Camping sites near Garden City, Idaho range from well-maintained RV resorts to primitive lakeside spots within a short drive from urban amenities. Located in the Treasure Valley at around 2,700 feet elevation, the area experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters, making most camping locations accessible year-round. Water levels at Arrowrock Reservoir fluctuate seasonally, with drought conditions occasionally affecting boat launches and water access points.
What to do
Mountain biking on greenbelt trails: Access miles of paved paths directly from several campgrounds, including Boise Riverside RV Park where one camper noted, "We rode bikes along the path, enjoyed the river, toured Boise state and downtown, and even ate dinner without ever getting in our car."
Kayaking at Arrowrock Reservoir: Launch from the beach areas for paddling. "The water is clean and there is tons of beach area! Bring the kayaks and get paddling!" reports one visitor to Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed.
Hiking Mt. Heinen: For experienced hikers staying at Arrowrock, tackle this challenging trail. "Mt. Heinen which is a very strenous hike. Its over 9 miles (up and back) and over a 3,000 ft gain so be prepared if you try to tackle this summit," explains a camper familiar with the area.
Winter yurt camping: For cold-weather adventures, consider the Idaho City Yurts. "I have only been to there in the winter but I imagine that hiking in is just a beautiful! You need to bring everything but a bed and stove, which are in the yurt," shares one winter camper.
What campers like
Urban accessibility with nature views: The Boise Riverside RV Park balances city proximity with river access. "This spot is on the Boise River, a short trek from wineries, shopping and the river. Something for everyone! Nice people, great location," notes one reviewer.
Well-maintained facilities: Hi-Valley RV Park receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "The only thing I can say is it would be nice if there was more room between RVs. Other than that, excellent facilities, crew, pool, spa, off leash dog park, laundry, showers, garbage pick up(wow right!), Good power, good water pressure, stores nearby, just a great stop!" remarks one visitor.
Swimming opportunities: During hot summer days, several campgrounds offer water access. At Macks Creek Park, campers appreciate the reservoir proximity: "Affordable, accessible, host on-site, potable water, lake access."
Stargazing: The less developed areas provide better night sky viewing. "We enjoyed the clear skies at night for some great star gazing," notes a camper who stayed at Macks Creek Park.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to dispersed camping requires careful driving. At Arrowrock, "Be careful as the drive is a little sketchy," warns one camper. Another adds: "The drive there is long and slow-going along a washboard dirt road."
Space limitations: Many established RV parks have tight spacing. Mountain View RV Park campers note: "The sites themselves are pretty large and spacious. The only downfall to the place is the noise. The freeway and airport are so close that is all your hear."
Seasonal water levels: Drought affects Arrowrock Reservoir. "Last August I stayed at Mack's Creek. I was saddened by the drought and low water level. The docks were laying on dry land and the waterway was 100 feet out and below a drop off cliff."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance planning. "It took me 3 weeks, multiple phone calls, physical visits to book this campground. That is how disorganized management was, even their pricing was unclear."
Tips for camping with families
Water park proximity: The KOA Boise Meridian RV Resort offers family-friendly amenities nearby. "We love staying here and going to the meridian speedway!! The campsites are always clean and hosts are great."
Swimming pools: Several RV parks offer pools for family entertainment. "The pool, hot tub, and steam room are centrally located and are clean and inviting."
Off-leash dog areas: For families with pets, seek campgrounds with dedicated spaces. "The resort also has the nicest gated dog run area we have ever seen."
Cell service considerations: For families needing connectivity, check signal strength. At Macks Creek: "No Verizon signal," reports one camper, while Mountain View RV Park notes: "Good Verizon signal."
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookups: Check power connections carefully. At Boise Riverside RV Park, one RVer encountered issues: "When we hooked up I found the 30 amp outlet melted & broken and the 110 outlet blackened from spark damage."
Space between sites: KOA Boise Meridian RV Resort can feel cramped: "This is an urban rv part. The sites are packed in very tightly so they can squeeze in as many people as possible."
Accessibility for large rigs: Boise area has options for all RV sizes. "Huge pull-thru sites on level river rock pads. Directly beside the rock pad is a wide concrete patio area followed by another wide grassy area. Tons of room to set-up and relax outside."
Winter preparations: For year-round camping, prepare for freezing temperatures. Military Park Idaho NG Gowen Field campers advise: "If staying over winter, be prepared to setup freeze protection on your water."
