Near Caribou-Targhee National Forest, dispersed camping options range from convenient roadside sites to remote backcountry areas with elevations varying between 5,000-9,000 feet. Summers typically reach 75-85°F during daytime with nighttime lows dropping to 40-50°F. The region has a short camping season with most facilities open May through September, though primitive camping remains accessible in some areas during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Water activities at Wakeside Lake: The lake at Wakeside Lake RV Park provides fishing opportunities and swimming access. "The lake is good for boating, or if you have a paddle board that would be fun," notes Ann, who appreciated the recreational options.
Snake River fishing: Kelly Island Campground offers direct access to prime fishing spots along the river. "Right on the river, good for fishing. Very clean, even the pit toilet bathroom was clean. Nearby to hot springs, off roading/short hikes/mountain or dirt biking trails and areas," reports Natasha S.
Hot springs soaking: Heise Hot Springs provides natural thermal pools just a short walk from their camping area. Brian C. mentioned, "The hot springs are just a short walk from the campground, which is a huge bonus when you've got kids (or tired feet)."
Hiking options: Wolverine Canyon features rugged cliffs and multiple trail options. Julie described it as a "Beautiful setting! Lush, green, rugged rock cliffs along the drive," noting the natural beauty that surrounds the camping areas.
What campers like
Family-friendly amenities: Snake River RV Park & Campground offers features specifically for families. "The park for the kids was perfect and the pool was open too! Beautiful grounds and close to everything in town," shared Katie H., highlighting amenities that keep children entertained.
Quiet riverside camping: South Tourist Park Campground provides waterfront sites with sunset views. A visitor noted, "A few sites are right along the water and we were lucky enough to snag one - beautiful sunset on the water. Basic flush toilets were clean."
Spacious campsite layout: Heise Hot Springs campground features well-spaced sites on grass rather than gravel. "The campsites are wide open and well-spaced, giving you breathing room and views—not neighbors on top of you. Drivers are respectful and go slow for kids," according to Brian C.
Convenient base for regional exploration: Kelly Island Campground sits within easy driving distance of Idaho Falls. Tony C. explained that "It's a small campground not a lot of spots, but it's nice. Camp by the river, nice views of the hills. Not unusual to have deer or moose come through the campground."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Wolverine Canyon experiences rapid temperature changes even in summer months. "We needed a spot to spend the night on our way back to Montana. Our timing worked out for the Idaho Falls area and Wolverine Canyon came up as an option," explained Julie, who found the dispersed camping ideal for overnight stays.
Limited winter operations: Most campgrounds close seasonally, typically between October and April. Wakeside Lake RV Park, which offers glamping tents and yurt accommodations near Caribou-Targhee National Forest, operates "Apr 1 - Oct 31" according to their seasonal information.
Road conditions: Access to South Tourist Park Campground includes some noise factors to consider. Jamie C. noted, "A few nice spots right on the river. They have a potable water and a dump station. You need to park and go to the box near the host station to fill out the card and pay."
Site availability challenges: Kelly Island fills quickly during peak season. Jennifer R. found that "This was an amazing spot. The only thing is if you have dogs watch the outlet from the river that's right behind the camp spots....it's pretty mucky."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with play areas: Snake River RV Park offers dedicated children's facilities. "The staff were very friendly and accommodating. The park for the kids was perfect and the pool was open too!" Katie H. remarked about the family-friendly environment.
Consider noise factors: Some campgrounds experience train or highway noise that could disrupt light sleepers. A South Tourist Park visitor mentioned, "Only real complaint was that it has a lot of traffic noise (constant hum) and a VERY LOUD train that went by a few times during the night, blowing its whistle."
Look for yurt options: Aspen Grove Inn at Heise Bridge provides yurt accommodations near Caribou-Targhee National Forest, offering a comfortable glamping experience without the need for extensive camping equipment.
Check campground layouts: Sites vary significantly in privacy and space. At Heise Hot Springs, Brian C. observed, "The campground felt more like camping, with open pit fires and good space between sites. It's a small but extremely clean campground with everything you need."
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: Wakeside Lake RV Park provides well-maintained sites for larger rigs. Brenda L. shared, "The sites here are very spacious and mostly level. They are gravel. The trees in most sites are very mature and great for shade."
Hookup variations: Snake River RV Park offers full hookup options but can get crowded. Joel R. noted, "We had planned to stay 2 nights at the Snake River RV Park, but it was very crowded and the sites were too close together."
Power considerations: At Honeys Park near Caribou-Targhee National Forest, electrical options exist despite being primarily a dry camping location. "It is an open field with beautiful views of the mountains. You can get water and also dump your trailer at the free city dump station very close to the campground," explained Gail J.
Shoulder season availability: Many RV parks have reduced occupancy during spring and fall. Reames C. commented about Wakeside Lake: "Stayed one night here and checkin was a breeze, all sites are pull through and they have laundry (honor system for payment). Utilities worked great and we were able to request late check out."
