Bellevue, Idaho camping areas sit at approximately 5,200 feet elevation with dramatic temperature swings between day and night even in summer months. The surrounding Pioneer Mountains provide a backdrop for campers while the Big Wood River corridor offers fishing opportunities throughout the region. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, affecting campground operations from November through April.
What to do
River fishing access: Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed offers excellent fishing opportunities along clear waterways. "Gorgeous spot on the river with tables, pit toilets and campfires available in spots on the river," notes camper Paige P. The area is known for brown trout fishing and provides easy access points.
Mountain biking trails: North Fork Campground serves as a convenient basecamp for riders accessing the Harriman trail system. A visitor observed, "It's literally integrated with the 'Harriman trail' which provides access up and down the valley for runners, bikers, and hikers."
Wildlife viewing: Stanton Crossing provides opportunities to spot local wildlife in natural settings. One camper reported, "We saw a moose on the way in and had coyotes serenade us at night." The riverside location creates habitat for various animal species.
What campers like
Quiet riverside locations: Boundary Campground offers peaceful settings away from crowds. "Campsite #7 is private with a short path to a nice creek, behind a large meadow, with views of the mountains. There are large shade trees in between many sites," explains Catherine B.
Spacious campsites: Wood River Campground provides well-maintained sites with adequate spacing. "Right off Hwy 75 sits this clean campground with paved road throughout the campground and paved sites which helps to cut down on the dust," reports Laura M., noting that "each site had a picnic table and fire pit."
Affordable camping options: Free and low-cost camping opportunities exist throughout the area. Boundary Campground charges modest fees with one camper noting, "Great campground with water and very clean bathrooms. Right in very sweet creek," while only costing $10 per night.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. Wood River Campground has "zero cell reception" according to visitor reports, while Silver Creek Public Access offers "decent cell service" in most areas.
Wildlife precautions: Stanton Crossing Access and surrounding areas require proper food storage. "This is bear country but bear boxes are not provided to store food appropriately," warns one camper about regional sites.
Weather variability: Mountain elevations mean rapid temperature changes. A Meadows RV Park visitor mentioned the need for heating even in summer: "The mountains are absolutely gorgeous from your campsite," but nighttime temperatures drop significantly.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible facilities: Campgrounds with family-friendly amenities make stays more comfortable. "The bathrooms are spotless and very large. The showers are about 5 ft by 5 ft!" reports Marty S. about Mountain View RV Park.
Off-leash dog areas: Mountain View RV Park provides designated pet spaces. "Fabulous large off leash dog area available. Big or small travelers fit well at this campsite!" notes Lloyd D., making it ideal for families traveling with pets.
Educational opportunities: Historic and natural sites surround camping areas. "Staying at this campsite made it really easy to explore the Craters Of The Moon National Park, the ghost towns, and historical interests in the area," explains a Mountain View RV Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV sites near Bellevue, Idaho often have varied spacing between units. At Meadows RV Park, "The spaces are very packed in and they alternate every other site from nose to tail so you share grass on your camp side with your neighbor," cautions Steve H.
Overnight utility limitations: Year-round RV parks may have seasonal restrictions on water. At Riverside RV Campground, a visitor noted receiving a discount because "there wasn't potable water available" during winter months, though electric hookups remained operational.
Dump station accessibility: Many campgrounds provide limited sanitation facilities. Picabo Angler Silver Creek RV Park has a dump station, but one camper mentioned it "was awkward getting into it," suggesting larger rigs may face challenges.
