Camping options near Howe, Idaho span from the volcanic landscapes of Craters of the Moon to the riparian environments along the Big Lost River. Summer temperatures typically range from 80-95°F during daytime hours with cooler nights at 45-55°F due to the high desert elevation of approximately 4,800 feet. Winter camping requires preparation for below-freezing temperatures and possible snow accumulation on access roads.
What to do
Explore volcanic landscapes: At Group Campground — Craters of the Moon National Monument, visitors can experience unique volcanic terrain. "This experience is a must! The campsite is in the lava fields. Like amongst piles of volcanic rock and mounds of lava flows. It's unreal! If you like rocks, plan to stay a few days," notes Taylor L.
Fishing access: Several spots along the Big Lost River provide excellent fishing opportunities. As one camper at Big Lost River Dispersed mentioned, "I am just thrilled with the campsites and cleanliness of the pit toilets and nearby stream and fishing."
ATV riding: The Mackay area has extensive trail systems. "Great area for ATV/UTV riding!" notes John H. about the surrounding terrain when staying at Wagon Wheel Motel & RV Park.
Stargazing: The remote location offers exceptional night sky viewing. "Excellent stargazing," reports Jeremy M. about Craters of the Moon, where limited light pollution creates ideal conditions.
What campers like
Free camping options: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Howe offer no-cost stays. At Honeys Park, "It's a free campground ran by a disabled vet. He can't and won't charge anyone, though lately has been allowing donations to pay it forward and help with things like recovering the power installation etc," explains Scar S.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms despite remote locations. At Mountain View RV Park, "The bathrooms are spotless and very large. The showers are about 5 ft by 5 ft! The owners are very friendly and accommodating."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife. "Had 2 deer meander through the campground in the morning!" reports Lori at Mackay Tourist Park, while another camper heard coyotes at night near the Big Lost River Rest Area.
Community atmosphere: Several campgrounds foster social interaction. At Honeys Park, visitors can "Come make a friend, share a beer, hang as long as you want as long as you're not a jerk."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly throughout the region. One camper at BLM Skull Canyon Road Dispersed reported "No cell service" while another noted "AT&T 1-2 5G" at Big Lost River Dispersed.
Road conditions: Some dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles. "Rough narrow rocky track to the site from the highway; recommend high clearance. High humps on this track," cautions Fred S. about access to BLM Skull Canyon Road.
Reservation limitations: Many sites operate on first-come, first-served basis. "Not that many big rig sites, so pity it's only fcfs, especially as it is so remote," notes Kevin H. about Craters of the Moon Group Campground.
Special rules: Some private campgrounds have unique requirements. At Honeys Park, "Scar is the owner of the property and a very kind man. He has 2 rules to stay on his property, you need to speak to him before you enter, and you need to come outside and join all the campers at dusk and stand for the Star Spangled Banner."
Tips for camping with families
Look for amenities: Choose campgrounds with facilities that support children. At Craters of the Moon-Arco KOA, "We drove 10 hours from Denver and didn't know how late we'd be arriving, so we placed a reservation in advance using the KOA app. Check-in was quick. Our boys got to enjoy the pool before it closed for the evening."
Educational opportunities: Use camping as a learning experience about volcanic geology. "The National Monument is so different. The stark, barren countryside is so rugged it's beautiful," notes Kevin H.
Bring water: Many pet friendly campgrounds near Howe Idaho lack potable water sources. "You should turn in town at 'pickles place'" advises Ben H. about finding the KOA, where water is available, unlike many dispersed sites.
Consider seasonal timing: Summer heat can be intense while spring and fall offer milder temperatures. "Sat/sun night at the end of oct was maybe 25%" occupied, reports Jeremy M. about Craters of the Moon visitation.
Tips from RVers
Electric options: Several sites offer hookups for smaller RVs. At Honeys Park, "Dude put in many power stations, wifi etc all on his own and only wants people to act decent to stay. Lots of room."
Dump station locations: Plan waste management before arrival. "You can get water and also dump your trailer at the free city dump station very close to the campground," notes Gail J. about facilities near Honeys Park.
Space considerations: Many campsites accommodate larger rigs. "The sites are very wide and spacious with grass in between. Full service," reports Marty S. about Mountain View RV Park.
Level sites: Some areas require minimal setup. At Bear Creek Dispersed Campground, "The campground is free to stay at and has a dispersed feeling to it. There are no developed rings or tables but you can tell where people usually set up camp."
Guide
