Camping options near Almo, Idaho include several primitive tent sites situated in the high desert landscape at elevations between 5,500-8,000 feet. The area receives limited annual precipitation, creating a semi-arid environment with temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night during summer months. Most campgrounds lack developed amenities, requiring campers to bring water, packing supplies, and prepare for variable weather conditions throughout the camping season.
What to do
Climbing access points: The Breadloaves area serves as an excellent basecamp for rock climbing with multiple routes within walking distance. "Within 100' of the site are ~20 routes and one of the mega classics of the City, Bloody Fingers on the east side of the loaves," notes one Bread Loaves Group Campsite visitor.
Hiking trails: Independence Lakes provides access to a challenging alpine trail system. "It's a 2.5 mile hike to the first lake. It inclines all the way up. You are treated with beautiful back country views, met with several switch backs before reaching the first lake," explains one visitor to Independence Lakes Campground.
Historical exploration: Camp near historic landmarks while tent camping at City of Rocks. A camper at Twin Sisters Group Campsite observed, "California Trail passed nearby," offering opportunities to explore the region's pioneer history during your stay.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The area offers exceptional stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. "Dark, quiet and starry at night with long views to the south," reports a camper at Twin Sisters Group Campsite.
Creek sounds: Some sites feature natural water features enhancing the camping experience. A visitor to McClendon Spring Campground appreciated the setting: "Situated by a pond with lots of birds made our stay very peaceful. Lights of a nearby town (Malta) could be seen from a distance making this spot even more lovely at night."
Seasonal temperature relief: Higher elevation campgrounds provide cooler conditions during hot summer months. As one camper at Bear Gulch noted, "We came up here looking to escape the heat of the city and were not disappointed. It was a good 10 degrees cooler and cooled off quickly when the sun went down."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campsites require travel on rough roads that may challenge some vehicles. "About 3 1/2 miles on a semi maintained gravel road. Lots of cows," reports one McClendon Spring visitor, while another advises, "Google maps led us down an unpassable road. Instead take Tiffler Road/1250 S from the 81 for a smoother ride."
Site availability: The limited number of tent sites fills quickly, especially during peak season. "There are not many sites so get here early if you plan on coming during the weekend," advises a visitor to Third Fork Campground.
Pack-in requirements: Some sites require carrying equipment from parking areas to campsites. A Bread Loaves camper warns, "The site is a little bit of a walk from the parking lot so bring something to haul your stuff in."
Tips for camping with families
Gear transport planning: When tent camping with children, consider the distance between parking and campsite. "We camped here in October during an unseasonably hot few days. We brought a camper and just parked it at the parking lot...I slept in it with my little ones....the rest of the group set up tents and hammocks down at the actual campsite which is a short distance downhill," shares a Bread Loaves visitor.
Activity accessibility: Look for campsites with direct trail access for family activities. "A trail started right at the parking lot, which is where the bathroom is too," notes a camper at Bread Loaves Group Campsite, making it convenient for children to access facilities and recreation.
Weather preparation: Bring layers for children as temperature variations can be significant. One visitor at Bear Gulch observed the "handful of flies and bees" but noted fewer mosquitoes than expected, suggesting appropriate bug protection may still be needed for comfort.
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: RV campers should verify vehicle clearance before attempting access roads. An Independence Lakes visitor warns, "If my trailer was not lifted we would have had issues," and adds "This campground is great overall just didn't work for our set up."
Turnaround space: Some remote sites have limited maneuvering room for larger vehicles. A McClendon Spring camper mentioned, "Plenty of room to turn around," but others noted the bumpy access road makes the journey challenging for trailers.
Leveling preparations: Bring leveling equipment as many sites feature uneven terrain. "A great place to camp, but few shaded areas," notes one McClendon Spring visitor, suggesting RVers should be prepared for both direct sun and potentially sloped parking.
