Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp sits just north of Twin Falls across the Perrine Bridge. This free campground offers 13 designated sites arranged on a gravel surface at 3,700 feet elevation. The area experiences hot, dry summers with daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cool nights dropping to 50-60°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The area surrounding Murtaugh Lake Park Campground provides multiple hiking opportunities with trails of varying difficulty. "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. in her review of the Murtaugh Lake Park Campground.
Rock climbing opportunities: City of Rocks National Reserve offers extensive climbing routes suitable for various skill levels. According to Katherine B., "This is a very popular area, but you can still find solitude if you want it. Plenty of activities as well; climb all day, check out Register Rock, or hike the City of Rocks Loop trail around the site to get a little bit of everything." The City of Rocks Campground provides convenient access to climbing areas.
Equestrian trail riding: Jerome County Fairgrounds provides suitable facilities for horseback riders exploring southern Idaho. "Several drive through sites. Mostly paved," notes Rusty B. The Jerome County venue serves as a practical staging area for riders seeking access to regional equestrian trails.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: The camping areas at Ricketts RV Camp feature ample space between sites. "Very easy access. 13 sites. A couple of pull thrus. Mostly back in. Over-size and equestrian area with a horse corral. 5 day stay," explains Anne E. in her review of Ricketts RV Camp.
Affordable camping options: Twin Falls County Fairgrounds offers economical sites with full hookups. Randy M. notes, "$13 to boondock, $23 for RV site with hook ups. The nicest feature are the bathrooms. Private 'suites' with toilet, sink and shower." The Twin Falls County Fairgrounds provides horse boarding facilities at additional cost.
Clean facilities: Bennett Springs maintains clean restrooms and well-kept campsites. "We took the site at the eastern end and felt like we had the place to ourselves. Nice trail along the creek and wildflowers everywhere," shares Laurie about her experience at this small campground that provides equestrian access points to surrounding trails.
What you should know
Limited services: Most campgrounds in the area have basic amenities only. For example, at Murtaugh Lake Park, "The downside is that there is no dump station. And no sewer connection. There are only pit toilets and no showers," explains Donna R.
Weather considerations: Temperatures fluctuate significantly between day and night in this high desert environment. According to Brooke C., "Cold (34° last night) rainy, super windy, but felt safe and free is great" when describing her October stay at Snake River Canyons Park.
Seasonal accessibility: Some campgrounds close or have limited access during winter months. Colin reports about Bennett Springs: "Took the long drive up and arrived at the campground at night. Didn't see the snow and almost got stuck. Currently (5/10/24) there is snow blocking the entrance and impassible."
Tips for camping with families
Creek access for kids: Bennett Springs offers a small creek perfect for children to explore. Angela S. mentions, "Our favorite site has a little creek right next to it. Great for kids to play in. There's also a trail that goes along the creek which starts at the bottom most campsite."
Safety considerations: Nightly security checks provide peace of mind at equestrian camping areas. Steve M. observed at Snake River Canyons Park: "Seems very safe and clean and sites are clearly numbered. No fee but guessing it fills up quickly on weekends."
Campsite selection: Choose spots with adequate shade when camping during summer months. At Smoky Mountain Campground, Layla D. reports, "The sites are HUGE and really offer a great deal of privacy and seclusion. The only issue we had was that there were so many bugs (gnats and flies)!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Multiple campgrounds offer electrical hookups for RVs. Russell B. notes about Castle Rocks State Park, "Price was reasonable for electricity and water. Dump station nearby. We have bigger RV so some of the spots would not work. Make sure you use the filter to eliminate those with a smaller driveway."
Site leveling: Prepare for some uneven ground at certain campgrounds. At Murtaugh Lake Park, Sandy S. observed: "Gravel interior roads and campsites with power and water. No sewer or dump station. Pit toilets, clean. Sister campground across the bay. The only problem was the large number of voles running around and burrowing holes everywhere."
Access for larger vehicles: Several equestrian camping facilities near Kimberly accommodate larger rigs and horse trailers. Gary P. mentions, "This fee-free primitive 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. There is also equestrian and overflow parking if needed."
Guide
