Campground options near Ammon, Idaho span from full-service RV parks to primitive sites along the Snake River. Located in Bonneville County at approximately 4,700 feet elevation, the region experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters with seasonal closures affecting some locations. Many campgrounds remain accessible year-round, providing options for camping within a 30-mile radius of Ammon regardless of season.
What to do
River activities access: Juniper Group Campsite offers direct access to Ririe Reservoir for water recreation. "Juniper is an excellent campground located on the Ririe reservoir and recreation area. The entire area is dotted with huge junipers that offer good cover and seclusion. The fishing at "Blacktail is good for Rainbows and perch - highly recommended," explains one camper at Juniper Group Campsite.
Hiking opportunities: Kelly Island Campground provides access to nearby trails. "Kelly island is a beautiful campground on the snake river. Great hiking and fishing nearby," notes a visitor. Many campers appreciate the Kelly Island Campground location for its natural setting and trail access points within walking distance of campsites.
Swimming and water play: Jefferson County Lake offers a swimming beach with recreational features. "Kids loved playing in the lake. I like the paved trail that goes around the lake for jogging and cycling," shares a camper. The lake includes a slide in the middle for additional summer fun, making it popular for families seeking water recreation near Ammon.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Idaho Falls Luxury RV Park receives consistent praise for its maintenance standards. "Very nice and clean park. Love that it is gated. Excellent wifi. Rates for the month I stayed there were excellent," mentions one reviewer at Idaho Falls Luxury RV Park. Several campers highlight the bathrooms and showers as particularly well-maintained.
Peaceful settings: Wolf Flats Recreation Area offers quieter camping experiences. "We followed the directions from a fellow dyrter and it was really easy. Pass the Heise Pools and Campgrounds and drive about a 1/2 mile and make a right at the Kelly Campground Sign. Just follow all the way to the end to find free spots along the Snake," shares a camper. Wolf Flats Recreation Area provides numerous sites directly along the river for those seeking a more natural setting.
Value for money: Bonneville County Juniper Campground offers full hookups at reasonable rates. "This is a great location and you can't beat the price at $25 a night for full hookups," notes a visitor. The campground combines affordability with amenities like green grass, trees, and clean facilities, making it popular for budget-conscious travelers seeking comfort.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some locations close during winter months. "Like the title says, we wouldn't camp here again. Right from the moment we drove in with our 30ft travel trailer the staff were very helpful," notes one camper about Mountain River Ranch, which operates from May through October. Other campgrounds like Mountain River Ranch offer limited services or close completely during off-seasons.
Noise factors: Traffic and train sounds affect some campgrounds. "The only issue we had with this park was that their water lines had to be opened by staff so we could fill our tank," reports a camper at Idaho Falls Luxury RV Park. Near South Tourist Park, campers note: "Only real complaint was that it 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."
Site selection: Many campgrounds feature variable site quality. "Sites are paved, bathrooms are a private toilet, shower, sink combo that are super clean. Full hook-ups are $30 per night. Loop A has to be reserved on line but I was able to reserve at the campground after picking my site," explains a visitor to Juniper County Park. Researching specific sites before arrival can significantly improve your camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Jefferson County Lake offers a dedicated swimming area and playground. "Very fun wood park for the kids, and the lake access is included in the camping reservation. Our site had running water and a nearby creek. Great place!" says one camper about Jefferson County Lake.
Consider site spacing: Snake River RV Park offers family-friendly amenities but varied experiences. "At first we were not sure about this campground based on location. We were pleasantly surprised! The staff were very friendly and accommodating. The park for the kids was perfect and the pool was open too!" shares a visitor. However, another notes: "We had planned to stay 2 nights at the Snake River RV Park, but it was very crowded and the sites were too close together."
Check for water activities: Many local campgrounds feature pond or river access. "It's a small campground not a lot of spots, but it nice. Camp by the river, nice views of the hills. Not unusual to have deer or moose come through the campground," shares a Kelly Island visitor, highlighting wildlife viewing opportunities that appeal to families.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks at some locations. "Very nice quiet & clean campground. Well kept grassy area for dogs. The host was quick to respond & helpful with any issue. Some sites are a little uneven. No Wi-Fi. Beautiful views!" warns a camper about Juniper County Park. Another shares about Juniper Park: "Just be prepared to do some adjusting to get level."
Accessibility considerations: Check road conditions before arrival at Snake River RV Park. "This place is about half full-time residents in the back and the rest short term overnighters. Everything is gravel and dirt. This place is very dusty and it's easy to see no gravel has been laid down for years. It rained the first night I was there, and the roads (and my site) were a muddy mess," cautions one RVer, emphasizing the importance of checking recent conditions.
Reservation strategies: Book early for popular sites, especially on weekends. "Juniper is an excellent campground located on the Ririe reservoir and recreation area. The campground consists of 3 loops all have large level sites with platforms for tents and full hookups at only $30.00." The area fills quickly during peak summer months, particularly near water access points.
