Cabin rentals near Arco, Idaho serve as convenient basecamp accommodations for travelers exploring Craters of the Moon National Monument and the surrounding Lost River Valley. Most cabins operate seasonally from spring to late fall due to harsh winter conditions in this high desert region at approximately 5,300 feet elevation. Temperature fluctuations between day and night can exceed 30 degrees, even during summer months.
What to do
Craters exploration: Located 18 miles southwest of Arco, Craters of the Moon National Monument features accessible hiking trails through volcanic formations. "We stayed here on our way to Yellowstone. Near Craters of the Moon National Monument. The town of Arco was charming and has an interesting history as the first nuclear-powered city in the US," notes Jeff P. about Craters of the Moon-Arco KOA.
Local history: Visit the submarine sail (conning tower) display in Arco from the USS Hawkbill nuclear submarine. "The town of Arco was charming and has an interesting history as the first nuclear-powered city in the US," shares a visitor staying at the KOA.
Mountain recreation: Access the White Knob Mountains and Lost River Range for hiking, fishing, and ATV trails. "Amazing destination. I love mackay and its community, if you show up in the summer you get amazing weather and incredible fishing," reports Michael A. about his stay at Mackay Tourist Park.
What campers like
Convenient location: Arco serves as a strategic overnight stop between larger destinations. "We passed through here heading from the Tetons to Oregon. Only 20 minutes to the Craters of the Moon visitors center. Great location to stay to check out this remote and amazing NPS site," writes Zach H. about his experience at Craters of the Moon-Arco KOA.
Outdoor spaces: Many cabin locations feature well-maintained outdoor areas. "The sites are very wide and spacious with grass in between. Full service," notes Marty S. about Mountain View RV Park, adding, "The owners are very friendly and accommodating."
On-site dining: Some properties offer food service, eliminating the need to prepare meals after arrival. "MUST eat at the restaurant within the campground! Southern smoked BBQ!" recommends Lisa D. about Mountain View RV Park, while another visitor confirms "They run a great little restaurant right on the site with fantastic ribs!"
What you should know
Limited services: Arco remains a small town with basic amenities. "Nothing is around, so bring food and activities! The store is really cute, they serve ice cream in the evenings and pancakes for breakfast. Nice touch, since there isn't much else around," advises Jen B. about the KOA.
Seasonal operations: Most cabin accommodations close during winter months. "Beware google maps doesn't map properly to this campground and may take you down an old dirt road. You should turn in town at 'pickles place'," warns Ben H. about locating the KOA.
Varying amenity levels: Cabins range from primitive to relatively comfortable. "We stayed at this campsite for five nights and we're very happy with the accommodations. The site is very clean, including the laundry facilities," shares Lloyd D. about Wagon Wheel Motel & RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Free breakfasts: Some properties offer morning meals included with stays. "In the morning they offer FREE waffles, so after packing up the car, we enjoyed breakfast before heading over to the National Monument," notes Bobby B. about the family-friendly atmosphere at the KOA.
Recreation facilities: Seek out properties with outdoor play areas and pools. "We arrived late and registered easily," mentions Micah about the KOA, while Jeremy H. elaborates that amenities include "showers, restrooms, laundry, small store that sells firewood and propane among other necessities, ice cream social (for a donation) in the evening, free waffle breakfast in the morning, pet friendly with dog park, playground, and pool."
Wildlife viewing: Some cabins offer opportunities to see local animals. "Had 2 deer meander through the campground in the morning!" shares Lori about her experience at Mackay Tourist Park.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Look for properties with adequate distance between sites. "The sites are very wide and spacious with grass in between. Full service. Very good cell phone service," reports Marty S. about Mountain View RV Park.
Bathroom facilities: Check bathroom availability when booking cabin stays. "The bathrooms are spotless and very large. The showers are about 5 ft by 5 ft!" notes a visitor to Mountain View RV Park, while John H. shares that at Wagon Wheel Motel, "Restrooms are key coded thus nice and clean."
Weather preparation: Expect temperature variations requiring both cooling and heating options. "AC units the only thing is it took a while for the room to cool down it would have been cool if they were able to set that air conditioner about an hour before arrival," suggests Stacey A. about Wagon Wheel Motel & RV Park.
