Campers near Rockland, Idaho can access several motorhome-friendly locations within a 45-mile radius. Sitting at approximately 4,700 feet elevation, Rockland experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August. Winter camping options are limited, with most facilities closing between October and April due to freezing temperatures and occasional snow.
What to do
Reservoir recreation: water activities: American Falls Reservoir offers boating and fishing opportunities at Willow Bay Resort, where visitors can launch watercraft directly from the property. "The lake was very low. It seemed high at 48 dollars' The park is beautiful and the owner(manager) is just wonderful," notes one visitor about their experience at this waterfront location.
Natural hot springs: therapeutic soaking: At Lava Hot Springs Spa Motel & RV Park, campers can enjoy natural hot springs across the street from their RV sites. A camper describes the convenience: "The location is directly across the street from the hot spring pools. Our spot #6 was on the river. We walked across the street to the hot spring pools and a park where in the summer you can tube the river."
River tubing: summer activity: The Portneuf River provides summer tubing opportunities near several campgrounds. "The river is not a lazy river float but an amazing short rapid filled 15 min rip through the towns river. There is a shuttle to bring you back to the drop in to do it over and over again or a short walk," shares a visitor about their experience at Lava Hot Springs.
What campers like
Creek access: fishing and wading: Many motorhome sites near Rockland back up to small waterways that enhance the camping experience. At Indian Springs Resort and RV, one guest appreciated that "Our spot backed up to a small running creek filled with fish. The field had corn hole and horse shoe games set up."
Hot spring pools: recreational swimming: Natural mineral pools provide welcome relief during summer heat. "We enjoyed the hot spring fed pool. Again, we were the only ones there. The pool is huge!" noted a visitor at Indian Springs Resort and RV, which maintains a spacious swimming area.
Walking trails: accessible nature paths: Multiple rv sites near Rockland, Idaho feature riverside walking trails. At Heyburn Riverside RV Park, campers appreciate the "nice riverwalk/Park next to the campground" and one visitor noted there are "very nice walking trails" making it easy to explore the surroundings without driving.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: reservoir fluctuations: Water levels at American Falls Reservoir can vary significantly throughout the year. One camper at Willow Bay Resort observed, "We stopped here in October and the water level was extremely low. The boats were dry docked and could not access the marina."
Industrial proximity: occasional odors: Some campgrounds are located near manufacturing facilities. At Heyburn Riverside RV Park, a camper reported "a terrible smell from the fertilizer plant. The smell gave me a headache." Consider wind direction when selecting sites at certain locations.
Transportation noise: trains and highways: Railroad tracks run parallel to many camping areas. A visitor at Willow Bay Resort mentioned "Construction work began in the early morning, which was much noisier than the nearby railroad," indicating that while train noise exists, it's typically not disruptive to most campers.
Tips for camping with families
Natural swimming options: alternative to pools: Natural swimming areas provide family recreation without crowded public pools. At Devils Creek RV Park, families can enjoy the reservoir, though one visitor noted, "Loved the water, even though it was low. The sticky mud on beach made everything a bit more difficult. We had fun none the less."
Group camping spaces: reunion-friendly areas: Some locations offer designated spaces for larger family gatherings. Indian Springs Resort has "Spacious, full facilities. Lots of open area, with room for games and kids," according to one visitor who appreciated the layout for family activities.
Activity fields: outdoor recreation space: Open grassy areas accommodate family games and gatherings. "We were given a full hookup spot in a giant field area all to ourselves!" reported a camper at Indian Springs Resort, highlighting the spacious setup ideal for families with children who need room to play.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: length accommodations: At Village of Trees RV Resort, pull-through sites accommodate larger motorhomes. "Just what we wanted with our first night with a 36 foot RV Class A. Simple pull thru with clean facilities. Given its location - perfect overnight stop," shared one RVer about their experience.
Check-in procedures: registration variations: Registration processes differ between campgrounds. At Batiste Springs RV Park, a guest observed, "The weird - you exit by the fertilizer plant. Then drive through an RV and Boat storage facility. There might be no one here to greet you and the little office will still be open with the AC running."
Utility placement: hookup positioning: RVers should note that utility placement can affect setup. "However, sewer is placed well back so you may need 15' to 20' of sewer hose and a weight as there is no screw in for your sewer connector," advised a camper describing the setup at Heyburn Riverside RV Park.
