Bannock County Fairgrounds offers accommodations for equestrians traveling through eastern Idaho. Located approximately 230 miles southeast of Cambridge, the fairground sits at 4,462 feet elevation and experiences dry summer conditions with cooler nights. The facility serves primarily as a venue for local equine events rather than recreational trail riding.
What to do
Reservoir fishing opportunities: Pipeline Campground provides access to American Falls Reservoir for anglers seeking trout and sturgeon. "Lots of sturgeon and 2' long trout swimming right on the riverbank, you can literally see them feet off the shore," notes a visitor to Pipeline Campground.
Hot springs swimming: The natural hot springs at Indian Springs Resort offer refreshing recreation after a day with horses. "We enjoyed the hot spring fed pool. The pool is huge!" reports one camper at Indian Springs Resort and RV.
River floating: Several waterways near Pocatello offer tubing opportunities. "Try tubing from the dam to your site! It only took us 45 minutes to float 4mi!" suggests a reviewer at Pipeline Campground.
What campers like
Proximity to Bear Lake: Horse owners appreciate additional recreation options within driving distance. "It has a big camp site, big enough to fit a big family. Enough parking for all vehicles," notes a visitor to Paris Springs Campground, which is "close to Bear Lake."
Secluded camping spots: Many equestrians prefer privacy when camping with horses. Franklin Basin offers "tons of dispersed spots all up and down Franklin Basin Rd. Road is very well maintained, sites are easily accessible and close to Logan river if not on it," according to a camper at Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping.
Mountain access: Higher elevation camping provides cooler temperatures during summer months. "I have grown up camping in the Franklin Basin area. It is the perfect location for anyone looking for places to hike or ride," shares a visitor, noting "Beaver Creek, old logging trails, and more" are available.
What you should know
Limited corral facilities: Most campgrounds require bringing portable containment systems. "The facility permits pets alongside horses, though specific equine amenities like dedicated corrals are not formally provided," a situation common at most sites in the region.
Water availability varies: Some areas have limited or no drinking water. At Sage Hen Flats Campground, campers need to "bring canopy or have awning for shade" as one reviewer notes, and water must be packed in for horses and humans alike.
Seasonal access constraints: Weather affects trail conditions significantly. "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," explains a visitor to Malad Summit Guard Station.
Tips for camping with families
Early arrival recommended: Secure family-appropriate sites by arriving before weekend crowds. "I would be cautious if you aren't car camping to make sure you show up earlier than I did (6pm)," advises a Franklin Basin camper.
Bug preparation essential: Insects can be problematic in certain seasons. "Bigs are very active in June so I suggest fly tape inside campers," warns a Pipeline Campground visitor, while another recommends "Bring bug spray."
Swimming options for children: After trail rides, kids appreciate cooling off. At Malad Summit Guard Station, "It is close to the reservoir of you need to cool off and there is also the creek which runs right next to it!" shares a reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Horse trailers with living quarters require careful positioning. "Sites are not level so I suggest bringing a shovel to dig under one side and blocks for the other side," advises a Pipeline Campground RVer.
Electrical needs: Power requirements for equestrian camping vary across facilities. At Oneida County Fairgrounds, "They have about 20 spots with electrical outlets. It would be good to call and ask if you can stay, where it is a fairgrounds," suggests a visitor to Oneida County Fairgrounds.
Road condition awareness: Access roads to equestrian camping areas require appropriate vehicles. "The road going back from the boat ramp to the sites is a little rough but ok for our travel trailer, it is extremely dusty here though. Longer trailers may have turning issues getting back the windy dirt road," notes a Pipeline Campground visitor.