Mary’s Campground, near Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, is a lively spot that caters to families and groups looking for a fun camping experience. With a range of sites for tents and RVs, you’ll find plenty of options to set up camp, though be prepared for a cozy arrangement as some sites are quite close together.

This campground is known for its shaded areas and easy access to the Portneuf River, making it a great place to relax and enjoy nature. Visitors have highlighted the friendly camp host who ensures everyone follows the rules, which helps maintain a respectful environment. As one camper noted, “If you obey the rules, you’re fine.” 

You’ll also appreciate the full hookups available for RVs, along with amenities like drinking water, showers, and picnic tables. Plus, the cool suspension bridge nearby offers a scenic route to the hot springs, perfect for a family outing. While some campers mentioned the cottonwood trees shedding their fluff, the overall atmosphere remains welcoming and enjoyable. 

If you’re looking for a place that’s close to town and packed with activities, Mary’s Campground is a solid choice. Just keep in mind that it can get busy during peak season, so plan accordingly for a fun-filled stay!

Mary’s Campground

Lava Hot Springs, ID is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Lava Hot Springs campgrounds just for you. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Lava Hot Springs

The Best Camping Near Lava Hot Springs, Idaho

Seemed a little over priced for what it was. The RV sites were good and tent sites had lots of grass but still is $40 a night. Close to hot springs and town. 

Just Ok

We stayed at Mary’s once and that’s all we will ever stay. The site #7 was right on the river, and just too close to #6 &amp; #8...Yes they did have showers and bathrooms and that’s the 2nd star but the tent campsites super narrow. Now I don’t know how the RV sites are but the tent sites below were nothing to really brag about to friends and family. As we saw people float down the river, we were not allowed to get into the river from our campsite which was right in the river. 
Let’s just say We’ve been there, done it, and no need to return..

Campsites On Top of One Another..

Nice Location right along the Portneuf River with very easy acess to the hot springs thanks to a cool suspension bridge!  The campsites are very well shaded and there are options for RV hookups.

Pretty spot with a Cool Suspension Bridge

Mary’s gets some stars for being green and shaded with bathrooms/showers, and full hookups. It also has a lovely suspension bridge to town.  A pretty easy walk to the hot pools with little kids.  It’s also along the river and train tracks. All of which I thought was delightful to see and hear.  The camp host was also very helpful with parking. But Mary’s loses stars for how close the sites are to each other.  There is zero privacy; you’re on-top if each other.  Being so close wouldn’t be so bad, but it’s definitely a party camp site.  If you want to be kept awake at all hours of the night by loud and drunk party people of all ages that have zero respect for noise discipline...then this is the place. If you’re a young family or retired couple looking for a peaceful retreat. This is not the place for you. 

Was a bit disappointed 

It is pretty packed in the summer. Lots of people. But rather clean. I would go back. But maybe fall or spring. 

Good enough  

Great staff, very welcoming and helpful. Loved the full hookups. Loved the environment with seeing all the kids playing around and having fun. Just a few short minutes from downtown. Only complaint is all the cotton falling over everywhere from the cottonwood trees. I know they can’t help that but just thought I’d share. Also sites are kind of on top of each other but we had such friendly neighbors that we didn’t mind at all. Very family friendly would definitely come back!

Family Friendly and great environment!

Honestly, I feel like any other campground there are rules. If you don’t like rules then don’t camp at a campground. The camp-host was nice and respectful. He did do his rounds to make sure rules were being followed. If you obey the rules, you’re fine. If you don’t, you get asked to follow them or asked to leave. Not all campsites have a fire pit, so you have to rent one. There’s also not a “play” area. This campground is nice, but it’s a little tight.

Photos of Mary’s Campground

Real photos from real campers