Snake River Canyons Park offers multiple camping sites around Rogerson, Idaho at an elevation of roughly 5,500 feet. Located in south-central Idaho's high desert terrain, the area experiences extreme temperature variations with summer highs often reaching 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. Campsites are typically situated on level gravel pads with minimal shade, making weather preparation essential for comfortable camping.
What to do
Fishing at Murtaugh Lake Park: Located within reasonable driving distance of Rogerson, this lake provides fishing opportunities with accessible shorelines. "The lake is beautiful. The downside is that there is no dump station. And no sewer connection. There are only pit toilets and no showers," notes Donna R. about Murtaugh Lake Park Campground.
Climbing at Castle Rocks: The area offers excellent rock climbing options for various skill levels. A visitor to Smoky Mountain Campground mentioned, "Went down to go climbing. Wasn't able to get the guidebook due to the visitor center closure but was able to take a nice lap around the main spire and on-sight a few routes for us."
Stargazing at night: Clear desert skies provide optimal conditions for viewing stars. "We went to bed early and opened the blinds on the front stargazing window of our Lance. The view was breathtaking! It was such a clear night (and so dark in the campground) that we could see hundreds of stars," reports a camper at Castle Rocks State Park.
What campers like
Proximity to Twin Falls: Camping near Rogerson provides convenient access to Twin Falls attractions. "Just a few miles outside of Twin Falls and somewhat near the river supposedly, there are several designated back in and a couple of pull-through campsites with picnic tables and fire pits and two Vault toilets," writes Steve M. about Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp.
Quiet, spacious sites: Many visitors appreciate the solitude and size of camping areas. "Showed up late October around 6. It's quiet, just out of town and there are toilets placed I guess (didn't use) and a fire pit by my site," explains Brooke C. about her experience at Snake River Canyons Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms receive positive mentions. "Very clean bathrooms. Lots of late traffic (but it's free and nice) so perfect for a driving stop and sleep," notes Kimberly D. about Ricketts RV Camp.
What you should know
Limited water access: Most dispersed camping areas near Rogerson lack potable water sources. "There is no access to dumping trash. It's a 2.5 mile hike to the first lake. It inclines all the way up," warns Vanessa H. about Independence Lakes Campground, noting preparation needed for backcountry camping.
Seasonal considerations: Weather varies dramatically throughout the year. "Cold (34° last night) rainy, super windy, but felt safe and free is great," notes Brooke C. about her October stay at Snake River Canyons Park, highlighting the need for weather preparation.
Cell service variability: Connectivity changes based on location and carrier. "Cell signal strength and data speeds are solid on both Verizon and AT&T. We've been both working and streaming with no issues whatsoever," reports Marc G. about his stay at Twin Falls County Fairgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Avoid peak heat at City of Rocks: The high desert climate makes timing important. "This is a very popular area, but you can still find solitude if you want it. We stayed with our 2 dogs in April, it was definitely warm in the sun, but very cool at night and in the shade. It is high desert, summer months must be stifling!" advises Katherine B. from City of Rocks Campground.
Bring alternative activities: Weather can change plans quickly. "Grassy campground in farmland. The campground was quiet and clean, many sites right on the lake. There is not much privacy, but there weren't many people there when we were so it was nice," shares Caitlyn R. about Murtaugh Lake Park.
Check for animal hazards: Small wildlife can create challenges. "The only problem was the large number of voles running around and burrowing holes everywhere," reports Sandy S. about Murtaugh Lake Park, highlighting potential concerns for small children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require equipment adjustments. "Smoky Mountain campground is very close to the entrance of City of Rocks NR and just slightly further is Castle Rocks SP. There are some RV/equestrian sites that have 30/50 amp power and water hookups," notes Kristin S. about equestrian camping near Rogerson, Idaho.
Equestrian site options: Horse owners have specific site needs. "We didn't realize that we had booked an 'equestrian site' complete with a horse pen but had some fun with our friends later (good place for corralling the husbands)," jokes Layla D. about Castle Rocks State Park.
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate big RVs. "We have bigger RV so some of the spots would not work. Make sure you use the filter to eliminate those with a smaller driveway," advises Russell B. about Smoky Mountain Campground, an important consideration for those seeking horse-friendly camping areas near Rogerson.
