Camping sites near May, Idaho range from established campgrounds with amenities to riverside primitive sites along the Salmon River. Located in central Idaho at an elevation of approximately 6,000 feet, the area experiences warm summer days with cool nights and cold winters. Most campgrounds in the region are open from April through October with overnight temperatures dropping below 40°F even in summer months.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morgan Creek Recreation Site offers excellent opportunities for spotting bighorn sheep. One camper noted, "Several BH sheep sightings. Nice surprise. Had it to ourselves. A bit buggy with creek."
River recreation access: Watts Bridge Campground provides easy access to the Salmon River. "Very easy river access from site, but water is moving quickly. We walked to the other side of the bridge and let our dogs jump in where the water was calmer," reports one visitor.
Historic exploration: Bayhorse Recreation Site serves as a gateway to the region's mining history. A camper mentioned, "Beautiful drive up an old road that takes you past amazing mining ruins. At the top we found a beautiful campground next to a mtn top lake."
Hiking trails: The area offers numerous hiking options from beginner to advanced trails. At Big Eightmile Campground/Trailhead, one visitor shared, "Dairy creek trail was a short and fun trail. Able to complete it and the water was super clear and pretty. Also tried Patterson trail, Devils lake, Everson trail, eight mile trail which not able to complete due to snow or fallen trees in the way."
What campers like
Hot springs access: Challis Hot Springs offers two mineral pools with different temperatures. "This place has it ALLLLL... hot springs pools (2!). And it is next to the Snake river," reports one camper. Another notes, "This place is a true gem. Getting to experience hot springs without hiking to them is so nice."
Riverside camping spots: Many campers appreciate sites directly on the Salmon River. At Watts Bridge Campground, a visitor shared, "Landed the spot on the far right side of the campsite, right on the river. Absolutely beautiful with all the leaves changing. Nothing like falling asleep to the sound of the river."
Well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds in the area typically have clean restrooms and sites. A camper at Cottonwood Recreation Site commented, "This is a little gem with easy paved access and paved throughout. Just off the highway with good signage right on the Salmon River. 15 fcfs sites. Clean vault toilets."
Spacious sites: Campgrounds typically offer good separation between sites. At Elk Bend RV Park, a visitor mentioned, "The sites are just water and electric, very nice grass around the gravel sites perfect for dogs."
What you should know
Road access varies: Some campgrounds require navigating rough roads. At Deer Gulch, a camper noted, "Just off the main highway, and only a narrow bridge as an obstacle. There is currently a 30'ish foot big fifth wheel here, so I guess it can handle the weight. Just watch your sides if you are pulling a camper."
Highway noise considerations: Many sites sit near highways with some traffic noise. "93 is close so there is some mild highway noise but nothing unbearable," reported one Deer Gulch visitor.
Seasonal bugs: Creek-side and riverside sites can be buggy, especially in early summer. A visitor to Morgan Creek Recreation Site warned, "A bit buggy with creek."
Limited services: Most campgrounds have vault toilets but minimal other amenities. Round Valley RV Park campers mentioned, "Many large and well spaced pull through sites, all on gravel. Very little shade. Water, sewer and electric all good."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Challis Hot Springs, a visitor noted, "Beautiful flowers, right on the river! There's also hiking trails behind the campground. Playground."
Swimming opportunities: Sites with calm river access are best for families with children. At Cottonwood Recreation Site, a camper mentioned, "Water and pit toilets. Inexpensive and the sites are descent. Horseshoe pits x 2 and a dump station and sandbox."
Family-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with recreational activities. "This place has it ALLLLL. Tent sites, RV sites w/electric and water, dry sites; boat ramp; playground, volleyball net, clothes lines," wrote a Challis Hot Springs visitor.
Temperature management: Summer days can be hot while nights cool significantly. Packing layers is essential for family comfort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Getting riverside sites often requires early arrival. "We ended up staying an extra night! 30 & 50 amp with water. Dump station on site," noted a Challis Hot Springs visitor.
Hookup availability: Most primitive sites lack hookups, while established campgrounds offer basic services. Round Valley RV Park provides "water, sewer and electric all good. Easy in and out. Access the OHV trails from here."
Size limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on larger RVs. A camper at Deer Gulch advised, "Plenty of room for RVs and tents. Lots of open space next to the river. There are some shaded spots, and plenty of unshaded in case you have Starlink."
Communication considerations: Cell service varies significantly. "I had full bars with Verizon (the cell tower was within line of sight) but my friend with t-mobile had no service whatsoever," reported a Deer Gulch visitor. At Bayhorse Recreation Site, a camper noted "No cell reception of any kind. Starlink works."
