Camping spots near Hansen, Idaho range from free dispersed sites on public land to developed county parks with electrical hookups. The elevation of the area averages around 4,000 feet, with summer temperatures reaching 100°F from July through August. Local campers often avoid peak season camping from late June to mid-August due to the combination of heat and agricultural activity that creates dusty conditions.
What to do
Explore Snake River Canyon: Just a short drive from Hansen, the Snake River Canyon offers multiple recreation areas. At Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp, campers can access hiking trails and fishing spots. One visitor noted, "Just a few miles outside of Twin Falls and somewhat near the river supposedly, there are several designated back in and a couple of pull-through campsites with picnic tables and fire pits and two Vault toilets as well as garbage receptacles."
Rock climbing opportunities: The basalt cliffs near Twin Falls provide challenging climbs for various skill levels. As one camper mentioned while staying at Rock Creek RV Park, "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."
Swimming in the falls: During summer months, several pools form near the waterfalls that are perfect for cooling off. A camper at Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed mentioned, "Serene camping away from most road noise and good spacing from other campers. We visited in early August and the river was low enough that we camped out on the beach. A few parts of the road were dicey, especially pulling our 16' trailer. But swimming in the pools near the waterfall made the trek so worth it."
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Many campers appreciate the affordable camping options in the area. One visitor to Murtaugh Lake Park Campground shared, "This was such a perfect campsite. We visited Shoshone Falls and decided to crash at a nearby campsite. Very nice and quiet. Only $5!"
Wildlife viewing: The agricultural landscape around Hansen creates habitat for diverse bird species. A camper at Twin Falls County Murtaugh Lake Park noted, "Sweet little county park in the middle of farmlands. We arrived just after dark on a Monday night without reservations and there were plenty of sites. Camp host collected $5 cash for a tent site. Woke up to lots of birds, including red-winged blackbirds, yellow-headed blackbirds, white pelicans and swans."
Solitude and separation: Many campers mention enjoying the privacy at dispersed sites. At Cauldron Linn, a reviewer stated, "I am so surprised I have service! Car camping with my dog. Right by the water. Several very cool spots to pick from. You need a 4WD. My pup Wolfie loved it too!"
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many sites become difficult to access after rain. A camper at Cauldron Linn warned, "Great campground, not great road. Beautiful and peaceful, right on the river's edge. Lots to explore. No amenities so be prepared for that. Great place if the road in wasn't so sketchy. Barely made it out with 2wd E250 van. 4wd would probably be fine, just be aware it's a bumpy ride either way!"
Limited dump stations: Few campgrounds offer dump stations or sewer hookups. One camper at Milner Historic Recreation Area noted, "Incredible river views. Secluded in Muskrat Bend section. Lots of birds. Pit toilet clean and well stocked, even at the end of the holiday weekend. Easy access from the interstate. Smelled like cow pasture."
Insect activity: Flies can be problematic at some sites, especially in late summer. A camper at Cauldron Linn mentioned, "Beautiful and private but watch out for the flies. This site was a one night stop but I would've stayed a bit longer if I could've it was quiet with some good views of the Snake river and the surrounding canyon walls. The one downside is there is a large amount of flies at this site."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: For families with children, several locations offer safer water access. A visitor to Twin Falls-Jerome KOA shared, "Fun for Kids. Lots to do for young children with a large playground, two shallow (2-3ft?) small outdoor pools, one with a water slide (swim and use at your own risk, not attended), putt putt golf (water slide and putt putt extra charge), and snack bar."
Playground access: Several county parks include play equipment for children. One camper at Rock Creek RV Park mentioned, "There are two playgrounds, multiple shelters, a handicapped accessible fishing pier, and biking/walking path."
Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse bird population makes for excellent wildlife watching with kids. A visitor to Murtaugh Lake Park Campground mentioned, "Bird Oasis. Sweet little county park in the middle of farmlands. We arrived just after dark on a Monday night without reservations and there were plenty of sites. Camp host collected $5 cash for a tent site. Woke up to lots of birds, including red-winged blackbirds, yellow-headed blackbirds, white pelicans and swans."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring blocks. A camper at Murtaugh Lake Park noted, "The campground was quiet and clean, many sites right on the lake. There is not much privacy, but there weren't many people there when we were so it was nice. There are lots of what I believe to be honey locus pods on the ground that were tough to keep our dog from eating."
Bridge clearance issues: Some access roads have low bridges. A visitor to Milner Historic Recreation Area warned, "Paid $15/night for a site right by the Snake River, #13. Pit toilets and trashcans. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings and are spaced out fairly well. Quiet. Houses are visible on the opposite side of the river. Don't go in the east entrance due to 11ft bridge over the road."
Last-minute availability: RVers can often find sites without reservations. At Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp, a visitor observed, "I really enjoyed my stay here. It's safe and clean - plus there are cute cows to look at :-) There are 13 individual campsites with tables and fire rings. They filled up most nights but emptied out during the day."
