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Best Tent Camping near Bruneau, ID

249 Reviews

Tent campsites near Bruneau, Idaho offer varied options for primitive camping experiences along the Snake River and surrounding public lands. North - C.J. Strike Area provides dispersed tent camping on Bureau of Land Management property with limited amenities but good lake access. Morley Nelson Snake River Dispersed Campsites offer free tent camping with river proximity about 40 miles northwest of Bruneau, while Swan Falls - Idaho Power provides waterfront tent sites in a scenic canyon setting.

Most tent campgrounds in this region lack potable water, requiring campers to bring adequate supplies for their stay. The terrain consists primarily of high desert with little natural shade, exposing campers to significant sun and wind. Sites at Swan Falls feature established fire rings and occasional picnic tables, though campers should verify current fire restrictions before planning trips. Vault toilets are available at some locations like Swan Falls, but many dispersed tent camping areas have no sanitation facilities. Roads to access points can be rough and washboard in sections, with some requiring moderate clearance vehicles. According to one visitor, "We parked right beside the river, and it was absolutely gorgeous. However, I don't recommend taking a car on this road. It's definitely an ATV road as it's very rough."

Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F at these tent camping locations, making spring and fall more comfortable seasons for overnight stays. The lack of tree cover creates excellent stargazing opportunities after sunset, with minimal light pollution at the more remote tent sites. Fishing access represents a primary draw for many tent campers, with bass and other species available in the Snake River and C.J. Strike Reservoir. While weekends see increased activity at boat launches and popular fishing spots, many tent campsites remain relatively uncrowded compared to developed campgrounds. As noted in feedback on The Dyrt, "When we woke up we couldn't believe the views. There's a little trail system you can wonder above that gives great views too." Wildlife viewing opportunities include birds of prey, coyotes, and various desert species, particularly in the morning and evening hours.

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Best Tent Sites Near Bruneau, Idaho (11)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Bruneau, ID

5 Photos of 11 Bruneau Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Bruneau, ID

249 Reviews of 11 Bruneau Campgrounds

  • M
    Jan. 17, 2021

    Little Camas Reservoir

    A forgotten gem

    We camped here in June 2020. There are clean vault toilets but not much else. The reservoir was practically empty. There were not picnic tables and the roads off the main road were not maintained. It was hard to tell if there were campsites there at all, but there were fire rings so we pulled in next to one and set up. One other camper came in later and set up down by the lake, but otherwise it was really quiet. Nice place to get away from everyone during a pandemic.

  • C
    Feb. 4, 2021

    Celebration Park

    Everything a campground should be

    Celebration Park is the perfect campground for basic boondocking (with bathrooms). It is remote and wild with non-stop views from every site and many outdoor activities nearby. At the entrance to the campground, there is a visitors center, many picnic tables, fire rings, an interpretive walk, and access to the riverfront. This is where the bathrooms are containing a single sink, electrical outlet and two toilets. No showers are available. The bathroom was exceptionally clean when I stayed there. The park adjoins BLM land. There are no hookups for power, water or sewer. Potable water is accessed from the bathrooms and spigots near the entrance. The camping area goes on for at least 1/4 mile along the river and more sites are away from the water. 

    Some reviewers mention the bugs. Yes there were swarming gnats when I visited in February, not unbearable, but worth noting if that bothers you. Also note the wind coming down the gorge creates some showy sandstorms. (See video) Hey, it's the outdoors.

    The county park is located on the Snake River Gorge about 25 miles from the nearest town. It is located on the northern fridge of the Morley Birds of Prey Sanctuary. You will awaken to the sound of the ducks and geese and can watch hawks and ravens soar on the winds rushing through the gorge. This is not the best place for watching the raptors, as I learned on staying there. Swan Falls south about 15 miles is for wildlife viewing, nevertheless, there was plenty to see and I spent two nights there. 

    A walk up away from the river takes you to a large lake and you can also cross the historic rail bridge to the other bank of the river and climb to the top of the gorge. Excellent place for stargazing, but avoid the sites closest to the visitor center where the lights interfere with prevent perfect darkness.

  • M
    Jul. 27, 2021

    North - C. J. Strike Area

    Military Strike Camp

    Spring Break gave us a unique 2019 quiet camping at the military cabins. A bit chilly when the wind picks up so dress warm and remember to pack extra layers and hand warmers. Fishing was great as we were the only people at the cabins. MHAFB rental cabins also rents boats. The cabins are a step above tent camping with wooden platform beds and bunks. Plan to be inside only to sleep as there is not much room. Bathroom is behind the cabins. A metal gate separates military from public facilities. Just beyond is a fish cleaning station and docks. Inside the gate is a flimsy floating pier. Plenty of places to park a chair and cast a line. Except to catch something. You may need to get creative to clean it, so think ahead or throw it back. If you are looking for a break from daily life, bonding or reconnecting as a family this is a cheap way to disconnect. Plan to pack in everything including sleeping bags. No heat or ac so plan for layers in spring because it gets chilly at night. Bring fly paper in late spring through fall. Mosquito repellent is also a must.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2019

    Fall Creek

    Hunters/Fisherman/ATVs “Resort”

    The whole area around the Anderson Ranch Reservoir is mostly used by hunters and fisherman. We needed a spot to camp after Craters of the Moon and this was not exactly what we were looking for. All of the accessible spots around the dam were taken so we took a spot at this “Resort.” The Fall Creek campground had some water access spots that were all “reserved” so we opted for the hillside with cramped picnic tables and fire rings. There were a couple trailers that looked like they just set up for a few weeks and come and go. There is also a full bar with pool tables at the campground (?!). There may have been other facilities but we only used the vault toilet near the closest boat ramp. It’s a beautiful area and if you’re lucky to snag a spot along the water, it would be enjoyable. However, keep in mind that there are lots of ATVs and UTVs and the scene is deer hunters, not really our thing.

  • Amy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 31, 2020

    North Park Campground

    Good Water Access

    This campground is an oasis in the middle of the desert.  It gets hot here in the summer. It has RV and camper parking along the Reservoir and a few tent sites.  There is a big park/picnic area with several picnic tables and a designated swimming area.  There is a boat launch right next to it so boating access from the campground is excellent!  Great for families with RV's and campers, less great for tent camping.

  • Ed E.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 23, 2018

    Swan Falls - Idaho Power

    Small and Peaceful Sites along the Snake River, Idaho

    Just south of Kuna, Swan Falls is a nice quiet place for tent or RV camping. RV should be smaller than 27'. We have a 27' Travel Trailer pulled with an extended long bed Chevy Silverado. We were able to get into the last or furthest campsite up stream. north of the dam. We were able to launch our kayaks for fishing and paddling for a couple of days. It is dry camping with no hookups. No reservations, so it's on a first come first serve basis. Our site had a fire pit but no picnic table. Fishing was awesome. I caught quite a few smallies, but they were on the smaller side. Still fun to catch. There were a few smaller sites for tent camping along the river. There are a few more sites below the dam as well. All dry camping. The drive down from the top is pretty steep. Ensure your vehicle is powerful enough to pull your rig back up the grade ;-)

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2022

    Celebration Park

    Great option for low fee

    Sites are next to the river and have amazing views of the surrounding terrain.

    Trash cans are located at each designated site as well as a level area to set up.

    There is cell reception in case you are interested but the wifi was poor.

    The fire pits are locked during fire season.

    Unfortunately, my site was a victim of irresponsible campers who left trash and urinated near the tent site. Obviously not the campground’s fault but something to be aware of.

    $5 fee with dropbox. 3 night max (within 30 day period.)

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2024

    Carmela RV Park at Y Knot Winery

    Really Liked Y Knot

    We followed our GPS plus there is great signage leading you to the Y Knot Winery, which is the same route to go to Three Island Crossing State Park. The state park is adjacent to the winery campground(CG). You first come to the older CG across from the winery building, which is better suited for smaller rigs. We were in the newer CG a little further up the road in pull-through site 26 with FHUs. As we had a reservation with an assigned site number, we went straight to our site, set up, and then walked back over to the winery to register. The sites have an interesting layout as they are long, yet the front and back of site not really defined. You have to adjust your rig on the gravel pad to fit your rig to the utilities towards the back of the site. You then ensure that either side of your rig isn’t too far on the gravel road. The CG is bare bones with no picnic tables, fire pits, nor WiFi(saw a review for$6 Wifi but didn’t see any networks in the new area). It was no issue for us as we were enjoying the winery and golf course. Since the CG is new, the trees have not matured and you have no problem with satellite. We got one bar on Verizon. Their water pressure is high so you will need a reducer. We got an end cap site and enjoyed the large yard. The CG info states there’s a pet area, but there’s no sign or fenced in area. The pet area is a grassy area along the golf course side of the CG according to the map. There was no road noise, but there was a distant train or two during the night. There’s a lot to like about this CG: nice sites, wine tasting, decent food, and a fun golf course.

  • Sofia A.
    Sep. 20, 2020

    Balanced Rock County Park

    Free and Pretty

    The place is beautiful and you have a hiking trail through the canyon and the balance rock is 5 min by car. Thegood: It’s free, has water, trash cans, and bathroom pits, roofed picnic tables, fire grills, fire rings. Can stay 7 days, tent on grass only Thursday through Sunday (sprinkles during the week), camp near the river, kayak, fishing... The bad: limited space, flies are something out of this world (seriously, they won’t let you do anything outside), very windy because of the canyon walls, no service not even with boosters, fish tiny and bony.

Guide to Bruneau

Tent camping near Bruneau, Idaho offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning natural landscapes while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities.

Tips for tent camping near Bruneau

  • Make sure to pack extra layers and hand warmers when visiting the North - C. J. Strike Area, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
  • Bring mosquito repellent, especially during late spring through fall, to keep those pesky bugs at bay while camping at Little Wilson Creek Campground.
  • If you're planning to fish, consider bringing fly paper and be prepared to get creative with cleaning your catch at the North - C. J. Strike Area.

Tent campers should check out Swan Falls - Idaho Power

  • Enjoy the beautiful sunrise views and well-maintained sites with fire rings at Swan Falls - Idaho Power.
  • The area offers a mix of seclusion and accessibility, making it a great spot for tent camping while still being close to amenities.
  • Take advantage of the nearby historical power station buildings and picnic areas along the river for a relaxing day outdoors.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Fishing and boating are popular activities at the North - C. J. Strike Area, where you can enjoy a peaceful day on the water.
  • Explore the scenic trails and enjoy the stunning views at Swan Falls - Idaho Power, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
  • For those interested in history, visiting the old mining town of Silver City Campground offers a unique glimpse into the past while enjoying the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Bruneau, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Bruneau, ID is North - C. J. Strike Area with a 3.3-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Bruneau, ID?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Bruneau, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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