Best Campgrounds near Pocatello, ID

Camping near Pocatello, Idaho, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to pitch a tent or a place to park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do

• Hiking and Trails: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. For instance, at Massacre Rocks State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy beautiful views and various hiking paths. One reviewer mentioned, "There are a lot of trails to walk on here, and since the park is pet friendly, our three big dogs walked the trails with us."

• Fishing: The Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access is a great spot for fishing. A camper noted, "Short walk to fishing in the river," making it easy to cast a line after setting up camp.

• Hot Springs: Don’t miss the nearby hot springs! The Lava Hot Springs East KOA is just a short drive away, and one visitor said, "The Lava pools are amazing and the town is very charming and walkable."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate clean bathrooms and showers. At the Lava Hot Springs West KOA, one reviewer mentioned, "This campground was always clean," which is a big plus for many.
• Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful hosts. A visitor at Massacre Rocks State Park Campground said, "The camp host was great," highlighting the welcoming atmosphere.
• Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Goodenough Creek Campground described it as a "hidden gem" with "great trails that can be hiked directly from the campground."

What you should know

• Train Noise: Some campgrounds are near train tracks, which can be noisy. A camper at Lower Portneuf Campground noted, "The trains; however, were a drag at night," so be prepared for some disturbances.
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Goodenough Creek Campground has no drinking water or electric hookups, which might be a dealbreaker for some.
• Tight Spaces: Some sites can be cramped, especially for larger RVs. A visitor at Lava Hot Springs East KOA mentioned, "If you're new at parking your rig, or if you have a really large rig, it could be a tight fit."

Tips for camping with families

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. The Lava Hot Springs West KOA is noted for being "very kids friendly during summer months," making it a great choice for families.
• Plan for Pets: Many campgrounds are pet-friendly, like Massacre Rocks State Park Campground, where families can bring their furry friends along for the adventure.
• Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep the little ones happy. A camper at Pocatello KOA enjoyed the "ice cream machine" at the store, which is a nice treat after a day of exploring.

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Sizes: Before booking, check the size of the sites. A reviewer at Lava Hot Springs East KOA warned, "The spots aren't very spacious," which is important for RVers to consider.
• Use Online Reservations: Many campgrounds allow online reservations, making it easier to secure a spot. A visitor at Massacre Rocks State Park Campground mentioned, "We arrived after office hours but had no problem getting a spot since you can do it online."
• Be Prepared for Rough Roads: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A camper at Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping noted, "The road is washboard with lots of potholes," so be cautious if you're driving a larger rig.

Camping near Pocatello, Idaho, offers a variety of experiences, from scenic views to family-friendly activities. Just be sure to check the specifics of each campground to find the best fit for your adventure!