Camping near Murphy, Idaho offers access to desert landscapes along the Snake River canyon. The area sits at approximately 2,500 feet elevation with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most camping options lack significant shade and consist of basic sites on rough terrain dominated by sagebrush and volcanic rock formations.
What to do
Hiking trails: A 3.9-mile loop trail connects Celebration Park to Halverson Lake with relatively flat terrain suitable for most ability levels. "Lots to do and to see, quiet during the day but cows crying at night. A stockyard is just down the road," notes MeLinda W.
Fishing opportunities: Anglers can catch bass and other species along the Snake River at Swan Falls - Idaho Power. "We were able to launch our kayaks for fishing and paddling for a couple of days. Fishing was awesome. I caught quite a few smallies, but they were on the smaller side," reports Ed E.
Historic exploration: The area features abandoned stone structures along river trails. At Halverson Bar/Lake, campers can explore the trailhead leading to these historical remnants. "Its pretty close to the snake river, and at the trailhead of a non vehicle trail... Pretty rough terrain getting to the end," according to Jonathan A.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The Snake River corridor provides habitat for numerous bird species, especially raptors. "There are plenty of activities here, not to mention... if you are into watching Birds of Prey, hearing coyotes yipping at night and having rabbits running around, as well as some deer cruising the area," says Daren C. about Swan Falls.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies away from city lights make for excellent astronomical viewing. "Swan Falls is the perfect quick getaway. There are many campsites to choose from tucked down along the river... Not to mention there are trails all over the rim of the canyon," shares Jade F.
Quiet atmosphere: Most campgrounds near Murphy offer solitude and peaceful settings. "Only two other campers. Very hot. 100 degrees. Too hot to do anything. There are few river access points. River is slow moving. Refreshing to sit in. Very quiet camping," reports jeremy M. about Celebration Park.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: While the area has trails that could accommodate horses, none of the campgrounds near Murphy offer dedicated horse corrals or stabling. Riders must bring containment systems suitable for rough terrain.
Extreme temperatures: Summer heat can be intense with minimal shade. "Very hot with little to no shade. The best part of this place is watching the birds of prey and the scenic canyon views," Laurie W. notes about Swan Falls.
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires traveling on unpaved roads. "The dirt road beyond Celebration Park transitions to rougher terrain... You drive around the park and it turns into a dirt road. BLM or County land I think," Jonathan A. explains about Halverson Bar/Lake.
Limited facilities: Most camping areas offer minimal amenities. "Free camping, dispersed, no fresh water, no fires allowed. Hikers going to the trail will walk past your site if you park on the road turnouts," adds Jonathan A.
Tips for camping with families
Best seasons: Plan family trips during spring or fall to avoid extreme summer heat. "This location is great for the fall or spring getaway. Only half a dozen sites. No electric or water on site but water is available by visitors center as is an amazingly clean and modern restroom!" advises Meredith S. about Celebration Park.
Safety precautions: The Snake River has dangerous currents. "I love this place! It is awesome for having little bon fires, or just cat fishing in the Snake river. I do not recommend swimming In the Snake though, the stretch of river that flows through this park is dangerous and pulls people under," warns Jill R.
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer interpretive activities. "There are a lot of activities there including hiking, swimming, fishing, the information center and atlatl throwing. There are also petroglyphs in the area," mentions Amy S. about Silver City Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Look for level areas with adequate clearance for larger vehicles. "We have a 27' Travel Trailer pulled with an extended long bed Chevy Silverado. We were able to get into the last or furthest campsite up stream, north of the dam," shares Ed E. about Swan Falls.
Water conservation: With limited water sources, bring adequate supplies. "No reservations, so it's on a first come first serve basis. Our site had a fire pit but no picnic table," Ed E. continues.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have steep approaches. "The drive down from the top is pretty steep. Ensure your vehicle is powerful enough to pull your rig back up the grade," warns Ed E. about Bruneau Dunes State Park Campground, where "the sites are big, level, and well manicured. A few sites have shade trees while others have covered picnic tables."
