Best Campgrounds near Melba, ID

The Snake River region surrounding Melba, Idaho features several distinctive camping areas ranging from established county parks to dispersed public lands. Celebration Park, situated along the Snake River approximately 25 miles from the nearest town, provides waterfront camping with designated sites and basic facilities. The Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey area offers dispersed camping opportunities with minimal development. Given's Hot Springs combines tent and RV sites with cabin accommodations and natural hot spring amenities, while several additional campgrounds within driving distance provide various levels of services for both tent and RV campers.

Road conditions vary significantly across the camping areas, with several requiring higher-clearance vehicles for access. The dispersed sites in the Morley Nelson area feature particularly rough roads more suitable for ATVs than passenger cars, while approach roads to some of the developed campgrounds may also present challenges. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F, making spring and fall more comfortable camping seasons in this high desert environment. Many sites have fire restrictions during dry periods, particularly in summer and early fall. "We parked right beside the river, and it was absolutely gorgeous. However, I don't recommend taking a car on this road. It's definitely an ATV road as it's very rough," noted one camper about the dispersed sites.

Waterfront sites along the Snake River represent the most sought-after camping locations in the area, offering scenic views of the surrounding canyon landscape. Celebration Park provides river access with designated camping areas, picnic tables, and vault toilets for a $5 fee with a three-night maximum stay. One visitor described it as having "amazing views of the surrounding terrain" while another mentioned the park has "stupendous views" with "good hiking that is pretty flat and mountain biking as well." The region's natural features include the Snake River Gorge, Halverson Lake, petroglyphs, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly birds of prey. While sites close to visitor centers may have some light pollution, areas farther from facilities offer excellent stargazing conditions in this relatively remote desert landscape.

Best Camping Sites Near Melba, Idaho (88)

    1. Celebration Park

    12 Reviews
    Melba, ID
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 495-2745

    $2 - $5 / night

    "It is remote and wild with non-stop views from every site and many outdoor activities nearby."

    "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."

    2. Swan Falls - Idaho Power

    17 Reviews
    Murphy, ID
    13 miles
    Website

    "Dyrt found this gem of a free waterfront site while passing through SW Idaho."

    "Both the idaho power side and further down the gravel road gives you numerous options for camping. Dam makes for great fishing too!"

    3. Given’s Hot Springs

    8 Reviews
    Marsing, ID
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 495-2000

    $30 - $40 / night

    "It’s by the road, it’s super outdated walking around the property there is trash everywhere it’s definitely Past its heyday it be great if someone could pump some money into this and a little bit of TLC"

    "The owner told me their family found this hot springs while they were on the Oregon trail! Loved this information. The owners are welcoming and the whole place feels friendly."

    4. KOA Boise Meridian RV Resort

    12 Reviews
    Meridian, ID
    17 miles
    +1 (208) 888-7003

    "The location is near the the central part of Meridian, there is no open land, rivers or other natural attractions within walking distance.  "

    "This KOA is located close to everything you need in the Meridian Boise area. The sites are pretty close, and the wifi is not great. Those are my only reasons for the 4 star."

    6. Mountain View RV Park

    14 Reviews
    Boise, ID
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 345-4141

    "While exploring southeastern Idaho we were looking at some extreme temps coming our way and wanted the luxury of electric hookups for AC."

    "Great spot right in Boise city limits, but right next to the airport and highway. Facilities are very nice and staff is very friendly. Only issue was the road noise."

    7. Boise Riverside RV Park

    20 Reviews
    Garden City, ID
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 995-4864

    $53 - $95 / night

    "Biking, hiking, walking along the Boise River. There is also some great fishing on the Boise River. This location is centered for city goers, snow skiers, white water rafters and anglers."

    "Feels like a little oasis tucked in behind the fairground and baseball stadium. The green belt and river run right by it. Super friendly staff. Variety of site types."

    8. Abundant Life RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Caldwell, ID
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 714-0667

    $45 - $55 / night

    "There is a very busy local highway (Business I-84) and Interstate (the actual I-84) close by so the cell towers can’t keep up.  "

    "Close to everything."

    9. Ambassador RV Resort

    10 Reviews
    Caldwell, ID
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 454-8584

    "We stayed at the Ambassador RV Resort in Caldwell, Idaho in July and September 2021. This is one of the nicest, cleanest, well-maintained parks we have stayed at."

    "Easy access to the park easy from Hwy. Fast check-in and huge pull throughs"

    10. Boise-Meridian KOA

    6 Reviews
    Meridian, ID
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 888-7003

    "Sites felt pretty tight next to the “neighbors”."

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Recent Reviews near Melba, ID

432 Reviews of 88 Melba Campgrounds


  • J D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Terriland

    Great and friendly place!

    We had such a great experience here! Very welcoming and friendly people. We arrived late and Terri still came out to welcome us and help us get settled. She gave us great recommendations to do around the area.

  • Cable A.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Boise Riverside RV Park

    Crowded and kinda gross

    Great access to the greenbelt. Fantastic walking to anything you need. Worst showers, laundry and bathrooms than anywhere I’ve been. They don’t take care of them for how much money the obviously bring in. Overpriced, cramped and gross. Does the job for a few days though.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Succor Creek State Natural Area Dispersed

    Fantastic otherworldly Camp Site

    It's a long drive in, but once you get into the canyon, it's beyond amazing. A camera does not do it justice. The campsites down near the boat ramp are very nice with covered picnic tables. The vault toilet is clean. No cell, or water, but you can filter the river. Weekends can be busy but it's still politely quiet. I'll happily go here and sit a spell.

  • John G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Grayback Campground and Group Sites - Reserve

    Great family spot

    Easy to find, get to and quiet. Lots of spots to choose from. Kind of close together but lots of space in each individual spot. Plenty of room for my 12x16 tent and canopy to set up with lots of room left. Few little easy trails to walk. Perfect streaming level service with T-Mobile. Bathrooms are what you’d expect, nothing fancy but gets the jobs done

  • April B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Antelope Reservoir

    Quiet, Secluded, but Buggy

    When we arrived, we were the only ones there. There were five sites with tables, fire pits, and pit toilets. Toilets were clean.

    The reservoir was extremely low.

    Rattlesnake area.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Roystone Hot Springs RV and Camping

    Hot Springs

    Well maintained gravel campground. Only 10 RV spots. You must make a reservation. Grounds are well kept. 20 min drive to Emmett, ID. Reservations required to use the Hot Springs pool/tub.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Swan Falls - Idaho Power

    Waterfront property

    Got a spot right by the water. It was a quiet Wednesday in September. Bugs were still very active. Definitely would stay here again for a quick overnight. Flush toilets at the dam parking lot and pit toilet at the boat ramp.

  • D
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Riverlife RVing

    Clean, convenient and welcoming

    First, your hosts - just wonderful people engaged in making your stay comfortable and enjoyable.  Their kindness and consideration are enough reason to return.  Nice setting adjacent to the Payette River adds to the aesthetic with spots along the shore to drop a line and try your luck.  It is a smaller park and the maintenance is spectacular.  Check your Google maps for access alternatives or call host.  He'll guide you in.

  • John G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Grayback Gulch Campground

    Great place!

    Really great place to take the family, bathrooms aren’t bad but not great, definitely useable. Creek is a short walk away. Nice clean area. Bugs aren’t bad. Coming back for sure.

    PS I have great 5G service here with T-Mobile. Able to call, use internet, and stream movies


Guide to Melba

Camping near Melba, Idaho, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the Greenbelt: The Greenbelt is a popular spot for walking and biking. One camper noted, "The Greenbelt is pretty, but VERY overcrowded. If you're looking for some peace walking by the river, forget it." So, if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours.
  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing in the nearby rivers. One reviewer mentioned, "I caught 10 small mouth Bass, couple were keepers!" This makes it a great spot for fishing enthusiasts.
  • Hiking Trails: There are several hiking trails in the area. A camper shared, "There's an excellent hiking trail leading to Halverson Lake not far in, forming a 3.9-mile loop." This is perfect for those who love to explore nature.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One visitor at Mountain View RV Park said, "The bathrooms are so well maintained. They look brand new and almost untouched."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have friendly staff who go out of their way to help. A reviewer at Ambassador RV Resort mentioned, "The entire staff is so nice, friendly & helpful."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful views around the campgrounds. One camper at Swan Falls - Idaho Power said, "When we woke up we couldn't believe the views."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways or airports. A camper at Riddle noted, "Great spot right in Boise city limits, but right next to the airport and highway."
  • Crowded Areas: Popular spots can get crowded, especially during weekends. One camper mentioned, "The roads are mud puddles. Your site is too, unfortunately." So, plan your visit accordingly.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A visitor at Boise Riverside RV Park said, "The entire front of the dumpsters had broken glass scattered all over the ground mixed in with the dirt and rocks."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. One camper at Country Corners Campground & RV Park said, "It is beautiful, quiet, calm, and very safe for children and families."
  • Plan for Noise: If you're camping near busy areas, bring earplugs for a better night's sleep. A camper at Rivers Edge RV Park mentioned, "The bathrooms... horror movie material!" indicating that cleanliness can be an issue.
  • Pack Outdoor Games: Bring games for outdoor fun. One family shared, "We felt like we were all alone on the river," which is perfect for family bonding time.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Boise Meridian RV Resort noted, "The sites are pretty close, and the wifi is not great."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check ahead. A reviewer at Snake River RV Resort said, "This park is a FHU pull-thru site and also has back-in sites."
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Some areas can be dusty, especially during windy days. A camper at Rivers Edge RV Park mentioned, "It was windy and dusty during our stay."

Camping near Melba, Idaho, has its ups and downs, but with the right preparation, you can have a great time enjoying the outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping spots in Melba, Idaho?

Near Melba, you'll find excellent camping options along the Snake River. Swan Falls - Idaho Power offers established campsites and some dispersed camping on BLM land, though the layout can be initially confusing when you arrive. For more natural settings, check out Celebration Park, which provides basic boondocking with bathroom facilities in a remote, scenic location featuring non-stop views and numerous outdoor activities. The Morley Nelson Snake River area also offers dispersed camping opportunities. While Melba itself is small, these nearby options provide good access to outdoor recreation while still being reasonably close to town amenities.

When is the best time of year to go camping near Melba?

The best time for camping near Melba is late spring through early fall (May to October), when temperatures are most comfortable and outdoor activities are readily accessible. Roystone Hot Springs RV and Camping near Emmett is particularly pleasant during these months, with well-maintained facilities and hot springs that are refreshing in cooler weather. Summer brings ideal conditions for water activities at Given's Hot Springs, though it can get quite hot in July and August. Spring offers beautiful wildflowers, while fall delivers colorful foliage. Winter camping is possible but less comfortable due to cold temperatures, with many facilities reducing services or closing entirely.

What amenities are available at Melba campgrounds?

Campgrounds near Melba offer varying amenities depending on the type of experience you're seeking. Jacks Creek Campground provides sites along the reservoir with camping right at the water's edge, making it perfect for fishing, kayaking, and bird watching. Most sites are RV-friendly, including options for big rigs, and the area is well-maintained by Idaho Power. For those wanting more facilities, Country Corners Campground & RV Park offers clean showers and bathrooms, quiet surroundings despite highway proximity, and is well-maintained by owners who take pride in their property. Many campgrounds in the region provide basic amenities like toilets and water access, while RV parks typically include full hookups.