Camping options around Caribou-Targhee National Forest include both developed campgrounds and dispersed sites at elevations ranging from 4,700 to 6,000 feet. The area experiences wide temperature variations with summer highs averaging 85°F and overnight lows sometimes dropping below 40°F even in July. Winter camping is limited as most undeveloped sites become inaccessible due to snow accumulation from November through April.
What to do
Hiking lava fields: Explore unique volcanic landscapes at Lava Hiking Trailhead where trails wind through ancient lava flows. Access includes "a gravel road that is a little rough but accessible by low clearance car" with "several pull outs to car camp," according to jsbeezg.
River trail biking: Access paved riverside paths directly from Idaho Falls Luxury RV Park connecting to downtown areas. "There is access to a walkway along the Snake river that heads to downtown," notes Patrick J., making this convenient for cyclists wanting to explore without driving.
Wildlife viewing: Visit the wetland areas near North Bingham County Park during early morning or dusk. "There are great paths to take your dog for a walk" where visitors often spot waterfowl and small mammals, according to Bill B., with the park's location providing habitat for various bird species.
What campers like
Spacious sites: North Bingham County Park offers "pull through sites with ample space between the sites," as Randy P. mentions, providing more room than many alternatives in the area. The park features recently paved surfaces with level spots.
Water access: Many campers appreciate riverfront locations with boating opportunities. "Nice BLM area right next to the Snake River and only 10 minutes from Shelley," reports Abner H. about Snake River Dispersed camping areas, which provide direct water access.
Stargazing conditions: The rural settings around Blackfoot offer excellent night sky viewing. At Bingham County Park, one camper notes, "The stars are absolutely breathtaking!" Minimal light pollution in outlying areas creates prime conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
Train noise impacts: Railroad tracks near several campgrounds create significant noise disturbances. At Idaho Falls Luxury RV Park, Leah mentions "super loud railroad tracks, but they give you ear plugs lol," indicating management acknowledges this ongoing issue.
Seasonal fee variations: Prices fluctuate based on residency status and time of year. At North Bingham County Park, "the nightly rate is $25/night for Bingham County Residents and $45/night for Non-Residents," according to Abner H., representing a substantial difference.
Access challenges: Some dispersed camping areas have changing access conditions. Jessica B. reports that at Snake River Dispersed, "private property signs have been put up all over just past the first opening so you can't get to the open area that is good for larger RVs," showing how access can change unexpectedly.
Tips for camping with families
Disc golf options: Bingham County Park offers free disc golf courses suitable for children and beginners. Bill B. mentions there's "a 'Frisbee golf course' for all ages," making it an affordable activity option for families camping in the area.
Playground availability: Snake River RV Park & Campground includes "a park for the kids and plenty of space for longer rigs," according to LeAnn M., providing recreation space directly within the campground for younger campers.
Creek camping for natural play: Wolverine Canyon offers streamside sites where "we could hear the babbling creek all night. So soothing," as Mary M. describes, creating natural play opportunities for children to explore water features safely.
Tips from RVers
Cell service quality: Service varies significantly by carrier across the region. At North Bingham County Park, Abner H. tested multiple providers and found "T-Mobile is 3 bars of 5G and my speediest showed 310.58 Mbps download speed" while "AT&T Service is 3 bars and bounces between 5G+ and LTE."
Big rig access notes: Snake River RV Park accommodates larger vehicles with "spaces very big and flat," according to Debbie M., though some areas require special consideration. At Snake River Dispersed camping, Jesse W. notes, "I have a 35 foot motorhome and I have plenty of space to turn around and find parking towards the back."
Dump station logistics: Several campgrounds offer dump stations with varying convenience. South Tourist Park Campground has "a dump site, fresh water and toilets," according to Kenyon, while at North Bingham County Park "the dump station is just past the sites" with "a separate potable water fill 50' from the dump station."
