Alternative horse camping options exist near City of Rocks National Reserve. The reserve sits at approximately 7,000 feet elevation in southeast Idaho, where summer temperatures can reach 90°F during the day and drop below 50°F at night. Campers experience dramatic temperature fluctuations due to the high desert climate, with sites positioned among unique granite formations dating back millions of years.
What to do
Rock climbing opportunities: City of Rocks Campground offers excellent climbing terrain for all skill levels. "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. The campground features numerous established routes on the granite formations.
Hiking trail exploration: The reserve contains multiple trail options. As one camper at City of Rocks Campground shares, "We stayed with our 2 dogs in April, it was definitely warm in the sun, but very cool at night and in the shade. It is high desert, summer months must be stifling!" For longer adventures, Independence Lakes Campground offers additional hiking options. "It's a 2.5 mile hike to the first lake. It inclines all the way up. You are treated with beautiful back country views, met with several switch backs before reaching the first lake," explains Vanessa H.
Stargazing sessions: The clear night skies provide exceptional stargazing. "This is my favorite place on the planet. The camp facilities are fairly primitive but there are pit/vault toilets available. I can not express how gorgeous the landscape is or how bright the stars are at night," writes Lucy L. about her experience at City of Rocks. The minimal light pollution makes astronomical viewing ideal.
What campers like
Private, well-spaced sites: Smoky Mountain Campground at Castle Rocks State Park offers excellent site spacing. "The RV sites are very private and nicely spread out with pine trees in between. Great views of City of Rocks. Plenty of biking and hiking trails around and TONS of climbing," says kristin S. This privacy contrasts with more crowded destinations.
Historical significance: The historical markers throughout the area fascinate visitors. Scott H. from City of Rocks notes, "It was interesting to see the emigrants' names on the rocks and imagining them arrive in this small valley of strange formations." These inscriptions date back to pioneers traveling the California Trail in the 1800s.
Clean facilities: Despite the remote location, campground cleanliness receives positive mentions. "Very clean PRIVATE showers. Verizon 3G was poor. Elevation 5,567. No TV service through antenna. Very nice hike," reports Annell N. about Castle Rocks State Park. The facilities remain well-maintained despite heavy visitor use.
What you should know
Limited horse camping facilities: While horseback riding is permitted on designated trails, dedicated equestrian camping near City of Rocks is scarce. "To start off this is an Idaho state park and requires a fee to enter (was $10). This is a great place to go if theres swarms of climbers at the City of Rocks because of the fee," explains Alan B. about Castle Rocks State Park. Visitors should contact parks directly for current horse containment rules.
Weather variability: The high elevation means weather changes rapidly. "Weather can be unpredictable so be prepared for rain and possible storm occasional which makes for amazing skys," advises Jodie S. about City of Rocks. Pack clothing layers regardless of season.
Water availability constraints: Water access varies seasonally. "Close to City of Rocks and the small town of Almo. Hot springs in Almo. Small market in town which makes their own ice cream and has a little restaurant across the street but not much in the way of groceries," mentions Kristi R. about Castle Rocks State Park, adding, "water not yet turned on in the campground so bring your own water if you are coming through early in the season."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Bennett Springs offers creek access perfect for children. "It only has 4 sites but it is free and it has a bathroom. Our favorite site has a little creek right next to it. Great for kids to play in. There's also a trail that goes along the creek which starts at the bottom most campsite," reports Angela S. This provides natural entertainment without requiring extensive hikes.
Food options nearby: Local food establishments offer family dining options. "Durfee Hotsprings in Almo is a must on any visit. The Outpost for a good burger or Rock City for pizzas," recommends Corey K. regarding City of Rocks. These restaurants provide alternatives to camp cooking.
Consider campground seasonality: Some campgrounds have limited seasonal operations. "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," notes Matthew K. about Castle Rocks State Park. Check opening dates when planning spring or fall family trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Murtaugh Lake Park Campground offers lakeside RV options. "Huge grass areas prevent any crowding and all but a couple RV spots are facing the lake. Fun to watch jet skiers, etc. go by. Slight cow smell a couple times but barely noticeable. Vault toilets are spotless," reports Kelly H. The campground provides water and electrical hookups for $15 per night.
Campsite size restrictions: RV campers should verify site dimensions before arrival. "We have bigger RV so some of the spots would not work. Make sure you use the filter to eliminate those with a smaller driveway," advises Russell B. about Smoky Mountain Campground at Castle Rocks State Park. Many sites accommodate smaller rigs but have limitations for larger vehicles.
Supply planning: Limited services require advance preparation. "This campground is 40 miles or so from the interstate so make sure you are well provisioned before you arrive," notes Russell B. about Castle Rocks State Park. RVers should arrive with full water tanks, groceries, and fuel.
