Tent campsites near Idaho Falls occupy a transitional zone between the Snake River Plain and the Rocky Mountains, with elevations ranging from 4,700 feet in the city to over 7,000 feet at higher mountain sites. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F during July and August, with cooler nights at higher elevations. Winter camping remains possible at lower elevations near the Snake River, though facilities may be limited during colder months.
What to do
Fishing access points: South Tourist Park Campground offers direct access to the Snake River with a boat launch on-site. According to one camper, "There is a bike path right from the campground that follows the river and leads to downtown Riverwalk area."
River floating: Warm Slough provides excellent water recreation opportunities. "Great place to fish, kayak, or float the river. Some campsites will have a picnic table," notes one visitor. The area connects to Henry's Fork of the Snake River.
Mountain biking: Pine Creek Pass Dispersed Camping serves as a trailhead for several mountain biking routes. "Follow Route 31 to Pine Creek Pass. There is a large turn off. Two ways to the top up Forest Road 40253," explains one visitor, noting the area offers "beautiful vistas" with views of the Tetons.
What campers like
Riverside sites: At Eagle Park Campground, campsites are situated near a stream suitable for fly fishing. One visitor notes the campground is "relatively unbusy with Campers but you may have locals walking a small trail pass by on main road or see others fly fishing in small stream that runs through park."
Mountain views: Pine Creek Pass offers spectacular panoramas. "Views of the three Tetons, Palisades, and Baldy plus sunsets and sunrises," reports one camper who frequently returns to this location.
Budget options: Warm Slough provides free camping with basic amenities. A visitor commented, "As many free sites are it hasn't been maintained or respected by those who use it... But there's some picnic tables and fire pits and plenty of space."
Convenience: South Tourist Park provides quick access to Idaho Falls services. One camper described it as "a great little stop over Campground" with "picnic tables, bbq, and fire pits at each site."
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Warm Slough enforces strict camping limitations. "Camping only allowed Oct 1 to Jan 31. 10 days max," explains one reviewer. This restriction coincides with fishing seasons on Henry's Fork.
Bathroom conditions: At dispersed sites, toilet facilities may be minimal. One camper at Eagle Park noted, "Overall Pit toilets none seem to lock and mine had TP so bring your own."
Road access challenges: Many dispersed sites require careful driving. At Pine Creek Pass, one visitor advises, "To get into the dispersed camping you'll see the driveway in the corner. Take that. It will take you to a long, narrow bumpy road. Beep the horn around corners as some of the road is on a cliff."
Noise considerations: Urban campgrounds experience more disturbances. South Tourist Park has "a lot of traffic noise (constant hum) and a VERY LOUD train that went by a few times during the night, blowing its whistle."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Warm Slough offers chances to spot larger mammals. One camper shared, "Right on the banks of the slough and there's even a resident moose!" Another noted seeing both moose and deer in the area.
Short-term stays: Thaidaho Victor provides cabin accommodations for families seeking more comfort. "Thaidaho Victor is a great spot for those looking to enjoy the Tetons and the surrounding area around Jackson Hole, with a small cabin and amenities," notes a visitor.
Water safety: When camping with children at river sites, be aware of current strength and fluctuations. Pack life jackets for youngsters, especially at Warm Slough where one visitor noted the site is "right on the water" with "great water access."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Eagle Park Campground has limitations for larger vehicles. A visitor warned, "No big RV's allowed. You don't want to take an RV down that road. Not very good turnaround spots."
Dump station availability: South Tourist Park offers waste disposal facilities. "I love that there is a RV dump in the campground," mentions one reviewer. The campground also provides fresh water refill stations.
Site selection: When choosing tent camping sites near Idaho Falls with an RV, look for level areas. At South Tourist Park, one visitor described the setup as "Some back in sites but mostly just pull next to the side sites with picknick table and fire pit. 16 campsites."
