Murphy Hot Springs, Idaho offers camping opportunities alongside the Jarbidge River in high-desert terrain at approximately 6,000 feet elevation. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with summer days reaching the 90s and nights dropping to the 40s. Fall brings early frost while spring often delivers unexpected snow flurries, creating variable camping conditions throughout the accessible seasons.
What to do
Hiking trails: Near Sawmill Campground, trails provide moderate terrain for day hikes. "We made it to a peak. Seen horse's, lizards rabbits, and preying mantis," notes one camper who visited Sawmill's nearby trails.
Fishing access: Anglers can cast at several reservoir locations, though water conditions vary seasonally. At Grey's Landing, "there were a few people fishing" even when swimming wasn't possible due to "toxic algae bloom in the lake."
Hot springs exploration: The Murphy Hot Springs area serves as a base camp for visiting natural springs. Temperatures at the springs typically range from 100-115°F depending on seasonal flow rates and locations.
Canyon exploration: The dramatic rock formations provide opportunities for photography and geological exploration. At Balanced Rock County Park, you'll find "amazing rock formations all around" with one visitor noting they "hiked around and explored the rock formations" before camping "in the bottom of the canyon."
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campgrounds offer access to streams, reservoirs, or hot springs. At Balanced Rock County Park, sites are positioned "along a creek with amazing rock formations all around" and one camper described it as "an absolutely beautiful canyon creek side campground."
Darker night skies: The remote setting creates excellent stargazing conditions. One camper at Balanced Rock noted they had a "perfect view of the night sky" while describing their night as "very peaceful and beautiful right on a creek."
Temperature relief: Canyon locations often provide cooler temperatures than surrounding areas. As one camper at Lud Drexler Park observed, "It got a little breezy each day but calmed down at night. Very hot during the day and very COOL at night. Great sleeping weather!"
Wildlife encounters: The diverse ecosystem supports various wildlife viewing opportunities. At Balanced Rock, campers report "lots of sounds of animals and surrounding critters at night" while at Lud Drexler Park, others mentioned hearing "coyotes screaming every night (which was amazing!)"
What you should know
Insect conditions: Several campgrounds report significant fly populations during certain periods. At Big Bend, despite being "peaceful" with "very friendly and quiet" campers, one visitor noted heavy road traffic during hunting season.
Cell service variability: Coverage depends greatly on terrain and campground location. One camper at Balanced Rock County Park reported "there wasn't any cell or wifi service or reception in the canyon."
Water availability: Not all campgrounds have functioning water systems year-round. At Big Bend, one visitor noted "water hydrants throughout but not charged, no water available."
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain. According to a camper at North Wild Horse Recreation Area, the area offers "covered picnic tables and a great view of the water" but can present challenges for setting up camp.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer basic recreational facilities for children. Balanced Rock County Park provides a "swingset for kiddos" along with "horseshoe pits" and plenty of space for play.
Swimming considerations: Water quality affects swimming possibilities. At Nat-Soo-Pah Hot Springs & RV Park, "the pool is wonderful for family's and kids" with one visitor noting it's "a mecca for rowdy children" but "the temperature and delicious texture of the water make it an absolute delight."
Spacing awareness: Sites at some campgrounds can feel crowded during peak times. One camper at Nat-Soo-Pah described it as having "very close campsites, and quite busy on weekends."
Noise consideration: Some campgrounds experience variable noise levels. A camper at Nat-Soo-Pah noted "guests were up being loud well into the 3 AM hour" while others describe peaceful settings with natural sounds.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV camping near Murphy Hot Springs, Idaho offers varying levels of services. At Saguaro RV Park at Cactus Petes Resort Casino, you'll find "full service hook up" with "leveled sights plus drive thru or pull in" options.
Site spacing: Many RV parks have compact layouts. One camper described Saguaro RV Park as "basically a parking lot with hookups" while another noted sites are "packed tight."
Facility maintenance: Bathroom and shower quality varies significantly between locations. A visitor at Saguaro RV Park found "bathrooms/shower/laundry well maintained."
Reservation needs: Availability fluctuates seasonally. At Pinecone Campground, electrical hookups are available in a meadow setting with reservation options, offering an alternative to first-come sites.
