Shoup, Idaho sits along the winding Salmon River at approximately 3,300 feet elevation in central Idaho. RV sites near Shoup offer remote camping with minimal services, requiring campers to bring supplies as the nearest full-service town is Salmon. The area's mountainous terrain creates variable weather conditions, with summer highs typically reaching 85-90°F while nights can drop below 50°F even in peak season.
What to do
River activities: The Salmon River provides multiple access points for rafting, kayaking, and fishing. At River's Fork Lodge & RV Park, visitors can enjoy immediate river access. As one camper noted, "The fishing was spot on, right on the river you don't have to even drive anywhere if you don't want. They also offer kayak rentals."
Hot springs access: Within driving distance of campgrounds, visitors can find natural hot springs. One camper at Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground mentioned it was "a great spot for my quick couple day trip to the hot springs!"
Hiking: The surrounding Salmon-Challis National Forest offers numerous trails. Pack extra water and sun protection, as summer temperatures frequently exceed 85°F and shade can be limited on exposed trails.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many campsites provide direct river access. A visitor at Cactus River Ranch RV & Campground described the appeal: "Beautiful river - the non service site is great- easy back in with 24 ft TT."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. One camper mentioned, "Grounds were well taken care of, owners so very nice and helpful, showers and restrooms spotless and free, great little laundry room."
Dog-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds accommodate pets with designated areas. A Wagonhammer visitor highlighted that it's "dog friendly and there is a dog island that your fur kid can run around off leash!"
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is minimal to nonexistent throughout the region. A visitor at Century 2 Campground & RV Park advised, "We literally pulled in off highway 93 and were immediately welcomed with open arms," suggesting that advance reservations by phone can be difficult due to spotty service.
Supply planning: Salmon is the nearest town with comprehensive supplies, approximately 25 miles from Shoup. A camper recommended, "Nearest town with groceries etc. is in Salmon so stock up before you go."
Seasonal considerations: The camping season generally runs May through October, with most campgrounds closing during winter. Peak mosquito activity occurs in early summer, with one camper noting, "So close to a five star campground if it were not for the swarming mosquitoes anywhere in the shade."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: While natural features provide the main entertainment, some families note limitations. One Travellers Rest Cabins & RV Park visitor shared, "It's very close to the city. So you can walk and leave your camper on the ground," offering convenient access to town amenities.
Swimming access: River access varies by location. One camper observed, "One down side was the lack of nice swimming area in the campground," suggesting families should research specific swimming spots before arrival.
Entertainment planning: Limited connectivity means digital entertainment isn't reliable. A family that stayed at River's Fork Lodge suggested, "If there was really anything they could add, would possibly be something for kids to do. Just as a family of four with a 3 and 6 year old, they can only fish so much."
Tips from RVers
Size accommodation: Most RV parks can handle larger rigs. At Andreas on the River RV Park, a camper mentioned, "We enjoyed 2 nights here alongside the river with full hookups. The host was very kind and helpful with our questions."
Leveling considerations: Sites are generally level but vary by park. One RVer noted, "Big spaces in the middle area. Smaller spots on the river," indicating location preference matters for larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Most established campgrounds offer full hookups with 50-amp service. An RVer described, "Kind of shocked it was $45 a night after so much free camping! But nice to have hookups and our own deck looking over the river watching osprey fish."
