RV camping near Cambridge, Idaho offers several options for travelers in the southeastern region of the state. Campgrounds in this area typically sit at elevations between 4,500-5,500 feet, creating cooler summer nights even when daytime temperatures reach the 90s. Most RV facilities in this region are seasonal operations closing from late October through April due to winter conditions, though a few remain open year-round.
What to do
River tubing at Lava Hot Springs: Visitors staying at Lava Hot Springs Spa Motel & RV Park can enjoy river recreation steps from their campsite. According to one camper, "It was fun to sit and watch the river go by. Along with the people coming down the river on inflatable rafts." Another notes the campground is "right next to river tubing entrance" with just "a short 2min walk to the entrance for tubing."
Hiking near Pocatello: Cowboy RV Park provides access to nearby trails. A camper mentions, "Nearby hiking and biking trails. This my 3rd visit in 4 years. I will be back." Another visitor confirms: "Great hikes/walks/bike path right next door."
Natural hot springs bathing: Several campgrounds provide access to geothermal features. At Batiste Springs RV Park, one camper shares: "You are just above Batise Spring. You can walk down the path and go to the bridge. You are standing over Batise Spring! I got in! Bob said it was 52° and I believe it! But it made me so much more comfortable afterwards."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate river access from their sites. At Lava Hot Springs East KOA, a visitor notes: "Site T1 is for a family of 2 maybe 3 but it's large enough for 2 medium size tents and 1 large one and our canopy. The site itself is surrounded by water and even has a small water fall that you could sit in as if it were a small hot tub size."
Walkable town access: Proximity to services ranks high for many campers. One review states: "You are about a 5-10 minute walk from the main town including the hot pools. Those pools are super relaxing and I would recommend going first thing in the morning before it gets crowded."
Scenic views at reservoirs: Camping with water views provides additional recreation options. At Devils Creek RV Park, a camper reports: "This campground is convenient to highway and has scenic view of Devils reservoir with mountains in background." Another notes it "sits right upon the Devil Creek Reservoir."
What you should know
Train and highway noise: Several campgrounds experience transportation noise. One KOA visitor warns: "While the staff seemed great and the restrooms and shower facilities were awesome, 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."
Inconsistent site spacing: Site dimensions vary widely within some parks. At Devils Creek, a camper noted: "Lot size seems inconsistent between spaces as some feel very cramped and some of the high number units without utilities had larger spaces between them, almost appearing as an extra space between two units people were using for pet/kid play areas."
Limited shade at some locations: Many campgrounds lack mature trees. One visitor to Cub River Lodge & RV Park recommends: "The drive up to the lodge and rv park is amazing. Great hosts and a wonderful spot." However, at others like Batiste Springs, campers report: "It's a parking lot. It's real hot, no shade."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. The KOA in Lava Hot Springs provides "a large playground for young kids." Another visitor confirms they have "horse shoe pits, volleyball, and playground."
Swimming alternatives: When temperatures rise, water access becomes essential. At Batiste Springs, families can find relief: "We saw a real cute family coming back from tubing! Basically turn right after the bridge, follow the path and you can get in Portneuf River. They said they got out when they saw 'a building' - I'm assuming it's the blue building with a big fenced in area."
Pet considerations: Many campgrounds welcome pets but have specific rules. At Devils Creek, "Dogs are to be kept on leashes, but people should consider short leashes/tie lines as it is easy for pets to cross into adjacent units depending upon where they are staked."
Tips from RVers
Tree clearance concerns: Some sites present obstacles for larger rigs. At Caribou Highlands Golf & RV, an RVer notes: "A few of the sites have large trees so you will want to watch your sides and roof. The pull-throughs are long enough for big rigs."
Weekend vs. weekday availability: Occupancy patterns vary significantly by day of week. A camper at Caribou Highlands reports: "During the week its pretty wide open but they do fill up on the weekends."
Service limitations: Not all parks offer complete amenities. At Batiste Springs, one RVer reports: "Full hook ups and a pretty creek to walk the dog along. Even have washrooms and laundry." However, at other locations like Lava Spa RV Park, visitors note: "There is no shower or toilet facilities."
