Tent campsites near Lava Hot Springs, Idaho cluster in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and surrounding Bureau of Land Management areas. The region's terrain ranges from 5,000 to 8,000 feet elevation with dramatic temperature swings between day and night, even in summer months. Multiple campgrounds operate on limited seasonal schedules due to snowfall and access restrictions, with several providing specific tent-only areas separate from RV sections.
What to do
River access fishing spots: Secluded Maple Creek River Bottoms offers private tent camping with personal fire pits just six minutes from local amenities. According to Ashley F., it's a "private oasis in the woods" with "lots of trees and perfect place to relax around your fire-pit."
Hot springs exploration: Maple Grove Hot Springs combines tent camping with natural thermal soaking. Jordan H. reports, "Camping gets you access to the hot springs from check in until 4pm the next day. There's running water in the bathhouse with a toilet and shower. There's yoga classes included in the price as well."
Group activities: Dry Canyon Campground accommodates larger gatherings with communal facilities. Alan B. noted the campground "had plenty of place for activities and many picnic tables close to a large cement fire place. There were also plenty types of sheep nearby!"
What campers like
Wilderness isolation: North Fork Overflow appeals to campers seeking remote backcountry experiences. Bobbie H. describes it as "back in the mountains a couple hours from civilization. makes you thankful for the idaho wilderness."
River proximity: Morgans Bridge Campground features tent sites positioned directly alongside water. One camper notes it's "Right next to the river. Would be a nice fall get away spot," while mentioning the area has "Very little shade" but offers "Plenty of picnic tables including an ADA table."
Volunteer opportunities: Some camping areas offer work-exchange programs. At Maple Grove Hot Springs, they "offer volunteer days as well where you can camp and soak in exchange for volunteer work," according to a satisfied camper.
What you should know
Water availability: Many primitive tent sites around Lava Hot Springs lack potable water. At Dry Canyon Campground, a visitor warns "there's no water there" despite the other amenities, making self-supplied water essential.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have problematic access issues. At Cutthroat Trout Campground, Samuel H. encountered significant problems: "This place is in the middle of nowhere with no cell service. I drove all the way out here only to find the gate to someone's ranch with a no trespassing sign."
Terrain conditions: Tent placement requires careful consideration at several sites. Morgans Bridge includes "Two walk in only camp spots, expect rough ground," according to a recent visitor.
Rule changes: Verify current regulations before planning. Trenner Park recently implemented policy changes as noted by Donner N.: "They recently changed the rules to be day camping only. It's an area that is visited a lot by locals but a pleasant spot."
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility options: Some tent areas feature ADA-compliant facilities. Trenner Park offers "bathroom available and a handicap access dock" making it suitable for families with accessibility needs.
Weather preparedness: Pack for temperature fluctuations when tent camping with children in this region. Cold Springs Campground receives positive reviews for its beauty, but Austin H. notes one significant drawback: "The only down side is the narrow roads," which can complicate family arrivals and departures.
Food options: Several campgrounds offer convenient food solutions. Jordan H. mentions Maple Grove Hot Springs "has a nice little shop with snacks and gifts. They sell tinfoil dinners too if you want to really relax."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: RVers should note length limitations at most tent-focused campgrounds. Morgans Bridge provides "3 RV slips for smaller rigs ~30'" but primarily caters to tent campers with walk-in sites.
Seasonal planning: RV campers report better experiences during shoulder seasons. According to visitor feedback, fall camping near Lava Hot Springs offers reduced competition for limited RV spaces combined with moderate temperatures ideal for enjoying nearby thermal features.
