Camping opportunities around Malad City, Idaho offer options at elevations from 4,500 to 7,000 feet with significant temperature variations between seasons. The region sits at the northern edge of the Great Basin, where overnight temperatures can drop 30-40°F below daytime highs even during summer months. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from May through October with seasonal water shutoffs starting in mid-September.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Devils Creek RV Park provides direct access to Devils Creek Reservoir for fishing. "We had picked right by the water and there was NO shade or any trees. It was nice camp spot, steps away from fishing," notes a camper at Devils Creek RV Park.
Hot springs exploration: Venture to nearby hot springs for natural thermal soaking. "The Hot Springs were beautiful and very warm. The views were amazing - excellent sunset and wild horses nearby," reports a visitor at Belmont Hot Springs RV Park.
Hiking with dogs: Follow trail systems near Malad Summit that connect to higher elevations. "There is a lovely little babbling brook that runs through the whole canyon. There is a lot of great trails for hiking. There is cute waterfall. I come here often just to say camp and hammock," shares a regular at Malad Summit Campground.
What campers like
Free late-season camping: Malad Summit Campground waives fees after mid-September. "Had the whole campground to ourselves. It is free to stay here after September 15th. We camped the 1st of October. Just a quick pit stop," reports a fall visitor.
Mountain views: Devils Creek offers scenic backdrops against reservoir waters. "This campground is convenient to highway and has scenic view of Devils reservoir with mountains in background," shares a camper who appreciated the location.
Natural resources for fires: Some campgrounds have abundant natural fuel sources. "Firewood can be had, either buying it for $6.00, or if you walk along the waterfront, there is plenty there too. For $28.00, you cannot go bad. Very quiet and serene, cattle grazing off on the other side of the reservoir," notes a visitor at Devils Creek RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal water limitations: Services shut down during colder months. "It is free to stay here after September 15th. We camped the 1st of October. Just a quick pit stop. Was a little hesitant at first because it seemed so far from the highway but it was so worth it! There are bathrooms as well but bring your own TP as this time of year I don't believe anyone comes to check on them. Also, no more running water either."
Limited shade options: Many waterfront sites lack tree cover. "Right in the reservoir and by the boat ramp. Lots of people having fun skiing or fishing. RV park is just ok. Sites super close together. Would give 2 stars but Valerie the camp host is super nice and accommodating. Had my choice of a lakeside spot (no shade, back-in) or a pull thru under a tree. Chose the tree."
Mosquito preparation: Insects can be problematic in warm months. "I love summit campground. There is a lovely little babbling brook that runs through the whole canyon. The mosquitos can be intense. There are five different dispersed camping spots that are Free!" advises a regular at Malad Summit Guard Station.
Tips for camping with families
Group site options: Third Creek Group Site accommodates large family gatherings. "This site is huge! At least 50 people could use this site, which would make it great for reunions. There are plenty of toilets and a shaded picnic table area. There's also a little cabin with a wood burning stove inside," describes a visitor to Third Creek Group Site.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Stock up on basic fishing equipment for beginners. "They stock the river the weekend before memorial day with trout. It's where my kids all learned to fish," shares a local camper about Summit Campground.
ATV management: Monitor vehicle traffic in busy areas. "It is extremely over used by atvs and side by sides. A ton of utahns camp here and like to leave trash behind. I dont recommend bringing children as crazy drunk people dont pay attention!!!!"
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Some campgrounds pack RVs tightly together. "This is an older campground, and space near reservoirs is a hot commodity. Warning - Some of the spaces felt like extremely close quarters especially with slide outs. The picture below shows one of the older full utility locations. Some units may not have much room to slide out without contacting the utility boxes."
Power adapter planning: Bring adaptable power equipment. "Make sure to plan ahead for power adapters. Only one 30amp service so if your planning to run AC, plan to be the first in or coordinate with your neighbor," advises an RVer who stayed at Downata Hot Springs.
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer convenient pull-through sites. "This campground was convenient to come in late and leave early. We called ahead and they were very accommodating. Manager gave us an end site we could pull in, stay hooked up, went to bed, got up early and headed out," reports a traveler who needed a quick overnight stop.
