Camping in City of Rocks National Reserve involves varied elevations ranging from 5,500 to 7,800 feet in southern Idaho's high desert environment. Summer temperatures often reach 85°F during daytime but drop below 50°F at night, creating significant temperature swings campers should prepare for. Winter access becomes limited due to snow accumulation on the park's unplowed roads.
What to do
Rock climbing opportunities: City of Rocks National Reserve offers exceptional climbing on granite formations with routes for all skill levels. At Castle Rocks State Park, "This is a great place to go if there's swarms of climbers at the City of Rocks because of the fee which tends to drive away most dirtbag (endearing term for us) climbers," notes one visitor who appreciated the less crowded climbing options.
Hot springs access: Almo offers natural hot springs within a short drive of most camping areas. A visitor at Village of Trees RV Resort mentioned, "The staff is AWESOME. Second, Location. Super easy access off I-84. They have a market, deli, A truck stop on the premises."
Riverside recreation: Several camping areas provide direct access to the Snake River for fishing, swimming and kayaking. At Heyburn Riverside RV Park, "It's right on the river with a great paved walking trail through an arboretum. Our dogs loved it," according to one camper who extended their stay to enjoy the water access.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The area offers exceptional stargazing conditions away from light pollution. A camper at Castle Rocks State Park shared, "We opened the blinds on the front stargazing window of our Lance. The view was breathtaking! It was such a clear night (and so dark in the campground) that we could see hundreds of stars."
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing between sites at certain rv parks near City of Rocks National Reserve. At City of Rocks Camp and Climb, "Great place to stay very spacious sites and the view of Castle Rocks State Park are amazing. Within walking distance to town and to the entrance to The City of Rocks National Park."
Walking access to town: Some campgrounds offer convenient walking distance to Almo's small town amenities. A camper at City of Rocks Camp and Climb noted that "Town includes a Steak house, a grocery store, hot springs, pizza and the City of Rocks headquarters."
What you should know
Shoulder season limitations: Early spring and late fall visitors face reduced services. At Smoky Mountain Campground, "We were disappointed to find that all the water and restroom facilities were closed during the winter. Would absolutely recommend the park, and would gladly stay here during the season."
Road conditions: Access roads can present challenges beyond what's mentioned in reviews. A visitor to Nat-Soo-Pah Hot Springs & RV Park stated, "The campground can get cramped and the pool busy but it's still a great experience close to the city of twin falls."
Highway noise impacts: Some rv parks near City of Rocks National Reserve experience traffic noise due to proximity to major roads. At Country RV Village, "It is right on the highway, from our spot I could've thrown a rock and hit traffic on the I-84," according to a long-term resident.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities popular with families. At Nat-Soo-Pah Hot Springs & RV Park, "Very close campsites, and quite busy on weekends. The pool is wonderful for family's and kids. The staff is excellent. Hardest working lifeguard at the pool I've ever seen."
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide dedicated play areas for children. Anderson Camp offers "Lots to do for young children with a large playground, two shallow (2-3ft?) small outdoor pools, one with a water slide (swim and use at your own risk, not attended), putt putt golf."
Market availability: On-site stores vary significantly between rv parks near City of Rocks National Reserve. One visitor noted at Anderson Camp that if they "stocked their market like a KOA, fixed up their outdoor amenities a little nicer, fixed the outdoor speakers by the pool, cleaned up the putt putt," it would improve the family experience.
Tips from RVers
EV charging options: Electric vehicle owners have specific considerations at campgrounds. At City Of Rocks RV, "The owner, Steve, is super accommodating and cool with charging your EV at the campsite. Electric and water taps are on even numbered sites and shared with the adjacent odd numbered site."
Site spacing details: RV layouts vary between parks with significant differences in privacy. At Heyburn Riverside RV Park, "Both the back-in and pull throughs have cement borders so you have to be fairly precise getting in. A really nice feature for these nicely sized sites are the separate parking space for your vehicle."
Utility placement considerations: Hook-up locations can present challenges at some rv parks. One RVer at Heyburn Riverside explained, "Utilities are placed more to the back of the space and worked fine with great water pressure so use a reducer. However, sewer is placed well back so you may need 15' to 20' of sewer hose."
