Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp sits just northwest of Twin Falls at an elevation of approximately 3,800 feet, where the high desert landscape meets the Snake River Canyon. This free BLM campground operates year-round with limited weather closures during winter months. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F between June and August, making early morning trail access essential for equestrian users.
What to do
Trail riding access points: Dedicated parking at the equestrian section accommodates horse trailers with firm, level ground. "The surrounding Snake River Canyons Park connects to multiple trail systems popular with equestrians and ATV enthusiasts," notes local riders. Trails vary in difficulty with some technical sections requiring experienced horses.
Photography opportunities: The canyon viewpoints provide excellent wildlife photography. "Daily use of the trails offers varied terrain and occasional canyon views," according to regular visitors. Morning light creates optimal conditions for landscape photography of the canyon formations.
Hiking with pets: Pets must remain leashed throughout the camping area. "Very easily accessible location with a few pull through spots and back in spots. All with fire rings & a picnic table," writes Bethany W. about Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp. Most hiking trails allow dogs but carry water as summer temperatures reach 90°F+.
Fishing access: Located 15 minutes from Twin Falls, Murtaugh Lake Park Campground offers water-based recreation. "The campground was quiet and clean, many sites right on the lake," notes Caitlyn R. Lake access provides opportunities for bass and trout fishing, particularly during early morning hours.
What campers like
Budget-friendly accommodations: The free camping at Ricketts makes it popular with travelers. "I really enjoyed my stay here. It's safe and clean - plus there are cute cows to look at :-) There are 13 individual campsites with tables and fire rings," writes Kelda C. The campground enforces 5-7 day maximum stays.
Cleanliness standards: Despite high usage, campers consistently mention the well-maintained facilities. "The campground area overall was very clean," notes one visitor. The vault toilets receive regular maintenance with nightly security checks.
Proximity to services: The Jerome area provides convenient access to supplies. "Just a few miles outside of Twin Falls and somewhat near the river supposedly, there are several designated back in and a couple of pull-through campsites," reports Steve M. about Ricketts RV Camp, noting its convenience to town services.
Affordability options: Beyond free camping, budget alternatives exist. "Twin Falls County Fairgrounds delivers on both counts," writes Marc G. about Twin Falls County Fairgrounds. "The RV Park has 80 spaces with full hook-ups (water, sewer & 50 amp power); and 100 hook-up with (water & 30 amp power). Spaces with amenities cost $21.20, tax included per night."
What you should know
Limited shade coverage: The camping area provides minimal protection from sun. "Absolutely no shade. Concrete table and fire pit. Gravel drive," notes Anne E. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, so bring adequate sun protection and cooling equipment.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity creates some background noise. "You can hear/see the noise of traffic from HWY 93 but, no biggie," mentions Bethany W. Weekend ATV activity increases noise levels on adjacent trails.
Weather preparedness: The area experiences temperature extremes. "Cold (34° last night) rainy, super windy, but felt safe and free is great," shares Brooke C. about their October stay. Spring and fall bring significant temperature fluctuations between day and night.
Water restrictions: No potable water exists at the campground. "This free BLM camp offers 2 vault toilets (in case you did not bring own) and 13 level RV parking pads, each with a picnic table and fire ring, but no electric or water hook-ups," explains Gary P. about Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Equestrian education opportunities: The horse corrals provide teaching moments for children interested in horses. "Super easy access to Twin Falls. This campground has toilets but no water or electricity. The toilets are clean," mentions mengxuan W. The separated equestrian section allows children to observe horses safely.
Alternative indoor options: The Jerome County Fairgrounds provides backup accommodations during inclement weather. "Clean and quiet. All paved. Water and electrical hook ups. Pull through spots," shares Tara B. about Jerome County Fairgrounds.
Lake activities for children: Murtaugh Lake offers family-friendly water activities. "Birds are abundant, so is the sunshine and good vibes. A few families using the day use areas and boating out on the lake," notes Sarah J. The lake maintains shallow entry points suitable for supervised swimming.
Safety considerations: The nightly security checks provide additional safety. "Security checks nightly," confirms Anne E. Sites accommodate family-sized tents with adequate space between fire rings and sleeping areas.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Most RV sites feature gravel surfaces requiring minimal leveling. "Rickets has several pull-in (not through) RV campsites that are gravel driveways with a table and fire pit," explains Cory S. Most sites accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet, but larger rigs may find limited options.
Generator regulations: The area permits generators during reasonable hours. "Found when we wanted to stay near Twin Falls Idaho. Free campground with multiple spots," notes James B., adding there are "Two pit toilets. No water or dump. Limit to 7 days free camping."
Alternative hookup options: Full-service alternatives exist nearby for those requiring amenities. "The staff here was very nice and helpful with restaurant recommendations," shares Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure about Oregon Trail Campground. Their site was "flat and level and a snap to set up our fifth wheel."
Back-in navigation: The site layout requires skilled backing for larger rigs. "This campground has toilets but no water or electricity. It's better to arrive early because it's really popular," advises mengxuan W. Arriving midweek improves site selection options.
