Rigby, Idaho sits at 4,856 feet elevation between the Snake River Plain and the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Camping areas near Rigby transition from riverside cottonwood groves to higher elevation pine forests. Summer temperatures often drop below 45°F at night despite warm 80°F days, requiring campers to pack layers even for midsummer trips.
What to do
Fishing access points: Twin Bridges Park provides direct river access for anglers. "Sits next to the river so you can fish if you like, some times you'll see deer and even moose," notes reviewer Tony C. The park maintains several well-spaced back-in sites with concrete pads and fire pits.
Floating and paddling: The Snake River and Henry's Fork offer multiple boat launch points for water recreation. At Warm Slough, "My kids love tubing down the Warm Slough River and my son likes fishing along the banks," reports reviewer Shauna & Steve H. Several sites feature picnic tables and fire rings near the water.
Wildlife viewing: Several campsites near Rigby border wildlife habitat areas. "Not uncommon to have deer or a moose walk through the campground," according to camper Tony C. who stayed at Kelly Island Campground. The area's riparian zones attract diverse bird species, particularly during spring and fall migrations.
What campers like
Accessible water recreation: Many sites provide direct water access for swimming and paddling. "The lake is actually an aquafer (underground spring) so it's super clear and clean unlike most lakes," writes one visitor about Jefferson County Lake. Campers regularly mention the clarity of local waterways as a highlight.
Budget-friendly options: Most dispersed camping areas charge minimal or no fees. "Only $10 a night but if you have golden age pass it's only $5.00 per night," notes Tony C. about Kelly Island Campground. Several county parks maintain lower rates than comparable private facilities.
Privacy between sites: Many campsites offer separation from neighbors. At Beaver Dick Park, Emily R. appreciates "a campground that feels safe (close to other campers) while still having your privacy (trees between most campsites)." The park's cottonwood groves create natural site boundaries.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites can be rough. Wolf Flats Recreation Area has "Easy access only a couple miles on bumpy but car safe gravel road," according to reviewer johny R., but "the road along the sites is very very dusty and locals using the boat access fly down the road in trucks."
Seasonal regulations: Camping schedules vary significantly by location. Johnothan R. notes that Warm Slough allows "camping only allowed Oct 1 to Jan 31. 10 days max," limiting summer access despite year-round day use.
Reservation systems: County parks use different booking approaches. Juniper Group Campsite visitor Jeff P. explains, "You can reserve or first come sites. The website is easy to navigate and reserve."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play structures for children. At Beaver Dick Park, Limna found "a playground and picnic areas that I'm sure would be great for families."
Swimming opportunities: Designated swimming areas provide safer water access. Jeff P. notes that at Juniper County Park there's "plenty of room for kids to play" while another visitor mentions the benefit of "the lake" for recreation.
Site selection for privacy: Family groups often need more space. Wakeside Lake RV Park visitor Erin H. recommends planning ahead: "My kids loved playing in the lake. I think maybe that just needs to be specified when booking and offering full hookups."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require adjustment for RVs. At Juniper County Park, Melanie T. recommends visitors "Bring your blocks," explaining sites "are a little uneven."
Hookup configurations: Electrical connections vary between parks. At Mountain River Ranch, one visitor notes "Water and electric, no sewer. There is a nice bath house with showers, no laundry at present," highlighting the need to verify specific connections before booking.
Dump station locations: Few sites offer onsite dumping facilities. One RVer mentions, "Lakeside RV a block away has a dump station for $5 and there is a Sinclair nearby that also has a dump station for $5 and they refill propane tanks."
