Three Island Crossing State Park offers traditional camping and luxury glamping options along the Snake River in Glenns Ferry, Idaho. The park sits at 2,533 feet elevation within a high desert landscape where summer temperatures regularly reach the 90s. Winter camping is limited, with most facilities closing seasonally between late fall and early spring.
What to do
Disc golf course: Three Island Crossing State Park features an 18-hole disc golf course that provides recreation beyond the typical camping activities. "Such a great campground. Something for everyone, even folf!" notes Patricia W., who appreciated the variety of activities.
Historic exploration: Visit the cemetery in Glenns Ferry to learn about early settlers. "We walked through the town and explored the cemetery while we were there! It was a perfect stop on our trip!" shares Lindsay K. from Trail Break RV Park & Campground.
Natural hot springs: Miracle Hot Springs offers natural thermal pools with 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," explains Jared W.
Kayaking access: 1000 Springs Resort provides direct river access for water activities. "We were able to paddle over to Ritter Island on our paddle boards. The water was wonderful," explains Natalie J., highlighting the easy water entry points.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Campers value spots directly on the Snake River. "We stayed at site #14 which had a great view of the river and the cliffs. We really enjoyed the sunsets from there," shares Italo L. about their stay at Three Island Crossing State Park.
Budget-friendly options: Balanced Rock County Park offers free camping with basic amenities. "This was the best find of our trip from San Francisco to Yellowstone. Room for about 12-15 camping sites, many having fire pits, a few with tables. All are along a grassy area and river front," reports Jeff K.
Private hot springs: Many visitors appreciate the private hot spring options. "I would recommend renting a private room for $40 to soak in your own tub. It was great during the pandemic to have fresh clean water in your own private room," advises Hayley K. about her experience at Miracle Hot Springs.
Tent camping areas: Trail Break RV Park provides dedicated tent spaces on grass. "Tent sites are on a nice large green patch of grass. Park right next to your tent. The bathrooms are locked for paying campers only and have a sink, shower and toilet. Very clean and nice," explains Tatiana G.
What you should know
Limited cellular service: Cell reception can be unreliable in the canyon areas. "No Verizon reception until you drive up the hill a little bit," warns a visitor to Miracle Hot Springs. Plan accordingly for spotty coverage throughout the region.
Weather extremes: The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "The way the sun travels they would be cold in the morning wearing coats while I was basking. In the evening i was sipping tea by the fire and they were seeking shade," explains Sadie P. about Balanced Rock County Park.
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad disruptions. "We listening all night to the sound of bug zappers, hourly train whistles, and speeding cars," warns Les R. about Trail Break RV Park, noting its proximity to transportation corridors.
Limited sewage facilities: Not all RV parks offer full hookups. "No sewage but had electric and water (that leaked; rented spot 4 that many ppl thought was a drive through lane)," notes one visitor to Miracle Hot Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Rock Creek RV Park offers creek access for cooling off in summer. "Hidden just off the main road, this lovely park and RV campground is completely unexpected. The Rock Creek winds through the park past picnic tables and covered gathering areas. There are two playgrounds, multiple shelters, a handicapped accessible fishing pier, and biking/walking path," shares Wanderfalds L.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for parks with playground equipment. "A large lawn area is well kept. Make sure to take your frisbee and lawn games. Paced roads are good for littles to cruise on their bikes," recommends Lisa O. about Three Island Crossing State Park.
Safety considerations: Some parks offer more security than others. "This is a park that allows camping. It's not a place you feel comfortable driving off and leaving your stuff out," cautions Sadie P. about Balanced Rock County Park.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Plan your tank management strategically. "There is a free public dump station 1 mile away in town since there is not a dump station on site," explains Julia M. about Rock Creek RV Park, noting this important detail for self-contained campers.
Site selection: Request specific sites when possible. "Site #6 worked well as it was a pull thru. No sewer or dump tank but clean grounds and well taken care of facilities," shares Robert B. about their glamping experience at Miracle Hot Springs.
Winter limitations: Winter camping options are restricted. "The hot springs are great. I asked if I could use a camp sight for the nigh, I told them I am self contained with a great heater. I was not allowed to stay there. So I just parked down the road," advises Israel B. about seasonal limitations at Miracle Hot Springs.
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