Craters of the Moon National Monument dominates the landscape near Arco, Idaho, with its expansive lava flows and unique volcanic features. The area sits at approximately 5,900 feet elevation with summer temperatures reaching into the 90s while winter brings freezing conditions. The high desert terrain transitions between exposed basalt fields and sparse vegetation, creating distinctive camping conditions with limited natural shade.
What to do
Cave exploration: 8 miles from Arco. At Craters of the Moon National Monument, visitors can explore several lava tube caves with proper permits. "This experience is a must! The campsite is in the lava fields. Like amongst piles of volcanic rock and mounds of lava flows. It's unreal! If you like rocks, plan to stay a few days," shares Taylor L.
Star viewing: best June-September. The remote location provides excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "Excellent stargazing," notes Jeremy M. about the Group Campground. The stark landscape enhances the astronomical experience with minimal light pollution.
Fishing access: 25 minutes north. Big Lost River Dispersed offers direct river access. "Clean for being free. Nice to be next to the river. Seems to be a popular place," writes LeRoy U. The fishing spots are accessible from multiple campsites along the river.
What campers like
Clean facilities: consistently mentioned. Mountain View RV Park receives high marks for maintenance. "The bathrooms are spotless and very large. The showers are about 5 ft by 5 ft! The owners are very friendly and accommodating," notes Marty S. The park also features 24-hour laundry access.
Morning meal offerings: seasonal availability. Several campers mention the breakfast options at certain campgrounds. "In the morning they offer FREE waffles, so after packing up the car, we enjoyed breakfast before heading over to the National Monument," shares Bobby B. about his stay at the KOA.
Spacious sites: particularly for groups. Campers appreciate the room to spread out at Mackay Tourist Park. "Tree'd grassy park with picnic tables & fire pits at each site. Beautiful views of the mountains," writes Lori. The park operates on a donation basis rather than fixed fees.
What you should know
Weather conditions: extreme variations. The high desert climate means hot days and cool nights with limited natural shade. "There's no signs to say you can't camp here, but equally no indication that camping is allowed," Robert T. notes about Big Lost River Rest Area, highlighting the importance of checking regulations.
Seasonal operation: most campgrounds close October-April. Winter access becomes limited due to snow and freezing temperatures. Many facilities reduce services in shoulder seasons.
Water availability: inconsistent in dispersed areas. Iron Bog Campground visitors sometimes find seasonal limitations: "The hand water pump did not pump water; water was probably turned off for the season," reports Fred S. Bring extra water when camping in remote locations.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: limited options. For pet friendly camping near Arco, Idaho with children, consider campgrounds with water features during hot months. "Our boys got to enjoy the pool before it closed for the evening," notes Bobby B. about the KOA facilities.
Playground options: verify before booking. Craters of the Moon-Arco KOA offers basic play equipment. "Playground for kids was minimal, but pool seemed nice. This is a good jumping off point for craters of the moon," writes Ben H. about the facilities.
Wildlife sightings: early mornings best. Some campgrounds offer opportunities to see native animals. "Had 2 deer meander through the campground in the morning!" writes Lori about Mackay Tourist Park. The park's location near mountains increases wildlife viewing chances.
Tips from RVers
Site width variations: check when booking. Mountain View RV Park offers particularly spacious sites. "The sites are very wide and spacious with grass in between. Full service. Very good cell phone service," notes Marty S. about the accommodation for larger vehicles.
Cell reception: spotty in remote areas. Coverage varies significantly around Arco. "No T-Mobile and AT&T cell service. There were several boondocking sites on the way to the campground," reports Fred S. about Iron Bog, highlighting connectivity challenges for remote workers.
Power options: limited at dispersed sites. For animal-friendly camping near Arco with electrical needs, research availability carefully. "Probably 15 spots. AT&T 1-2 5G. Pit toilets, 10 day max stay right on Big Lost River," Christopher E. explains about the Big Lost River Dispersed area's limited amenities.
