The Snake River region near Nampa, Idaho offers multiple glamping options within a 30-mile radius. These locations combine the conveniences of developed camping with proximity to water recreation on the Snake River, Boise River, and local lakes. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-95°F during peak season, with cooler evenings dropping to 50-60°F.
What to do
River fishing access: Snake River RV Resort provides direct river access for anglers. "When the weather warms up in the spring this is a great place to catch channel catfish in the shallows. I live in Caldwell and take my motor home here occasionally just for the quiet serenity and the fishing is not bad at all (in the spring)," notes one fisherman.
Basketball and swimming: Rivers Edge RV Park offers recreational amenities beyond water access. "Pretty view of the river. Campground looks like a farm storage area overall with the basketball court covered by a dog kennel... Swim area is pretty mucky and shallow. Swim dock is barely in the water," reports a camper who details the facility's mixed offerings.
Rock collecting: Venture further to Succor Creek State Natural Area for geological exploration. "Very hot with little shade. Large camping spots. Lots of cute little snakes. Great for star gazing and searching for thunder eggs," mentions a visitor highlighting the area's rockhounding opportunities.
What campers like
Urban cycling access: Many glamping locations near Nampa connect to trail systems. "Clean well maintained. Backs onto the Boise green belt so it is an easy bike ride into town, breweries, museums etc.," notes a camper about Boise Riverside RV Park, emphasizing the transportation options beyond driving.
Shaded river sites: Tree coverage makes summer camping more comfortable. "We stayed at Snake River RV Park in Idaho Falls, Idaho in September 2021. This park is a FHU pull-thru site and also has back-in sites. Our site was flat and level and a snap to set up our fifth wheel. It was windy and dusty during our stay. There was a nice pool and lots of grassy areas to walk our dogs," explains an RV traveler.
Lake access for tent campers: Tent sites offer water proximity at some locations. "Primarily an RV park, but there are grassy spots right on the fishing pond for tent campers. The fishing pond is nice to sit by and watch the ducks," describes a visitor to Caldwell Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water levels and temperatures vary dramatically. "I really can't add much more about this place except that I felt relaxed, enjoyed the grass, shade, views and staff friendliness," writes a summer visitor to Snake River RV Resort.
Variable facility maintenance: Bathroom conditions fluctuate between properties. "The bathrooms... horror movie material! Showers, I'm pretty sure have never been cleaned. There was large mice or rat feces every where. Spiders in the showers. No water pressure," warns one candid reviewer about Rivers Edge RV Park.
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some glamping locations. "Good site for rv camping but if you're tent camping there are probably better options depending on what you're looking for. The tent sites are super close together and there is alot of highway noise," mentions a visitor to Caldwell Campground and RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Pack water toys: Swimming options vary by location. "This place has beautiful green grass, next to the river. The bathroom and showers are very nice. It was a little loud next to the Homedale Airport and a lumber mill. The employees are super nice," explains a visitor describing Snake River Resort's mixed environment.
Consider yurt options: Idaho City Yurts provide glamping close to Nampa with less setup. "Nice and clean. Easy to warm up. Some games lots of beds. Firewood included in purchase of renting," notes a visitor highlighting the family-friendly amenities.
Check for pet policies: Most locations welcome pets but have specific rules. "We pulled in after the office closed. We didn't receive a packet, which we have become accustomed to, but we had a site map and found our camp space. We were right next to the lake #69. We had a pull through for our 40' fifth wheel and we're happy. Lake access is only through the tent campers sites in front of us or going around the lake through full time resident campers sites. We don't mind because the full time residence are so kind. Everyone is so nice and thankful. This place is amazing. Great laundry facilities, that we have never had onsite before. Family and dog friendly. Great bike paths and lake fishing."
Tips from RVers
Check electrical connections: Inspect hookups before setting up. "We got one of the last spots as they were slammed with Oregon wildfire evacuees. We were grateful as we were required to be in Boise for 2 days. But when we hooked up I found the 30 amp outlet melted & broken and the 110 outlet blackened from spark damage," warns an RVer about electrical safety at Boise Riverside RV Park.
Consider non-peak visits: Less crowded experiences happen in shoulder seasons. "Staff was super friendly and helpful. Grounds are well kept and river access is abundant. Lots of full timers but all were very nice and willing to chat and interact. Sites were spacious and large trees were in abundance. Grass was well maintained and a slight bit soggy in places, but this did not create any issues."
