Near Pocatello, Idaho, dispersed camping options sit at elevations ranging from 4,500 feet in the valley to over 8,000 feet in the surrounding mountains. The camping season typically runs from May through October for higher elevation sites, with valley locations accessible year-round. Temperatures can vary dramatically between day and night, especially at Scout Mountain where summer evenings often drop below 50°F.
What to do
Disc golf at state parks: Massacre Rocks State Park Campground features an on-site disc golf course along with hiking trails that lead to historical Oregon Trail wagon ruts. "We enjoyed the hike/walk out to the Oregon Trail wagon ruts. Sites have electric and water and there is a dump station," notes one camper who visited in July 2020.
Fishing in spring-fed waters: At Batiste Springs RV Park, campers can walk down to Batiste Spring for a cold but refreshing dip. One visitor 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!"
Mountain biking on nearby trails: From Mink Creek Group Site Campground, access numerous hiking and mountain biking trails. "Many of the spots are forest service spots, and are free for up to 14 days," explains a reviewer who appreciates the proximity to Pocatello for weekend camping trips.
What campers like
Natural springs: The area features several natural springs popular with campers. One visitor to Scout Mountain notes, "The campground is nestled high in the mountain with a small road to reach the site. Some campsite lots are more suitable for tents and the tree cover provides an abundance of shade."
Dark night skies: Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site offers exceptional stargazing opportunities away from city lights. A reviewer confirms, "Beautiful views. Very dark at night and quiet. Road coming in is not bad at all."
Creekside camping: At Goodenough Creek Campground, sites are positioned along a flowing creek. "Quiet creek side free camping. We arrived here around 8:30pm after the sun set so we couldn't really see much. Had the doors and windows open all night, wonderful breeze, quiet except sounds of nature. Woke up to an amazing sunrise and sound of the creek," writes one camper.
What you should know
Site selection at dispersed areas: At Indian Rocks Dispersed Camping, understanding the layout helps you find the best spot. "This is a safe spot for overnight. Nice views of mountains. There is highway noise. Camper trailers can maneuver without difficulty. TMobile works here," notes one camper.
Seasonal campground operations: Many higher elevation campgrounds have limited seasons. For Scout Mountain Campground, the operating season runs from May 25 to October 30, with 13 reservable sites and approximately 25 first-come, first-served sites.
BLM camping rule changes: Recent changes affect where you can camp at Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site. A camper explains, "Park on the right as camping is prohibited on the left. As others have mentioned, dirt bikes and four wheelers are driving by at night & you can just barely hear the cars from the highway."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: The Pocatello KOA offers family-friendly amenities. One family who stayed for 5 nights reports, "There's a great view, a nice dog run, everything is SUPER clean, the showers are hot, and the laundry facility got our clothes clean. And our kids love the 'vintage' playground, it has equipment that you don't find on modern playgrounds."
Water activities: Families can tube on the Portneuf River near Batiste Springs. A visitor describes the experience: "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Higher elevation campgrounds offer chances to see wildlife. At Scout Mountain, campers report, "We saw cows, moose, birds and deer on the mountain."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: RV sites at Pocatello area campgrounds often require some adjustment. A reviewer at Pocatello KOA mentions, "Campsites are a little close with no privacy and there are no sewer connections at the individual sites. There are two dump sites on the backside of the store. Pretty much gravel throughout with some grass at the smaller sites."
Access road conditions: Access to Massacre Rocks State Park Campground is straightforward with paved roads. "Paved roads in, plenty of trails that lead to even greater views. Clean bathrooms and showers. If you don't have an RV, they have cabins that look very nice also," writes one camper.
Internet availability: For working RVers, connectivity varies by location. At Massacre Rocks, a camper notes, "Good Internet access. Level site. What more could you ask for?"
