Tent camping areas surrounding Downey, Idaho concentrate along canyons and waterways at elevations between 4,500-7,500 feet. The camping season in this region typically runs May through September, with occasional spring snowfall at higher elevations affecting accessibility. Weather patterns feature warm days and cool nights even during summer months, requiring appropriate gear for temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Enjoy hot springs soaking: Maple Grove Hot Springs combines natural hot pools with camping access that extends from check-in until 4pm the following day. According to Jordan H., "They have tent sites, van sites and a selection of shelters to choose from. There's yoga classes included in the price as well. The bathhouse also has a nice little shop with snacks and gifts."
Fish mountain creeks: Cold Springs Campground provides access to creek fishing opportunities in the nearby mountains. Austin H. notes that it's "her favorite place to go I like to Camp, Creek fish, hunt there. The only down side is the narrow roads."
Riverside relaxation: Morgans Bridge Campground offers camping directly adjacent to the river with minimal amenities. A camper describes it as a "Great desert camping spot. Very little shade. 3 RV slips for smaller rigs ~30'. Plenty of picnic tables including an ADA table. Two walk in only camp spots, expect rough ground."
Winter recreation options: Several campgrounds in the region close seasonally but offer snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities during winter months when roads remain accessible. Trails near North Fork Campground convert to winter use with proper snow conditions.
What campers like
Secluded mountain settings: North Fork Overflow provides isolation in natural surroundings according to Bobbie H., who appreciated being "back in the mountains a couple hours from civilization. makes you thankful for the idaho wilderness."
Canyon water features: The creek running through Smithfield Canyon enhances the camping experience. Keaton L. reports: "It's very beautiful with lots of greenery and a river through the whole canyon. The road is dirt and bumpy so be prepared for that but I've never had a problem finding a spot."
Private woodland sites: Secluded Maple Creek River Bottoms offers individual camping spots with personal amenities. Ashley F. describes it as a "private oasis in the woods feels secluded, but you are 6 min away from local amenities. Lots of trees and perfect place to relax around your fire-pit."
Group camping facilities: Dry Canyon Campground accommodates larger camping parties with appropriate infrastructure. Alan B. noted it "had plenty of place for activities and many picnic tables close to a large cement fire place."
What you should know
Water availability: Most campgrounds in the region lack potable water. Alan B. observed at Dry Canyon Campground that "Only downside is there's no water there," requiring campers to bring sufficient supplies for their stay.
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds become challenging after rainfall. At Cold Springs Campground, Austin H. mentioned "the narrow roads" as the main drawback to an otherwise excellent site. Similarly, at Smithfield Dispersed Campsite, Keaton L. warns "The road is dirt and bumpy so be prepared for that."
Site limitations: Campsite sizes vary considerably throughout the region. Sarah C. experienced difficulties at Smithfield Dispersed Camping, noting "No warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground, or the trees are overgrown which scratched up my sides. The only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied."
Seasonal considerations: Many tent camping locations near Downey operate within a limited season. Both North Fork Campground and Cold Springs Campground operate only from May through September, with higher elevations potentially having snow until late spring.
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly areas: Dry Canyon Campground accommodates family gatherings with appropriate infrastructure. One camper notes it as a "Great place for group campers" with "plenty of place for activities and many picnic tables."
Glamping options: For families seeking more comfortable accommodations, Conestoga Ranch offers unique experiences. As GoWhereYouAreDraw N. describes, "Ranch had a variety of accommodations luxury tents, the Joshua tree house, or the covered wagons. The covered wagons are super unique and can sleep up to six."
Small site camping: When using smaller dispersed sites, plan accordingly for space limitations. Brendan J. explains that at Smithfield Dispersed Campsite, "Most of the spots are pretty small and would only work for one or two tents or maybe a couple of hammocks."
Accessibility considerations: Morgans Bridge Campground provides accessibility features uncommon in primitive camping areas, including "an ADA table" and varied site options from walk-in tent spots to small RV slips.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds near Downey have limited capacity for larger vehicles. At Smithfield Dispersed Camping, Sarah C. found "No warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground...The only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied."
Separate camping sections: North Fork Campground - St. Charles Canyon divides camping areas by accommodation type. Alan B. explains: "It has 2 sections one of which is mainly for rvs and the 2nd which is for tents and camper Van's. The RV spots seemed kind of close but the tent sites had ample room."
Winter access limitations: RV camping near Downey becomes extremely limited during winter months, with most accessible sites being day-use only. Trenner Park recently changed to "day camping only. It's an area that is visited a lot by locals but a pleasant spot."
