Camping options near Bancroft, Idaho extend beyond the better-known Lava Hot Springs area. Located in Caribou County at approximately 5,400 feet elevation, Bancroft experiences cold winters with significant snowfall and warm summers with low humidity. Many dispersed camping areas follow a seasonal pattern with most sites accessible from late May through early October when overnight temperatures remain above freezing.
What to do
River recreation access: Lower Portneuf Campground offers immediate access to fishing and paddling opportunities. "Paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing are primo. Lots of privacy and zero dollars," notes Chelsey M., highlighting the free waterside camping options.
Hot springs visits: Lava Hot Springs West KOA provides convenient access to the town's thermal attractions. "You are about a 5-10 minute walk from the main town including the hot pools. Those pools are super relaxing and I would recommend going first thing in the morning before it gets crowded," advises Shad G.
Trail exploration: Goodenough Creek Campground connects to hiking paths suitable for day trips. "Great hiking and horseback riding trails, quiet, not too crowded," reports Sheri C. about the trail system that extends from the campground into surrounding public lands.
What campers like
Waterside camping: Lava Hot Springs Spa Motel & RV Park offers sites with water features. "At the back of the RV park is a trail you can walk along the river and will come to a place where you can enter the river right into a hot spring," shares Debra M. about the hidden thermal features near the campground.
Budget-friendly options: Lower Portneuf Campground provides free camping opportunities near town. "Great open field. Some wooded spot are next to the river. 5 minutes from the small town," reports Madison M., noting the proximity to services despite being a no-cost option.
Shade coverage: Several campgrounds offer tree cover for summer heat protection. "There are mature trees around so there is part or full shade for most of the area," reports Michelle H. about the tent camping areas, providing natural temperature moderation during hot summer days.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Multiple campgrounds near Bancroft experience train disturbances. "The trains; however, were a drag at night. Not many ran during the day but at night we counted 8 that went by. The tracks are only about 100' from most of the spots," warns Brett T. about overnight noise levels.
Limited services: Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping requires self-sufficiency. "This area used to be a state park but the state abandoned it and removed all their facilities. It is now under BLM jurisdiction," explains Mike E., highlighting the transition to undeveloped camping.
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires careful driving. "The road had some major ruts so it wouldn't be suitable for large vehicles," notes Christopher E. about approaches to certain camping areas, suggesting arrival during daylight hours for first-time visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mary's Campground offers features for children. "There's a paved trail around all of the camp sites for bikes and skateboards and the owners are incredibly friendly. Clean bathrooms/showers as well," recommends Chris Y., noting the family-friendly environment.
Site selection for privacy: Finding buffer space between sites helps maintain family comfort. "We had such friendly neighbors that we didn't mind at all. Very family friendly would definitely come back!" shares Rudy about their experience despite close site spacing.
Timing considerations: Morning visits to popular attractions avoid crowds. "I would recommend going first thing in the morning before it gets crowded," advises one camper regarding the hot pools, which can become extremely busy during midday, especially on summer weekends.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access accommodates larger rigs with limitations. "The roads a little rough for bigger fifth-wheel. Beautiful view, less than five minutes to Lava and much better than paying the crazy prices in the camp grounds," advises Earl J. about navigating to free camping with an RV.
Leveling requirements: Some camping areas offer naturally level sites. "Level and fantastic site for an overnight stay," reports Evan D., noting the train noise but praising the ease of setup without extensive leveling equipment.
Water and waste services: The KOA facilities near Bancroft provide water access for non-guests. "The KOA, just before the turn off, will let you fill your water tank for free but they charge $10 for a dump," shares a camper about resource access without staying at the full-service campground.
