Best Campgrounds near Lava Hot Springs, ID

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.

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Best Camping Sites Near Lava Hot Springs, Idaho (125)

    1. Lava Hot Springs East KOA

    15 Reviews
    Lava Hot Springs, ID
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 776-5295

    "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."

    2. Lower portneuf campground

    14 Reviews
    Lava Hot Springs, ID
    1 mile

    "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."

    3. Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access

    12 Reviews
    Lava Hot Springs, ID
    2 miles
    Website

    "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."

    4. Lava Hot Springs West KOA

    10 Reviews
    Lava Hot Springs, ID
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 776-5295

    "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."

    5. Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

    16 Reviews
    McCammon, ID
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 478-6340

    "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."

    6. Goodenough Creek Campground

    18 Reviews
    McCammon, ID
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 478-6340

    "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"

    "Nice hiking opportunities and off road vehicles seemed to be popular as well."

    7. Lava Hot Springs Spa Motel & RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Lava Hot Springs, ID
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 776-5589

    $40 - $50 / night

    "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."

    8. Mary’s Campground

    8 Reviews
    Lava Hot Springs, ID
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 776-5026

    $40 - $85 / night

    "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."

    9. Lava Campground

    4 Reviews
    Lava Hot Springs, ID
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (208) 241-7540

    "Very close to the town for the soaks. It’s very close to the highway which is a plus, but there can also be some traffic noise. Beautiful views."

    "This campground is right off the highway so there is some noise but not bad. Well run campground with clean bathrooms and showers. Fun playground for kids and lots of room to run around."

    10. Lost Trail

    4 Reviews
    Lava Hot Springs, ID
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (208) 776-9917

    "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."

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Recent Reviews near Lava Hot Springs, ID

384 Reviews of 125 Lava Hot Springs Campgrounds


  • S
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Goodenough Creek Campground

    Quiet creek side free camping

    We arrived here around 8:30pm after the sun set so we couldn’t really see much. Had the doors and windows open all night, wonderful breeze, quiet except sounds of nature. Woke up to an amazing sunrise and sound of the creek. Just lovely and it’s Free!

  • Jimena S.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Cowboy RV Park

    Cowboy Rv Park

    Park for Rvs, bathrooms and laundry rooms really clean. Just in the town with everything at walking distance

  • D
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Soda Creek Campground

    Promising new place to camping in the town of Soda Springs Idaho

    Chuck and Misty have just opened for campers in June 2025. With good water, electricity and level RV sites with fire rings and picnic tables plus numerous shaded spots for dry RV and tent camping this campground shows lots of potential. They have been working hard to a large septic system up and running which will be the icing on the cake!

  • Dana V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

    Nice & Easy Access

    This place is right off the highway so it made it a super easy spot to get to for a quick overnight stay. There were other campers and everyone was quiet and respectful, the spaces are spread out a nice distance so that we aren't right next to our neighbors. You can hear highway noise but it wasn't too bad, and the view is a pretty rolling hills.

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 14, 2025

    Snake River Vista Recreation Site

    Dispersed camping on the snake river !

    Beautiful spot 4 x 4 recommended for most spots. There were man-made fire rings. Totally pack and pack out no toilet in the area. The spot was beautiful. We camped along the river and found amazing sites after we were leaving that we’re very high up if you like to disperse camp and you want to be along a river, highly recommend

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Lava Campground

    Good spot

    This campground is right off the highway so there is some noise but not bad. Well run campground with clean bathrooms and showers. Fun playground for kids and lots of room to run around. Right down the road of town and the hot springs.

  • Matt P.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Heart Mountain Spring

    Dirt pull out

    Not sure where precious reviewer went but the GPS coordinates are for a dirt pull out beside a narrow spring. A mile further uphill on dirt road is a small camping area. Free for 21 days. No facilities but a few fire pits. It was full with trailers that have been there a while by the look of it. No spring. I drove another few miles up the mountain and found the entrance to the massive ranch that owns most of the surrounding land. Beyond that was yet more dirt road with no sign of a antelope park or spring. I gave up and was thankful I didn't arrive late in the day.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Portneuf Bend Campground

    Hard to sleep

    Campground is well maintained with lots of mature trees.

    Signage could have been better to navigate to sites but the campground isn’t too big so you can make do.

    The trains. All night long. They were loud and constant. Between 1am and 5am there were many that were every 20-30 minutes. Perhaps a site further away from the tracks would be better but we were closest to them and it was awful. (For the record, we live near train tracks and don’t mind the distant sound of trains through the night at home.) Obviously not the campgrounds fault but sleeping was rough.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2025

    Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

    Major wash board road

    Very nice sites. Trash in all the fire pits. Good cell service. Just go very slow. We did fine with the 27-foot trailer.


Guide to Lava Hot Springs

Camping near Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and fun activities. With hot springs, rivers, and beautiful landscapes, it’s a great spot for families, RVers, and anyone looking to unwind in nature.

What to do:

  • Soak in the hot springs: The area is famous for its natural hot springs. Many campers rave about the experience, with one reviewer saying, "The Lava pools are amazing and the town is very charming and walkable options" at the Lava Hot Springs West KOA.
  • Explore the outdoors: Hiking and fishing are popular activities. One camper mentioned, "Nice spots, beautiful river and waterfalls, and close to Lava Hot springs" at the Lower Portneuf Campground.
  • Enjoy stargazing: Campers at the Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access loved the night sky, with one stating, "The stars were SO bright!".

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One review noted, "Bathrooms and showers are very clean" at the Lava Hot Springs East KOA.
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor shared, "The main positive of this CG is the staff. They were friendly and accommodating" at the Lava Hot Springs East KOA.
  • Pet-friendly options: Many campgrounds allow pets, making it easier for families to bring their furry friends along. One camper noted, "It would be tight for a large RV, but for a small camper or tent, it is perfect" at the Goodenough Creek Campground.

What you should know:

  • Train noise: Some campgrounds are near train tracks, which can be noisy at night. A camper at the Lower Portneuf Campground mentioned, "The trains; however, were a drag at night."
  • Extra fees: Be prepared for additional charges, especially for pets. One reviewer at the Lava Hot Springs East KOA said, "The $20 fee per dog per night is the kicker for me."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have full amenities like showers or electric hookups. A visitor at the Devils Creek RV Park noted, "No bathrooms or showers."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose kid-friendly spots: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for children. One camper at the Lava Hot Springs West KOA said, "Kid, pet friendly, walking distance to food and fun."
  • Plan for noise: If your family is sensitive to noise, consider campgrounds away from train tracks. A camper at the Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access mentioned, "Traffic noise isn't ideal, but fine for a quick stop."
  • Pack extra supplies: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at the Goodenough Creek Campground suggested, "You might want to bring some TP."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at the Lava Hot Springs East KOA warned, "You need to be an expert backer, or very lucky, to clear the trees."
  • Watch for curbs: Be cautious of curbs and barriers when backing in. One reviewer at the Lava Hot Springs East KOA mentioned, "We almost tore off a snap pad getting too close to a curb."
  • Use Wi-Fi wisely: Some campgrounds offer decent Wi-Fi, but it can be spotty. A camper at the Lava Hot Springs East KOA noted, "Their free Wifi was decent."

Camping near Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the hot springs, beautiful scenery, and the friendly atmosphere!

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.