City of Rocks National Reserve sits at elevations between 5,500-7,800 feet in southern Idaho's Albion Mountains, creating a distinctive high-desert climate with significant temperature swings between day and night. The area receives minimal rainfall, averaging just 14 inches annually, with summer temperatures often reaching 90°F during the day while dropping to the 40s at night. Campsites are situated among granite formations dating back 2.5 billion years, with some rock spires rising 600 feet above the basin floor.
What to do
Rock climbing access: City of Rocks Campground offers exceptional climbing opportunities with hundreds of established routes. "This is a very popular area, but you can still find solitude if you want it. Plenty of activities as well; climb all day, check out Register Rock, or hike the City of Rocks Loop trail around the site to get a little bit of everything," notes Katherine B.
Historical exploration: The reserve preserves sections of the California Trail with visible pioneer inscriptions. "It was interesting to see the emigrants' names on the rocks and imagining them arrive in this small valley of strange formations," writes Scott H. from City of Rocks Campground.
Hiking options: Multiple trail systems accommodate various skill levels throughout the reserve. "There is a trail that goes along the creek which starts at the bottom most campsite. There's another trail that goes up to Pomerelle Ski resort parking lot," explains Angela S. from Bennett Springs, highlighting connectivity between recreation areas.
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The remote location provides exceptional night sky viewing. "It was such a clear night (and so dark in the campground) that we could see hundreds of stars and fell asleep looking at them. We awoke to a beautiful sunrise over the distant mountains," shares Layla D. from Smoky Mountain Campground.
Site spacing: Campgrounds feature well-separated sites for privacy. "The sites are nicely spread out, with a few pit toilets and refuse cans between them," notes Katherine B. Another camper at City of Rocks Campground adds, "The campground is SO spread out you will never notice if it's full."
Yurt accommodations: Multiple locations offer yurt camping near City of Rocks National Reserve. "I recently had the pleasure of staying at this site, and I must say it was an experience that exceeded all my expectations," writes J.D. M. about the yurt options at Scruffy Buffalo Ranch, which provides glamping alternatives to traditional tent sites.
What you should know
Weather variability: Conditions can change rapidly in this high-elevation environment. "Check the weather, of course, because we were told it was hot, hot, hot just the week before but for some reason it was a reasonable 80 and below for our one night there," advises Scott H.
Water availability: Water sources are limited and sometimes seasonal. "The signage is good, if you need water go to the dump site on the way in, there are no spigots at the campsites. When we visited the water was turned off so I was glad I always carry water with me," cautions Shelly S.
Wind exposure: Prepare for persistent winds throughout the camping area. "City of Rocks is well rocky, so definitely be prepared to use rocks or other heavy things to help stake out your tents/ezups, which trust me, you'll want to—the wind and lack of shade make those extra shelters a must," advises Amy C. from Rock Wren Hideaway.
Tips for camping with families
Off-season considerations: Facilities may be limited during colder months. "The park is beautiful, and the sites are well-maintained. But we were disappointed to find that all the water and restroom facilities were closed during the winter," reports Matthew K. about Smoky Mountain Campground.
Shade importance: Summer temperatures require strategic campsite selection. "Shade is key in the summer months. Use the 'Shade Legend' on the NPS site," recommends Niki S., noting that some sites offer better protection from direct sun than others.
Local recreation: Nearby facilities provide additional family activities. "Durfee Hotsprings in Almo is a must on any visit. The Outpost for a good burger or Rock City for pizzas," suggests Corey K., highlighting amenities within a short drive of the camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research specific sites before booking for larger vehicles. "Dry camp that fits for small trailers and tent camping. Larger trailers have limited spots so check dimensions before reserving," advises Jodie S. about Bennett Springs campground.
Hookup locations: Utility placement varies between campgrounds. "We had a little trouble finding the campground, but that was because of human error when selecting the route via Google Maps. After stopping and scratching our heads a bit, we figured out our error and easily found our way," explains Layla D., noting orientation challenges for first-time visitors.
Cash requirements: Be prepared for payment methods at some locations. "You have to have cash to put in an envelope at Bath rock to pay for camping. I believe you can also reserve in advance if you are at least 4-5 days out," notes Lucy L., providing important payment logistics information.
