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Best Campgrounds near Montpelier, ID

430 Reviews

Montpelier, Idaho serves as a gateway to several established campgrounds in southeastern Idaho, from the riverside Montpelier Creek KOA to the forested Emigration Campground in Caribou National Forest. The area offers a mix of accommodation types including tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin rentals. Most campgrounds are situated along creeks or within canyon areas, providing natural settings while remaining accessible from Highway 89. Paris Springs Campground and Bear Lake State Park provide additional options within 20 miles of town, each offering different amenities and natural surroundings.

Camping season typically runs from May through September or October, with most facilities closing during winter months due to snow and cold temperatures. Montpelier Canyon Campground provides basic amenities with vault toilets and picnic tables but limited drinking water, while KOA locations offer more developed facilities including showers, electric hookups, and swimming pools. Visitors should be aware that some campgrounds have narrow access roads unsuitable for large RVs. A review noted: "The road through the campground has a lot of deep potholes. The sites are small; some are pull through. I don't think I'd tow a camper longer than 20 ft through there."

Campers frequently mention the pleasant creek settings as highlights of their stays, particularly at Montpelier Creek KOA where sites are situated alongside flowing water. Summit View Campground offers lodgepole pine forests and wildflower displays in summer months, though road noise can be an issue at some locations due to proximity to highways. Several visitors commented on the variable quality of facilities between campgrounds. While Emigration Campground receives praise for its forest setting and trail access, Montpelier Canyon Campground has mixed reviews regarding site conditions and maintenance. One camper described Emigration as having "lots of sites that really have a lot of privacy and back right up to the forest," making it popular for those seeking a more secluded forest camping experience while still being within driving distance of Bear Lake's recreational opportunities.

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Best Camping Sites Near Montpelier, Idaho (162)

    1. Montpelier Creek KOA

    6 Reviews
    Montpelier, ID
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 562-7576

    "Some are definitely better than others - Montpelier Creek was one of the BEST. This is a beautiful KOA."

    "We booked a tent site online and pulled in around 8 pm on a Monday night shortly after the covid shutdown. It was raining and the temperature was 37 degrees and due to drop to 29 overnight."

    2. Montpelier Canyon Campground

    5 Reviews
    Montpelier, ID
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 351-1182

    $13 / night

    3. Caribou National Forest Emigration Campground

    5 Reviews
    Montpelier, ID
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 351-1182

    $20 - $100 / night

    "There was a little path to the bathrooms."

    "Close to lots of attractions in the Bear Lake area, but far enough from everyone else. the campground is in a beautiful forest with lots of trails and space to explore."

    4. K O A Campgrounds Montpelier

    2 Reviews
    Montpelier, ID
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 847-0863

    "We were directly next to a river stream which we were able to take our camp chairs and sit in the water. Like our own private oasis."

    5. Allred Flat

    14 Reviews
    Smoot, WY
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 886-5300

    $5 - $10 / night

    "This campground does not allow ATV's in the campground but does offer a parking area for your toys just outside the campground entrance. The sites are well spread out throughout the campground."

    "We stayed at site 11 right next to the little river and it was so peaceful to fall asleep and wake up to the sound of the flowing water."

    6. Bear Lake State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Fish Haven, ID
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 945-2565

    "If coming from Idaho Falls stay on 30 Hwy till Montpelier then take 89 hwy to St Charles. If ya coming from Jackson Wy stay on 89 Hwy . If ya need Groc stop at the store in Montpelier."

    "Public outhouses are available. if you are up to walking a bit the ones near the day use area are cleaner and used less. Beautiful lake."

    7. Paris Springs Campground

    4 Reviews
    Bloomington, ID
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 351-1182

    $17 - $100 / night

    "The campground was in great shape, the drive up to our site was amazingly beautiful, and the campground hosts were very attentive and thoughtful."

    "I chose the site near the Paris spring Trailhead. The trail to the spring is about 1/4 mile in and is very beautiful. There were hummingbirds everywhere! And dragon flies too!"

    8. Rendezvous Village RV Park

    1 Review
    Montpelier, ID
    0 miles
    +1 (208) 847-1100

    9. St. Charles Campground

    3 Reviews
    Bloomington, ID
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 351-1182

    $20 - $50 / night

    "The tent was pitched right next to Saint Charles Creek. It is currently very high (6/2017). I was worried they may get their tent wet! The camp is paved, so no dust!"

    "There is a good amount of shade at nearly all the campgrounds and they are close to the creek.  It has simple amenities like vault toilets, metal fire rings and picnic tables. "

    10. Summit View Campground

    2 Reviews
    Montpelier, ID
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 351-1182

    $17 - $80 / night

    "The campground is in close proximity to the main canyon road so expect occasional motorbike/atv noise throughout the day."

    "Good access to lava hot springs and or bear lake. Decent place to stay up in the mountains. Good trails for atvs, hiking, disconnecting. No real problems."

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Recent Camping Photos near Montpelier, ID

137 Photos of 162 Montpelier Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Montpelier, ID

430 Reviews of 162 Montpelier Campgrounds

  • Connie H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Albert Moser

    Cache National Forest Camping

    We got to the campground around 5:00 PM. The gates were open, but the billboard/signs were covered up. We had zero cell service so we couldn’t get online to check anything, but we assumed it was closed for the season. There were some people camping up on the hill in the loop, so we decided to do the same since we were only stopping for the night to get some rest. This area was very busy with trail riders.. a lot of OHV’s ripping thru and around made it pretty noisy, but we weren’t bothered by it. We did walk through the campground and found it to be really nice. The creek running beside it, is really great. The vault toilets in the front of the campground were unlocked, but not well kept. Each campsite had a picnic table and fire ring/pit. There is water available in the campground, but we didn’t check to see if it was still turned on. If we’re ever back in the area, we’d definitely camp here!

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    South Eden Campground — Bear Lake State Park

    View of Bear Lake

    Great view of the lake, little chilly for October. Quiet lots of deer near the campsite #12. Very large space, picnic table. Only 3 campers here at this time. Would visit again this time of year.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Hobbit 2 Dispersed Site

    A one spot stop

    Didn’t stay, it’s right next to the road maybe for a camper van not for a truck and 30’ camper

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Smithfield Dispersed Campsite

    Beautiful location

    I first visited this area in the spring, and have since been there around 4-5 times. It’s very beautiful with lots of greenery and a river through the whole canyon. The road is dirt and bumpy so be prepared for that but I’ve never had a problem finding a spot. 10/10 would recommend (though in the spring the river is loud because it is more rushing)

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Portneuf Bend Campground

    Trains and ATv

    If your looking for a quiet wilderness experience don’t come here ATV are pain in the arse and trains roll 24 /7 very nosy! Sites are close together so you’d better like your nabour

  • Valerie J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Salt River Pass

    Fire

    We were headed to camp there, and we're met be fire crews. The mountain side is burned. It may be a while until you can camp there

  • Rod D.
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Lower portneuf campground

    Exactly what I was looking for

    Saw this campground on Dyrt while heading to Grand Teton NP and needed a layover spot to catch some ZZZZs for a night. It's a no frills campground with 8 sites with tables and fire pits. There is a pit toilet in the picnic area (a very short walk). Train tracks are 30 yards away, no biggie, but yes, they blow their horn at the track crossing into the campground. A few came by throughout the night. Honestly, they really didn't bother me. I didn't realize what a great spot it was until the next morning when exploring the river area. WOW! Awesome! This is a real hidden gem!

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Lava Hot Springs West KOA

    Best KOA I ever stayed

    I have stayed at a lot of KOAs but this one would be #1 on my list. It is clean and well manicured. The bathrooms are spacious and clean. Staff was friendly and helpful. They are across the street from the rustic hot springs but a short walk or drive to the other side of town are the more modern pools. The town is super cute and very clean. You can also rent tubes to float down the creek that runs parallel to the town. Big beautiful park with lots of outdoor barbecue pits. This is a hidden jewel in my book. Definitely would come back.

  • Daniel W.
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Tincup Campground

    Tin cup

    I like it there's no amenities or anything it's been pretty empty here except for Labor Day weekend so very quiet

Guide to Montpelier

Camping near Montpelier, Idaho, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing in the nearby rivers and lakes. One reviewer at Red Banks Campground mentioned, "Great river access and fishing in the Logan River for Bear River Cutts."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the area. A visitor at Willow Flat Campground said, "The hike to the headwaters is a must."
  • Water Activities: Swimming and kayaking are popular at Bear Lake State Park Campground. One camper noted, "We were able to go to the lake easily and swim a little bit."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A reviewer at South Eden Campground said, "The sites are huge and well maintained. The beach is rocky with patches of sand."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Allred Flat shared, "It was quiet there was a camp host there but I didn't talk to him and there were plenty of spaces open."
  • Family-Friendly: Campgrounds like Bear Lake/Marina Side KOA Holiday offer activities for kids. One reviewer mentioned, "There is an amazing playground for kids, swimming pool, and jumping pillow."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A camper at Montpelier Creek KOA noted, "Sites are very close together, water pressure is not great."
  • Crowded in Summer: Popular spots can get busy during peak season. A visitor at Bear Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "It is a big party here during the Summer."
  • No Cell Service: Many campgrounds have limited or no cell service. A reviewer at Allred Flat said, "No cell reception for me."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One parent at Bear Lake/Trail Side KOA Journey said, "If you’re looking to have a more peaceful stay, this is your place."
  • Plan for Crowds: If you’re camping during the summer, arrive early to secure a good spot. A visitor at Bear Lake State Park Campground noted, "There were plenty of CG workers but they did not keep up with the trash laying about."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Some campgrounds have limited markets. A camper at Willow Flat Campground mentioned, "The camp host was friendly and helpful with questions about exploring the area."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer at Bear Lake State Park Campground said, "Sites are pretty level they have electric some with water and some with 50amps."
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Some campgrounds can get dusty, especially in the summer. A visitor at Willow Flat Campground noted, "It can get very dusty, especially come July and August."
  • Use Dump Stations: Make sure to utilize dump stations if your campground doesn’t have sewer hookups. A camper at Montpelier Creek KOA mentioned, "The creek has a nice flow."

Camping near Montpelier, Idaho, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, there’s something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Montpelier, Idaho?

The Montpelier area offers several excellent camping options. Bear Lake State Park Campground is a popular choice, accessible via Highway 89 from Montpelier through St. Charles. For a more secluded experience, Beaver Creek offers a peaceful, isolated setting with beautiful surroundings – though you'll need to navigate some semi-sketchy roads to reach it. Other noteworthy options include Paris Springs Campground with reservable sites and water/toilet facilities, and Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping for those seeking free camping with 2WD-friendly access. Most campgrounds in the area are within a 30-minute drive of Montpelier, making them convenient bases for exploring the region.

What RV parks and facilities are available in Montpelier, Idaho?

Montpelier Creek KOA offers full RV hookups right next to the creek. The facility features a large office with convenience items, a dog walking area, and is conveniently located near the mouth of Montpelier Canyon. For those wanting to enjoy Bear Lake, Bear Lake Venture Park provides deluxe RV sites with more space and privacy, while standard sites are arranged in a loop. The park offers WiFi and is located across the main road from the lake. Rendezvous Village RV Park is another option near Montpelier. Many RV parks in the area are seasonal, operating primarily from late spring through early fall, with full hookups, shower facilities, and dump stations.

Is there camping available at Montpelier Canyon, and what are the facilities?

Yes, Montpelier Canyon Campground offers camping about 3 miles from town. The campground has narrow roads and short driveways that aren't suitable for large RVs, with some sites being overgrown. The best sites are in the 6-16 loop. Basic facilities are available, but there are no trash receptacles on-site. However, the Oregon/California Trail Center in Montpelier provides trash disposal and an RV dump station. Cell service can be limited, with no Verizon signal reported at the campground. Caribou National Forest Emigration Campground is also in the vicinity, offering reservable sites with water and toilet facilities for those seeking alternatives in the canyon area.

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