Camping options near Rockland, Idaho center around the Snake River valley at elevations between 4,500-5,500 feet. Summer temperatures often reach the mid-90s while winter nights can drop below freezing. The area's natural hot springs provide a unique camping experience, with thermal waters maintaining temperatures between 102-105°F year-round.
What to do
Explore natural waterways: Massacre Rocks State Park Campground offers access to the Snake River for fishing and paddling. "We showed up during the week so it wasn't too packed. Brought our fishing poles and although we didn't catch anything, was well worth it. Be sure to go up to Register Rock up the road! So much history here," notes Kali D.
Visit historical sites: Take a short hike from Massacre Rocks State Park Campground to see Oregon Trail wagon ruts. "We enjoyed the hike/walk out to the Oregon Trail wagon ruts. Sites have electric and water and there is a dump station," writes Ashley M.
Play disc golf: The course at Massacre Rocks provides recreation beyond water activities. "Bring your disc golf, your fishing pole, and your chair for the evenings! Quiet, restrooms and showers were clean," recommends Phillip C.
Soak in natural hot springs: At Indian Springs Resort and RV, the hot springs pool offers relaxation after hiking. "The pool is large enough for many people, with plenty of natural hot water," explains Bill B., while another visitor noted, "We enjoyed the hot spring fed pool. Again, we were the only ones there. The pool is huge!"
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Lake Walcott State Park Campground provides quiet camping with wildlife viewing. "The park is a wild life refuge so we saw Deer and Racoons at night. We kept all food items in our car to avoid issues," shares Michelle H.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently note well-maintained restrooms and showers. "Showers/restrooms clean and great hot water. Good place to ride bikes. A lot of history in the area," mentions Rachel G. about her stay at Massacre Rocks State Park.
Free camping options: Lower Portneuf Campground offers no-cost sites near Lava Hot Springs. "Beautiful free spot right outside of town with good cell service. Paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing are primo. Lots of privacy and zero dollars," reports Chelsey M.
Natural features: Bennett Springs provides creek access for kids. "Our favorite site has a little creek right next to it. Great for kids to play in. There's also a trail that goes along the creek which starts at the bottom most campsite," according to Angela S.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad disruptions. At Lower Portneuf Campground, "There is a railroad crossing about 100ft from the sites, and we experienced about 8 trains coming through between 1am-6am. Which meant that every time they crossed they had to sound their horn multiple times," warns Isaac.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the area operate May through October. "The glamping season typically runs from April through October, with some accommodations available year-round," according to local information.
Insect activity: Bennett Springs and other locations have seasonal insect populations. "This is not the place for those with Insect phobias. 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," notes Michelle H.
Water availability varies: Some sites have no drinking water. "There is no sink for tent campers—we couldn't wash our dishes after meals. There is water but it's for the RV sites so bring water to drink and a camp sink for the washing up," advises a Lake Walcott visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Lava Hot Springs West KOA offers kid-friendly amenities. "We were on site #1 which is by the playground and dog park, because we had both on our reservation. At first we were upset at our location, but it was actually great," shares Jon M.
Consider water activities: Locations with safe swimming access work well for children. "We had so much fun here with our toddler and will definitely be staying when we come back through in the future," reports Scott B. about Indian Springs Resort.
Book early for summer visits: Family-friendly sites fill quickly. "Busy time is between Memorial Day and Labor day. We always visit after Labor Day," advises Pete C. from his experience at Downata Hot Springs.
Check for cabin options: For families new to glamping near Rockland, Idaho, cabins offer comfort. "If you don't have an RV, they have cabins that look very nice also," mentions Peggy/Mark C. about Massacre Rocks State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Twin Lakes Campground, "The campground itself is pretty primitive with the only amenity being a vault toilet and some scattered corrals. A large open area is where most of the RV's camp and if you drive along the outskirts of the trees you'll be able to find excellent tent campsites nestled within the trees."
Level sites available: Many campgrounds offer well-maintained RV spots. "Level site. What more could you ask for? We will be returning," notes Phillip C. about Massacre Rocks State Park.
Seasonal access considerations: Road conditions can limit RV access in spring. "Took the long drive up and arrived at the campground at night. Didn't see the snow and almost got stuck. Currently there is snow blocking the entrance and impassible," cautions Colin about Bennett Springs.
Hookup availability: Not all sites offer full hookups. "No sewer, electricity and water at most sites," mentions Pete C. regarding Downata Hot Springs, an important consideration for extended RV glamping near Rockland.
