Looking for the best Mountain Home tent camping? The Dyrt is an easy way to find tent camping spots near Mountain Home. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Mountain Home, Idaho's most popular destinations.
The Elk Creek Boat Ramp provides access to Anderson Ranch Reservoir, just north of the dam. In 2013, portions of Elk Creek Boat Ramp site received extreme storm damage. Portions of the parking area, both cement boat ramp and wooden docks were damaged. Temporary repairs were completed, which has allowed public access to continue using the site. A contractor and Forest Staff are scheduled to begin repair on September 9, 2015 the repair will consist of removal of damaged facilities, and pouring of new ramp, dock anchors and abutment. Repair work was finished approximately October 19, 2015. The Ramp re-opened 10-20-2015. Once the work is completed, additional time is needed to allow for curing of the concrete.
Overview: Castle Creek Campground is located on the west shore of Anderson Ranch Reservoir. It is accessed from State Highway 20. Excellent fishing in the lake for bass and salmon. There is a boat ramp at the Fall Creek campground.
Overview: A stay at Cottonwood Campground enables guests to enjoy all the beauty and recreation offered around the Middle Fork Boise River and Arrowrock Reservoir. The tiny campground hosts 3 campsites. Weather is usually good from mid-May through late September and is easily accessible by car in good weather, although the road is sometimes rough and the drive can be seemingly long. Checking with the Mountain Ranger District (208-587-7961) on road conditions before heading out is recommended. Natural Features: The campground is situated just north of the reservoir along Cottonwood Creek. There is at a switchback of Forest Service (FS) roads 268 and 377. It is located less than a mile along FS road 377. Wildlife watchers may want to look for deer and elk. Waterfowl, eagles and osprey are attracted to the river. Recreation: Cottonwood Trail begins nearby, leading to Bald Mountain. Check the Idaho City Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for trails in the area that are open to hikers, equestrians, mountain bikers and off-road vehicles. Click here for an Idaho OHV safety message. Arrowrock Reservoir is a premier fishing destination in southwest Idaho. It offers excellent trout fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout. There are also good swimming holes. Big game hunting is a popular activity in season. The Middle Fork Boise River is just north of the campground and also offers great fishing.
Willow Creek Campground is a small site composed of 3 camping units. Campground amenities include picnic tables, fire rings and a restroom. The campground is approximately 1 mile south of the Willow Creek Transfer Camp & Willow Creek Trail No. 019 trailhead located north of the transfer camp.
Tailwaters Campground is accessed from State Highway 20. There are three campsites and plenty of opportunities to fish for trout and bass. The Campground is located on the west shore of Anderson Ranch Reservoir. The Tailwaters boat ramp is within the campground provides access for rafts, motorized and non-motorized boats. Be advised: There is an Elmore county ordinanace restricting any motorized equipment on the Lower South Fork Boise River.
Shafer Butte is located atop the scenic Boise Ridge Mountains, near Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, at an elevation of 7,000 feet. Visitors enjoy hiking and biking on various trails in the surrounding area, and simply relaxing and taking in the area's beautiful views.
Popular activities in the area include hiking and mountain biking, the Mores Mountain Trail begins in the campground. This 2-mile interpretive nature trail is family friendly.
Shafer Butte offers scenic views of Deer Point, Mores Mountain and Shafer Butte summits, as well as the expansive valley below. The campground is situated among Douglas fir and aspen trees, which offer partial shade in most sites. Wildlife and summer wildflowers are abundant in the area.
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area is close by and offers more hiking and biking trails, as well as other summer activities, check out this link for more information http://bogusbasin.org. The Ridge to River trail system is near by as well, check out this link for more information http://www.ridgetorivers.org
$50 / night
Guide
Arrived a bit late and didn't have a chance to explore but lovely landscapes. Enjoyed the protected shelters, but it was very windy. The showers and flush toilets were closed for the season, which kinda sucked but the pit toilets were clean. Would visit again!
Guide
Loved this spot! Parked our tow behind camper right on the beach. It is very muddy so don’t get too close to the shore, we had to help two vehicles get out of the mud. Also very buggy which is why is lost a star
Traveler
1st stop on our way to Moab. We were able to get our Nissan Frontier hauling a 6×10 trailer parked into the sight next to the Snake River. It was fairly level. Nice sunset viewing, not too buggy in early Oct. Lots of train noise thru the night, tho. Pit toilet was out of TP, luckily we had spare. We had an owl also visit the tree above us and serenaded us for a good 1/2 hr in the middle of the night (very cool). Overall, good stop for passing through.
Scout
Sites are well spaces apart. A quit spot.
Guide
Nice spot, got to drive up the road past the usa fee area campground. Its a bit up a hill and not on the valley floor so phone service is there like one bar. No tables but some make shift fire pits at free spots. Kinda a rocky road but not a bunch of holes. Supposedly there have been mountain lion sightings in this area. Some intense utah/idaho drivers so just be cool. A less dry quiet spot, beautiful sounds of bugs at night prob crickets and no biter bugs like mosquitoes. Could give it 4 stars but I got to sneak in in the usa fee area to use toilet. Usually most hosts are not paying attention or are cool about it if you aint a crazy. Hey just realized Im not one of those lol.
Guide
Well shaded sites with a clean bathroom, shower combo. There’s only the one bathroom but we didn’t have to wait for anyone to use it. It was quiet except for an occasional public service siren which wasn’t too loud. We felt safe staying there even though it was in a residential area The only thing that was missing was a picnic table
Guide
My wife and I were forced to make last minute changes to our camping trip this year(thanks to the Wapiti 2024 fire in Stanley) and Dog Creek was the only campground available on the dates we had set aside. We had been up to Pine once before but had never explored past the town.
The campground itself is quiet and away from the main road but it is directly parallel to the South Fork of the Boise River. There are a TON of ponderosa pines and other various pine trees so the campground looks small because of the dense tree cover. From the main road, the main drive is a fairly narrow paved dirt/gravel road and not bumpy at all so most vehicles shouldn’t have an issue with it.
The camp sites themselves are a little close to each other but you’re not shoulder to shoulder or directly on top of each other. The camp host greeted us upon our arrival, filled us in on the fire restrictions and said to let him know if we needed anything.
We had reserved sites 10 and 11 but in reality, they might as well call it a group site because there is no separation between the two, you even share a"driveway”. There were fire rings, tent pads(at some sites) and picnic tables, along with shepherds hooks for hanging trash off of the ground. There were also metal tables at every site that we think are intended for camp stoves.(The picnic tables are wood)The fire rings were well cared for(none damaged that we saw and they all had adjustable grills)….but our fire ring was very close to the bushes which was a little sketchy.
This campground is nice and quiet and full of trees. But unfortunately, for us, that’s where the appeal ends. In order to get to the actual Dog Creek from the campground, you have to hope that sites 2 and 5 are not occupied and even then, the creek isn’t super exciting. It’s pretty but it’s a climb down into a ravine of sorts and it’s not deep enough to lay in and there aren’t any places to setup chairs to just enjoy it. The water flowing through the creek is clean and it is pretty to look at, but that’s about all it’s good for.
As for other things to do at the campground, there isn’t much. There are no hiking trails as far as we could tell, but if you go across the street to the river, you can actually enjoy your stay, assuming the banks of the river aren’t packed with dispersed campers and their ATV’s.
The campground does have water spigots and the water tasted fine. The restrooms(vault toilets) were impeccable in terms of cleanliness. Some of the nicest Forest Service campground restrooms we’ve used and the camp host does an awesome job of keeping them clean and bug free.
Speaking of bugs, we didn’t see many mosquitoes but we did see a good amount of bees, wasps and yellow jackets and there were traps setup throughout the campground so bring an epi pen if you’re allergic to any of them.
We lost cell service just after the reservoir (T-Mobile) but my satellite communicator worked fairly well at the campground.
There are dumpsters to take your trash just inside the entrance to the campground, which is a little annoying as you have to walk quite a ways to dump it, but there were also no critters hanging around the sites.
Dog Creek campground is the type of campground where you setup your camper or RV and leave for the day to do other things. Whether it’s boating at Anderson Ranch, taking the ATV’s up into the mountains or try to find hiking trails. The campground itself is very pretty BUT it doesn’t offer much in terms of things to do while there. However, if you are looking for some peace and quiet, with very little noise from the outside world, it’s great.
GuideNice lil spot to relax . Really rough road is the only bad part
Legend
We followed our GPS plus there is great signage leading you to the Y Knot Winery, which is the same route to go to Three Island Crossing State Park. The state park is adjacent to the winery campground(CG). You first come to the older CG across from the winery building, which is better suited for smaller rigs. We were in the newer CG a little further up the road in pull-through site 26 with FHUs. As we had a reservation with an assigned site number, we went straight to our site, set up, and then walked back over to the winery to register. The sites have an interesting layout as they are long, yet the front and back of site not really defined. You have to adjust your rig on the gravel pad to fit your rig to the utilities towards the back of the site. You then ensure that either side of your rig isn’t too far on the gravel road. The CG is bare bones with no picnic tables, fire pits, nor WiFi(saw a review for$6 Wifi but didn’t see any networks in the new area). It was no issue for us as we were enjoying the winery and golf course. Since the CG is new, the trees have not matured and you have no problem with satellite. We got one bar on Verizon. Their water pressure is high so you will need a reducer. We got an end cap site and enjoyed the large yard. The CG info states there’s a pet area, but there’s no sign or fenced in area. The pet area is a grassy area along the golf course side of the CG according to the map. There was no road noise, but there was a distant train or two during the night. There’s a lot to like about this CG: nice sites, wine tasting, decent food, and a fun golf course.
Traveler
About an hour off the highway, 7 miles of which are washboard-bumpy gravel roads along the lake cliffside (Had to drive under 10mph those last 7 miles). We were in an AWD sprinter van, and the road conditions definitely put a damper on the night. Site is right on the water gorgeous once you’re there. The stars were incredible. Toilet on site but the flies were swarming.
GuideSpent one night here on a long road trip. I was the only one there. Very easy to find. Felt safe, nice view of the river. The only negative was the trains going by at night. Quite loud.
Scout
Found this place after a trip to another spot was not to be. Awesome staff great spot to just relax. Today the views were almost as impressive as the staff. We are going back! dusty 3 mile road and all.
Scout
Once you get past the 7 miles with no camping, there are a large amount of campsites. The road is pretty washboard and there was some traffic noise in the morning . There was a moderate amount of trash on the beach that I camped at. But, overall a good campsite.
Traveler
Found this gem few miles off the highway with amazing views all around. Plus the owners were incredibly nice. Would definitely stay again.
Guide
I've been a full-timer for several years now and have stayed in many parks. This is by far the cleanest, nicest park I have ever seen. The sites are wide, spacious and clean. Lush green grass and shady mature trees at every site. All concrete pads. Private bathrooms with showers! The dog park is stunning. The roads are paved and there's not a single piece of gravel in sight! You really have to see this place to believe it. It's like a little neighborhood!
TravelerWe 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.
Traveler
3 sites with tables and a pit toilet. Beautiful secluded spot mostly to ourselves
Traveler
Pretty little spot with pretty decent cell service. Lots of space for my dogs to run around. Could see other campers in the distance. Everyone had lots of room to themselves. I could see it becoming a little bit busier on the weekend. No facilities available at all, which is fine by me! Unfortunately people seem to leave trash around. There was a fire pit which I appreciated but greasy tends in the pit. There also trash bags and a few other things around. Overall, this did not majorly detract from the site. I would recommend bringing bug repellent or a thermacell to ward off bugs.
Scout
Well, guess the review below should have been posted after we checked out. Why? We went for a walk and upon our return at 9pm we were greeted by the management advising us we needed to immediately depart. If we didn't we were told we'd be trespassing and.... This is a first for us. A bit surprising as we are both retired health care professionals(surgeon and MPH). Plus, we have volunteered as camp hosts in both state parks and a KOA. Not a good experience. We are in a 38' Class A, and we're assigned site 17. The"guide' took us to our site. He had the people in the next site move their car so we could pull through and back in. Then he directed my husband pull through an area where there was a dead tree with the branches cut off, but still with the trunk and large limbs present. The top of our RV got caught under a protruding branch, scraping the top edge of the coach. The guide shared this was his first week and he didn't understand why they assigned us this site. He got his manager to come look at our coach and the site. The manager said he would have parked us differently, and they are not responsible for the damage. We asked for a different site, and the approach was better. Still very tight. Not a great way to start the visit and very disappointed in the management. Leaving early and likely won't be back or recommend this park to others. We camped at Boise Riverside RV Park in a Motorhome
GuideThere are many group sites and single sites. Many sites own a corner turn. Also your entire campsite will be visible to every car passing. There are other sites on the other side of the road that are more private. Be wary the road is very dangerous getting in. Take it slow.
Some people park their trailers at lake front but beware of the dune sand , you might get stuck.
I love being able to jump into the lake and ride my bike along the lake.
T
Scout
Great spot to relax
Traveler
This is a great campground. Sites are spaced out, 1 loop makes it easy to maneuver. Would recommend NOT using sites 3, 4, or 5 if you have an RV. All other sites are great! The entrance is a narrow road down a hill. But still very accessible for a travel trailer.
Keep in mind, Black Rock is 20 miles of dirt road. It does get bumpy in some spots. I was able to drive 15-20mph with a trailer most of the time.
No trash service, pack in pack out. Vault toilets, hand crank water pump. Recommend RVs fill up on water in Idaho City.
No cell service on T Mobile
Guide
I reside approximately five miles from this campground and frequently visit. I've camped there back when it was merely dirt campsites. I'm providing some updated photos for future campers, 13 sites first come first serve. There's a large area at the road's end for turning around, though the approach to the gated campsites is somewhat rough; thus, campers with higher clearance are advised. If space permits, you can also park your camper in the main lot by the river's edge for the same fee. This area is fully paved and equipped with picnic tables and vault toilets, but it may get crowded with day users. Once you head towards the improved campsites, you're essentially committed to entering, but turning around is possible. Additionally, there's an excellent hiking trail leading to Halverson Lake not far in, forming a 3.9-mile loop. For a more extensive hike, follow the river trail to discover old stone mini huts—some are intact enough to enter, while others are just rubble, yet they're all intriguing to explore. It's believed they once served as shelters for trappers.
TravelerNice grass for dogs to roll in, excellent bathrooms and showers, horseshoes, pool, dog park. Decent distance between shady sites. Second time staying here for 1 night while traveling.
ScoutWe stayed on property
GuidePretty, small area with a boat launch. No services were open in April, but parking was available and free. There is enough Verizon cell signal to text, but not to stream.
Traveler
Great spot on the river with clean bathrooms, water access, beautiful views and Strike hot spring right nearby. Awesome place to camp for free. Lots of big fish in the river and lots of birds.
Mountain Home, Idaho, offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure and relaxation in nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Mountain Home, ID?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Mountain Home, ID is Swan Falls - Idaho Power with a 3.9-star rating from 15 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 26 tent camping locations near Mountain Home, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.
