Best Tent Camping near Grand View, ID

Tent campsites near Grand View, Idaho range from established campgrounds to dispersed options along the Snake River. Swan Falls - Idaho Power offers free primitive tent setups with picnic tables, vault toilets, and trash service accessible via drive-in or walk-in routes. Further out, the Morley Nelson Snake River Dispersed Campsites provide more remote tent camping areas on BLM land with few amenities but scenic river views.

Many primitive tent campgrounds in the area lack developed facilities. The North - C.J. Strike Area allows dispersed camping on BLM land but restricts campfires to agency-provided fire rings, which reviewers note are not available at this location. Silver City Campground offers free tent-only camping from Memorial Day to Labor Day with minimal services. Tent campers should pack in all water and supplies, as drinking water is scarce across most sites. Swan Falls offers vault toilets and trash collection, but most other areas require self-contained waste management.

Tent camping areas in this region provide direct access to the Snake River, making them popular for fishing and paddling activities. The desert landscape offers limited natural shade, and summer temperatures can be extreme. Sites along the river corridor provide water access but may have issues with insects during warmer months. Areas near C.J. Strike Reservoir experience considerable wind, which affects tent stability but helps reduce bug populations. A camper noted, "The north side of CJ Strike isn't a campground. It is mostly BLM and dispersed camping is permitted. Lake access is good but very hot and buggy in the summer." At Swan Falls, another visitor reported, "We rolled into this place late at night and were able to grab an awesome spot right by the river. When we woke up we could believe the views."

Best Tent Sites Near Grand View, Idaho (12)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Grand View, ID

5 Photos of 12 Grand View Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Grand View, ID

293 Reviews of 12 Grand View Campgrounds


  • M
    Jan. 17, 2021

    Little Camas Reservoir

    A forgotten gem

    We camped here in June 2020. There are clean vault toilets but not much else. The reservoir was practically empty. There were not picnic tables and the roads off the main road were not maintained. It was hard to tell if there were campsites there at all, but there were fire rings so we pulled in next to one and set up. One other camper came in later and set up down by the lake, but otherwise it was really quiet. Nice place to get away from everyone during a pandemic.

  • C
    Feb. 4, 2021

    Celebration Park

    Everything a campground should be

    Celebration Park is the perfect campground for basic boondocking (with bathrooms). It is remote and wild with non-stop views from every site and many outdoor activities nearby. At the entrance to the campground, there is a visitors center, many picnic tables, fire rings, an interpretive walk, and access to the riverfront. This is where the bathrooms are containing a single sink, electrical outlet and two toilets. No showers are available. The bathroom was exceptionally clean when I stayed there. The park adjoins BLM land. There are no hookups for power, water or sewer. Potable water is accessed from the bathrooms and spigots near the entrance. The camping area goes on for at least 1/4 mile along the river and more sites are away from the water. 

    Some reviewers mention the bugs. Yes there were swarming gnats when I visited in February, not unbearable, but worth noting if that bothers you. Also note the wind coming down the gorge creates some showy sandstorms. (See video) Hey, it's the outdoors.

    The county park is located on the Snake River Gorge about 25 miles from the nearest town. It is located on the northern fridge of the Morley Birds of Prey Sanctuary. You will awaken to the sound of the ducks and geese and can watch hawks and ravens soar on the winds rushing through the gorge. This is not the best place for watching the raptors, as I learned on staying there. Swan Falls south about 15 miles is for wildlife viewing, nevertheless, there was plenty to see and I spent two nights there. 

    A walk up away from the river takes you to a large lake and you can also cross the historic rail bridge to the other bank of the river and climb to the top of the gorge. Excellent place for stargazing, but avoid the sites closest to the visitor center where the lights interfere with prevent perfect darkness.

  • M
    Jul. 27, 2021

    North - C. J. Strike Area

    Military Strike Camp

    Spring Break gave us a unique 2019 quiet camping at the military cabins. A bit chilly when the wind picks up so dress warm and remember to pack extra layers and hand warmers. Fishing was great as we were the only people at the cabins. MHAFB rental cabins also rents boats. The cabins are a step above tent camping with wooden platform beds and bunks. Plan to be inside only to sleep as there is not much room. Bathroom is behind the cabins. A metal gate separates military from public facilities. Just beyond is a fish cleaning station and docks. Inside the gate is a flimsy floating pier. Plenty of places to park a chair and cast a line. Except to catch something. You may need to get creative to clean it, so think ahead or throw it back. If you are looking for a break from daily life, bonding or reconnecting as a family this is a cheap way to disconnect. Plan to pack in everything including sleeping bags. No heat or ac so plan for layers in spring because it gets chilly at night. Bring fly paper in late spring through fall. Mosquito repellent is also a must.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2019

    Fall Creek

    Hunters/Fisherman/ATVs “Resort”

    The whole area around the Anderson Ranch Reservoir is mostly used by hunters and fisherman. We needed a spot to camp after Craters of the Moon and this was not exactly what we were looking for. All of the accessible spots around the dam were taken so we took a spot at this “Resort.” The Fall Creek campground had some water access spots that were all “reserved” so we opted for the hillside with cramped picnic tables and fire rings. There were a couple trailers that looked like they just set up for a few weeks and come and go. There is also a full bar with pool tables at the campground (?!). There may have been other facilities but we only used the vault toilet near the closest boat ramp. It’s a beautiful area and if you’re lucky to snag a spot along the water, it would be enjoyable. However, keep in mind that there are lots of ATVs and UTVs and the scene is deer hunters, not really our thing.

  • Jeff M.
    May. 9, 2018

    Macks Creek Park

    Great for casusl RV camping

    Small campsite, approx 6-7 hard pads with vault toilet at one end. Site sits directly on a busy, paved roadway that follows Lucky Peak and Arrowrock Reservoir. Also, directly acro townss the street from RV camping is a busy, tent only campsite. The view of the River is nice, but the noise and outside distractions are not my cup of tea. But it's close to town, so there's that....

  • Amy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 31, 2020

    North Park Campground

    Good Water Access

    This campground is an oasis in the middle of the desert.  It gets hot here in the summer. It has RV and camper parking along the Reservoir and a few tent sites.  There is a big park/picnic area with several picnic tables and a designated swimming area.  There is a boat launch right next to it so boating access from the campground is excellent!  Great for families with RV's and campers, less great for tent camping.

  • Ed E.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 23, 2018

    Swan Falls - Idaho Power

    Small and Peaceful Sites along the Snake River, Idaho

    Just south of Kuna, Swan Falls is a nice quiet place for tent or RV camping. RV should be smaller than 27'. We have a 27' Travel Trailer pulled with an extended long bed Chevy Silverado. We were able to get into the last or furthest campsite up stream. north of the dam. We were able to launch our kayaks for fishing and paddling for a couple of days. It is dry camping with no hookups. No reservations, so it's on a first come first serve basis. Our site had a fire pit but no picnic table. Fishing was awesome. I caught quite a few smallies, but they were on the smaller side. Still fun to catch. There were a few smaller sites for tent camping along the river. There are a few more sites below the dam as well. All dry camping. The drive down from the top is pretty steep. Ensure your vehicle is powerful enough to pull your rig back up the grade ;-)

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2022

    Celebration Park

    Great option for low fee

    Sites are next to the river and have amazing views of the surrounding terrain.

    Trash cans are located at each designated site as well as a level area to set up.

    There is cell reception in case you are interested but the wifi was poor.

    The fire pits are locked during fire season.

    Unfortunately, my site was a victim of irresponsible campers who left trash and urinated near the tent site. Obviously not the campground’s fault but something to be aware of.

    $5 fee with dropbox. 3 night max (within 30 day period.)

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2024

    Carmela RV Park at Y Knot Winery

    Really Liked Y Knot

    We followed our GPS plus there is great signage leading you to the Y Knot Winery, which is the same route to go to Three Island Crossing State Park. The state park is adjacent to the winery campground(CG). You first come to the older CG across from the winery building, which is better suited for smaller rigs. We were in the newer CG a little further up the road in pull-through site 26 with FHUs. As we had a reservation with an assigned site number, we went straight to our site, set up, and then walked back over to the winery to register. The sites have an interesting layout as they are long, yet the front and back of site not really defined. You have to adjust your rig on the gravel pad to fit your rig to the utilities towards the back of the site. You then ensure that either side of your rig isn’t too far on the gravel road. The CG is bare bones with no picnic tables, fire pits, nor WiFi(saw a review for$6 Wifi but didn’t see any networks in the new area). It was no issue for us as we were enjoying the winery and golf course. Since the CG is new, the trees have not matured and you have no problem with satellite. We got one bar on Verizon. Their water pressure is high so you will need a reducer. We got an end cap site and enjoyed the large yard. The CG info states there’s a pet area, but there’s no sign or fenced in area. The pet area is a grassy area along the golf course side of the CG according to the map. There was no road noise, but there was a distant train or two during the night. There’s a lot to like about this CG: nice sites, wine tasting, decent food, and a fun golf course.


Guide to Grand View

Tent campsites near Grand View, Idaho offer primitive camping opportunities in a high desert environment where summer temperatures often exceed 100°F. The Snake River carves through this arid landscape, creating a stark contrast between the dry uplands and the riparian zones along the water's edge. Most sites lack natural shade and require campers to bring their own water supply.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Access to smallmouth bass fishing makes Swan Falls - Idaho Power a popular destination for anglers. "Fishing was awesome. I caught quite a few smallies, but they were on the smaller side. Still fun to catch," notes Ed E., who managed to launch kayaks for fishing during their stay.

Bird watching: The canyon areas provide excellent habitat for birds of prey. As one visitor to Swan Falls mentioned, "The best part of this place is watching the birds of prey and the scenic canyon views." The Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area surrounds much of the camping in this region.

Historic exploration: Take a drive to Silver City Campground to experience an old mining town. A camper named Tanny M. shared, "We hiked all over and climbed on the rocks. Had a good time getting coffee in town in the morning." The ghost town features buildings dating back to the 1890s.

Water activities: The Snake River and C.J. Strike Reservoir provide opportunities for paddling and boating. At Swan Falls, Dale B. reported, "We pulled in, setup camp could fish, hike, and enjoy other activities within minutes."

What campers like

Riverside spots: Many campers value the waterfront locations at Morley Nelson Snake River Dispersed Campsites. Katrina H. noted, "We parked right beside the river, and it was absolutely gorgeous." These primitive sites offer direct water access but require high-clearance vehicles.

Free camping options: Campers appreciate cost-free stays at various locations. "Free campsites right on the edge of town next to creek," Jessica L. commented about Silver City Campground. Most dispersed camping areas in the region don't charge fees.

Quick access from urban areas: The proximity to Boise makes these sites convenient for weekend getaways. Mary D. stated about Swan Falls, "If you're needing a quick getaway for the weekend but cant go too far from Boise/Meridian, Swan Falls is the place for you!"

Solitude in less developed areas: Some campers seek the more primitive sites for privacy. At Succor Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping, a reviewer called Fishin' R. commented, "This is very private. You will most likely have the place to yourself."

What you should know

Road conditions: Access to many campsites requires driving on rough dirt roads. For Succor Creek Reservoir, Fishin' R. advises, "If you are a concrete camper, you'd best avoid this spot. Also, if you're just curious and have a high clearance vehicle and the ground is dry, you'll do just fine."

Extreme temperatures: Summer heat can be intense with little natural shade. At Willow Creek Campground, conditions can be challenging as Sarah F. reported: "Holy cow were they bad, and no amount of anything repelled them. From 8am to about 10 pm, they swarmed us all!"

Limited amenities: Most tent camping areas have minimal facilities. Christopher P. described the Swan Falls area: "All in not a terrible camping spot. You're right on the river and the bugs are too."

Wildlife concerns: Desert wildlife includes rattlesnakes in warmer months. "When it's hot, Rattle Snakes could be around. Most won't come out until the bugs do so be aware!" warns Fishin' R. about the Succor Creek area.

Tips for camping with families

Look for kid-friendly fishing spots: Some areas cater well to family fishing trips. Nick P. said about Swan Falls, "This is a really nice area for families to fish and hike. The area is kept clean and everyone is super nice."

Consider alternative accommodations: For families wanting more comfort, Idaho City Yurts offers an option north of Grand View. "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," shared Amy S.

Pack extra insect protection: Mosquitoes and other insects can be troublesome, especially for children. One camper at Willow Creek noted their group "came home looking like we had chicken pox" from insect bites despite repellent use.

Bring plenty of water: With no reliable drinking water sources at most tent campsites near Grand View, families need to pack adequate water. Most sites require completely self-sufficient camping.

Tips from RVers

Size restrictions: Many camping areas have limited space for larger rigs. At Swan Falls, Ed E. advised, "RV should be smaller than 27'. We have a 27' Travel Trailer pulled with an extended long bed Chevy Silverado. We were able to get into the last or furthest campsite up stream."

Consider ground conditions: Desert soils can become problematic after rain. Jonathan A. described North - C.J. Strike Area as having "Serious off-road trails (surprise if you're driving in at night). Desert like."

Wind exposure: Many sites lack wind protection. Jonathan A. mentioned C.J. Strike is "windy. No shade," which affects RV stabilization and awning use.

Check road grades: Some access roads have steep descents. Ed E. cautioned about Swan Falls: "The drive down from the top is pretty steep. Ensure your vehicle is powerful enough to pull your rig back up the grade."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Grand View, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Grand View, ID is North - C. J. Strike Area with a 3.3-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Grand View, ID?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 tent camping locations near Grand View, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.