Glamping accommodations near Richfield, Idaho provide unique overnight experiences in an area characterized by volcanic formations and hot springs at approximately 4,800 feet elevation. Most glamping sites remain open from April through October, with some facilities offering year-round availability despite high desert temperature fluctuations that can drop below freezing at night even during summer months. The Snake River canyon creates a microclimate that supports both natural hot springs and agricultural activity.
What to do
Float the Snake River: Access points available at 1000 Springs Resort where guests can paddle over to Ritter Island. "We were able to paddle over to Ritter island on our paddle boards. The campsites are decent size but way to close together where you are basically on top of the camp site next to you," notes one visitor who enjoyed water activities.
Visit Craters of the Moon: Only 50 miles from Richfield, the Craters of the Moon National Monument offers volcanic landscapes unlike anywhere else. "This experience is a must! The campsite is in the lava fields. Like amongst piles of volcanic rock and mounds of lava flows. It's unreal! If you like rocks, plan to stay a few days," shares a camper.
Explore local waterfalls: The Thousand Springs area contains multiple waterfalls within short driving distance. "There are beautiful views of the waterfalls across the river from the Campground," reports a visitor at 1000 Springs Resort, while another adds, "Be sure to check out the waterfalls just outside of town when you visit! Both Shoshone Falls and Perrine Coulee falls are less than 15 minutes from the park!"
What campers like
Natural thermal pools: The region's geothermal activity creates warm swimming opportunities. At Miracle Hot Springs, visitors appreciate "21 individual tub rooms plus a big, deep swimming pool with perfect temperature water, a hot hot hot pool, a more shallow less hot big pool, and another pool yet!" as one senior camper described.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear desert skies provide excellent night viewing. "It is open so you can do stargazing without difficulty! it was wonderful!" reports a camper at Craters of the Moon, while another noted, "The location in the high desert is enchanting and the night sky is huge."
Affordability: Budget-friendly camping options exist throughout the area. At Rock Creek RV Park, campers note "Hard to beat $20 for W&E hookups" and another visitor adds, "This campground drops you down to river level so you hardly know your in the big city. With the river running through and huge grass area it is beautiful. Also compared to other campgrounds it is very cheap."
What you should know
Weather extremes: The high desert climate brings substantial temperature swings. "While totally not the fault of management, the campground can be subject to really high winds. During our stay a full night and day of high winds caused many tents to completely collapse. Be advised so you can be prepared," warns a camper at 1000 Springs Resort.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely throughout the region. At Stanton Crossing, one reviewer noted "Weak Verizon, good ATT and no TMobile cell reception," while others mentioned bringing satellite equipment: "We had no problems with water pressure, no problems with electricity. We had a clear shot to the north sky for Starlink."
Insect activity: Bugs can be prevalent, especially near water sources. "There were non stinging flying insects all up in our face and flying up our nose. We got a few Mosquito bites but nothing above normal for a summer evening—the insects go away if you start a smoky fire," notes a Lake Walcott visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Several facilities offer swimming and water features. At Anderson Camp RV Park, families appreciate the "large playground, two shallow (2-3ft?) small outdoor pools, one with a water slide (swim and use at your own risk, not attended), putt putt golf (water slide and putt putt extra charge), and snack bar."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds provide opportunities to see animals. "The park is a wild life refuge so we saw Deer and Racoons at night. We kept all food items in out car to avoid issues," reports a Lake Walcott camper, while another mentions, "The deer tend to come in in the early evening hours to enjoy the park too and are not very spooked by people."
Educational activities: Ranger programs enhance kids' experiences. "Ranger led programs, lava tunes, volcanic landscape" are available at Craters of the Moon, and visitors mention "The facilities were super clean with flushing toilets and sinks—no showers. Water pumps throughout the sites, and a very convenient self pay station."
Tips from RVers
Free dump stations: Plan ahead for waste disposal options. "There is no dump onsite, but Twin Falls has a free one a mile away, so as long as you plan accordingly, you should be fine!" advises a Rock Creek RV Park visitor.
Level site selection: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Some spots are not very level. There are large rigs here. There is a stream that runs thru the park and has a nice walking trail," notes a camper at Rock Creek RV Park.
Electrical capacity planning: Power hookups vary between facilities. "We only need 30amp. We can't back up the tow dolly nor would have everything fit, no mention what we should do with our tow dolly and vehicle," warns one RVer about unclear policies at some campgrounds, suggesting you confirm specific site capabilities when making reservations.
