Snake River Valley elevates the camping experience near Hansen, Idaho with its varied terrain at 3,500 feet elevation. The region transitions from high desert to riverside camping spots with temperatures ranging from hot summer days reaching 90°F to cool nights in the 50s. RV and tent camping options near Hansen provide access to natural hot springs, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities on the Snake River.
What to do
River access: Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp offers direct access to outdoor activities. "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 well as garbage receptacles," notes Steve M.
Horseback riding: Equestrian facilities are available at select campgrounds. At Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp, Jennifer G. reports "Area for horses. Pull in and pull through sites. Vault toilet."
Hot springs soaking: Nat-Soo-Pah Hot Springs & RV Park features mineral hot springs for soaking. Beth M. describes it as having "the fantastic swimming pool and hot tubs. While it is a mecca for rowdy children, the pool is large and the temperature and delicious texture of the water make it an absolute delight."
Mountain biking: Paved paths near Heyburn Riverside RV Park provide cycling opportunities. "It's right on the river with a great paved walking trail through an arboretum. Our dogs loved it," says Stacey C.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Many campers appreciate the tranquil settings. At Mendoza Ranchette, Lloyd D. reports, "This is a lovely campsite! And love the quiet! We found the location super easy to get to, and most accommodating to our needs. If you want a change up from the large RV parks, this is your opportunity!"
Wildlife viewing: Equine encounters create memorable camping experiences. Matt L. notes, "We enjoyed the quiet location just outside Twin falls and located in the middle of area parks and attractions. Our kids loved the horses and puppies. The hosts were friendly and had great recommendations for the area!"
Budget-friendly options: Free camping exists near Hansen. Kelda C. describes Rickett's RV Camp: "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."
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer generous spacing between sites. At Heyburn Riverside RV Park, Paul B. appreciates that "The campsites are nicely spaced apart. My only minus would be no online reservation system. Sites are reserved through telephone through camp Host."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Beth S. notes about Rock Creek RV Park: "We stopped here this past spring and we're coming thru again this fall. $20 full hookup!! There are about 24 spots, no tents. Very quiet. They close starting Oct. 31st."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. Marie B. from Village of Trees RV Resort explains, "A nice place to stay for the night. The owner was very helpful and easygoing. We enjoyed our dinner under the pines and watched the sunset."
Cell service: Mobile connectivity varies by location. Wanderfalds L. reports about Rock Creek RV Park: "We had exceptional service for both Verizon and AT&T. Be sure to check out the waterfalls just outside of town when you visit! Both Shoshone Falls and Perrine Coulee falls are less than 15 minutes from the park!"
Limited facilities: Many sites offer basic amenities only. Kendra T. notes about Snake River Canyons Park: "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. No trees, so little privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming opportunities: Water features provide family entertainment. Steve H. says about Nat-Soo-Pah Hot Springs & RV Park: "The campground can get cramped and the pool busy but it's still a great experience close to the city of twin falls."
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Amy K. mentions about Anderson Camp: "The place was clean, well kept up and had tons of amenities including flushing toilets, showers, laundry, 2 playgrounds and a pool. Staff were very friendly."
Safety considerations: Family-friendly environments prioritize security. Gary P. explains about Snake River Canyons Park: "This fee-free primitive BLM camp offers 2 vault toilets (in case you did not bring own) and 13 level RV parking pads, each with a picnic table and fire ring, but no electric or water hook-ups."
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal when RV camping near Hansen. Julia M. advises about Rock Creek RV Park: "There is a free public dump station 1 mile away in town since there is not a dump station on site."
Site layouts: Some RV parks have unique configurations. MickandKarla W. explain about Heyburn Riverside RV Park: "Both the back-in and pull throughs have cement borders so you have to be fairly precise getting in. A really nice feature for these nicely sized sites are the separate parking space for your vehicle."
Hookup arrangements: RVers should note utilities placement. "Utilities are placed more to the back of the space and worked fine with great water pressure so use a reducer. However, sewer is placed well back so you may need 15' to 20' of sewer hose and a weight as there is no screw in for your sewer connector," adds MickandKarla W.
Food options: Some RV parks offer convenient dining. Christopher N. from Village of Trees RV Resort notes: "They have a grill which will deliver breakfast, lunch or dinner to your site."
