Tent camping near Moore, Idaho positions campers in central Idaho's high desert region between 5,000-7,500 feet elevation. Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, dropping to 40-50°F at night. Winter access to most camping areas becomes limited due to snow accumulation with many forest roads closing from November through April.
What to do
Fishing access points: Fish Creek Reservoir offers direct shoreline fishing without requiring lengthy hikes. "I love this area of Idaho. The campground is outside of Carey and a little remote, but right up against those beautiful rolling hills that are one of my favorite backdrops in this geologically diverse state," notes camper Allison W., who adds that "the reservoir, like many in this area, is very low most of the year and you should probably contact BLM to see what the status is before you go."
Alpine hiking: Mt. Borah Trailhead and Camping Area serves as the starting point for climbing Idaho's highest peak. "The trail ascends 5200' of elevation in just over 3.5 miles. Your legs will probably burn, bring hiking poles for the descent," advises Alan B. Climbers should start before 6 AM due to limited shade on the trail.
Multi-activity trails: Uncle Johns Gulch on Corral Creek Road features direct trail access from dispersed camping areas. "Great spot with hiking right by camp site," notes Daniel B., while another camper describes "large campsites next to stream nestled in a beautiful valley. Hiking/mtb trail next to campsites."
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation camping areas provide relief from summer valley heat. "The campground sits right around 7200' which is a decent bit cooler than the Big Lost River Valley to the west," reports Alan B. about Mt. Borah camping area, noting "there is also a good bit of shade despite there being few large trees."
Water proximity: Timber Creek offers sites between two water sources. According to Tate W., "This campground has 2 streams running on both sides of it so most camp spots have access right into the water... Lots of trees and very flat. Excellent access to the surrounding area and trails/roads."
Low usage rates: Even during peak summer season, many campgrounds maintain low occupancy. A camper at Iron Bog Campground reports, "I was happy to find this low use campground in the middle of the summer, when almost everything seems like it's packed to the gills." Another visitor noted "Very quiet, peaceful evening; only one other site was occupied during my visit."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many sites require bringing your own water, especially late season. Kenny M. advises about Broad Canyon Campground, "This is a free campground so I tried to rate it accordingly. First off it does not have water at this location. So you'll need to bring your own. The next campground over (Star hope) has an old fashioned water pump where we always fill up our water coolers."
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have minimal or no connectivity. For Fish Creek Reservoir, a reviewer notes "No cell service whatsoever, so be aware of that." Similarly, at Iron Bog Campground, a camper reported "No T-Mobile and AT&T cell service."
Weather preparation: Hyndman Campground sits at higher elevation requiring appropriate gear even in warmer months. "If going in fall, prepare for some ice in the evening and light fog," advises Mary D., while others note that even summer nights can drop below 50°F.
Tips for camping with families
Look for shaded sites: At Iron Bog Campground, "Sites have tables and fire rings; some had shade-awnings over the tables... Most sites are in the open with no shade; a few were shaded near the creek," notes Fred S., which becomes important during hot summer days with children.
Water-adjacent camping: Little Wood River campground offers ideal family features according to Charli H., who describes it as having "green grass for day use and tent camping, private dock" and being "well cared for, easy access."
Distance between sites: Families appreciate space at certain campgrounds. At Timber Creek, Tate W. notes, "Lots of space between camp grounds. Not busy or packed at all... $10 a night." This pricing makes it an affordable option for family tent camping near Moore, Idaho.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing awareness: Many campgrounds have variable site dimensions. An Iron Bog camper observed, "Sites are big and able to accommodate even larger RVs (although the guy across from me struggled to fit his 30' rig in his spot, he did it!)." Site selection matters, as "gravel campground road and site driveways" with "site sizes varied" according to another reviewer.
