Dispersed camping near Rogerson, Idaho offers access to high desert landscapes with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. The region experiences significant temperature swings from day to night throughout the camping season, with summer days reaching 90°F and nights dropping to 45°F. Wind patterns intensify in early afternoon across the open terrain.
What to do
Rock climbing routes: City of Rocks National Reserve provides numerous climbing routes for all skill levels. "There are a multitude of fantastic routes there and some good bouldering to be had as well," notes a visitor to Castle Rocks State Park.
Hot springs soaking: Access natural thermal waters at Miracle Hot Springs, where guests mention "pools feel so good with the different temp areas" and "newly built, 21 individual tub rooms plus a big, deep swimming pool with perfect temperature water."
Night sky viewing: The region offers exceptional stargazing conditions. A camper at Smoky Mountain Campground described "such a clear night (and so dark in the campground) that we could see hundreds of stars and fell asleep looking at them."
Hiking trails: Follow marked paths through unique rock formations. "We hiked around and explored the rock formations, then we spent the night at the park/campground in the bottom of the canyon," reports a visitor to Balanced Rock County Park.
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Many campsites offer separation from neighbors. "The sites are well spaced and there's water and electric at each site," notes a visitor to Rock Creek RV Park, while another mentioned it "drops you down to river level so you hardly know you're in the big city."
Secluded glamping near Rogerson: Sites with greater privacy provide a different experience from standard campgrounds. A visitor to Castle Rocks State Park shared: "The sites are HUGE and really offer a great deal of privacy and seclusion."
Creek-side locations: Several campgrounds feature water access. At Steer Basin Campground, "there is a wonderful stream right next to almost every campsite that you can fish in and hang your hammock over. The creek was also low enough to cool off in the waters safely."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse fauna. At Balanced Rock, one camper reported: "The stream is pretty, loaded with suckers, and at night an otter or similar animal, whatever idaho has, lives there... There are lots of birds and owls in the cliffs."
What you should know
Weather variability: Prepare for dramatic temperature changes and wind. At Lud Drexler Park, a camper noted: "We came in May and weather went from 90 to 55 in a day, with wind."
Seasonal insect issues: Several campgrounds report periodic fly problems. "As soon as we got out of the truck, we were swarmed with flies," reports one visitor to Lud Drexler Park, while another added: "Day 3 saw the arrival of the flies that others have noted. Horrible."
Water availability: Confirm water access before arrival, especially early or late season. "Water not yet turned on in the campground so bring your own water if you are coming through early in the season," advises a Castle Rocks visitor.
Limited cell service: Reception varies throughout the region. At Balanced Rock County Park: "There wasn't any cell or wifi service or reception in the canyon."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Several locations offer water activities for children. At Anderson Camp RV Park, "Lots to do for young children with a large playground, two shallow (2-3ft?) small outdoor pools, one with a water slide."
Child-friendly glamping accommodations: Look for sites with amenities beyond basic camping. At Anderson Camp, a visitor noted facilities are "clean, well kept up and had tons of amenities including flushing toilets, showers, laundry, 2 playgrounds and a pool."
Protected play areas: Some campgrounds offer designated recreation spaces. "It's high desert, so not loads of privacy but sites are well spaced. Great boat launch and swim area," reports a Lud Drexler Park visitor.
Seasonal planning: Summer temperatures can be extreme. At City of Rocks, a camper advises: "Shade is key in the summer months."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for rigs: Be selective with camping locations based on vehicle size. At Oregon Trail Campground, "Our back in site was nearby our neighbors, but felt spacious because it's an end site directly across from the camp host. Easy to navigate the concreted roads."
Hookup availability: Water and electrical services vary by location. At Twin Falls-Jerome KOA, visitors note "full hookups" are available, though one camper mentioned they "had to dewinterize the RV here with full hookups."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional effort for stabilization. A Lud Drexler Park visitor explained: "Only available sites were not close to level and unfortunately the gravel was deep enough that I had trouble getting level blocks in place."
Access considerations: RV routes may present challenges. At Rock Creek RV Park, be aware that "the short road down to the park is a bit steep but doable. Some spots are not very level."
