Tent campsites near Eden, Idaho offer primitive camping opportunities in the South Hills region. Most sites require campers to be self-sufficient with limited or no facilities available. The area's elevation ranges from 4,500 to 7,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night, even during summer months. Several campgrounds become inaccessible during spring runoff due to muddy road conditions.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Independence Lakes Campground serves as a trailhead for multiple hiking routes. "It's a 2.5 mile hike to the first lake. It inclines all the way up. You are treated with beautiful back country views, met with several switch backs before reaching the first lake," explains Vanessa H., who adds that "there are 3 lakes and past the 3rd lake you are able to hike up to the top towards the cliff rocks."
Night sky viewing: Twin Sisters Group Campsite in City of Rocks National Reserve provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. As James C. notes, "Dark, quiet and starry at night with long views to the south. Lots to explore in locale. California Trail passed nearby." The remote location minimizes light pollution.
Rock climbing: Bread Loaves Group Campsite offers access to numerous climbing routes. "Withing 100' of the site are ~20 routes and one of the mega classics of the City, Bloody Fingers on the east side of the loaves," shares Alan B., who recommends "Carol's Crack" for those seeking challenging climbs.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Third Fork Campground provides sites adjacent to flowing water. "The campsites are all lined up in a row next to the creek and trees," mentions Alan B., adding that "a bonus of staying at this campground is that you have walking access to the Third Fork Trailhead!"
Bird watching: McClendon Spring Campground attracts diverse wildlife. "Situated by a pond with lots of birds made our stay very peaceful. Lights of a nearby town (Malta) could be seen from a distance making this spot even more lovely at night," writes Becbecandbunny O. The small spring creates a microhabitat for various bird species.
Weather relief: Bear Gulch Campground offers cooler temperatures than nearby cities. Amanda M. reports, "We came up here looking to escape the heat of the city and were not disappointed. It was a good 10 degrees cooler and cooled off quickly when the sun went down." The higher elevation helps maintain comfortable overnight temperatures.
What you should know
Road conditions: Most primitive campsites require travel on rough roads. For McClendon Spring, Kurt G. notes it's a "Quiet spot and pretty easy to get to," but Al L. cautions about "About 3 1/2 miles on a semi maintained gravel road." Several reviewers specifically mention high clearance vehicles being necessary.
Limited facilities: Prepare to be self-sufficient at most sites. At McClendon Spring, Maureen F. advises, "This is a typical BLM site. Be prepared with everything you might need. There is a vault toilet and people have thrown trash down it, so don't be those people."
Seasonal accessibility: Timing matters for campsite availability. For Independence Lakes, Alan B. mentions it's "best visited in late summer fall as it is very marshy there earlier in the year." Most high-elevation sites remain inaccessible until late June due to snowmelt.
Tips for camping with families
Choose walk-in sites: Independence Lakes offers family-friendly hiking options. "The hike up to the lakes is dog friendly and baby carrying friendly," mentions Vanessa H., making it suitable for families with younger children. Sites near water provide natural entertainment for kids.
Pack for temperature swings: Days can be hot while nights get cold. At Bear Gulch, Amanda M. reports, "A handful of flies and bees but haven't noticed mosquitoes as of yet." Bring layered clothing and insect repellent for changing conditions.
Plan for limited shade: Many sites lack natural cover. At Third Fork Campground, one camper notes, "This area will be hot in the morning and shady in the afternoon as there are no shade trees to the east of the campsites." Bring canopies or tarps for creating shade during peak sun hours.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility concerns: Many primitive campsites aren't RV-friendly. Cody E. shares about Independence Lakes: "We stopped at this campground hoping it was Trailer Friendly. We were able to get up to the parking lot but I wouldn't recommend it. If my trailer was not lifted we would have had issues." Most remote sites lack turnaround space for larger vehicles.
Consider parking arrangements: At Bread Loaves, Angela S. explains, "We brought a camper and just parked it at the parking lot...I slept in it with my little ones...the rest of the group set up tents and hammocks down at the actual campsite which is a short distance downhill." This hybrid approach works for families with RVs wanting to access tent-only areas.
Road vibration precautions: Secure loose items when traveling to remote sites. Amanda M. advises for Bear Gulch, "After a long drive down a washboard dirt road for about 40 minutes we finally made it to the campground. Secure what you can as your stuff will vibrate everywhere."
