Tent camping near Shoshone, Idaho takes campers into the foothills of south-central Idaho at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,500 feet. Temperature variations are significant throughout the region, with summer daytime temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F in lower areas while dropping below 50°F at night in higher elevations. Access roads to many remote sites become impassable during wet weather, requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Fish Creek Reservoir offers productive fishing in a remote setting, though water levels can be unpredictable. Fish Creek Reservoir attracts anglers throughout the season, with one visitor noting, "The reservoir, like many in this area, is very low most of the year and you should probably contact BLM to see what the status is before you go."
Explore old mining sites: Several campgrounds provide access to historic mining areas accessible via rough forest roads. According to a visitor at Little Smoky Campground, "If you have an ATV you can cross the creek to the north which has a pretty washed out road but leads to old mines and beautiful views."
Hot springs access: Multiple natural hot springs exist within driving distance of several Shoshone area campgrounds. A camper at Five Points mentioned, "Tons to do around- there's even a nice little hot spring off the side of the road not too far away from the campground."
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many sites feature proximity to creeks that provide both ambient sound and cooling effects. A Third Fork visitor reported, "Free 14 day camping along the creek at the Third Fork Trailhead. Multiple designated campsites along the creek. There is a large parking area at the trailhead."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse bird populations including bald eagles. A visitor to Fish Creek Reservoir shared, "We saw bald eagles among other cool birds."
Solitude and seclusion: Most campgrounds remain uncrowded compared to more popular destinations. At Narrows Campground, campers enjoy "seclusion all around you! The area is best explored by motorized vehicles as theres not many hiking trails."
What you should know
Water supply concerns: When available, drinking water quality varies significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Little Wood River advised, "We will be returning but next time we will be bringing our own water supply. The portable water on site has a yellow tint to it even after letting it run for a min or so."
No cellular connectivity: The entire region has extremely limited or non-existent cell service. A Fish Creek Reservoir visitor warned, "No cell service whatsoever, so be aware of that."
Weather extremes: Evening temperatures drop considerably even during summer months. At most campgrounds around Shoshone, temperatures improve significantly "in the evening (and particularly once the mosquitoes go away)."
Tips for camping with families
Creek access for kids: Campsites adjacent to shallow creeks provide natural play areas for children. At Third Fork Campground, "Each site has its own fire ring and picnic table with most also giving you a shady spot to set up a tent if you want. There is only 1 vault toilet though near the info sign."
Arrive early on weekends: Limited sites at the best tent camping near Shoshone means early arrival is essential. One Third Fork visitor advised, "There are not many sites so get here early if you plan on coming during the weekend."
Preparation for isolation: The remote nature of most camping requires comprehensive preparation. At Pioneer Campground, "With this campground you'll get solitude most weekends as most people heading into the Sawtooths go to the Sun Valley Area."
Tips for RVers
Limited facilities: RV camping near Shoshone lacks hookups and services. At Carrie Creek Campground, visitors note there are "No facilities that I recall," making self-contained units necessary.
Road condition awareness: Access roads deteriorate significantly in adverse weather. A Carrie Creek camper warned, "Roads may be tight in bad weather."
Informal parking areas: Some campgrounds offer unofficial overflow parking suitable for RVs. At Third Fork, "It also seems like you could just park your RV in the giant dirt area to the east of the creek. This area will be hot in the morning and shady in the afternoon as there are no shade trees to the east of the campsites."
