Island Park, Idaho sits at an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet on the edge of the Targhee National Forest. The area receives heavy winter snowfall, with campgrounds typically opening from late May through early October. Glamping options near Island Park provide access to the Henry's Fork of the Snake River, with sites positioned at various distances from this premier fishing stream.
What to do
Hiking trails from camp: Upper Coffee Pot Campground offers direct access to the Coffee Pot Rapids trail, a relatively flat path following Henry's Fork. "There is a trail head by our site that goes for miles (min elevation gain) along the River. Not to be missed," notes one camper who stayed in site 3.
Fishing access: At Buffalo Campground, the Buffalo River provides excellent beginner fishing opportunities. "It was my 8 year old's first time fly fishing and this river is perfect for first-timers. Most areas are about 2-3' deep with some deeper holes. We arrived at the river just in time for a massive Caddis fly hatch and he landed himself a few 10" trout," shares one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Henrys Lake State Park offers opportunities to spot local wildlife from your campsite. "Wildlife can be viewed from inside RV," explains one camper. Another visitor recounts, "We also saw a moose swim across the lake, get up on shore and run through the campground."
What campers like
Riverside relaxation: Flat Rock Campground provides premium riverside sites. "This site was so empty. This site was really great and you had your own privacy. The site came with electric hookups, tables and a fire ring," notes one camper. Another states, "Just spend your time exploring. You'll be happy wherever you go."
Clean facilities: Glamping near Island Park includes access to well-maintained bathrooms at many locations. At Riverside Campground, "All of the sites and pit toilets we spotless," according to one review. The campground features "fire pits, picnic tables and a multi purpose metal platform. Gravel/dirt pads that are level."
Convenience for park access: Yellowstone Park / West Gate KOA provides quick access to the national park. "This KOA is conveniently located 6 miles from Yellowstone gate. Bathrooms & Showers are clean!! The park has an expansive camp store, coffee hut and pancake breakfast every morning as well as a bbq dinner (menu) every evening," explains one visitor.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Multiple campgrounds report significant mosquito activity, especially in early summer. At Buffalo Campground, "The first thing the host said to us was his apologies for the mosquitos." For Fish Creek dispersed camping, one visitor warns, "We intended to stay for 2-3 nights, but were swarmed with mosquitos and left after the first night... You should bring some sort of perimeter bug repellent."
Wind conditions: Henrys Lake State Park Campground experiences significant wind. "Be advised that the winds can be very strong there, so make sure you stake your tents well," cautions one visitor. Another notes, "Beautiful lake setting, surrounded by snow capped mountains even in July... Be prepared for wind in your campsite though, although beautiful, the mountains all around make for a strong wind tunnel."
Cost variations: Campground pricing varies significantly throughout the area. Fish Creek offers free dispersed camping, while established sites average $15-30 per night. One visitor to Yellowstone West Gate KOA noted, "Very nice campground... It was a bit pricey and if your not out by 11 am they charge a $25 late check out fee."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Madison Arm Resort provides water recreation opportunities. "The boys enjoyed the kayak rentals, it would have been nice if someone helped launch them and putting them away," notes one family. Sites positioned on Hebgen Lake offer direct access for swimming and paddling.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. One visitor notes that Yellowstone Park West Gate KOA has a "Nice play area with mini golf" and sites that "back up to highway get a lot of road noise."
Spacious camping: For families needing room to spread out, Flat Rock offers adequate space. "This is a busy campground. It is perfect for floating, fly fishing, and ATV riders. I even got some good mountain biking in... Despite all the activity - the sites feel more secluded than most camp grounds and are nothing less than relaxing!"
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: Upper Coffee Pot provides selective electric access. "Some of the campsites have electricity," notes one RVer who recommends site selection based on power needs. "Full service spots are a nice size with a great view of the lake," notes another camper about Henrys Lake.
Road conditions: Watch for unpaved access roads to certain campgrounds. At Madison Arm Resort, "There is a 5 mile long dirt road for the drive in. Be aware of changing road conditions due to the weather." Another RVer warns, "Don't use GPS to navigate to it will take you on a brutal 6 mile unkept dirt road. There is a easy route in ask for directions."
Site spacing: At some popular locations like Yellowstone Park / West Gate KOA, "Sites are very tight." Another camper adds, "You could easily have paid the same for a decent hotel room. The patio for the deluxe sites was tiny, basically the size of a small sidewalk."
