Best Tent Camping near Marsing, ID

Dispersed tent camping opportunities surround Marsing, Idaho, with several free options along rivers and reservoirs. Morley Nelson Snake River Dispersed Campsites offer tent sites in a natural setting, while Succor Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping provides more secluded options. Swan Falls, managed by Idaho Power, features established tent sites along the Snake River approximately 40 minutes from Boise.

Most tent sites in the area are primitive with minimal infrastructure. Access roads to dispersed sites like Succor Creek Reservoir require high-clearance vehicles, especially when traveling beyond maintained roads. One camper noted: "Turn on the dirt road left just as you are nearing the Oregon State Line...if you're just curious and have a high clearance vehicle and the ground is dry, you'll do just fine." Fire rings are present at some locations, particularly at Swan Falls, but many dispersed areas lack designated fire pits. Vault toilets exist at Swan Falls and some BLM sites, but tent campers should plan to pack out waste at more remote locations.

Tent campers frequently find riverside sites with direct water access, particularly along the Snake River and Owyhee River corridors. These areas provide opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing without the crowds found at developed campgrounds. The terrain varies from riverside flats to desert landscapes with minimal shade, so summer heat can be challenging for tent camping. According to a visitor at Swan Falls: "There are many campsites to choose from tucked down along the river, and the best part is, they are all free! The gorgeous canyon walls provide a great view from any spot." Snake River tent sites particularly appeal to anglers seeking bass fishing and paddling opportunities with tent sites positioned near launch points.

Best Tent Sites Near Marsing, Idaho (13)

    1. Caldwell Campground and RV Park

    9 Reviews
    Caldwell, ID
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 454-0279

    $28 - $43 / night

    "Approx, 10-12 Grassy Tent sites, with shady trees, on a small 6 acre lake with entertaining ducks that do not beg for food. Lol. Lots of RV sites with full hook ups, including, 105 long term users."

    "Clean facilities.. , need a code to use them, Roads are dusty, if people would drive slow it would e nicer, Busy place, this is a flat rate place."

    2. Owyhee River - Below Dam - Owyhee Dam Park

    4 Reviews
    Adrian, OR
    23 miles

    "Just follow Owyhee Lake Rd along the river and you will find spaces to set up your tent or RV. It is a bit deserty, so beware of snakes. You will find quite a few places before the tunnel."

    "If you want the site in the pictures, which was fairly quiet other than a few people checking if it was open, take the first right after the bridge and follow the trail down."

    3. Swan Falls - Idaho Power

    16 Reviews
    Murphy, ID
    31 miles
    Website

    "It is dry camping with no hookups. No reservations, so it's on a first come first serve basis. Our site had a fire pit but no picnic table. Fishing was awesome."

    "There’s a little trail system you can wonder above that gives great views too. The sites are well maintained with fire rings and picnic table and there’s a pit toilet as well."

    5. Succor Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Jordan Valley, ID
    26 miles

    "Turn on the dirt road left just as you are nearing the Oregon State Line. If you crossed over the line, turn around."

    6. Idaho City Yurts — Idaho Parks and Recreation State Headquaters

    4 Reviews
    Boise, ID
    35 miles
    Website

    "I have only been to there in the winter but I imagine that hiking in is just a beautiful!   You need to bring everything but a bed and stove, which are in the yurt.  "

    "Firewood included in purchase of renting. One time I went I miss read the reservation date and got kicked out by another group. So we had to hike down in a snow storm. It was still fun."

    7. Silver City Campground

    3 Reviews
    Murphy, ID
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 896-5912

    "Getting there is interesting down a winding dirt road, but worth the trip to find all the trees in the middle of a desert."

    "Free campsites right on the edge of town next to creek. The ride up is worth it!"

    8. Shafer Butte

    4 Reviews
    Horseshoe Bend, ID
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 587-7961

    $10 - $75 / night

    "Tent only, but nicely maintained tent pads, fire rings and picnic tables. Perfect place to teach young ones the joy of camping; campground is open, mostly flat and easy to keep your eyes the tykes."

    "It was a no frills place and we were dirtier than usual since there was no running water. it also had no firewood for sale, so we hauled ours up. We knew all this going in, so it didn’t matter."

    9. Birch Creek Historic Ranch

    2 Reviews
    Jordan Valley, OR
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 473-3144

    "I had no issues getting here in a 2WD minivan, but can see how it would be challenging in more inclement weather."

    "There is no potable water anywhere high or low near or far from the campsite. The road getting in is very rough and washed out in multiple locations. 4WD and lifted is recommended."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 13 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Tent Camping Photos near Marsing, ID

6 Photos of 13 Marsing Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Marsing, ID

264 Reviews of 13 Marsing Campgrounds


  • Raphaela H.
    Jun. 29, 2020

    Slocum Creek (Leslie Gulch) Campground

    Wonderful spot in the Owyhee Canyonlands

    The Slocum Creek campground is near the Owyhee Reservoir at the end of Leslie Gulch. It is a free campsite, fire rings with shelters (!) and tables. There are two drop toilets but no water or trash service. Closest gas is in Jordan Valley. The boat ramp to the reservoir is a half mile down the hill. The reservoir is very still and great for SUP and kayaking as well. The area is accessed by a good dirt road, but since it is in a gulch, a small amount of water could make this area tricky to drive to/from, so be sure to watch the weather. There are other camping spots in the Owyhee, but this is the most accessible with the best maintained road. Fires were allowed in late June, but I suspect there is a fire ban throughout July/August/September. 

    First come first served. Websites mentioned that it almost never fills up except maybe during fishing season, but we arrived on a Friday in June and the campground did run out of spots by early evening. There are dispersed spots nearby, but then you would need to plan to bring a portable toilet and your own shelter. The sun was sweltering, even in June. 

    There is great hiking (requires some scrambling) in the smaller gulches off Leslie Gulch with incredible views of the rock formations. Juniper Gulch is a moderate, somewhat shaded, and stunningly beautiful hike nearby. 

    Rattlesnakes, ticks, and scorpions live in this area. 

    There is one larger group site, but it gets the last of the evening sun and the first of the morning sun. 

    These lands are fragile, so please take care of them: pack out your garbage, stay on trails, only ride dirt bikes and four wheelers on the roads.

  • C
    Feb. 4, 2021

    Celebration Park

    Everything a campground should be

    Celebration Park is the perfect campground for basic boondocking (with bathrooms). It is remote and wild with non-stop views from every site and many outdoor activities nearby. At the entrance to the campground, there is a visitors center, many picnic tables, fire rings, an interpretive walk, and access to the riverfront. This is where the bathrooms are containing a single sink, electrical outlet and two toilets. No showers are available. The bathroom was exceptionally clean when I stayed there. The park adjoins BLM land. There are no hookups for power, water or sewer. Potable water is accessed from the bathrooms and spigots near the entrance. The camping area goes on for at least 1/4 mile along the river and more sites are away from the water. 

    Some reviewers mention the bugs. Yes there were swarming gnats when I visited in February, not unbearable, but worth noting if that bothers you. Also note the wind coming down the gorge creates some showy sandstorms. (See video) Hey, it's the outdoors.

    The county park is located on the Snake River Gorge about 25 miles from the nearest town. It is located on the northern fridge of the Morley Birds of Prey Sanctuary. You will awaken to the sound of the ducks and geese and can watch hawks and ravens soar on the winds rushing through the gorge. This is not the best place for watching the raptors, as I learned on staying there. Swan Falls south about 15 miles is for wildlife viewing, nevertheless, there was plenty to see and I spent two nights there. 

    A walk up away from the river takes you to a large lake and you can also cross the historic rail bridge to the other bank of the river and climb to the top of the gorge. Excellent place for stargazing, but avoid the sites closest to the visitor center where the lights interfere with prevent perfect darkness.

  • Jeff M.
    May. 10, 2018

    Shafer Butte

    One of my favorites

    Less than an hour from downtown Boise. Beautiful, scenic views, off the main road so it's mostly quiet. Tent only, but nicely maintained tent pads, fire rings and picnic tables. Perfect place to teach young ones the joy of camping; campground is open, mostly flat and easy to keep your eyes the tykes. One of the most enjoyable drives, ever.

  • Jeff M.
    May. 9, 2018

    Macks Creek Park

    Great for casusl RV camping

    Small campsite, approx 6-7 hard pads with vault toilet at one end. Site sits directly on a busy, paved roadway that follows Lucky Peak and Arrowrock Reservoir. Also, directly acro townss the street from RV camping is a busy, tent only campsite. The view of the River is nice, but the noise and outside distractions are not my cup of tea. But it's close to town, so there's that....

  • B
    Jul. 8, 2018

    Rivers Edge RV Park

    Best little Campgound in the area!

    Best little Campgound in the area! Sits right on the Snake River, large grassy area with lots of shade, Cabins, tent sites, limited full hookups, electric, covered picnic tables, small boat dock, 2 horseshoe pits excellent catfishing, supplied fire rings (you can buy wood there), they just added a TeePee! The host, Turk, and his wife, Meghan, are absolutely, by far the best camp hosts we've ever dealt with. Dogs are allowed. BEST SUNSETS EVER!

  • Ed E.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 23, 2018

    Swan Falls - Idaho Power

    Small and Peaceful Sites along the Snake River, Idaho

    Just south of Kuna, Swan Falls is a nice quiet place for tent or RV camping. RV should be smaller than 27'. We have a 27' Travel Trailer pulled with an extended long bed Chevy Silverado. We were able to get into the last or furthest campsite up stream. north of the dam. We were able to launch our kayaks for fishing and paddling for a couple of days. It is dry camping with no hookups. No reservations, so it's on a first come first serve basis. Our site had a fire pit but no picnic table. Fishing was awesome. I caught quite a few smallies, but they were on the smaller side. Still fun to catch. There were a few smaller sites for tent camping along the river. There are a few more sites below the dam as well. All dry camping. The drive down from the top is pretty steep. Ensure your vehicle is powerful enough to pull your rig back up the grade ;-)

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2022

    Celebration Park

    Great option for low fee

    Sites are next to the river and have amazing views of the surrounding terrain.

    Trash cans are located at each designated site as well as a level area to set up.

    There is cell reception in case you are interested but the wifi was poor.

    The fire pits are locked during fire season.

    Unfortunately, my site was a victim of irresponsible campers who left trash and urinated near the tent site. Obviously not the campground’s fault but something to be aware of.

    $5 fee with dropbox. 3 night max (within 30 day period.)

  • L
    May. 2, 2021

    Rivers Edge RV Park

    Would not recommend if you want any piece and quiet!

    We arrived for our weekend mid-afternoon on Friday. Parked our trailer in our designated spot in the middle of the grassy area near the horseshoe pits. After unloading, setting up and taking a walk around the park (down to the river, dock, beach area, etc) it became obvious that this was not the place we expected it to be based on other reviews!

    We decided to give it some time and benefit of the doubt. Made dinner and ate outside (weather was perfect). During dinner we were treated to the drunken, LOUD ramblings of other campers - complete with foul language at the highest volume possible! Permanent residents at the back of the park left a lot to be desired. Messy camp sites.

    There are no hiking trails or places to explore. If you don't have a camp spot right on the water, fishing access is horrible - only super shallow, reed-filled openings. Certainly not what we expected from a riverfront park with great reviews. The fishing dock is a joke, the water near and around the dock is a filthy, grime filled, trash collecting mess!

    Tried to get our child to bed before 10pm but was virtually impossible with the level of noise coming from the group area (which was across the park, mind you), not to mention music streaming loudly from several other campers all around. 10pm quiet hour does not seem to matter to the hosts who did nothing to help those of us who expect rules to be followed.

    By first thing in the morning, we had found another camp site to flee to and we couldn't get out of there fast enough!

    Never again will we be back. Never again.

  • Sadie P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 24, 2025

    Irish Point Dispersed Camp Ground

    Easy drive, Beautiful, avoid on holidays

    Easy to get to, no marked spots, tent or small to mid RV. Pit toilet on site. No boat launch but easy enough for small craft or floaties. Sloped, not much level spots. Nice views and easy bank fishing.

    Details: No site boundaries, easily crowds No trash or water Long drive to services Slow drive in if towing medium or large trailer No tables Minimal rock fire rings Long drive to town, bring plenty of stuff Free stat, 14 day limit, rangers may stop by and say hi, if you’re lucky they’ll clean and restock the toilet. Don’t count on being lucky


Guide to Marsing

Nestled near Marsing, Idaho, tent camping offers a blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Tips for tent camping near Marsing

  • For a peaceful experience, consider the Caldwell Campground and RV Park, which features clean facilities and a serene river view, ideal for fishing and relaxation.
  • If you're seeking a more rugged adventure, the Owyhee River - Below Dam - Owyhee Dam Park provides free dispersed camping along the river, perfect for those who enjoy fishing and exploring.
  • Be prepared for a rough road when visiting Birch Creek Historic Ranch, where you can enjoy a historical setting and stunning landscapes, but ensure you bring your own water.

Tent campers should check out Succor Creek Reservoir

  • The Succor Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping area is well-reviewed for its spacious sites and beautiful surroundings, making it a great spot for those looking to unwind in nature.
  • Enjoy the freedom of camping at Morley Nelson Snake River Dispersed Campsites, where you can set up your tent right by the river and soak in the stunning views.
  • For a more secluded experience, Jordan Craters Area of Environmental Concern offers unique lava formations and a chance to explore the area's geological wonders.

Local attractions for outdoor enthusiasts

  • The Swan Falls - Idaho Power site is a hidden gem, featuring beautiful views and opportunities for hiking and fishing right off the water.
  • Experience the charm of Silver City Campground, where you can camp near an old mining town and explore historical sites while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
  • Don't miss the chance to visit Idaho City Yurts, which provide a unique glamping experience with easy access to hiking trails and winter sports activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Marsing, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Marsing, ID is Caldwell Campground and RV Park with a 3.6-star rating from 9 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Marsing, ID?

TheDyrt.com has all 13 tent camping locations near Marsing, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.