Tent campsites near Malad City, Idaho extend beyond the immediate vicinity into neighboring areas of Utah and Wyoming. The region sits at elevations ranging from 4,300 to 7,000 feet with a semi-arid climate that brings hot summer days and cool nights. Access roads to most sites become impassable during winter months, restricting camping to late spring through early fall when daytime temperatures typically range from 70-90°F.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At North Fork Overflow, campers can observe native Idaho wildlife in relative solitude. "Back in the mountains a couple hours from civilization. Makes you thankful for the Idaho wilderness," notes Bobbie H., highlighting the remote nature perfect for spotting deer, elk and various bird species.
Hot springs soaking: The Maple Grove Hot Springs offers natural thermal pools as a primary attraction for tent campers. "They have tent sites, van sites and a selection of shelters to choose from. Camping gets you access to the hot springs from check in until 4pm the next day," explains Jordan H., detailing the extended soaking privileges that come with camping.
Cross-country skiing access: Winter recreation opportunities exist for adventurous campers at Green Canyon Yurt, where groomed trails provide seasonal activities. "During the winter months, Powder Ridge manages the Green Canyon Road and grooms it on an almost daily basis. It is groomed for cross-country skiing with the designated track on one side," reports Steven E., detailing winter use patterns distinct from summer camping.
What campers like
Spacious tent sites: The Cache National Forest Bridger Campground receives praise for its uncrowded layout. "A great and spacious area worth the trip for sure!" writes Becky J., while further noting in another review that it remains "spacious and not too crowded" even during peak season.
Creekside camping: Many dispersed tent sites in Smithfield Dispersed Campsite allow camping adjacent to flowing water. "It's a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it. Would recommend," states Brendan J., while Peter L. confirms the appeal with "Stayed here for two nights, at the end of a dead end road, close to the creek. Real easy place to be."
Group gathering spaces: Certain campgrounds feature dedicated areas for larger groups. "This place had plenty of place for activities and many picnic tables close to a large cement fire place," notes Alan B. about Dry Canyon Campground, though he cautions about water availability, adding "Only downside is there's no water there."
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Most tent sites in the area require campers to bring their own water supplies. Alan B. points out that at Dry Canyon Campground, the "only downside is there's no water there," a common situation throughout the region's primitive camping areas.
Narrow access roads: Several campgrounds have challenging approach routes that restrict vehicle types. "The only down side is the narrow roads," cautions Austin H. about Cold Springs Campground, while another camper warns about Smithfield canyon where "the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground."
Seasonal restrictions: Most tent campsites operate on limited seasonal schedules. North Fork Overflow and Cold Springs Campground both maintain May to September seasons, while others close during winter months when snow makes access impossible for standard vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Hot springs packages: Conestoga Ranch offers family-friendly glamping with amenities beyond traditional tent camping. "The tent had a king bed, shower, and deep claw foot tub. The decor is charmingly rustic with log furnishings," reports Glen B., describing accommodations that work well for families seeking comfort.
Fire management services: Some developed campgrounds provide fire assistance, reducing work for parents. "Later on a fire concierge will come and start your fire as you relax and take in all the beauty around you," notes Glen B. about the services at Conestoga Ranch.
Cave exploration opportunities: Several campgrounds position families near natural attractions. "This beautiful campground lies close to the end of St Charles Canyon near the Minnetonka Cave," explains Alan B. about North Fork Campground, offering families an educational day trip option from their tent site.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most tent campsites near Malad City have significant restrictions for larger vehicles. Sarah C. warns about Smithfield Dispersed Camping: "No warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground, or the trees are overgrown which scratched up my sides. The only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied."
RV section separation: Some campgrounds separate RV and tent sections with different amenities. "It has 2 sections one of which is mainly for RVs and the 2nd which is for tents and camper Vans. The RV spots seemed kind of close but the tent sites had ample room," explains Alan B. about the layout at North Fork Campground.
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas cannot accommodate larger rigs. Brendan J. notes about Smithfield Dispersed Camping that "Most of the spots are pretty small and would only work for one or two tents or maybe a couple of hammocks," indicating limited options for RV campers seeking primitive sites.
