RV camping near Downey, Idaho provides access to various natural settings across southern Idaho, from mountain areas to reservoirs. The small town sits at approximately 4,860 feet in elevation and experiences distinct seasons with warm summers and cold winters. Campers often use Downey as a base for exploring southeast Idaho while enjoying local mountain views and accessible highways.
What to Do
Reservoir recreation: At Devils Creek RV Park, visitors can fish and boat on the reservoir adjacent to the campground. "Located right upon the Devil Creek Reservoir. This is a full service RV campground, has all the hook ups for electric, water and dumping. Very quiet and serene, cattle grazing off on the other side of the reservoir," notes camper Mike C.
River tubing: In Lava Hot Springs, the river offers exciting tubing opportunities. "The river is not a lazy river float but an amazing short rapid filled 15 min rip through the towns river. There is a shuttle to bring you back to the drop in to do it over and over again or a short walk," according to Mark F. who stayed at Lava Hot Springs Spa Motel & RV Park.
Hot springs exploration: Natural thermal waters attract many visitors. "At the back of the RV park is a trail you can walk along the river and will come to a place where you can enter the river right into a hot spring," explains Debra M. after camping at Lava Hot Springs Spa Motel & RV Park.
What Campers Like
Cold spring swimming: Near Batiste Springs RV Park, campers enjoy cooling off in the natural spring. "You are just above Batise Spring. You can walk down the path and go to the bridge. You are standing over Batise Spring! I got in! Bob said it was 52° and I believe it! But it made me so much more comfortable afterwards," writes Valerie M.
Riverside camping spots: Sites along waterways prove popular for their ambiance and accessibility. "On river with a short 2min walk to the entrance for tubing," notes Mark F. about the Lava Hot Springs Spa Motel & RV Park, highlighting the convenience for water activities.
Peaceful rural settings: Some campers appreciate the quieter campgrounds with natural surroundings. "This RV spot is a real gem. Located very conveniently to the river and most of the activities in Lava Hot Springs. It is so fun to watch the Rafters float down the river and to sleep by the sounds of the water," shares Bill B.
What You Should Know
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty in rural locations. "There is no cell service here but they do offer Wi-Fi. Not sure if it was due to the amount of people, but the wifi was useless as we couldn't even make a phone call," reports Brandon about Cub River Lodge & RV Park.
Site spacing varies: Many RV parks have close quarters between sites. "The sites weren't very spacious, so if you're new at parking your rig, or if you have a really large rig, it could be a tight fit," one camper noted about an area RV park.
Highway and train noise: Some campgrounds experience noise from transportation. "This is NOT a quiet campground. There is a mayor highway yards away from the entire camp- there are no areas safe from the truck air brakes or much worst- the train," warns Michelle H. about Lava Hot Springs East KOA.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Some campgrounds offer dedicated spaces for children. "They have bathrooms/showers and a large playground for young kids," notes Shani C. about Lava Hot Springs East KOA.
Dog-friendly guidelines: Pet policies vary between campgrounds. "Dogs are to be kept on leashes, but people should consider short leashes/tie lines as it is easy for pets to cross into adjacent units depending upon where they are staked," advises P H. at Devils Creek RV Park.
Shared amenities coordination: Be prepared to coordinate use of common facilities. "Make sure to plan ahead for power adapters. Only one 30amp service so if your planning to run AC, plan to be the first in or coordinate with your neighbor," suggests P H. when staying at Devils Creek.
Tips from RVers
Careful site selection: Consider the layout and amenities needed. "If you do a Google search that website indicates that there are only honey buckets and no showers. The hot springs had at one time different pools that are all filled in with gravel," warns Wendy W. at Belmont Hot Springs RV Park.
Reservation timing: Peak seasons require advance planning. "Some units here are seasonal campers with monthly rates. This can make finding a space a little more challenging. Call ahead and make sure to get reservations so you can get a spot," recommends P H.
Park entrance navigation: Some RV parks have confusing access points. "If you stay here the entrance is a small gravel road to the right side of the motel that goes off to the left. Please, Please, DON'T take the gravel road that splits off to the right or you will be in trouble," warns Al M. about Lava Spa RV Park.
