Camping near Downey, Idaho spans across diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 5,000-7,000 feet, with seasonal temperature variations of 30-85°F during typical camping season. The area sits between the Portneuf and Malad River valleys, creating a landscape of small canyons, rolling hills, and riparian zones. Most campgrounds operate May through October with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Hot springs exploration: Lava Hot Springs West KOA provides walking access to multiple thermal pools ranging from 102-112°F. "The Lava pools are amazing and the town is very charming and walkable options. They have canoeing, rubber tubes, evokes, vespas and four wheelers available," notes visitor Louis L. about Lava Hot Springs West KOA.
River recreation: The Portneuf River offers various water activities with multiple access points. At Lower Portneuf Campground, campers can enjoy riverside activities with natural features. As visitor Rod D. mentioned, "I didn't realize what a great spot it was until the next morning when exploring the river area. WOW! Awesome! This is a real hidden gem!"
Fishing opportunities: Devils Creek Reservoir provides accessible fishing from shore or boat. "Located right off I-15, it sits right upon the Devil Creek Reservoir. This is a full service RV campground, has all the hook ups for electric, water and dumping," says Mike C. about his experience at Devils Creek RV Park.
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campgrounds in the area feature small waterfalls and streams. At Goodenough Creek Campground, "There's a really cool spring and waterfall just a short hike up the road," according to David T. The campground sits alongside a creek in a tree-covered area with free camping.
Affordability options: Several free or low-cost camping areas exist within 30 miles of Downey. At Indian Rocks Dispersed Camping, Aaron G. notes, "This is a good stopping point for those who are passing through. There is a Flying J truck stop on the opposite side of I-15. They have fuel, propane, dump station ($10) and water."
Winter cabin rentals: Cold weather camping options exist despite seasonal limitations. At Downata Hot Springs, Anthony B. shares, "Cold winter months and you need to get away? Wow we rented a cabin three times this last winter. Great little cabins with bathrooms the hot pools were 100 feet away and a heated swimming pool."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds are located near active rail lines. At Lower Portneuf Campground, Brett T. warns, "The trains; however, were a drag at night. Not many ran during the day but at night we counted 8 that went by. The tracks are only about 100' from most of the spots."
Road conditions: Access roads to some sites require careful driving. At Malad Summit Campground, dispersed campers should note: "If you go up the hill past the turnoff for the campground there are five different dispersed camping spots that are Free!" according to Valorie H., who adds "There is a lovely little babbling brook that runs through the whole canyon."
Seasonal amenities: Water and facilities availability varies by season. Dallas H. notes about Malad Summit Campground in October: "There are bathrooms as well but bring your own TP as this time of year I don't believe anyone comes to check on them. Also, no more running water either."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: The best places to camp near Downey for families often feature water activities. Downata Hot Springs receives praise specifically for family amenities: "In the summer time the pool is nice and cold and there are water slides. There is RV and tent sites as well as group sites and 3 small cabins, 3 medium cabins and three large houses," explains Anthony B.
Accommodations variety: Downata Hot Springs offers multiple lodging types for families of different sizes. "We love finding campgrounds with unique elements. Hot springs and water slides fit the bill... Great groups there during our stay, easy to get around. Nice amenities," reports Jennifer H.
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Jon M. notes about Lava Hot Springs West KOA: "We were on site #1 which is by the playground and dog park, because we had both on our reservation. At first we were upset at our location, but it was actually great."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Lava Hot Springs East KOA, campsites vary significantly in noise exposure. Kristen B. advises, "While the staff seemed great and the restrooms and shower facilities were awesome, if you camp in the upper section, be prepared to hear trains roll through right beside you all night long."
Space considerations: Devils Creek RV Park has tight spacing between units. "Some of the spaces felt like extremely close quarters especially with slide outs... Some units may not have much room to slide out without contacting the utility boxes," warns P.H., who recommends calling ahead for reservations to secure appropriate sites.
Off-season availability: For RVers traveling outside peak season, Pete C. advises about Downata Hot Springs: "We come here every year to meet family. Friendly staff, clean areas, reasonable rates. Busy time is between Memorial Day and Labor day. We always visit after Labor Day. No sewer, electricity and water at most sites."
