Cambridge sits in southwestern Idaho with the Weiser River flowing through the valley and the Cuddy Mountains to the northwest. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-90°F, while winter can see lows in the teens. The area offers glamping options near natural hot springs, particularly convenient for winter escapes from harsh weather.
What to do
Hot springs soaking year-round: Massacre Rocks State Park Campground provides access to several regional hot springs within driving distance. "Hardly anyone here! Great fishing in the Snake River," notes Betty G., highlighting additional recreational opportunities beyond thermal soaking.
River recreation: The Portneuf River near Lava Hot Springs West KOA offers tubing and swimming. According to Sam F., "We stayed at the end of September. Leaves were beginning to turn and were gorgeous. Our riverside campground was wonderful."
Hiking trails: Caribou National Forest Emigration Campground features forest trails accessible directly from campsites. Erin M. shares, "Lots of sites that really have a lot of privacy and back right up to the forest. Also trails right of the campsite. Super well maintained and bathrooms were clean."
What campers like
Thermal pools with accommodations: Winter glamping close to Cambridge, Idaho includes Downata Hot Springs, where Anthony B. mentions, "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."
Secluded forest camping: For those seeking quieter alternatives to hot springs resorts, campsites in the surrounding forests offer privacy. At Emigration Campground, Susan V. reports, "Nice, forested campground. There's a camp host up front that has firewood for sale. Lots of summer flowers! Also lots of summer mosquitos, but that's expected."
Free camping options: Lower Portneuf Campground provides no-cost sites for those on a budget. Chelsey M. describes it as "gorgeous! 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."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds near popular hot springs areas experience railroad noise. At Lower Portneuf Campground, Brett T. warns, "The trains; however, were a drag at night. Not many ran during the day but at night we counted 8 that went by. The tracks are only about 100' from most of the spots."
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate seasonally. Emigration Campground typically runs June to September, while Massacre Rocks remains open year-round. One visitor noted, "One night here when it first opened for the season, so there were still patches of snow and little streams here and there."
Firewood regulations: Some sites require purchasing firewood on-site. Glen B. observed at Downata Hot Springs, "Firewood has to be bought there, but it is a fair price and is delivered directly to your site."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Mary's Campground provides river access and shaded sites. Chris Y. recommends, "We've stayed here annually now for some time. Easy access into town to go tubing or to the hot springs. There's a paved trail around all of the camp sites for bikes and skateboards."
Resort amenities: Downata Hot Springs offers multiple accommodation types suitable for different family sizes. Shani C. shares, "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."
Campground noise levels: Consider site selection carefully when traveling with children. At Mary's Campground, Bethany S. cautions, "It's definitely a party camp site. If you want to be kept awake at all hours of the night by loud and drunk party people of all ages that have zero respect for noise discipline...then this is the place."
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Many glamping options near Cambridge have restricted RV access. At Malad Summit Guard Station, David T. advises, "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."
Seasonal booking strategies: For RVers seeking luxury glamping near Cambridge, Pete C. recommends timing your visit: "We come here every year to meet family. Friendly staff, clean areas, reasonable rates. Busy time is between Memorial Day and Labor day. We always visit after Labor Day."
Hookup availability: Check specific site amenities before booking. Many campgrounds offer partial hookups only. Pete C. notes about Downata Hot Springs, "No sewer, electricity and water at most sites."
