Dispersed camping opportunities near Downey, Idaho occur primarily in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and surrounding public lands. At 4,856 feet elevation, Downey experiences warm summers with daytime temperatures reaching 85°F and cool, dry winters. Camping areas feature sagebrush flats transitioning to pine and aspen forests at higher elevations, with most sites accessible from May through October.
What to do
Fishing in local waters: Pipeline Campground offers river access where "sturgeon and 2' long trout swimming right on the riverbank, you can literally see them feet off the shore" according to Reames C. The campground provides "a boat ramp for early morning fishing" as noted by Brittany D.
Soak in hot springs: Indian Springs Resort and RV features a natural hot spring pool that's "huge" and "vintage" as described by Edward R. Kellie mentions, "We enjoyed the hot spring fed pool... We were the only ones there," making it ideal for a relaxing soak after trail riding.
Hiking nearby trails: At Malad Summit Guard Station, David T. reports "a really cool spring and waterfall just a short hike up the road." Paris Springs Campground offers easy access to trails, with Carrie C. noting "The trail to the spring is about 1/4 mile in and is very beautiful. There were hummingbirds everywhere!"
What campers like
River access: Sage Hen Flats Campground offers sites "right next to the water where you can fish for trout" as Bear D. describes, while Adie F. adds that "my kids loved floating the river" at the same location.
Natural features: Campers at Paris Springs appreciate the surrounding environment. Jordan K. notes "the drive up to our site was amazingly beautiful," and mentions "a short 5 minute hike right by campground #4 that leads to an cool waterfall."
Space for equestrian setups: Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping provides "big pull-in spots for camper rigs" according to Robert S., making it suitable for horse trailers. Auston T. adds it's "perfect for anyone looking for places to hike or ride" with "many different places to visit throughout the area."
What you should know
Site accessibility: Some horse-friendly campgrounds have access limitations. At Malad Summit Guard Station, David T. warns, "Hard to maneuver in the campground as well as getting up the narrow road. Perfect site for tents."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds near Downey operate from May to October. At Franklin Basin, Kennedy F. advises, "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared."
Availability challenges: Finding space for horse trailers can be difficult, especially on weekends. Erika M. observed at Franklin Basin that "most of them seemed to be 'claimed' (tents or trailers with no vehicles) for the upcoming weekend," suggesting weekday arrivals are better for equestrian camping.
Water situations: At many primitive sites, water access varies. At Pipeline Campground, Jane H. notes the "access to the water's edge is nice," but campers should bring drinking water. Paris Springs had issues where "the water running to each campsite wasn't drinkable so it was shut off."
Tips for camping with families
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies by season in horse campgrounds near Downey. At Pipeline Campground, Reames C. advises, "Bugs are very active in June so I suggest fly tape inside campers" and Georgia L. confirms the area is "right by the river," which can increase mosquito activity.
Wildlife awareness: Coyotes are present in the area. Scott B. at Indian Springs Resort reported, "We did see a coyote at the edge of the campground but our Great Pyrenees told him to keep moving," suggesting campers with horses should be vigilant about securing their animals.
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer kid-friendly water recreation. At Hawkins Reservoir Campground, Austin H. reports, "I love all of the fish we caught out of there," while Adie F. notes Sage Hen Flats is "great for fishing and my kids loved floating the river."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many dispersed sites require preparation. At Pipeline Campground, Reames C. advises, "Sites are not level so I suggest bringing a shovel to dig under one side and blocks for the other side."
Access road conditions: Roads to horse-suitable camping areas vary in quality. At Franklin Basin, johny R. notes the "2wd friendly road for MILES" but recommends you "make sure you stick to the gravel road as you go up, dont turn off." For Malad Summit Guard Station, David T. warns it can be "hard to maneuver in the campground as well as getting up the narrow road."
Site selection strategies: For equestrian camping, timing matters. Kennedy F. suggests going deeper into Franklin Basin: "Ended up driving this road up to Idaho to find a bigger spot and some solitude. Took the dirt road for about 30 minutes and got the most perfect spot. Nobody was near us."
