Rustic camping options near Kimberly, Idaho range from riverfront sites to high desert campgrounds. The area sits at approximately 3,900 feet elevation in the Magic Valley region, with seasonal temperatures varying dramatically from hot, dry summers to cold winters. Rock Creek and the Snake River provide natural anchors for many camping areas, with water access being a premium feature during the peak camping season from May through September.
What to do
Fishing at Snake River: Located at 1000 Springs Resort, the river provides excellent fishing access. "We used this more of a dock and boat ramp which gave us access to a great stretch of the Snake River," mentions Alan B., who appreciated the convenient water access.
Explore Balanced Rock: This unique geological formation near Balanced Rock County Park offers an easy hiking opportunity. "Short drive or walk to the actual balanced rock. Picnic tables, awning, restrooms and even a horseshoe pit available," notes Mary D., highlighting the family-friendly amenities.
Hot Springs Soaking: The natural thermal waters at Miracle Hot Springs provide year-round relaxation. A visitor explains, "The hot spring pools themselves are fantastic. Newly built, 21 individual tub rooms plus a big, deep swimming pool with perfect temperature water, a hot hot hot pool, a more shallow less hot big pool, and another pool yet!"
What campers like
Riverside camping: At Balanced Rock County Park, campers enjoy the creek-side setting. "The sites are along a creek with amazing rock formations all around," reports Mary D., while another camper adds, "Absolutely beautiful canyon creek side campground. Water and bathroom available."
Budget-friendly options: Rock Creek RV Park in Twin Falls offers affordable sites with basic amenities. "Hard to beat $20 for W&E hookups. It's a quiet campground. Trashcans all around the park conveniently," notes Julia M., appreciating the value.
Urban convenience: Oregon Trail Campground positions campers close to Twin Falls amenities while maintaining campground comforts. "This cute, convenient campground is right outside downtown Twin Falls, giving access to everything you need. The laundry room is open 24/7 and it's super cheap," Beth M. reports.
What you should know
Weather extremes: Lud Drexler Park campers experience typical high desert conditions. "Very hot during the day and very COOL at night. Great sleeping weather!" shares Daisee Mae S., noting the dramatic temperature swings that require packing for both conditions.
Insect issues: Several campgrounds report seasonal fly problems. At Lud Drexler, one camper reported, "As soon as we got out of the truck, we were swarmed with flies. There was nothing we could do to battle the flies."
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be spotty. At Miracle Hot Springs, one reviewer noted, "No Verizon reception until you drive up the hill a little bit," while others found inconsistent WiFi at various campgrounds throughout the area.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Anderson Camp RV Park offers family-friendly water activities on-site. "Lots to do for young children with a large playground, two shallow (2-3ft?) small outdoor pools, one with a water slide, putt putt golf, and snack bar," reports Derek F.
Wildlife viewing: Balanced Rock provides opportunities for wildlife observation. "We had the camp ground to ourselves. Very peaceful and beautiful right on a creek. Lots of sounds of animals and surrounding critters at night," shares Jess G.
Budget accommodations: For glamping in Kimberly, Idaho with children, consider tent sites at Twin Falls-Jerome KOA. "This is probably one of the fanciest camping sites I've ever been too. They had lots of social areas around and lots of variety between RVs, tent sites, and cabins," notes Taleah U.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: At Lud Drexler Park, RVers should prepare for leveling challenges. "Only available sites were not close to level and unfortunately the gravel was deep enough that I had trouble getting level blocks in place," shares Thomas R.
Hookup locations: Oregon Trail Campground requires attention to hookup placement. One camper notes, "rented spot 4 that many ppl thought was a drive through lane," indicating confusing site layouts that can frustrate new arrivals.
Navigating tight spaces: Rock Creek RV Park has some access challenges. "The short road down to the park is a bit steep but doable. Fyi-Some spots are not very level There are large rigs here," advises Beth S., suggesting careful planning for larger vehicles.
