Glamping options near Melba, Idaho provide visitors with waterfront accommodations within a 30-mile radius of this rural farming community. Situated along the Snake River at an elevation of 2,300 feet, Melba experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and cold winters where freezes are common. Many local camping areas feature riverside locations with boat access during the summer months when water recreation is most popular.
What to do
River recreation: Snake River RV Resort offers direct access to fishing opportunities along the Snake River. "When the weather warms up in the spring this is a great place to catch channel catfish in the shallows... if you're just looking for some quiet peaceful time down by the river they will let you pull your motor home right down there close," notes Fishin' R.
Biking trails: Use Caldwell Campground and RV Park as a base for accessing local pathways. "The Greenbelt, a 3 mile paved path can be accessed right at the front of the campground. It crosses an old train bridge and then runs along the water," according to Kelsey G.
Rock collecting: The desert canyons near Melba contain geological treasures. "Very hot with little shade. Large camping spots. Lots of cute little snakes. Great for star gazing and searching for thunder eggs," shares Laurie W. about the canyon formations at Succor Creek.
What campers like
Swimming access: Rivers Edge RV Park provides water recreation that surprises visitors. "The water was so warm I swam at midnight! That's 5 stars," mentions Mary D., highlighting the unexpected water temperatures.
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites feature pond areas with local birds. "The fishing pond is nice to sit by and watch the ducks," notes one reviewer about Caldwell Campground and RV Park.
Peaceful riverside settings: Campers appreciate the tranquil environment. "I enjoyed the fact that you can kayak from the camp area on the Snake River, and within just a couple miles, you officially kayaked to Oregon," shares Matt S. about his experience at Rivers Edge RV Park.
What you should know
Temperature fluctuations: Summer heat can be intense. "Not for the faint of heart in July without a generator. Woke up at 8am this morning and it's already 90 out. Decent sized spots. Right by the lake. Could be advertised as a weight loss spa because of the heat wave," warns Will M. about CJ Strike Area - Cottonwood Park.
Road conditions: Many campsites require travel on unpaved roads. "Getting there was great. It's a 20 mile dirt and gravel road from the freeway and it's pretty well maintained," explains Alex B. about accessing natural areas outside Melba.
Facility maintenance: Bathroom and shower quality varies significantly between sites. "Bathrooms were clean and free showers that were too," notes Lorrie K. about Rivers Edge RV Park, though other reviewers mention less pleasant experiences at the same location.
Tips for camping with families
Cave exploration: The canyon areas provide natural adventures for children. "There are fun hikes along the creek and many caves to be explored. Perfect spot for camping with kids," recommends Brad M. about Succor Creek State Natural Area.
Recreational options: Families appreciate sites with multiple activities. "Large pavilion area on the river is great for large groups... a very nice location with great staff and large areas to enjoy while on walks or just while sitting back in a lawn chair," notes Barry S. about Snake River RV Resort.
Urban proximity: Glamping close to Melba, Idaho allows for both outdoor and city experiences. "We rode bikes along the path, enjoyed the river, toured Boise state and downtown, and even ate dinner without ever getting in our car," shares todd about Boise Riverside RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site access: Large rigs require careful planning. "Our site was flat and level and a snap to set up our fifth wheel. It was windy and dusty during our stay," mentions Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure about Snake River RV Resort.
Electrical connections: Check hookups before setting up. "I found the 30 amp outlet melted & broken and the 110 outlet blackened from spark damage," warns Dave S. about potential issues at some sites.
Water availability: Most RV parks offer full hookups, but water pressure varies. "The water was leaking terribly and we immediately shut it off and notified them," reports one camper, highlighting the importance of checking connections upon arrival.
