Hansen tent camping areas offer primitive sites across South Hills, Sawtooth National Forest, and City of Rocks National Reserve, with elevations ranging from 4,700 to 7,500 feet. Most sites require dirt road access, with late summer providing optimal conditions after spring mud season. Seasonal temperatures fluctuate from 80°F summer days to below freezing nights in early spring and late fall.
What to do
Hiking at Independence Lakes: Access multiple alpine lakes via a challenging 2.5-mile uphill trail from the Independence Lakes Campground. "It inclines all the way up. You are treated with beautiful back country views, met with several switch backs before reaching the first lake," notes Vanessa H. The trail connects three lakes with fishing opportunities.
Rock climbing routes: The Bread Loaves Group Campsite provides immediate access to approximately 20 climbing routes within 100 feet of site 58. "Withing 100' of the site are ~20 routes and one of the mega classics of the City, Bloody Fingers on the east side of the loaves," reports Alan B. Mountain biking trails also begin directly from the parking area.
Night sky viewing: Rural Hansen camping offers exceptional dark sky viewing away from city lights. "Dark, quiet and starry at night with long views to the south," notes James C. about Twin Sisters Group Campsite. Many tent sites feature open skies for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Private creek-side camping: Third Fork Campground arranges sites along a creek with shaded areas. "The campsites are all lined up in a row next to the creek and trees. There are not many sites so get here early if you plan on coming during the weekend," advises Alan B. The proximity to Third Fork Trailhead provides easy trail access.
Secluded mountain settings: McClendon Spring Campground offers peaceful mountain camping with wildlife viewing. "Offers great views of the mountains and Malta below. The campground is nestled in a nice grove of trees that has a small creek running through it. Really cool trees and Aspen to explore," according to Natalie B.
Temperature relief: Higher elevation sites provide escape from summer valley heat. "We came up here looking to escape the heat of the city and were not disappointed. It was a good 10 degrees cooler and cooled off quickly when the sun went down," reports Amanda M. about Bear Gulch.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many tent sites require travel on rough dirt roads. For Independence Lakes, "this campground needs a high clearance vehicle to reach and is best visited in late summer fall as it is very marshy there earlier in the year," explains Alan B. Similarly, McClendon Spring requires "about 3 1/2 miles on a semi maintained gravel road," according to Al L.
Limited amenities: Most sites feature vault toilets but minimal other facilities. "Vault toilets, no water so be prepared," notes Natalie B. about McClendon Spring. Campers should bring all supplies including drinking water.
Walk-in site requirements: Several tent areas require carrying gear from parking areas. At Bread Loaves, "The site is a little bit of a walk from the parking lot so bring something to haul your stuff in," advises Alan B. Similarly, Twin Sisters features "multiple walk in tent sites, each with a good level pad."
Tips for camping with families
Best timing for young children: Independence Lakes works well for families with proper planning. "Based off my experience, the hike up to the lakes is dog friendly and baby carrying friendly," reports Vanessa H. Late summer visits avoid marshy conditions.
Shade consideration: Bear Gulch offers some shaded sites, important for camping with children. "A handful of sites to choose from including some with some shade, and pit toilets," notes Amanda M. Bread Loaves also "has great shade for City of Rocks," according to Angela S.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campsites offer wildlife observation chances that appeal to children. McClendon Spring provides "great views of the mountains and Malta below," with opportunities to explore aspen groves and small streams according to camper reports.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most Hansen tent camping areas have restricted RV access. Cody E. notes about Independence Lakes: "We stopped at this campground hoping it was Trailer Friendly. We were able to get up to the parking lot but I wouldn't recommend it. If my trailer was not lifted we would have had issues."
Parking alternatives: At Third Fork Campground, "It also seems like you could just park your RV in the giant dirt area to the east of the creek. This area will be hot in the morning and shady in the afternoon as there are no shade trees to the east of the campsites," suggests Alan B.
Road caution: McClendon Spring access requires caution with larger vehicles. "The turn off the highway is VERY tight, watch out of the cattle guard if you have low clearance," warns Lauren C.
