Massacre Rocks State Park Campground provides camping options near American Falls with sites along the Snake River. The park offers paved roads, full hookups, and both primitive and developed sites 30 minutes from American Falls. Located at approximately 4,400 feet elevation, the area experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters with most campgrounds open from April through October. Winter camping is limited to designated year-round facilities.
What to do
Explore historical sites: Massacre Rocks State Park features historical Oregon Trail wagon ruts accessible by hiking trail. "We enjoyed the hike/walk out to the Oregon Trail wagon ruts. Sites have electric and water and there is a dump station," notes Ashley M. about the park's educational opportunities.
Fishing: The Snake River provides good fishing access at multiple campgrounds. Massacre Rocks State Park Campground offers several fishing spots along the water. As Betty G. mentions, "Great fishing in the Snake River," making this activity accessible directly from campsites.
Disc golf: Several campgrounds offer disc golf courses for visitors looking for recreational activities. "Bring your disc golf, your fishing pole, and your chair for the evenings!" recommends Phillip C. about Massacre Rocks, highlighting the multiple activity options available at a single location.
What campers like
Hot spring pools: Indian Springs Resort and RV offers a vintage hot spring swimming pool on site. Scott B. describes it as "fantastic although entry to the pool is not included in your camping fee so be prepared to pay extra to get in the pool but totally worth it."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "Showers/restrooms clean and great hot water. Good place to ride bikes," says Rachel G. about Massacre Rocks, while another visitor notes the "clean bathrooms and showers" at Mary's Campground.
Creek-side camping: Several sites offer water features beyond the main attractions. At Indian Springs, one camper reported, "We were given a full hookup spot in a giant field area all to ourselves! Our spot backed up to a small running creek filled with fish."
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad disruptions. At Lower Portneuf Campground, "The train runs by and must blast the safety horn. Latest was 11:30pm, earlier was 5am," warns Evan D., while another camper counted "about 8 trains coming through between 1am-6am."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. The Indian Springs Resort operates from April 1 to October 31, while Lava Hot Springs West KOA runs from May 5 to October 31.
Insects: Some areas experience significant insect activity. One camper at Lake Walcott noted, "There were non-stinging flying insects all up in our face and flying up our nose. We got a few Mosquito bites but nothing above normal for a summer evening—the insects go away if you start a smoky fire."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Lake Walcott State Park Campground offers family-friendly water activities with safety equipment. "There are also life jackets provided for those who may not have their own so bring a canoe to enjoy the water," mentions Michelle H.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to see local wildlife. "We saw Deer and Raccoons at night. We kept all food items in our car to avoid issues," reports a Lake Walcott camper, providing important safety context for families.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground facilities. At Downata Hot Springs, families appreciate the water slides and hot pools, with Jennifer H. noting it's "Fun for kids, groups, families" and offering "Great groups there during our stay, easy to get around."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully for adequate space and level ground. At Indian Springs, one RVer noted, "Our site was not the best. Big ruts, we had to level quite a bit, 120 amp didn't work. But they were cleaning up getting ready for season."
Yurt camping options: For RVers looking for alternative accommodations, yurt camping near American Falls, Idaho offers comfortable options. Lava Hot Springs West KOA provides yurts within walking distance to amenities. "This campground is within walking distance to the hot pools, store, and places to eat," mentions Shani C., making yurt camping in American Falls, Idaho convenient for those without RVs.
Full hookup availability: Availability varies by campground. Downata Hot Springs campers note "No sewer, electricity and water at most sites," while Indian Springs Resort has "Spacious, full facilities" according to Edward R.
