Rickett's RV Camp provides the only dedicated equestrian camping near Murtaugh, Idaho, located at 42.607° N, 114.443° W in the Snake River Canyon region. The area sits at approximately 3,800 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F during day and 50-60°F at night. Cell service remains consistently available at most camping locations in this region, allowing riders to stay connected while enjoying the relatively flat terrain that's accessible for horse trailers.
What to do
Trail riding access: The Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp offers direct access to riding trails from the campground. "Wonderful dispersed camping and close to town. Spacious sites with a picnic table. Area for horses. Pull in and pull through sites. Vault toilet," notes Jennifer G.
Fishing opportunities: Murtaugh Lake Park Campground provides lakeside fishing access just minutes from the equestrian facilities. "The campground is clean. The lake is beautiful. The downside is that there is no dump station. And no sewer connection. There are only pit toilets and no showers," writes Donna R.
Rock climbing excursions: For equestrians wanting a day trip away from the horses, the surrounding region offers technical climbing opportunities. About 60 miles from Murtaugh, "The sites are nicely spread out, with a few pit toilets and refuse cans between them. Check out the map on the NPS site and make a reservation to ensure you get the spot you want," advises Katherine B.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Ricketts RV Camp, the dedicated equestrian area provides adequate spacing. "Useful site location just outside of Twin Falls but with enough space to feel a bit secluded. There are about 15 basic campsites and a few toilets. Decent spot, but sites are a bit closer together than other dispersed camping locations," reports Ibeya A.
Convenient location: Many horseback riders appreciate the proximity to Twin Falls while still having access to riding trails. "Very easily accessible location with a few pull through spots and back in spots. All with fire rings & a picnic table. 2 vault toilets available and trash cans. You can hear/see the noise of traffic from HWY 93 but, no biggie," shares Bethany W.
Security presence: The regular patrol of the equestrian camping area provides peace of mind for those traveling with valuable horses and equipment. "Rickets has several pull-in (not through) RV campsites that are gravel driveways with a table and fire pit. There is OHV/Equestrian areas all around. Each night an officer from Twin Falls will verify licence plates but the campground is free with a 5 night maximum stay," explains Cory S.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The Snake River Canyon area experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the day. "Just a few miles outside of Twin Falls and somewhat near the river supposedly, there are several designated back in and a couple of pull-through campsites with picnic tables and fire pits and two Vault toilets as well as well as garbage receptacles. No fee but guessing it fills up quickly on weekends," advises Steve M.
Limited shade availability: Equestrians should bring their own shade structures as natural coverage is minimal. "Very easy access. 13 sites. A couple of pull thrus. Mostly back in. Over-size and equestrian area with a horse corral. 5 day stay. Clean vault toilets. No water. Security checks nightly. Absolutely no shade. Concrete table and fire pit. Gravel drive," notes Anne E.
Water access: No potable water is available at the horse camping area. "This campground has toilets but no water or electricity. The toilets are clean. It's better to arrive early because it's really popular. Surprisingly, I could still get a 5G signal from the campsite," shares mengxuan W.
Tips for camping with families
Grass campsites: Twin Falls County Fairgrounds offers an alternative to the dustier horse camping options when families need a break. "Several drive through sites. Mostly paved," states Rusty B. The fairgrounds provide a more developed option for families with both horses and young children.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours provide opportunities to observe local wildlife near the camping areas. "Birds are abundant, so is the sunshine and good vibes. A few families using the day use areas and boating out on the lake. I wanted to take my paddle board out but the lack of shower facilities had me hesitating," reports Sarah J.
Evening entertainment: During certain times of year, local events provide additional activities for families. "Showed up late October around 6. It's quiet, just out of town and there are toilets places I guess (didn't use) and a fire pit by my site. Didn't use either. Cold (34° last night) rainy, super windy, but felt safe and free is great," notes Brooke C.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Bennett Springs offers an alternative camping option at higher elevation. "When we can't get to the top of Mt. Harrison because there's still snow there, but we're itching to go camping, we come to Bennett Springs. It only has 4 sites but it is free and it has a bathroom. Our favorite site has a little creek right next to it," recommends Angela S.
Site selection: For RVers with horse trailers, certain sites work better than others. "I really enjoyed my stay here. It's safe and clean - plus there are cute cows to look at :-) There are 13 individual campsites with tables and fire rings. They filled up most nights but emptied out during the day. I'd definitely stay here again. Plus it's super close to town," advises Kelda C.
Parking logistics: The gravel sites require careful positioning for larger rigs with horse trailers. "Each space has a picnic table and fire ring, and there are drop toilets and trash bins. All the sites look pretty level. Easy to find off the highway. No trees, so little privacy," explains Kendra T.
Guide
