have seen...Just breathtakingly beautiful with a joggers path running around the lake. They have benches laid around the lake.

This little lake has it all- boating- swimming- fishing- a great lodge and plenty of spots for picnics & nice little restaurants dot the shoreline.

The lake is right in town and has accessible public areas to enjoy it. A beautiful, serene clean lake. Lovely for sitting at a table and enjoying nature.

Rented a pontoon boat from Cheap Thrills. We had the lake to ourselves. Just beautiful! A little chilly at noon but warmed up. What a great afternoon. Ponderosa State park is a treasure. Lots of birds. Highly recommended!

Early Mid-week, was quiet, refreshing walking along the lake. Enjoyed meal on patio over looking the lake....Lovely drive along the Payette River, thru the timber...Was a beautiful late summer day, temperature perfect & ever so relaxing

Take the cruise, stroll the beach in town, rent a jet-ski... lots of options. Late summer seems like a good time to visit; the weather in mid-September was perfect.

Mid-week the lake was quiet, sunny, and placid. So gorgeous! We rented a pontoon boat from the marina and had a lovely cruise around the lake.

This is a great drive through the valley and by the Payette river , a little over 2 hours from Boise to McCall. One of the great drives in Idaho !

We rented a pontoon, packed a lunch and hung out all day on the lake! You are able to pack lunch and liquor. You could choose full or have day rental