Cabin camping near Cambridge, Idaho offers options in a region where elevations range from 2,700 to over 7,000 feet across nearby public lands. Seasonal availability varies dramatically with several locations closing between October and May due to snow accumulation, particularly at higher elevations. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, while summer highs reach the 90s.
What to do
Hot springs access: At Downata Hot Springs, cabin guests have easy access to thermal pools. "Close walking distance to the hot pools and restaurant. The 3 of us were comfortable and not felt like we were in a tiny space," notes a visitor who stayed in a loft cabin.
Riverside activities: Lava Hot Springs East KOA offers river access for various water activities. "The Portneuf River runs right through the campground. You are about a 5-10 minute walk from the main town including the hot pools," explains a camper who visited during fall.
Hiking nearby: Cabin stays at guard stations provide access to forest trails. A visitor at Malad Summit noted, "There's a really cool spring and waterfall just a short hike up the road," making it worth exploring beyond the cabin area.
What campers like
Historic accommodations: Bristol Park Historic Cabins preserves mining history. "The cabin we stayed in was an old miners cabin and they had 4 other smaller cabins that were further up the hill. There were so many pieces of historic americana strewn about as well as a rope swing," according to one guest.
Privacy at forest cabins: Pebble Guard Station offers more secluded options. A camper noted, "It was flat and hidden. There was a nice fire pit and the creek nearby was an added bonus," highlighting the natural setting.
Range of cabin sizes: Some properties offer varied options to accommodate different group sizes. At Downata Hot Springs, a repeat visitor mentioned, "There are only 3 loft cabins. They are super cozy, and come with a full kitchen. The loft above had 2 twin beds, the main floor had a full size bed, futon, closet, full kitchen and a bathroom."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin locations fill quickly, especially during peak months. A visitor at Lava Hot Springs West KOA advised, "We did not stay at the KOA, but right up the road at a Sportsman Access area. Camped right next to the river at no cost... only 3 miles from center of Lava Hot Springs where we went tubbing."
Noise considerations: Some locations experience significant ambient noise. A KOA visitor warned, "If you camp in the upper section, be prepared to hear trains roll through right beside you all night long. Not to mention the constant freeway noise of semis driving by at all hours."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "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," explains a winter visitor to Downata.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Lava Campground offers convenient access to water recreation. "Well run campground with clean bathrooms and showers. Fun playground for kids and lots of room to run around. Right down the road of town and the hot springs," notes a visitor.
Playgrounds and facilities: Several cabin locations feature dedicated children's areas. A Lava Hot Springs West KOA visitor shared, "This is a big KOA, right on the river, and really well taken care of. Super clean! Walking distance to downtown and the hot springs. Really nice staff."
Cabin capacity considerations: Check sleeping arrangements when booking. A Downata guest explained, "The 1st time we stayed here, we were with a group of friends who rented out the Ranch House. It had 3-bedrooms with 5 beds, a couch that could sleep 3 grown adults... All 12 of us were comfortable and there was enough room for everyone."
Tips from RVers
Campground access: Some cabin areas have limited space for larger vehicles. A visitor to Malad Summit Guard Station cautioned, "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."
Kitchen provisions: Cabin amenities vary widely. A Downata visitor explained, "They are super cozy, and come with a full kitchen... full kitchen and a bathroom with both shower and tub," while more basic cabins may have minimal cooking facilities.
Year-round options: RVers seeking winter cabin camping should verify availability. A Downata visitor shared, "In the summer time the pool is nice and cold and there are water slides. There is RV and tent sites as well as group sites and 3 small cabins, 3 medium cabins and three large cabins/houses."
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