Tent camping options near Filer, Idaho center around the Sawtooth National Forest's South Hills area, approximately 25 miles south of town. This region sits at elevations between 5,000-8,000 feet, creating notably cooler temperatures than the Snake River Plain. Most camping areas are primitive with limited facilities and require self-sufficiency for basic needs.
What to do
Hiking access: Third Fork Campground provides direct access to multiple trail networks. One camper notes, "A bonus of staying at this campground is that you have walking access to the Third Fork Trailhead!" The trail system connects to longer routes throughout the South Hills.
Temperature escape: Bear Gulch offers relief from summer heat with significantly cooler temperatures than Filer. A visitor explains, "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."
Shade relaxation: Sites at Third Fork are positioned strategically for afternoon comfort. According to reviews, the campground layout means "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."
What campers like
Primitive experience: Third Fork Campground appeals to those seeking basic camping. A camper describes it as "a no frills campground located in the South Hills of Idaho about 20 miles south of Twin Falls."
Creek proximity: The natural water features enhance the camping experience at several sites. Campers appreciate that "The campsites are all lined up in a row next to the creek and trees," providing both water access and natural shade.
Natural separation: Bear Gulch offers more isolation between camping areas. Visitors have noticed "someone has been building forts up here in a couple of the spots," indicating the spacious nature of the sites and creative use of the surrounding forest materials.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Myrtle Point and other remote sites requires preparation. One Bear Gulch visitor warns, "Secure what you can as your stuff will vibrate everywhere," referring to the rough road conditions approaching the campground.
Limited facilities: Most South Hills campgrounds offer minimal amenities. At Third Fork, "There is only 1 vault toilet though near the info sign," requiring campers to plan accordingly for bathroom needs.
Seasonal availability: While Third Fork operates year-round, most other options have limited seasons. Father And Sons and Bostetter campgrounds near Cassia are accessible only from June through September due to mountain weather and road conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Arrival timing: Weekend tent camping in Filer area requires planning. For Third Fork, campers advise, "There are not many sites so get here early if you plan on coming during the weekend," particularly important with children who need time to settle before dark.
Water safety: Creekside camping requires vigilance with children. Father And Sons Campground and similar creek-adjacent sites have fast-moving water during spring runoff months that necessitates careful supervision of younger campers.
Communication limitations: Bear Gulch campers report "No cell service at all," making it essential to establish emergency plans and meeting points when camping with children who might wander.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: While primarily tent-focused, some areas can accommodate smaller RVs. One Bear Gulch visitor reported "No problem fitting our 33" motorhome and extra vehicle," though access requires navigating difficult roads.
Parking alternatives: Bostetter Campground and Third Fork offer flexible options for larger vehicles. According to reviews, at Third Fork "it also seems like you could just park your RV in the giant dirt area to the east of the creek," providing an alternative when designated sites are full.
