Camping options near Homedale, Idaho spread across both sides of the Snake River, which serves as the natural Idaho-Oregon border at an elevation of approximately 2,200 feet. Summer temperatures regularly reach the mid-90s, creating demand for water recreation and shaded campsites. The area's agricultural surroundings and high desert terrain create distinct camping environments ranging from riverside locations with fishing access to high desert dispersed sites.
What to do
Kayaking to Oregon: At Rivers Edge RV Park, water activities are readily accessible. "I enjoyed the fact that you can kayak from the camp area on the Snake River, and within just a couple miles, you officially kayaked to Oregon," notes camper Matt S.
Wine tasting: Several vineyards operate near campgrounds in the region. "We found a local vineyard that is a pleasure to visit. Good food, good wine and a great view of the vineyard while eating," shares Matt S. about their stay at Rivers Edge.
Catfishing in spring: The Snake River offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly in warmer months. At Snake River RV Resort, a camper reports, "When the weather warms up in the spring this is a great place to catch channel catfish in the shallows."
Hot springs access: The Owyhee region across the Oregon border provides thermal soaking options near dispersed camping. "The hot springs are off the road across the street from the sign. It was a little too hot for my liking but my wife enjoyed wading in it," explains Veronica G. about Owyhee Dispersed camping.
What campers like
Late-night swimming: The Snake River and reservoir water temperatures rise considerably during summer months. "The water was so warm I swam at midnight! That's 5 stars," reports Mary D. about her tent camping experience at Rivers Edge RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening provide opportunities to observe local fauna. At Indian Creek Campground on Lake Owyhee, visitors report, "We had mule deer and a covey of quail visit us mornings and evenings."
Solitude in off-season: Campgrounds at Lake Owyhee State Park offer remarkable privacy during shoulder seasons. One camper at the park notes, "We went in the off season, so we were literally alone for a week and a half. No ranger, no campers, just us and the lake and the deer."
Waterfront sunsets: Evening views rank among campers' favorite experiences. "BEST SUNSETS EVER!" exclaims Barb S. about Rivers Edge RV Park's riverside location.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Reaching some campsites requires careful navigation. At McCormack Campground, one camper cautions, "The road in is very narrow, single lane, winding, and along the side of a steep cliff into the lake, maybe 15 minutes to drive. Pretty scary."
No cell service: Several locations offer a true disconnect from technology. At Owyhee Dispersed camping, Lauren J. notes, "There is no cell service so you really get to just enjoy the scenery."
Bathroom quality varies: Facility maintenance differs significantly between properties. A Rivers Edge RV Park visitor mentions, "Bathroom was a bit grungy. But for everything great about this place, I know we will be back!"
Off-road vehicles needed: Accessing prime dispersed camping sites often requires appropriate vehicles. "If you have a 4WD vehicle you should be just fine, but if you have a trailer or camper, that can really limit what spots you can get to," explains a camper about Owyhee Dispersed sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. At Abundant Life RV Park, families can find "Park for kids, dog area, propane refills. Clubhouse with really nice showers."
Indoor recreation options: For extreme heat days or inclement weather, seek campgrounds with indoor facilities. "Fun little area to play pool, air hockey, puzzles, do laundry," notes Greg and Beth C. about Abundant Life RV Park.
Grassy tent sites: For families with small children, look for soft ground surfaces. At Country Corners Campground, campers find "a nice tenting area with plenty of shade and grass. This is separate from the RVs and you might be the only one in the tent area."
Water safety considerations: River and lake sites require supervision. "The swim area is pretty mucky and shallow. Swim dock is barely in the water," cautions Lorrie K. about Rivers Edge facilities.
Tips from RVers
Leveling ease: Site preparation varies across locations. At Country Corners Campground, one reviewer notes, "Our site was flat and level and a snap to set up our fifth wheel."
Green grass maintenance: Unlike many desert RV parks, some Homedale area sites maintain vegetation. A Snake River RV Resort camper appreciates that "The grounds are very well kept and the grass is GREEN! They water just about, if not, every day!"
Utilities quality: Electrical service ranges from basic to comprehensive. At McCormack Campground, RVers can find "both sites with hookups and tent sites as well."
Wide sites available: Space between RVs varies significantly. A visitor to Ambassador RV Resort observed, "Huge sites. Level, clean, well run... Really nice spaces."
