Spring Valley Reservoir offers camping options with both wooded and open areas near Harvard, Idaho. The reservoir campground provides drinking water, trash collection, bathroom facilities, and some RV sites with water and electrical hookups. Campers can access fishing docks, swimming areas, and hiking trails directly from the camping area.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Spring Valley Reservoir attracts anglers throughout summer months. "Good place for fishing and day picnic," notes Saugat B. about Spring Valley Reservoir. The reservoir includes fishing docks and a dedicated fish cleaning station for convenience.
Hiking trail access: Several maintained trails surround camping areas for day hikes through varied terrain. "Great trails and great places to put up your hammock," reports Gabrielle L. about Spring Valley Reservoir. Trail difficulty ranges from easy waterfront paths to more challenging hillside routes.
Water activities: Swimming areas provide summer recreation when temperatures rise. "The water is clean and nice through most of the summer," according to Celine K.'s review of Spring Valley Reservoir. Campers should note that water quality typically remains best through mid-August.
What campers like
Convenient amenities: Many camping areas provide essential facilities to enhance comfort. "This reservoir camping area has many amenities which make it nice. Great docks on the water, swimming, fishing, bathrooms, trash cans, and even a fish cleaning station," writes Hannah C. about Spring Valley Reservoir.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse bird populations throughout camping season. "Decent bird watching here. I always see a Great Blue Heron and often eagles as well," notes Celine K. about Spring Valley Reservoir. Morning hours typically offer best wildlife observation conditions.
Riverside locations: Campsites along the Snake River provide water access and scenic views. "Super helpful staff gave us a sweet campsite. Lots of wildlife around and we were camped close to the trailhead. Great hiking and views of the river and canyon," writes Carl about Hells Gate State Park Campground.
What you should know
Site spacing considerations: Some campgrounds feature closely positioned sites that may limit privacy. "Not particularly fond of this overrun spot. Great for families with littles. Sites are on top of each other apart from a few scattered around the res," cautions Rachel A. about Spring Valley Reservoir.
Weather conditions: Wind exposure affects some camping areas, particularly open sites near water. "Wind kicks up so high it's hard to make a campfire last," reports Rachel A. about Spring Valley Reservoir. Campers should secure tent stakes thoroughly and choose sheltered locations when possible.
Facility maintenance: Bathroom cleanliness varies throughout the season. "It was a nice camp spot. Everything but the outhouses was clean," mentions Ember W. about Spring Valley Reservoir.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Several locations provide straightforward camping experiences for those new to outdoor recreation. "Our first camping trip in the books! Lots to learn," shares Gabrielle L. about Spring Valley Reservoir. The reservoir area offers defined sites with basic amenities that simplify first camping experiences.
Accessible recreation: Some locations feature accessible trails suitable for varied mobility levels. "Very family friendly place and the trail is wheelchair accessible. Great trek along the river," explains Celine K. about Hells Gate State Park Campground.
Space between sites: Campsite proximity affects family camping experiences. "Was a very clean campground! Space between campers were great!" notes Sarae B. about Hells Gate State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV sites with utilities provide needed hookups but may have limited width. "Our spot was plenty long enough, but not as wide as I would have liked. There are two big trees on passenger side that prevent setting up a comfy patio," shares Kyle G. about Hells Gate State Park Campground.
Hookup availability: Some campgrounds offer electrical and water connections for RVs. "I like how the RV sites have water and electricity unlike most campgrounds in the area," reports Hannah C. about Spring Valley Reservoir. These sites typically require earlier reservations during peak season.
Leveling conditions: Most developed sites provide level, paved parking. "All are pretty level and paved," notes Kyle G. about Hells Gate State Park Campground. This minimizes setup time and stabilizer adjustments for RVers.
