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Camping options around Lava Hot Springs, Idaho range from full-service RV parks to free dispersed sites on public lands. The area features several KOA campgrounds including Lava Hot Springs East and West KOAs, which provide amenities like full hookups, cabins, and proximity to the town's hot springs. Free camping can be found at the Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access and Lower Portneuf Campground, while BLM land at Indian Rocks offers dispersed camping opportunities. Goodenough Creek Campground, located about 20 miles west of town, provides a more primitive camping experience with basic facilities.
Campers should be aware of the active railroad that runs through the area, particularly affecting sites at Lower Portneuf Campground. As one visitor noted, "The tracks are directly adjacent to the camping spots and the train came through blowing its horn multiple times during the night." Most developed campgrounds operate seasonally, with the primary camping season running May through October, though some KOA facilities remain open year-round. Summer weekends often see full campgrounds, especially those within walking distance of the hot springs. Road conditions to dispersed sites can be challenging, with several reviewers mentioning bumpy access roads requiring careful navigation.
The Portneuf River features prominently in the camping experience, with many sites offering river access for fishing, swimming, and tubing. "It is so fun to watch the rafters float down the river and to sleep by the sounds of the water," reported one camper at the Lava Hot Springs Spa Motel & RV Park. Sites near town provide convenient access to the hot springs, restaurants, and other amenities, while those farther out offer more seclusion and stargazing opportunities. Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with highway and train noise affecting sites closer to town, while more distant campgrounds provide quieter surroundings. Many campgrounds are pet-friendly, though pets are not allowed at the hot springs facilities themselves.
"We parked our 34 ft motor home right next to a river waterfall and did some fishing. A fire pit was already established. Excellent spot right outside of town with good cell service."
"Close to Highway and very close to railroad tracks. About 7 trains at night when I stayed. Very pretty water rushing made for great sleep sounds when train wasn’t passing."
"GPS correct, no signage and just off highway West. Small 60x40 yard gravel/dirt lot a quarter mile up improved road with some potholes."
"Just take the exit for McCammon and turn right twice, entering the gravel road at the brown lava stone walls. The gravel covered road is in pretty good shape with minor potholes."
"We had scouted T1 campsite at the KOA Holiday in Lava Hot Springs. This campground runs along the creek and is directly across from Mary’s Campground."
"We had a patio site near the office, overlooking a weedy bit near the stream. While you couldn’t see the water from the patio, you could hear it and could enjoy gazing at the cliffs above it."
"But it’s the perfect spot if you want to be around all the fun action of Lava Hot Springs. You’re walking distance to the river, restaurants, the pool and all the fun stuff in Lava."
"Camped right next to the river at no cost. We were able to get a large cleared out spot, not very many neighbors, 1 vaulted toilet on sight."
"When you have a big group and you like to stay up late and have a good time and be loud while at lava hot springs, this is the place for you!"
"We almost didn't stay here because of the low reviews due to the train noise but we were in Lava Hot Springs and this was such a short drive up the road."
"Stopped here after visiting lava hot springs, a great well kept campsite with designated bays and benches. Pit toilets were clean and was a great BLM campground"
"We haven’t walked downtown yet but it looks like there are a lot of good restaurants and two bookstores! Spacing is tight. Bathrooms clean. Showers paid, $2 for 4 minutes. We have a FHU site."
"Located very conveniently to the river and most of the activities in lava Hot Springs. We were only going to stay for two nights, but now we have stayed a full week."
"The sites are very close to each other but the location in town next to the river, resturaunts and the hot springs pools is the reason to stay here."
from $40 - $50 / night
Check Availability"We liked how close it was to the town of Lava Hot Springs. We also liked the playground for our kids and using the showers."
"It’s a bit further outside of downtown, but easily walkable through the paths and KOA. It’s affordable, spacious and clean."
"There’s a paved trail around all of the camp sites for bikes and skateboards and the owners are incredibly friendly. Clean bathrooms /showers as well."
from $40 - $85 / night
Check Availability"Put our tent right next to the river on grass. Picnic table, fire ring. Horses and sheep in the background. Very picturesque ! 2 bathrooms were available and each had a shower."
"Short drive to the Hot Springs. $48 for a tent spot. Full hookups. Tables and fire ring. On the river."
GuideIt's a nice enough place, lots to explore, clean restrooms and showers. Has water electricity and a dump station But, the noise from the interstate is a little to much for me... people in the visitors station are very friendly and informative..
ScoutThis is a very nice area has spots for large RVs, small RVs ,and has stops for tent camping. Also have various bathroom and picnic areas. There is also boat launches from this area. The rv spots have electric hookups and access to water but can not leave it hooked to camper there is also an rv dump station and trash bins areas. To stay here you do have to make reservations though recreation.gov. All around I find this to be a great place to stay at!
GuideGreat campground with showers and bathrooms nearly complete. But beware of trains close by at night.
TravelerDuring the day it's busy with family activities, playing in the water or riding atvs. At night it dies done and gets quite. Soon you can hear the loons and crickets. Off note if you have an adhd child be prepared to do something all day.
TravelerIt isn't to far from a town, spots are not close together, close to the water to either swim or fish. Pet friendly. Down side. Gravel for tent sites No shade And from 6pm on all you hear are trains
TravelerI visited mid-week, early June. Fairly good access to this campground. Gravel road for several miles but it's wide and graded. Campground roads are gravel. There's a main loop and 2 group loops, one of which has a road that is in disrepair, having a section of deep soft sand/gravel that a vehicle could get stuck in. The size of sites in the main loop is highly variable, but many are large enough for long 5th wheels. The spacing is good though a few sites are too close to the road for my liking. The CG is in dense forest with undergrowth, so there is shade and screening from other sites. A creek flows through the middle of the main loop. It is nice and the creek sound helps overcome the noise of campers. I did not see tent pads, but many of the sites have enough room for tents. Each site has a fire ring/pit and table. The vault toilets that i visited were clean. There is a small bathhouse tucked away in the middle of the CG with flushers; it's a little dilapidated, peeling paint, etc. There are hiking trails in the area and also ATV trails. I saw many people fishing along the Cub River.
Horse people: there are 3 corrals at the upper end of the main CG loop, with plenty of room to turn around.
Zero cell signal: Verizon
The campground host, Chuck, was friendly and pleasant.
Overall, I enjoyed my stay here.
ScoutHidden gym just up the road first come first serve. I think there’s eight little spots each has its own tent, parking spot and gravel pit. There’s also bathrooms and access to the river with popular fishing, floating and other activities.!! but the best part is it’s free! While I was here, I sound variety of campers vans motorhomes tents tear jobs even a three axle trailer!
ScoutThis is a beautiful campsite along the banks of the snake river. It is nestled in the high desert terrain where is beautiful view of the cliffs across the river. It has full electric access at each site with the water Spigot and a dump station at the campground. We are here in late May and the weather is windy but pleasant. I imagine it gets pretty hot here in the summer months. We have excellent cell service with T-Mobile. I would highly recommend this campground and suggest you make reservations well in advance. There were only three campgrounds remaining when we made our reservation reservations.
GuideConvenient and free campspot located just off the interstate. It provided a peaceful and restorative stop during our travels. The proximity to the highway made it incredibly accessible, saving us valuable time. Despite its location, the site offered a surprising sense of tranquility. We would certainly recommend this spot for anyone seeking a comfortable and uncomplicated overnight stay.
Camping opportunities around Lava Hot Springs, Idaho spread across a high mountain valley at 5,000 feet elevation. The camping season typically extends from late April through mid-October, with summer nights cooling significantly due to the elevation. Winter camping remains available at select locations but requires cold-weather preparation with overnight temperatures regularly dropping below freezing.
River recreation access: The Portneuf River at Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access offers multiple water activities. "Beautiful view, less than five minutes to Lava and much better than paying the crazy prices in the camp grounds," notes one camper. The nearby waterfall creates a natural swimming area popular during hot summer days.
Hot springs visits: Campers staying at Lava Hot Springs West KOA value the walkable hot springs access. "Walking distance to the hot spring pools and a park where in the summer you can tube the river," reports a visitor. The mineral pools maintain temperatures between 102-112°F year-round and require a separate admission fee ranging from $7-15 depending on season.
Hiking trails: Several trails originate near Goodenough Creek Campground, offering moderate terrain suitable for day hikes. "Great hiking and horseback riding trails, quiet, not too crowded," notes one visitor. The trails follow creek beds and provide access to higher elevations with minimal technical difficulty.
Quick town access: The central location of Lava Hot Springs Spa Motel & RV Park appeals to many visitors. "The location is directly across the street from the hot spring pools. At the back of the RV park is a trail you can walk along the river and will come to a place where you can enter the river right into a hot spring," explains one camper. Most attractions remain within a 10-minute walk.
Riverfront sites: Many campers appreciate direct river access, especially at sites along the Portneuf. "Beautiful & quiet. The train was really long but sleep with a fan on and you'll hardly hear it," notes one camper at Lower Portneuf Campground. The river's natural white noise helps mask occasional traffic and train sounds.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate no-cost alternatives. "Level and fantastic site for an overnight stay," reports a visitor at Lower Portneuf Campground. While free sites lack hookups, they provide basic camping necessities including established fire rings and level parking areas.
Train noise considerations: Multiple campgrounds near Lava Hot Springs experience regular train traffic. "The road is extremely bumpy so if your have a low car or trailer be careful. The cons, no shower, hook ups, store and the train that runs by Lava Hot Springs can be heard," warns a camper at Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access. Train schedules vary but typically include multiple nighttime crossings.
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed camping areas often require careful navigation. "The road up is a bit steep but doable. We drove a 38ft schoolie up here no problem. Only one pull through in the first loop most sites are a bit smaller. Beautifully tree covered area," reports a visitor at Goodenough Creek Campground.
Limited shower facilities: Many of the dispersed and BLM camping areas lack shower facilities. Visitors planning extended stays might need alternative arrangements. Several campgrounds offer pay showers for non-guests, typically charging $2-5 per use.
Playground access: Lava Campground provides dedicated play areas for children. "Fun playground for kids and lots of room to run around. Right down the road of town and the hot springs," notes a visitor. The playground equipment accommodates various age groups and remains within sight of most campsites.
River safety: Families should note the Portneuf River varies in flow and current strength throughout the season. Life jackets remain essential for children, as parts of the river feature faster currents than appear from shore. Designated swimming areas provide safer alternatives to open river access.
Shade availability: Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F, making shade crucial for family comfort. "The tent area is quite pretty and I really liked that the ground is large grain sand so it made setting up camp very easy. There are mature trees around so there is part or full shade for most of the area," explains a visitor at Lava Hot Springs East KOA.
Hookup availability: Established campgrounds offer varying levels of RV services. "Great pull-through and the back-in spots are beautiful. Kid, pet friendly, walking distance to food and fun," notes a visitor at Lava Hot Springs West KOA. Most developed campgrounds provide 30-amp service, though 50-amp connections remain limited throughout the area.
RV length restrictions: Several campgrounds limit RV size due to tight turns and space constraints. At Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping, larger rigs require careful navigation. "Road is a little rough, but other than that it was great," reports one RVer. Most dispersed sites accommodate RVs under 35 feet, while larger rigs should target established campgrounds with pull-through sites.
Dump station locations: Limited dump stations exist within the immediate Lava Hot Springs area. "The KOA will let you fill your water tank for free but they charge $10 for a dump," notes a visitor. Planning ahead for waste management remains essential, especially for extended stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of campsites are available at Lava Hot Springs?
Lava Hot Springs offers diverse camping options to suit different preferences. Lava Hot Springs East KOA features creekside tent sites that can accommodate multiple tents, perfect for families. Portneuf Bend Campground provides both tent sites and full hookup RV sites with a small store in the office and proximity to the Portneuf River for fishing enthusiasts. The area also includes free primitive camping options like Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access with basic facilities, and more developed campgrounds with amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to recreational activities. Some campgrounds offer shaded sites, though availability varies by location.
What campgrounds are available near Lava Hot Springs, Idaho?
Several campgrounds surround Lava Hot Springs to accommodate visitors. Summit View Campground offers mountain getaway camping with good access to Lava Hot Springs and Bear Lake, featuring trails for hiking and ATVs. Goodenough Creek Campground provides well-maintained sites with designated bays and benches. Other options include Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access (free camping near the river), Mary's Campground (with reservable sites and water access), and Massacre Rocks State Park Campground (about an hour away). For those seeking more amenities, both Lava Hot Springs East and West KOAs offer established campgrounds with easy access to town attractions.
Are there RV camping facilities at Lava Hot Springs?
Yes, Lava Hot Springs offers several excellent RV camping options. Lava Hot Springs Spa Motel & RV Park provides RV sites with convenient access to the river and town activities, offering scenic views of rafters floating down the water. Lava Hot Springs West KOA is strategically located within walking distance to the hot springs, pool, river activities, and restaurants, making it ideal for RVers wanting easy access to attractions. Additional RV-friendly options include Lower Portneuf Campground (though be aware of nearby train noise), Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access for more basic RV camping, and Mary's Campground which accommodates big rigs. Most RV parks in the area offer hookups and convenient proximity to town amenities.
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