Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp provides free equestrian camping west of Twin Falls, Idaho. The campground includes numbered sites with fire rings and picnic tables, vault toilets, and designated horse corrals. Located approximately 45 miles northwest of Glenns Ferry, this facility serves as a strategic base for riders exploring southern Idaho's canyon country. The area experiences temperature fluctuations typical of high desert environments, with summer daytime highs often exceeding 90°F and nighttime lows dropping significantly.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Horse trails connect directly from Ricketts RV Camp to the broader canyon system. "This campground has toilets but no water or electricity. The toilets are clean. It's better to arrive early because it's really popular," notes camper Mengxuan W.
Sand dune exploration: Visit Bruneau Dunes State Park for unique terrain contrast. "Sliding down the dunes is pretty cool. The pond/lake was low and mucky when we were there and I don't know if fishing would be an option," shares Shelly S. The park features North America's tallest single-structure sand dune at 470 feet.
Stargazing opportunities: The region offers exceptional dark sky viewing during clear nights. "Dark Skies, Observatory, Tallest Dune in N.A., definitely worth a night or two," reports Nancy C. The observatory at Bruneau Dunes State Park offers scheduled viewing programs from April through October.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The vault toilets at Rickett's are regularly maintained. "Clean vault toilets. No water. Security checks nightly," confirms Anne E. who stayed at the campground.
Budget-friendly options: Free camping near Twin Falls provides economical alternatives to paid campgrounds. "Free campground with multiple spots. There are two pit toilets. No water or dump. Limit to 7 days free camping. Very quiet at night," explains James B. about Twin Falls County Fairgrounds.
Accessibility to services: Many campgrounds offer convenient access to nearby towns. "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," shares Kendra T. about Snake River Canyons Park.
What you should know
Limited shade protection: The high desert environment means minimal tree cover at most sites. "Absolutely no shade. Concrete table and fire pit. Gravel drive," warns Anne E. about summer conditions at Rickett's RV Camp.
Water management: No potable water is available at many dispersed sites. "I don't recall any services being close by - but check the map," notes Laura E. about Jerome County Fairgrounds.
Weather preparedness: Temperature extremes are common in this region. "It gets very cold at night and hot and dry during the day. The hike up to the top of the big one was hard but very rewarding," shares Easton S. about conditions at Bruneau Dunes.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose campsites based on proximity to activities. "Useful site location just outside of Twin Falls but with enough space to feel a bit secluded. There are about 15 basic campsites and a few toilets," suggests Ibeya A.
Morning activity planning: Schedule outdoor activities early to avoid midday heat. "The sand was a little toasty so I kept the dogs mostly in the shade," recommends Shelly S., highlighting the importance of timing activities appropriately.
Safety considerations: Watch for site-specific hazards. "You can hear/see the noise of traffic from HWY 93 but, no biggie," mentions Bethany W. about Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp, indicating the need for parental supervision near roadways.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Assess each site's utility connections before arrival. "We did not stay here, but called and was told that it's $20 a night and showers are not included," reports Rodney A. about fairground camping options.
Site leveling: Many primitive sites require leveling adjustments. "Rickets has several pull-in (not through) RV campsites that are gravel driveways with a table and fire pit," explains Cory S. about Fall Creek campground setup.
Arrival timing: Secure sites early during peak seasons. "Showed up late October around 6. It's quiet, just out of town and there are toilets places I guess (didn't use) and a fire pit by my site," shares Brooke C., highlighting the advantage of early arrival even in off-peak months.