McCall, Idaho, is a small town between the Seven Devils and Salmon River mountain ranges, known for its lakeside cottages and charming local businesses. Located on the southern shores of Payette Lake, McCall features log cabins and Craftsman-style homes, many with private docks and access to lakeside parks. Properties range from quarter-acre lots to expansive estates, with towering pine and fir trees lining the streets. The town experiences significant snowfall in winter, often exceeding six feet, making four-wheel-drive vehicles common. McCall has a lower crime risk compared to the national average.
The highly rated McCall-Donnelly School District serves the area, with Barbara R. Morgan Elementary School, Payette Lakes Middle School, and McCall-Donnelly High School all receiving high marks. The high school offers dual credit courses through partnerships with the University of Idaho and the College of Western Idaho.
Recreational opportunities in McCall include public water access at Legacy Park and Rotary Park, and ski resorts Tamarack and Brundage Mountain within a 20-mile drive. Ponderosa State Park offers lakefront campsites, hiking trails, and winter activities like snowshoeing and Nordic skiing. The town also features golf courses, including the public McCall Municipal Golf Club and the private Whitetail Golf Club.
Downtown McCall hosts quaint cafes, art galleries, and local eateries such as Mountain Java and My Father’s Place. The McCall Farmers Market operates from June to October, and the town hosts seasonal events like the Lakeside Liberty Fest. Idaho state Highway 55 connects McCall to Boise, while U.S. Route 95 provides routes to nearby towns. Treasure Valley Transit offers bus services to communities like New Meadows and Cascade.
