The Pocatello area offers camping options within the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and Bureau of Land Management lands surrounding the city. Campsites range from elevation 4,400 feet at American Falls Reservoir to over 7,000 feet in the nearby mountains. Most campgrounds remain open from May through October with seasonal closures during winter months due to snowfall and freezing temperatures.
What to do
Fishing access: Pipeline Campground provides direct river access with multiple fishing spots. According to Dave L., "The lake was down and unavailable for fishing. It might be better early spring or summer" at Hawkins Reservoir Campground, suggesting seasonal water level changes affect fishing conditions.
Water recreation: Sage Hen Flats offers riverside camping with good fishing and water activities. Camper Adie F. notes, "Great place to camp right by the river. Good fishing and my kids loved floating the river. Need to bring canopy or have awning for shade."
Hiking opportunities: The terrain around Pocatello provides various trail options. Sheri C. mentions that Big Springs - Caribou "is a little bit of a drive to get to, but it is well maintained and has great hiking trails." Nearby mountains offer additional day hiking options at various difficulty levels.
What campers like
Natural features: Campers appreciate the natural settings around Pocatello. Bear D. says about Sage Hen Flats Campground, "When you get to the sites it is hard to choose if you want to be right next to the water where you can fish for trout or remain tucked in the woods. Both are peaceful and leave society behind."
Secluded spots: Many campers value privacy at certain campgrounds. Alan B. describes Malad Summit Guard Station as a "gorgeous cabin with plenty of amenities" that "is close to the reservoir if you need to cool off and there is also the creek which runs right next to it."
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate no-cost sites. Danielle notes about Pipeline Campground, "Nice secluded spots, plenty of room!" while Hannah adds it's "perfect for anyone needing to find a place fast and free to either tent camp or sleep in their car."
What you should know
Equestrian camping near Pocatello: While Bannock County Fairgrounds accommodates horses, Pipeline Campground and other sites near American Falls offer alternatives for horse owners. The area provides various options for those seeking equestrian facilities around Pocatello, Idaho.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate seasonally. Nancy M. mentions that Oneida County Fairgrounds is "a nice quiet place. Near city limits where there is places to buy groceries, gas, or go out to a restaurant." This proximity to services makes it practical during shoulder seasons.
Facilities vary widely: Expect different amenity levels between campgrounds. Jane H. notes about Pipeline Campground, "The vault toilet is clean and well maintained," while Brittany D. warns, "There was no toilet paper stocked" at the same location, indicating inconsistent maintenance.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: The natural hot spring pool at Indian Springs Resort provides family recreation. Scott B. reports, "The pool was fantastic although entry to the pool is not included in your camping fee so be prepared to pay extra to get in the pool but totally worth it."
Safety awareness: Wildlife encounters require preparation. Scott B. mentions, "We did see a coyote at the edge of the campground but our Great Pyrenees told him to keep moving," highlighting the importance of animal awareness when camping with children and pets.
Space for activities: Look for campgrounds with open areas. David T. says about Malad Summit, "Perfect site for tents. Tons of shade and trees. There's a really cool spring and waterfall just a short hike up the road. We will be coming back with our friends."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on rig size. David T. shares about Malad Summit Guard Station, "We wanted to try this out with our 28' bumper pull. Luckily it was not a busy weekend, we had to move sites to one that would accommodate. Hard to maneuver in the campground as well as getting up the narrow road."
Seasonal preparation: Spring camping may require adjustments. Rachel G. notes about Indian Springs Resort and RV, "We were traveling in April so it was off season. Only a few people there local workers. Our site was not the best. Big ruts, we had to level quite a bit, 120 amp didn't work. But they were cleaning up getting ready for season."
Leveling challenges: Bring appropriate equipment for uneven terrain. Reames C. advises about Pipeline Campground, "Sites are not level so I suggest bringing a shovel to dig under one side and blocks for the other side."
