Glamping accommodations near Bancroft, Idaho range from basic to luxurious, with options across multiple campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The area sits at approximately 5,500 feet elevation in southeastern Idaho's mountain terrain, where summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during daytime hours with cooler 45-55°F nights. Most glamping locations remain open from May through October, though several offer year-round access with heated accommodations.
What to do
Hot springs exploration: 5 miles from Downata Hot Springs offers multiple natural thermal pools. "Cold winter months and you need to get away? We rented a cabin three times this last winter. Great little cabins with bathrooms the hot pools were 100 feet away and a heated swimming pool," notes Anthony B.
Hiking to Emigration Pass: 1-2 hour excursion from Caribou National Forest Emigration Campground provides forest trails with elevation gains of 500-800 feet. One camper reports, "There's a trail from the upper loop that goes to the large parking area at Emigration Pass, where there are other trails."
Creek fishing: No license required for youth under 14 at Willow Flat. "My boys could have stayed two weeks fishing the creek! Lots of trout," shares Beth B., adding that the creek temperature remains "freezing, but clean and refreshing" even during summer months.
What campers like
River access: Direct waterfall views at Lower Portneuf Campground where visitors can park larger vehicles. "We parked our 34 ft motor home right next to a river waterfall and did some fishing. A fire pit was already established. Excellent spot right outside of town with good cell service. Paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing are primo," writes Chelsey M.
Short walk to attractions: Lava Hot Springs West KOA provides walking access to downtown. "You're walking distance to the river, restaurants, the pool and all the fun stuff in Lava," notes Jon M., while another camper adds, "The downtown of Lava spring is a walk away and so is the large enclosed hot springs and pool."
Privacy between sites: Maple Grove Hot Springs offers well-spaced tent sites. "They have tent sites, van sites and a selection of shelters to choose from. Camping gets you access to the hot springs from check in until 4pm the next day," explains Jordan H., highlighting the additional amenities.
What you should know
Train noise: Frequent train crossings occur near Lower Portneuf Campground, primarily between 1-6am. "We experienced about 8 trains coming through between 1am-6am. Which meant that every time they crossed they had to sound their horn multiple times which was absolutely ear splitting," warns Isaac.
Limited availability: Summer weekend crowds require advance bookings. At Mary's Campground, a camper noted, "It seemed it filled up with reservations from Thursday-Sunday" while others mention similar patterns at surrounding glamping facilities.
Seasonal differences: Late June brings changes to wildflowers and terrain. "We have camped here almost every year and it's amazing every time. The wildflowers are beautiful but once it hits late June they are usually gone," reports Kassidy S., adding that "it can get very dusty, especially come July and August when it doesn't rain as much."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple activities for children at Montpelier Creek KOA. "This is a beautiful KOA. Our cabin was right on the creek, and I found my pace and place on the porch and nature trail watching birds and listening to the creek while the kids enjoyed the pool and playground," shares Jennie R.
Designated swimming areas: Water safety varies by location. At Downata Hot Springs, "heated swimming pools alongside glamping yurts remain accessible year-round," while another camper noted the pool "is heated but not hot, due to being in the trees there is a few floating items but gets cleaned every day."
Campground layout considerations: Site selection impacts family experience. "We came on a Thursday morning in late September and there were only two spots left. The river is beautiful, and only about 30 yards away, but not actually visible from the campsites," notes Shannon P., describing the limited views at some campsites.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Gravel parking pads provide stable foundation. "Sites are relatively level - nice gravel. Seemed like most sites have fire rings," reports Evan W., though access roads may present challenges as "the road had some major ruts so it wouldn't be suitable for large vehicles."
Hookup limitations: Water pressure varies across campgrounds. At Montpelier Creek KOA, one RVer noted "water pressure is not great" while others recommend bringing extra water containers when staying at sites with limited utilities.
Big rig accessibility: Length restrictions apply at certain locations. "We wanted to try this out with our 28' bumper pull. Luckily it was not a busy weekend, we had to move sites to one that would accommodate. Hard to maneuver in the campground as well as getting up the narrow road," cautions David T. when describing access to smaller glamping areas close to Bancroft.
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