Camping near Macks Inn, Idaho centers around the Henry's Fork of the Snake River at 6,500 feet elevation. The area experiences dramatic temperature shifts with summer days reaching 80°F but dropping into the 40s at night. Most campgrounds in this region operate from mid-May through September due to heavy winter snowfall that can exceed 200 inches annually.
What to do
River access for fishing: Buffalo Campground provides immediate access to the Buffalo River, popular for trout fishing. "We spent the next few days fishing up and down the river, where we caught about 17 trout between us. It made for a perfect camping trip minus the mosquitos," notes a visitor at Buffalo Campground.
Hike to Coffee Pot Rapids: The trail starts directly from Upper Coffee Pot Campground and follows the river for about 2 miles. "There is a popular hike that starts right here in the campground to the Coffee Pot Rapids that's just over 2 miles to hike to," explains a camper at Upper Coffee Pot.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide the best opportunities to spot moose and other wildlife. "As we first got into the campground, a moose was grubbing on some shrubs. Found our camping spot and no one was around except for a few campers," reports a father who camped at Buffalo Campground with his son.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer sites with ample room between neighbors. At Riverside Campground, a reviewer noted, "Amazing large spots and beautiful views right by the river," while another mentioned the campground host "directed us to his favorite site which was secluded at the back of the campground at the end of a culdesac."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain bathrooms regularly even during peak season. "The bathhouse was very nice with a fun games room and washers and dryers," explains a visitor to Henrys Lake State Park Campground. Another camper observed, "I'll say, this campground has the nicest restrooms and showers I have EVER seen for a campground. Clean, warm, and with great water pressure."
Proximity to Yellowstone: Most sites provide convenient access to national parks without the crowds. "About 45 minutes to an hour from Ole Faithful. An easy 3 hour drive to Grand Teton as well!" shared a camper at Henrys Lake State Park Campground.
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: Even summer campers need to prepare for cold nights. "It was SO COZY though! There were lots of blankets... We hiked close by the next day, ate in town, loved it so much we booked in last minute again cause we didn't want to leave," shares a glamping guest near Macks Inn, Idaho.
Wind conditions: Several campers mention significant wind, particularly at Henrys Lake. "Be advised that the winds can be very strong there, so make sure you stake your tents well," warns a camper at Henrys Lake State Park Campground.
Mosquito pressure: Insect activity varies by location and season. "When we were there, it was the first spring hatching of the mosquitoes. In other places, it was swarms of them!!! Not here. At least, not on the loop close to the river," notes a camper at Riverside Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Free water recreation: Some campgrounds offer complimentary equipment for water activities. "The free Kayak rentals are a plus also. We also saw a moose swim across the lake, get up on shore and run through the campground," mentions a reviewer at Henrys Lake State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with designated play areas. "The boys enjoyed the kayak rentals, it would have been nice if someone helped launch them and putting them away," notes a visitor at Madison Arm Resort.
Indoor options for rainy days: Several resorts provide indoor facilities when weather turns. "There is an indoor pool and hot tub that the kids enjoyed, also a game room that was very nice," reports a family staying at Sawtelle Mountain Resort.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: For first-come, first-served sites, plan to arrive early. "Make reservations if possible. Fills up fast. GREAT fishing from shore or boat. There is one grassy area for tents and smaller RVs and a new section that will accommodate all sizes," advises an RVer at Henrys Lake State Park Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require caution. "So don't use GPS to navigate to it will take you on a brutal 6 mile unkept dirt road. There is a easy route in ask for directions," warns a Madison Arm Resort visitor.
Hookup variations: Electric sites may be limited at smaller campgrounds. "Sites are either electric and water or electric with access to water," notes a camper at Henrys Lake, while another mentions that at Flat Rock Campground you'll find "small quite park sites with electric, non electric, tent sites. Good first come first serve but also take reservations."
