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Best Campgrounds near Oakley, ID

354 Reviews

Camping near Oakley, Idaho encompasses a mix of established campgrounds, dispersed sites, and reservoir-based recreation areas in southern Idaho's high desert landscape. The area is anchored by the internationally recognized City of Rocks National Reserve, located about 15 miles south of Oakley, where unique granite formations create a dramatic backdrop for camping. Nearby Castle Rocks State Park offers additional camping through its Smoky Mountain Campground. Closer to town, the Lower Goose Creek Reservoir (Oakley Reservoir) provides waterfront camping with fishing opportunities. The Oakley City RV Park serves as a convenient in-town option with hookups for those seeking more amenities, while Sawtooth National Forest lands surround the region with various primitive camping options.

Most campgrounds in the Oakley area operate seasonally, with peak availability from May through September. City of Rocks and Castle Rocks require reservations through Reserve America, with sites filling quickly during summer months. The higher elevation sites at City of Rocks (reaching over 7,000 feet) can experience temperatures 10 degrees cooler than surrounding areas. Cell service is limited throughout the region, with reception generally available only at higher elevations or in town. Dirt roads leading to many sites can become difficult after rain or snow, and some remote areas require high-clearance vehicles. Water availability is seasonal, with many facilities shutting down in winter months.

The camping experiences vary significantly across the area. City of Rocks attracts rock climbers with its world-class granite formations and uniquely dispersed campsites scattered throughout the park. According to visitors, "sites are well spaced out, intermixed with the rock formations" and offer exceptional privacy. Lake Cleveland and Independence Lakes campgrounds in the nearby mountains provide cooler summer temperatures and fishing opportunities. For RV travelers, the Oakley City RV Park offers full hookups during its operating season (May-September), while dispersed camping on BLM and Forest Service land provides free alternatives for self-sufficient campers willing to follow leave-no-trace principles.

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Best Camping Sites Near Oakley, Idaho (64)

    1. City of Rocks Campground — City of Rocks Natural Reserve

    26 Reviews
    Almo, ID
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 824-5901

    "City Of Rocks National Reserve, Idaho

    Fascinating, desolate, historical State Park."

    "Sites are dispersed throughout the entire park, as opposed to being condensed into one central location. It makes for some very unique and private sites - no two alike."

    2. Smoky Mountain Campground — Castle Rocks State Park

    16 Reviews
    Almo, ID
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 824-5901

    "Located about a 7-mile drive/walk to the entrance of City of Rocks, Smoky Mountain Campground is situated above the valley providing a wonderful view from many sites including space #19 where I parked"

    "TTo start off this is an Idaho state park and requires a fee to enter (was $10)  This is a great place to go if theres swarms of climbers at the City of Rocks because of the fee which tends to drive away"

    3. Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    30 Reviews
    Murtaugh, ID
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 732-7200

    "We arrived on a Monday morning around 9am. Before driving down the hill we got out and walked it to make sure we could make it. We’re driving a one ton GMC with Artic Fox truck camper."

    "Private and peaceful situated inside snake river gorge Come cool water jumping spots… river is peaceful. Lots of wind!"

    4. Independence Lakes Campground

    4 Reviews
    Almo, ID
    11 miles
    Website

    "Loved hearing the creek as we tucked in for the night. The hike the next morning to the lake was a great challenge! There is an unmarked fork at about a mile and half in... go right!"

    "There is no access to dumping trash. It's a 2.5 mile hike to the first lake. It inclines all the way up."

    5. Lower Goose Creek (Oakley) Reservoir

    2 Reviews
    Oakley, ID
    5 miles
    Website

    "If you like to fish then Oakley Reservoir is a worth the trip. The campgrounds are right on the reservoir and open and spacious."

    6. Murtaugh Lake Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Murtaugh, ID
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 539-1656

    $10 - $50 / night

    "Off the beaten path, the setting is worth it. Spacious camp sites, beautiful lake side setting."

    "Nice smaller county campground surrounded by farmland and on a lake. Not very busy for early June. Gravel interior roads and campsites with power and water. No sewer or dump station."

    7. Thompson Flat Campground

    6 Reviews
    Albion, ID
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 678-0430

    $8 - $50 / night

    "Lake Cleveland is approximately 2 miles away and has great fishing opportunities. Mt. Harrison Peak is 3.1 miles away and gives beautiful views into the South and West of Idaho. "

    "Our site was not too close to any others except the other one we booked with friends. Decent bathrooms. Close to Lake Cleveland. Great birding in the actual campground."

    8. Milner Historic Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Murtaugh, ID
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 677-6600

    $5 / night

    "We googled the park location and we’re able to get there, but encountered construction on roads and had to take a few detours. We arrived after dark and we’re thankful to find one empty spot!"

    "There are several camp sites located in this section of the park, most of which are big enough for a fifth wheel or TT. We had no issues with our 17.5 foot trailer."

    9. Oakley City RV Park

    1 Review
    Oakley, ID
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 862-3313

    "Conveniently located next to the rodeo arena. Nice grass between back-in RV sites. A few larger trees, but mostly fun sun. Power and water at each site, and a free sewer dump."

    10. Lake Cleveland - East Side

    4 Reviews
    Albion, ID
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 678-0430

    $10 / night

    "Driving up to Lake Cleveland I realized that this was the same road we traveled in the winter to get to one of our local ski mountains. "

    "This is a beautiful Campsite right on Lake Cleveland. The East side is great for RV's while the West end is better for Tents."

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354 Reviews of 64 Oakley Campgrounds

Guide to Oakley

Camping near Oakley, Idaho, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: The area is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Campers at City of Rocks Campground — City of Rocks Natural Reserve rave about the incredible views and unique rock formations. One visitor said, "The landscape of granite towers and ridges is a nearly endless playground for all abled bodies to climb and explore."
  • Water Activities: If you enjoy water sports, Milner Historic Recreation Area is right on the Snake River. A camper shared, "The river here is calm enough to paddle board on. We spent lots of time on the water and even paddled across to some rocks and did a little cliff jumping."
  • Wildlife Watching: Many campers appreciate the wildlife in the area. One reviewer at Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed noted, "Wildlife was very active; lots of mosquitoes and bats at night."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking views. A visitor at Castle Rocks State Park mentioned, "The views from the upper campsites are amazing. You can literally walk right out onto the rocks!"
  • Quiet and Privacy: Many campgrounds offer a peaceful atmosphere. One camper at Heyburn Riverside RV Park said, "The campsites are nicely spaced apart," making it a great spot for those seeking solitude.
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A camper at Lake Walcott State Park Campground noted, "The restrooms were clean with nice showers."

What you should know:

  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A visitor at City of Rocks Campground warned, "The dirt road leading to the area has some pretty rough spots and some washboarding."
  • Limited Amenities: Many sites are basic and may not have water or electric hookups. A camper at Murtaugh Lake Park Campground mentioned, "No sewer or dump station. Pit toilets, clean."
  • Wildlife Caution: While wildlife is a highlight, it can also be a nuisance. One camper at Milner Historic Recreation Area noted, "If you don't mind the smell of manure this place is for you!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Bring Bug Protection: Mosquitoes can be a problem, especially near water. A camper at Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed advised, "We brought a bug zapper and net enclosed canopy!"
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities for kids. One family at Lake Walcott State Park Campground enjoyed swimming and fishing, saying, "Fishing was good and kids loved the swimming."
  • Check for Amenities: Before you go, check what facilities are available. A camper at Murtaugh Lake Park Campground mentioned, "Bring your own water if you are coming through early in the season."

Tips from RVers:

  • Know Your Vehicle's Limits: Some roads may not be suitable for larger RVs. A visitor at McClendon Spring Campground noted, "The road is not that big rig friendly."
  • Reserve Early: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A camper at Heyburn Riverside RV Park suggested, "I’d recommend going earlier if you can."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds are remote, so stock up on essentials. A camper at Oregon Trail Campground mentioned, "Convenient to the Falls and to town to eat and such, nice hosts."

Camping near Oakley, Idaho, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just be prepared for the unique challenges and joys that come with camping in this beautiful area!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Oakley, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, Oakley, ID offers a wide range of camping options, with 64 campgrounds and RV parks near Oakley, ID and 10 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Oakley, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Oakley, ID is City of Rocks Campground — City of Rocks Natural Reserve with a 4.9-star rating from 26 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Oakley, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Oakley, ID.

What parks are near Oakley, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Oakley, ID that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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