Dispersed camping options near Murphy Hot Springs include several primitive sites along the Jarbidge River and surrounding area. Located at 5,500 feet elevation in southwestern Idaho's high desert terrain, this region experiences dramatic temperature shifts between daytime heat and cool evenings. Winter months typically close many access roads with heavy snowfall, while summer brings temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F with minimal shade in most camping areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer creek and reservoir access for fishing. At Wild Horse State Recreation Area, campers report "amazing fishing" with one reviewer noting the reservoir is well-stocked and popular among local anglers.
Hiking exploration: The remote mountain terrain provides numerous hiking options. At Pine Creek Campground, a visitor shared that there's "awesome hiking and horseback riding - some of the best in the country" with trails extending into the surrounding wilderness areas.
Wildlife watching: The canyon areas attract diverse wildlife. Balanced Rock County Park visitors often hear "coyotes screaming every night" which one reviewer described as "amazing" while noting the scenic rock formations surrounding the campground create natural habitat areas.
What campers like
Remote solitude: Many campgrounds in this region provide isolation from crowds. At Sawmill Campground, a reviewer noted there are "not many nicely spaced campsites" but appreciated the privacy and vault toilets available for primitive camping.
Creek access: Several camping areas feature stream access for cooling off. One camper at Bonanza Gulch described the "crystal clear and accessible creek" along with "excellent quality gravel road, crazy rock formations, pretty trees" making it an appealing destination for those seeking water access.
Natural features: The geological formations create distinctive camping backdrops. A visitor to Balanced Rock County Park mentioned the "high basalt cliffs" and noted that "balanced rock is a short car drive or medium walk away and is definitely worth a visit" for its unusual geology.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most camping areas provide only basic amenities. A camper at Pine Creek Campground warned it's "primitive and hard to get to but worth it" and advised visitors to "take everything you need and pack it out please" since it's "60 miles one way to town."
Weather variability: Expect significant temperature fluctuations. At Wild Horse State Recreation Area, reviewers mentioned warm days but cool nights, making it "great sleeping weather" though winds can intensify during afternoon hours.
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful navigation. One reviewer recommended going "slow on 4 ply, 10 ply greatly preferred on these dirt roads" when visiting the more remote campsites in the area.
Cell service: Limited connectivity affects most camping areas. A Bonanza Gulch visitor noted "no cell signal at all anywhere near" with "the nearest reliable cell signal to the east is 35 miles east of Murphy Hot Springs."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming locations: Several designated swimming areas welcome children. At Big Bend Campground, families can enjoy "nice and shady spots" that provide relief from summer heat, with one visitor noting it was "great spot" for children to cool off.
Playground equipment: Some campgrounds include recreational facilities. Balanced Rock County Park offers a "swingset for kiddos" and a horseshoe pit, making it suitable for family activities beyond hiking and water play.
Insect awareness: Be prepared for seasonal insect activity. One camper at North Wild Horse Recreation Area reported "SO MANY CRICKETS! It looked like the ground was moving" which might distress some children but fascinate others.
Wildlife education: Use animal encounters as learning opportunities. Visitors frequently report seeing "horses, lizards, rabbits, and preying mantis" at Sawmill Campground trails, offering children chances to observe desert wildlife in natural settings.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require careful setup for larger vehicles. At Lud Drexler Park, an RVer noted "only available sites were not close to level and unfortunately the gravel was deep enough that I had trouble getting level blocks in place."
Generator policies: Rules vary between campgrounds. While some dispersed sites have no restrictions, established campgrounds may limit generator hours to prevent noise disruption for tent campers and wildlife.
Dump station locations: Plan waste management carefully. Wild Horse State Recreation Area provides "sanitary dumps with water if you need to refill your fresh tank or to use the spray in the black tank," which several RV reviewers highlighted as particularly valuable in this remote region.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. A reviewer at Saguaro RV Park mentioned "all appear to be pull-thru, most with double capacity, 2 hook ups per pull thru" making it suitable for larger rigs requiring less maneuvering.
