Glamping close to Riggins, Idaho offers unique experiences at elevations ranging from 1,800 feet in the Salmon River Canyon to nearly 7,000 feet in alpine areas. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures reaching 90°F and cold winters with significant snowfall. Campgrounds often operate seasonally, with high-country options typically open from June through October when mountain roads become passable.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: Visit Hurricane Creek Campground for excellent stream fishing. As one visitor notes, "Hurricane Creek is appropriately named as it really moves," making it perfect for anglers seeking fast-moving water challenges.
Mountain hiking: Access trails near Nez Perce National Forest Seven Devils Campground for day hikes or multi-day adventures. According to one camper, "There are several hikes that can be done in a single day or stretched out to multi day trips that go along mountaintops and alpine lakes." Watch for wildlife including "black bears, rattlesnakes, mountain goats in the area."
Water activities: Swim or paddle at Hazard Lake where visitors report, "Many campers kayak or paddle board on it. Lots of fishing as well." The small lake size makes it manageable for families and casual paddlers.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Blackhorse Campground, campers appreciate the spacing and natural screening. One visitor mentioned, "The sites were well-maintained and relatively private. There's plenty of space/trees for hammocks and very few bugs."
Mountain views: The panoramic vistas draw visitors to high-elevation camps. A camper at Seven Devils noted they "enjoyed time on top of one of the most beautiful lookouts in the area with views of four states." These viewpoints provide exceptional photography opportunities.
Water features: Access to rivers and streams ranks high in reviews. At Hurricane Creek, one camper shared, "We took site 9 which was close to the bathroom and right beside the river. The river is shallow in most places but right off this site it has a deep area where you can dip."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require traveling on unpaved roads. One Seven Devils visitor reported, "45 minutes drive on dirt road we reached this rustic campground." Similarly, a Fish Lake Campground camper mentioned, "Dusty road but all gravel- drove in with my little Nissan Sentra just fine."
Mosquito preparation: Pack effective insect repellent. A Northwest Passage camper warned, "One downfall here is the amount of mosquitoes. They are large and thirsty. We came prepared this year with lots of mosquito spray and some thermoscell mosquito deterrent."
Seasonal availability: Most high-country campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Fish Lake operates "June to October" and one visitor confirms it sits at "high elevation (6,990ft)," which limits the season due to snow.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Rivers near Riggins run fast and can be dangerous. At Hurricane Creek, campers advise, "Keep an eye on your dogs!" and warn, "if they were to get in the creek that would be all she wrote." The same caution applies to children.
Accessible wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to see animals safely. At Hurricane Creek, a camper reported, "Deer wandered through the campground and there are chipmunks." Morning and evening hours typically offer the best viewing opportunities.
Glamping options for comfort: For families seeking luxury camping near Riggins, consider Evans Farm - Glamp on the River. A reviewer noted it offers "a wood-burning stove, two burner propane cook stove, and pillow top queen sized mattress" in a Montana Wall Tent, perfect for families wanting comfort without traditional camping challenges.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Look for campgrounds that accommodate various sizes. One Riverside RV Park visitor noted, "The site was large enough to park our 31ft 5th wheel. We had a small lawn for our dog. Easy in/out access through the park."
Limited hookup availability: Many campgrounds near Riggins offer no hookups. A Blackhorse Campground visitor shared that despite excellent river access, you'll find "Vault toilets, no water or garbage removal," so come prepared with sufficient water and waste storage.
Leveling challenges: Pack leveling blocks for riverside sites. As one camper at Hurricane Creek explained, "Spent one night in that spot then took another closer to the river for the second night where I had to use my leveling blocks. But so worth it. Could hear nothing but the rushing river."
