Dispersed camping sites near Filer, Idaho provide access to the Snake River canyon landscape at elevations averaging 3,800 feet. The region transitions from high desert plains to dramatic river canyons with basalt rock formations. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F, while winter lows can drop below freezing, making spring and fall optimal for tent camping when overnight temperatures range from 40-60°F.
What to do
Canyon hiking and fishing: Snake River Canyons Park offers hiking along the river with designated camping spots. "Just a few miles outside of Twin Falls and somewhat near the river supposedly, there are several designated back in and a couple of pull-through campsites with picnic tables and fire pits and two Vault toilets as well as well as garbage receptacles," notes Steve M.
Hot springs soaking: Miracle Hot Springs features multiple geothermal pools of varying temperatures. "They have different pools of varying temperatures, alligators, trees and plenty of room for each site. I stop by every time I swing through Idaho," shares Jared W. This campground offers tent sites, RV spots, and geodome rentals for those seeking upgraded accommodations.
Kayaking to hidden spots: Balanced Rock County Park provides access to creek paddling with camping right along the water. "We were able to fish, kayak, hike, have a killer campfire, and check out the stars. Great, free river front camping," reports Jeff K. The park sits within a canyon with impressive basalt cliffs towering above the camping area.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Twin Falls County Fairgrounds provides economical camping with full hookups for $40 or dry camping for $21. "Nice big grass areas with a few trees. Probably really hot in summer but we were there in fall. Careful of the sprinklers they come on early. Nice big clean showers/bathrooms (family style)," advises Julia B.
Unexpected natural settings: Rock Creek RV Park offers a surprising canyon environment within city limits. "This campground drops you down to river level so you hardly know your in the big city. With the river running through and huge grass area it is beautiful. Also compared to other campgrounds it is very cheap," says Mike M. Sites include water and electric hookups with a dump station available one mile away.
Proximity to attractions: Snake River Canyons Park provides free camping with designated sites just minutes from Twin Falls. "Wonderful dispersed camping and close to town. Spacious sites with a picnic table. Area for horses. Pull in and pull through sites. Vault toilet," states Jennifer G. The park serves as a convenient base for exploring Shoshone Falls, which is less than 20 minutes away.
What you should know
Seasonal irrigation impacts: Many campgrounds in the area use irrigation systems during summer months. "Each space has a picnic table and fire ring, and there are drop toilets and trash bins. All the sites look pretty level. Easy to find off the highway. No trees, so little privacy," explains Kendra T. about Snake River Canyons Park.
Limited shade availability: Most camping areas around Filer have minimal tree coverage. "There are 13 individual campsites with tables and fire rings. They filled up most nights but emptied out during the day. I'd definitely stay here again. Plus it's super close to town," reports Kelda C. about Snake River Canyons Park.
Canyon wind considerations: Banbury Hot Springs Campground and other canyon locations can experience significant wind. "Next to river n hot springs. Great for adults, families n groups. The hotsprings are awesome. There was a couple of nights that were really windy n cold. Days were great. Lots of shade to stay cool," notes Francisco B.
Tips for camping with families
Hot springs options: Miracle Hot Springs offers family-friendly pools with varying temperatures. "The campground is in connection to a beautiful hot spring complex. We got the last spot which they called the overflow. It is a nice grassy spot behind the bathrooms. The other spots were great for pull-through RV's or tent spots," shares Hayley K.
Playground availability: Twin Falls County Fairgrounds includes play areas for children during non-event periods. "Not sure I would want to camp here when a major event was in progress, but this is a rare find. This is a proper old-school fair venue with arenas, grandstand, event buildings and associated infrastructure," comments Randy M.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Mendoza Ranchette offers camping with animal encounters. "We enjoyed the quiet location just outside Twin falls and located in the middle of area parks and attractions. Our kids loved the horses and puppies. The hosts were friendly and had great recommendations for the area!" says Matt L.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many campsites in the area require leveling equipment. "Tis place is for TVs only and they are squeezed pretty close together. They come with full hookups as well as bathrooms and a convenience store. It is close to the Snake River Rec Area and the 'Niagara of the West' Shoshone Falls!" explains Alan B. about Oregon Trail Campground.
RV park accessibility: Twin Falls 93 RV Park provides well-designed sites for larger vehicles. "The site was a pull through and was very well designed and maintained. Ample trash containers, grass dog area, large table ad grass, 10pm-7am noise restrictions strictly enforced," reports Daniel M.
Dump station locations: When staying at campgrounds without sewage connections, use the free dump station in Twin Falls. "There is a free public dump station 1 mile away in town since there is not a dump station on site. The park has unisex toilets around the grounds that are vault toilets so nothing fancy," notes Julia M. about Rock Creek RV Park.
