Downata Hot Springs sits at the heart of camping and glamping options near Downey, Idaho. The area features a mix of high desert landscape and tree-covered camping spots at approximately 5,000 feet elevation. Seasonal temperatures vary dramatically, with summer highs reaching the 90s and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing, making the hot springs particularly appealing during colder months.
What to do
Hot springs access beyond Downata: Lava Hot Springs West KOA, located about 30 minutes from Downey, offers easy access to multiple hot springs options. "They are across the street from the rustic hot springs but a short walk or drive to the other side of town are the more modern pools. The town is super cute and very clean," notes one visitor.
Riverside recreation: At Mary's Campground, campers can enjoy the Portneuf River. "There's a paved trail around all of the camp sites for bikes and skateboards and the owners are incredibly friendly," explains one camper. This provides excellent opportunities for children to stay active while parents relax.
Hiking nearby: Malad Summit Guard Station offers trails starting right from the campground. "There's a really cool spring and waterfall just a short hike up the road," shares a reviewer. The trail system connects to larger networks in the area for more extensive hiking options.
What campers like
Free hot springs camping options: Lower Portneuf Campground provides no-cost camping near water features. "This place is gorgeous! We parked our 34 ft motor home right next to a river waterfall and did some fishing. A fire pit was already established. Excellent spot right outside of town with good cell service," explains one visitor who enjoyed this budget-friendly alternative to luxury glamping close to Downey, Idaho.
Quiet off-season camping: Massacre Rocks State Park Campground offers peaceful camping outside peak seasons. "Quiet, restrooms and showers were clean. Good Internet access. Level site. What more could you ask for?" writes one satisfied camper. The park features disc golf, fishing access, and historical attractions.
Forest setting alternatives: Emigration Campground provides a forested option for those seeking shade. "Nice, forested campground. There's a camp host up front that has firewood for sale," reports a visitor. The campground features "lots of sites that really have a lot of privacy and back right up to the forest."
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Some campgrounds in the area experience train disruptions. At Lower Portneuf Campground, "There is a railroad crossing about 100ft from the sites, and we experienced about 8 trains coming through between 1am-6am. Which meant that every time they crossed they had to sound their horn multiple times which was absolutely ear splitting," warns one camper.
Seasonal facility limitations: Emigration Campground has specific seasonal considerations. One camper notes: "One night here when it first opened for the season, so there were still patches of snow and little streams here and there... There are water spigots (once it's turned on for the season)."
Site spacing varies significantly: Unlike the cabins at Downata, some campgrounds have limited privacy. At Mary's Campground, one camper observed, "Mary's loses stars for how close the sites are to each other. There is zero privacy; you're on-top if each other."
Tips for camping with families
Find child-friendly amenities: Lava Hot Springs West KOA offers features that keep children entertained. "This campground is the perfect place to enjoy all the water offerings during the summer at Lava Hot Springs. If you are going to rent tubes to ride the river rent through the front desk at the KOA. It is 15% off the price of renting at the tube pickup location."
Seek less crowded options: For families wanting space, Massacre Rocks State Park provides more room. "Site was plenty roomy and not sitting right next to another camper giving the illusion of seclusion. Didn't stay long enough to do any fishing but saw several spots along lake I'd loved to have tried."
Consider historic attractions: Families can combine camping with education at some sites. "We enjoyed the hike/walk out to the Oregon Trail wagon ruts," reports a visitor to Massacre Rocks State Park Campground, adding an educational dimension to glamping near Downey, Idaho.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. At Emigration Campground, "I wouldn't take big rigs in here because most of the sites aren't long enough," cautions one RVer.
Hook-up availability varies: Some campgrounds offer limited services. "No sewer, electricity and water at most sites," notes a regular visitor to Lava Hot Springs West KOA, highlighting the need to plan accordingly for waste management.
Seek level sites: When glamping in an RV near Downey, Idaho, site selection matters. "Level site," is specifically mentioned as a positive feature at Massacre Rocks State Park Campground, making setup easier and improving comfort during your stay.
