General Questions for River Canyon Retreat

Feel free to reach out to us via carrier pigeon, smoke signals, or even Morse code if you're feeling adventurous...if all else fails just use email or give us a call. To clarify, we're all about hospitality, so we'll make sure the Retreat is all yours for the showing. Let's find a time when the Retreat isn't buzzing with activity, and we'll show you around like VIPs!

Total Beds: 68Sleeps: 83

Absolutely! At our "All Seasons" Retreat, we've got you covered, rain or shine, snow or sleet. Our full-size gymnasium isn't just for working up a sweat; it's also the perfect spot for some epic family and friend bonding time. So, whether it's pouring rain outside or a blizzard is raging or 110 degrees in the shade, you can still have a blast without worrying about the weather putting a damper on your plans. Let's get together and make memories, regardless of what Mother Nature throws our way!

Wow, we've got quite the lineup of events that you can hold at the Retreat! From family reunions to corporate retreats, and everything in between, we've got something for everyone:

1. Family Reunions: Bring the whole gang together for a memorable gathering.
2. Corporate Retreats: Get out of the office and into a refreshing environment for team building and strategizing.
3. Church Retreats: Strengthen your faith and bond with fellow congregants in a serene setting.
4. Nature Foundation Retreats: Dive deep into nature and environmental education with specialized retreats.
5. Crafting Groups: Unleash your creativity with fellow crafters in a relaxing atmosphere.
6. Quilting Groups: Stitch, chat, and create beautiful quilts together in a cozy space.
7. College Music Groups: Hit the right note with rehearsal space and comfortable accommodations for your music group.
8. School Staff Retreats: Recharge and collaborate with colleagues in a peaceful setting.
9. Leadership Retreats: Foster growth and development among your leadership team in an inspiring environment.
10. Theater Camp: Lights, camera, action! Where budding thespians come to shine!
11. Club Retreats at River Canyon Retreat offer the perfect opportunity for like-minded individuals to come together and deepen their connections. Whether you're part of a book club, a photography club, or any other interest group, our serene surroundings provide an ideal setting for meaningful interactions and shared experiences.
12. Basketball/Volleyball Camps: Sharpen your skills and teamwork on the court in our top-notch facilities.
13. At River Canyon Retreat, we welcome Special Interest Group Retreats where individuals with shared passions can come together to explore and immerse themselves in their interests. Whether it's art, music, wellness, or any other hobby, our retreat provides a conducive environment for meaningful connections and engaging activities.
14. Weddings: Say "I do" surrounded by natural beauty and loved ones.
15. Day Use Events: Celebrate anniversaries, birthdays, and other milestones, or host memorials, volunteer trainings, or school fundraisers.
Whatever the occasion, we've got you covered. Just give our office a call to book your event and let the good times roll!

To make a reservation for your retreat or reunion, follow these simple steps:

1. Make an inquiry: Ask any questions you have.
2. Book now:
Request a quote for specific dates (be sure to add an approximate number of guests.) You will be sent an email with a breakdown of charges, and a link to make a secure payment if you decide to confirm your reservation.

It's as easy as that! Just a few clicks and you'll be well on your way to planning the perfect retreat or reunion.

If you need to make changes to your booking, here's what you need to know:
All monies paid are non-refundable, but don't fret! You've still got the option to reschedule your booking for another available date. Just give our office a call at 208-495-5335. We're here to help you navigate any changes you need to make. Please keep in mind that if rates have changed for the new booking date, you'll be responsible for paying the difference.

Your final payment will be automatically deducted from the credit card on file 90 days prior to your scheduled arrival date.

No. A $500 damage deposit hold will be placed on the credit card on file two days before your scheduled arrival. This hold will be released in full seven (7) days after your departure provided no damage or missing items are found. In the event of damage or missing items, the repair or replacement costs will be deducted from the $500 deposit hold, and any remaining balance will then be released.

A $49 damage protection insurance fee is required and will be charged at the time of booking. This insurance covers damages above the $500 damage deposit.

The tax rate for lodging and services consists of a 2% Hotel tax and a 6% State tax. We are required by law to collect and remit both of these taxes.

A credit card authorization hold is a temporary lock placed on $500 of your credit card balance. If any damages or missing items are identified, the repair or replacement costs will be deducted from the $500 hold, which you will be notified of at the email address on file. Any remaining balance will then be released after the seven (7) days.

If there is a group checking out on the same day you arrive, unfortunately, early arrival is not possible due to the time needed for cleaning and preparation. We kindly ask that you arrive promptly for check-in at the standard 4 PM time. However, if you anticipate being late, please notify the office as soon as possible so we can make arrangements accordingly.

Unfortunately, if there is a group checking in on the same day you depart, late departure is not possible due to the need for cleaning and preparation for the incoming group.

Yes, each individual or family should complete one waiver. The link will be provided by your group coordinator. You can find the River Canyon Retreat Guest Waiver on our website River Canyon Retreat Waiver Form.

Yes, we do have wireless internet! We're excited to offer Starlink high-speed satellite internet for your convenience and connectivity needs.

No.

Yes! Whether you're in the mood for movie marathons or need it for serious business (or seriously fun presentations), our high-tech screen has got your back.

Yes! Here's what we have available for your use.

• 2 six-foot tables
• 4 four-foot round tables
• 35 folding chairs

We have cell phone coverage at the Retreat. See if you can pick out the cell tower that looks like a tree about a mile from the Retreat when you're driving in.

To get from either downtown Boise or from the Boise Regional Airport to River Canyon Retreat, takes approximately 1.5 hours.
From Salt Lake City, it's about 6-hours, covering a distance of approximately 400 miles.

River Canyon Retreat
1074 Banks Lowman Road
Garden Valley, ID 83622

Well, unfortunately, we don't have that luxury on-site. But fear not, just a hop, skip, and a jump away you'll find laundry facilities a mere 5 minutes down the road in Crouch.

The quality of drinking water at the Retreat is excellent, sourced from a well right here on the property! Feel free to bring along your reusable bottles and fill them up with our wonderful well water. It's clean, refreshing, and ready to hydrate you during your stay!

The age-old quest for ladders and extension cords! Alas, we can't lend you any. You'll have to BYOL (Bring Your Own Ladders) and ECO (Extension Cords, Obviously). So, pack accordingly!

Absolutely! Need a hero during your stay? Look no further than our amazing managers, Greg and Cheryl, who are like real-life superheroes residing right here at the Retreat. They're more the "tackle problems with a smile" kind of heroes. (Cue heroic music)

Welcome to the Retreat, where the fun never takes a vacation! Here's a rundown of the on-site activities waiting for your group:

1. Game Room: We've got a fully stocked game room with ping pong, pool, foosball, and air hockey. Get ready to unleash your competitive spirit and show off your skills!
2. Rock Climbing Wall: Scale new heights on our rock-climbing wall, complete with provided gear for a safe and thrilling adventure. We'll make sure your designated adult climbing guides are trained and ready to rock and roll!
3. Indoor Sports: Serve, spike, dunk, and swish your way to victory with indoor volleyball and basketball in our full-size gym. We're all about fun and games!
4. Bounce House & Slide/Obstacle Course Let loose and have a blast in the gymnasium. Just drop us a line before your arrival so we can make sure to set up the bounce house and giant slide/obstacle course for maximum fun! We want to ensure everything is ready for your enjoyment as soon as you arrive.
5. Get ready for a gym showdown featuring the classics: dodgeball, where you'll dodge, duck, dip, and dive, and pickleball, where you'll... well, probably dodge, duck, dip, and dive a bit more, but with paddles! With our pickleball set, you'll have the chance to design your own court using Frog Tape that YOU provide.
6. Fire Pit: Gather 'round the fire pit for cozy conversations and marshmallow roasting.
7. Horseshoe Pits: Test your aim and aim for those ringers in our horseshoe pits. It's all about precision and good old-fashioned fun!
8. Swimming: Cool off and take a refreshing dip in our above-ground pool.
9. Try your luck fishing in our Largemouth Bass pond, it's catch and release only, Just remember, children must be in the presence of an adult and no swimming in the pond-our fish like their privacy!
10. Hot Tub: Relax and unwind in our hot tub-a true "soak-cess" for tired muscles and stressed minds. Children must have adult supervision.
11. Outdoor Fun: Enjoy our acres of spacious grassy yards for games and gatherings, as well as activities like disc golf. The outdoors is calling!
12. Entertainment Extras: Wind down with movie nights using our DVD player or tickle the ivories on our upright piano. It's all about those extra touches to make your stay unforgettable!

So, whether you're climbing to new heights, making a splash in the pool, or enjoying some friendly competition, there's something for everyone at our retreat. Let the fun begin!

• No Messy Materials: To maintain cleanliness and avoid any environmental impact, please do not bring powdered dyes or chalk, silly string, confetti, glitter, and rice.
• No Tie-Dyeing: Tie-dyeing is off the table for crafting activities.
• Cover Tables: Please bring butcher paper or plastic tablecloths and ensure that tables are completely covered to prevent any damage or stains.
• Protect Surfaces: Avoid using permanent pens, markers, glue, or paint on any surface that isn't adequately covered to prevent damage.
• Outdoor Restrictions: Refrain from using spray paint, chalk, or any craft medium on the patio or sidewalks to maintain the integrity of outdoor spaces.
• Be Mindful of Tools: If using glue guns, markers, cutters, or other potentially damaging items, take care not to damage tables, walls, or furniture.
• Avoid Heat Damage: Do not set hot items directly on the tables to prevent heat damage.
• Clean-Up Responsibility: It's your responsibility to clean up all craft items after use to keep the area tidy for the next users.

These guidelines ensure a pleasant crafting experience for everyone while maintaining the cleanliness and integrity of the Retreat's facilities. So, get creative, but remember to leave no trace behind when you're done!

• No Messy Materials: Do not use confetti and glitter.
• Tape Usage: Only use blue or green painter's tape. Please remove it before departing.
• Safety First: Please bring your own stools and ladders as we do not supply them. We don't want anyone hurt by standing on tables and chairs.

As caretakers of the space during your stay, it falls upon you to ensure that all decorations are tidied up and the Retreat is returned to its original state once your festivities have concluded.

No. Pets aren't allowed. While we love dogs, in a group setting they present safety & liability risk as well as hygiene and allergy issues for other guests and are prohibited from being on River Canyon Retreat property.
Owners of unapproved animals will be charged a $50 fine as well as any damages, and be required to remove the pet immediately.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are permitted on the premises of River Canyon Retreat. A service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to perform tasks or do work for an individual with a disability. These tasks must be directly related to the person's disability.
If you plan to bring a service animal to the retreat, please contact the Retreat managers/office at least 30 days prior to your arrival. We kindly request that you provide all necessary documentation in advance for our records.
Thank you for your cooperation and adherence to ADA regulations regarding service animals at River Canyon Retreat.
Please provide us with the following information:

1. Is the service animal required because of a disability?
2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
3. Where is the service animal going to sleep? If the Service animal is going to sleep with you please provide protection for our bedding/mattresses. We want to ensure the comfort and safety of both the guest and the service animal and protect our facility during your stay.
4. Please confirm that you will pick up after the service animal as part of your responsible pet ownership.

Additionally, it's important to note that:

• The service animal must be on a harness, leashed or tethered at all times for safety and control.
• The dog must be under the handler's control at all times and cannot be left alone in guest rooms or buildings.

Although we aren't required to accept emotional support animals at River Canyon Retreat, we will do so with an ESA (Emotional Support Animal) letter. This letter must be written and signed by a licensed mental health professional in your state. Such notification to us of a Support Animal that will be accompanying a guest should be made at least thirty (30) days prior to your group's arrival.

No. In Idaho, sky lanterns are only allowed with a permit due to safety regulations and potential fire hazards. Additionally, using decorations that are released into the air or involve an open flame poses risks to wildlife and the environment.

Attention all aspiring pyrotechnicians! While we love a good light show, in wildfire country fireworks, sparklers, and anything flammable are just not worth the risk.
Together, we'll keep the flames at bay and the good times rolling at River Canyon Retreat!

Campfires are allowed at River Canyon Retreat, and firewood will be provided unless there is a burn ban in effect. During a burn ban, campfires may still be permitted using charcoal only. Please contact the office to inquire about the current fire danger status and any restrictions in place.
Small fires are only permitted within the approved fire pit ring at the Retreat.
It is strictly prohibited to have fires in any other area of the property.
Thank you for adhering to these guidelines to ensure the safety of all guests and the property at River Canyon Retreat.

Yes, within 5 minutes. There is also a heliport within 2 minutes if Life Fight is needed.
Garden Valley Family Medicine
856 Banks Lowman Road
Garden Valley, ID 83622
208-462-3533
Dr. Michael Koenig

1.25 hours by car to three major hospitals:

• St. Luke's Meridian
• St. Luke's Boise
• St. Alphonsus Boise

1. Catering Staff: River Canyon Retreat does not have an in-house catering staff. However, we can provide you with a list of local caterers upon request.
2. Outside Caterer: Yes, you are welcome to bring in an outside caterer for your event. Please provide us with the contact information for the outside caterer who will be utilizing our facility.
3. Meals: Guests are responsible for providing their own meals during their stay at the Retreat. You'll have the flexibility to plan and prepare your own meals according to your group's preferences and dietary needs.

Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.

Here's a list of items you might want to bring along with your food supplies:

• Napkins
• Rolls of paper towels
• Paper plates, bowls, cups, etc.
• Plastic silverware
• Hot dog or marshmallow sticks
• Coffee, tea, or other beverages
• Spices
• Oil
• Non-stick spray
• Plastic wrap and foil
• Food/meat thermometer
• Lighter for the fire pit

Consider these items your survival kit for the ultimate retreat experience ensuring you're fully equipped to tackle any culinary challenge that comes your way.

The Lodge is equipped with a commercial sanitizer featuring a 3-minute cycle to sterilize dishes effectively. However, please note that it won't dry the dishes. Additionally, there is a triple sink available for your convenience.

Absolutely! We have an ice maker available for your use during your stay.

Yes, we do! We have two high chairs available for use in the Lodge dining room.

We do not provide table linens or coverings.

Here's what our kitchen has to offer:

• 6 Burner Commercial Gas Range with 2 ovens & 24" Griddle
• Large walk-in Cooler
• Under the counter Refrigerator
• Freestanding refrigerator/freezer combination
• Freestanding freezer
• Dish sanitizer
• Ice Maker
• Dinner Plates (Service for 80)
• Bowls (Service for 80)
• Glasses (Service for 80)
• Mugs (Service for 80+)
• Forks, Knives, Spoons
• Kitchen Knives
• Turners
• Scraper/Spatulas
• Ladles
• Large Basting Spoons
• Tongs
• Wire Whip, Potato Masher
• Cheese Grater, Can Opener
• Measuring Cups & spoons
• Serving and mixing Bowls 1qt, 5qt, 13qt, 16 qt
• Large and Small colander
• 12 Pitchers
• 4 Sheet Pans
• 2 Cake Pans
• Large Stock Pots
• Sauce Pans, Frying Pans
• Electric Roaster 18x26"
• Kitchen Towels and dish cloths
• Pot Holders
• Cutting Boards
• Toaster
• 2 Regular Coffee Pots
• Cleaning Supplies
• Hand Soap & Dish Soap

At River Canyon Retreat, our kitchen is like a treasure chest waiting to be explored by culinary adventurers! While we strive to equip it with all the essentials for a seamless cooking experience, we must warn you: with so many chefs in the kitchen, some items may wander off on their own culinary adventures. So, if there's a must-have tool or gadget that you simply can't cook without, it's best to bring it along for the ride. And hey, if you're curious to see what culinary wonders await you, take a peek at our website's Gallery page under Lodging at RCR
for a sneak peek! Happy cooking, and may your culinary escapades be as delightful as a gourmet feast!

Yes. Please keep the BBQ grill a safe distance from the Lodge.

Certainly! We have four picnic tables. BYOS: Bring Your Own Shade! Our patio picnic tables unfortunately, don't come with built-in umbrellas. So, pack your sun hats, parasols, or even a portable canopy because it's a sunny affair out there. We want to keep the heat on the grill, not on our guests!"

The BBQ grill and picnic tables, are available for use during the spring, summer, and fall seasons.

While the furniture and leather couches are meant to remain in the Great Room at the Lodge, you're welcome to rearrange them within the room. Feel free to move them around the perimeter of the room and add folding chairs to accommodate your needs. Just ensure that all furniture is returned to its original location before your departure.

We've got a "no mattress migration" policy in place to keep things tidy and prevent any runaway bed scenarios. If you decide to go mattress-moving rogue, just know there's a $50 charge per mattress-consider it a relocation fee. Thanks for playing by the rules!

The Lower Lodge boasts:
Four regular bathrooms, with either a tub/shower combo or an oversized shower.
We've got you covered with one ADA-compliant bathroom to ensure accessibility for all our guests.

Here's what you can expect:

• Private bathrooms in the Bighorn and Antler rooms for added convenience and privacy.
• Two private showers in the hallway.
• Separate full-size bathrooms for both boys and girls in the hallway, each with multiple sinks and toilets, along with paper towel and soap dispensers for your convenience.
• A spacious girls' locker room in the full-size gym, reminiscent of those high school days, featuring two toilets and five private showers.
• Similarly, the boys' locker room in the full-size gym comes equipped with a urinal, a toilet, and four private showers, along with paper towel and soap dispensers for that extra touch of comfort.

Rest assured, you won't have to wait in line for a shower or scramble for bathroom space at the Upper Lodge!

No, we do not have any cribs available at the Retreat.

Total Beds in the Lodge: 17 - Sleeps: 24These are the specifications for the Retreat Guest Rooms with private bathrooms:

• Maple Room: 1 Queen bed with full bedding, 1 Bunk bed. Sleeps 4.
• Pine Room: 2 Queen beds with full bedding, 1 Bunk bed. Sleeps 6.
• Aspen Room: Includes an exterior door, 1 Queen bed with full bedding, 1 Bunk bed, 1 Futon Sleeper. ADA accessible bathroom. Sleeps 5.
• Birch Room: 1 Queen bed with full bedding, 1 Queen/Twin Bunk bed, 1 Bunk bed. Sleeps 7.
• Willow Room: 2 Twin beds. Sleeps 2.

View the floor plans by following the provided live link. See our FLOOR PLANS here.

Total Beds in the Upper Lodge: 51 - Sleeps: 59
The Upper Lodge (Gymnasium Building) can accommodate 59 guests and offers the following sleeping arrangements:

• Bunk rooms:
• Wolf Pack Room: 6 Twin Bunks and 1 Queen/Twin Bunk (Sleeps 15)
• Elk Herd Room: 6 Twin Bunks and 1 Queen/Twin Bunk (Sleeps 15)
• Bear Den Room: 6 Twin Bunks and 1 Queen/Twin Bunk (Sleeps 15)

• Retreat Guest Rooms with private bathrooms:
• Bighorn Room: 2 Queen beds (with full bedding), 1 Queen/Twin Bunk, and 1 Futon Sleeper (Sleeps 8)
• Antler Room: 2 Queen/Twin Bunks (Sleeps 6)

View the floor plans by following the provided live link. See our FLOOR PLANS here.

There are mattress covers on the beds that do not have bedding provided. These covers are solely for the protection of the mattress and should not be used as bedding.

Bring your own pillow, sleeping bag, sheets, or blankets for any beds you plan to use.

Please read carefully so you won't be inconvenienced when you arrive.
Only the freestanding queen beds come with full bedding. To identify these beds, carefully check the floor plans on our website.
If the bed on the floor plan of each room are labeled with ONLY the letter "Q," it indicates that it is a freestanding queen bed and it comes with full bedding.
However, if the picture of the bed has both a "Q" and a "B," it signifies a bunk bed with a queen mattress on the bottom and a twin mattress on the top. Both come with only a mattress pad cover.
For further clarification and to view the floor plans, please follow the provided live link. See our FLOOR PLANS here!

No, you will need to bring your own bath towels, washcloths, and toiletries. Soap dispensers are available in all bathrooms.
If you're staying in a Retreat Guest Room with private bathroom, hand towels and washcloths are supplied. Bath towels are not provided.

There are no charges for RV parking or tent camping.
RVers, listen up! We've got two primo spots with water and electricity hook-ups, catering to both 25 AMP and 30 AMP needs. Located at the Lodge's NW end, accessible from Granite Basin Road, they're a camper's dream!
If you're going off-grid you can park in the upper lot or by the Firepit. Just don't forget to bring your marshmallows and ghost stories!
Pack your camping gear, but remember, pitch your tent away from the lawns of River Canyon Retreat. We're protecting those sprinkler lines! So, set up camp and enjoy the starry skies without worrying about waterworks!

If you're in need of more lodging options beyond what River Canyon Retreat offers, here are some suggestions:
Motels: There are several cozy motels just a stone's throw away from the Retreat, offering comfortable stays with convenient access.
Bed & Breakfasts: Experience the charm of nearby bed and breakfasts, where you can enjoy personalized hospitality and a homely atmosphere.
Vacation Rentals: Explore the plethora of listings in the vicinity, offering a range of accommodation options from private rooms to entire homes, ensuring a tailored stay for every preference.
Campgrounds: For nature enthusiasts, nearby campgrounds provide the perfect setting to pitch tents or park RVs, offering a rustic yet adventurous accommodation experience.
These alternatives offer flexibility to accommodate additional guests near River Canyon Retreat, ensuring everyone finds their perfect stay.

Here's a treasure trove of attractions and sites of interest near River Canyon Retreat:
1. Whitewater Adventures: Experience world-class whitewater rafting and kayaking on the North Fork, the South Fork and the Main Payette River.
2. You can raft, float, or paddleboard the family-friendly Middle Fork of the Payette River, and enjoy its sandy beaches at nearby Weilmunster Park in Crouch.
3. Terrace Lakes: Tee off at Terrace Lakes' 18-hole golf course or take a dip in their full-size natural hot springs swimming pool. Winter activities include snow tubing and cross-country skiing trails.
4. Starlight Mountain Theater: Catch a show at Starlight Mountain Theater, an outdoor musical theater running from June to August. Don't be surprised if you see some wildlife wander past during the show...it is an outdoor theater after all!
5. Shooting Range: Test your aim at the shooting range conveniently located within 5 minutes of the Retreat.
6. Hiking Trails: Explore several hiking trails just minutes away, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels.
7. Outdoor Rentals: Rent UTVs, kayaks, and E-bikes for outdoor adventures in the surrounding area.
8. Natural Hot Springs: Discover a variety of natural hot springs pools within a 30-minute drive, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
9. Sawtooth National Recreation Area: Take a day trip to the Sawtooth National Recreation Area to explore its breathtaking high mountain lakes, meadows, and rugged peaks.
10. Fishing: Enjoy lots of local fishing opportunities. Check out this guide for more information.
11. Ski Resorts: Hit the slopes at three ski resorts located within two hours of the Retreat, offering winter fun for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
12. Discover Idaho: Dive into the wonders of Idaho by visiting Visit Idaho for more information on local attractions and activities.
With so much to see and do nearby, your stay at River Canyon Retreat promises to be filled with adventure and excitement!