Best Campgrounds near McCammon, ID
Camping near McCammon, Idaho encompasses a mix of free dispersed sites and established campgrounds set between mountain foothills and river valleys. The area includes Indian Rocks Dispersed Camping, a former state park now managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), located just off I-15. Nearby, Scout Mountain Campground in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest offers pine-shaded sites at higher elevation. The Portneuf River corridor provides several camping options, while the popular Lava Hot Springs area, about 15 miles east of McCammon, features multiple developed campgrounds with amenities. According to campers, Indian Rocks provides "beautiful views with easy access to the highway" while maintaining a surprisingly quiet atmosphere despite its proximity to the interstate.
Most campgrounds in the McCammon area operate seasonally from late May through October, with Scout Mountain open May 25 to October 30 and Goodenough Creek Campground available June to October. Winter camping is limited due to snow and freezing temperatures at higher elevations. Access to Indian Rocks requires navigating a gravel road with minor potholes, though it remains passable for most vehicles. Cell service is generally reliable near McCammon, with visitors reporting three to five bars of Verizon coverage at Indian Rocks. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer months, particularly in August and September when wildfire risk increases.
The camping experience varies significantly between locations around McCammon. Dispersed sites like Indian Rocks offer primitive camping with no amenities but provide free access and fewer restrictions for campers seeking solitude. Established campgrounds like Scout Mountain feature vault toilets, drinking water, and defined sites with fire rings. For those wanting full amenities, the KOA locations in Lava Hot Springs provide electric hookups, showers, and other conveniences. Families often prefer the developed campgrounds with facilities, while anglers gravitate toward sites along the Portneuf River for fishing access. Pet owners will find most area campgrounds accommodate dogs, though leash requirements vary by location.
