Dispersed camping near Ririe, Idaho offers opportunities in the highlands of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and along the Snake River's flat riverbanks. Most sites sit between 4,800 and 7,000 feet elevation, experiencing cool nights even in summer months when temperatures typically drop into the 40s after sunset. Fall camping requires cold-weather gear as nighttime temperatures commonly dip below freezing by late September.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Warm Slough, campers can fish directly from their sites. "Great place to fish, kayak, or float the river. Some campsites will have a picnic table," notes reviewer Miles G. Fishing is permitted year-round, though the campground itself has seasonal restrictions.
River floating: The Snake River near South Tourist Park Campground provides calm water suitable for beginners. "There is a bike path right from the campground that follows the river and leads to downtown Riverwalk area," reports Lisa. Boat rentals are available in Idaho Falls, 5 miles from the campground.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours offer best chances to spot local wildlife. "We spent 2 nights here in between trips to Yellowstone and Tetons due to winter road closures. Right on the banks of the slough and there's even a resident moose!" writes Janae M. about her experience at Warm Slough.
What campers like
Riverside locations: Many campsites offer direct water access. "A few nice spots right on the river. They have a potable water and a dump station," Jamie C. mentions about South Tourist Park Campground. Sites closest to water typically fill first, especially on summer weekends.
Cost effectiveness: Free and low-cost options exist throughout the area. "As of Sept 2024 the price is $18 per night," notes Kenyon about South Tourist Park. Free camping at Pine Creek Pass Dispersed Camping requires no permits but limits stays to 14 days.
Elevated viewpoints: Higher elevation sites provide panoramic vistas. "I've stayed here three times and almost always because I'm cutting a day short and I know this place is nice. Views of the three Tetons, Palisades, and Baldy plus sunsets and sunrises," writes Dylan B. about Pine Creek Pass Dispersed Camping, which sits at approximately 6,700 feet elevation.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Some campgrounds have limited availability. "Camping only allowed Oct 1 to Jan 31. 10 days max," reports Johnothan R. about Warm Slough. This regulation helps protect wildlife during crucial spring and summer months.
Navigation challenges: Several campgrounds have confusing access points. "Pro tip: don't try to find this location using Apple Maps. iOS will take you to the main road and that's it. Then you have to hunt for the dirt road that goes to Warm Slough," advises Katie H.
Bathroom conditions: Vault toilets vary in maintenance across sites. "Toilets are operating and clean," reports Janae M. about Warm Slough, while others note less consistent upkeep at the same location: "There are pit toilets, the main one is pretty dirty though," adds Jayden K.
Road conditions: Access to Eagle Park Campground requires careful driving. "No big RV's allowed. You don't want to take an RV down that road. Not very good turnaround spots," warns Jacob W. Many forest service roads become impassable after rain or snow.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety precautions: Rivers in the area have variable currents. "Great to go float river or fishing," mentions Johnothan R. about Warm Slough, but parents should note that even calm-looking sections can have underwater hazards and cold temperatures year-round.
Bug protection: Insect activity increases near water. "The site we stayed at was nice and flat! All the snow is gone so thats good!" notes Joseph T. about his spring stay at Warm Slough, when mosquitoes typically become active. Long sleeves and repellent are necessary from May through September.
Local wildlife awareness: Children should understand proper animal distance rules. "Can camp in tents, cars, or hammocks. Lots of spots near the rivers throughout the dirt road. Sometimes see the occasional moose or dear," shares Olivia S. about Morgans Bridge Campground, where wildlife sightings are common.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds near Ririe restrict larger rigs. "Only amenities are bathrooms (pretty clean) and water filling stations," notes Carrick M. about South Tourist Park Campground, which can accommodate medium-sized RVs but has limited maneuvering space.
Weather preparation: Wind affects higher elevation sites significantly. "Can be windy as the top is exposed, but it's always died down at night for me," shares Dylan B. about Pine Creek Pass Dispersed Camping. RVs should carry leveling blocks as many sites have uneven terrain.
Utility access: Limited hookups exist in the area. "This is one of the few parks in the area you can get into with short notice," mentions Mike H. about Eagle Peak Lodge, though many campers report challenges with site identification. Most dispersed camping areas offer no water or electricity access.
