Best Campgrounds near Soda Springs, ID
The southeastern Idaho landscape surrounding Soda Springs features diverse camping options within a 30-mile radius. Blackfoot Reservoir Campground, located directly in Soda Springs, provides both tent and RV sites with drinking water and electric hookups. Within a short drive, campers can access Lava Hot Springs with multiple accommodation choices including the Lava Hot Springs East and West KOA campgrounds offering full hookups, cabins, and glamping options. The Caribou National Forest contains several established campgrounds like Cold Springs and Emigration, which typically operate seasonally from late spring through early fall. These forest service sites generally provide basic amenities such as vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many forest service roads requiring high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain or snowmelt. Most developed campgrounds near Soda Springs operate from May through September, though some lower-elevation sites and private facilities remain open year-round. Winter camping is possible but requires proper preparation for sub-freezing temperatures and potential snow. Cell service is generally reliable near town and along major highways but becomes spotty in canyon areas and higher elevations. As one camper noted, "The KOA will let you fill your water tank for free but charges $10 for a dump. Lava is just minutes away with shops, restaurants, grocery stores. The highlight are the hot mineral pools, which are open until 11 PM and are amazing, especially in the evenings in cooler weather."
Proximity to thermal features represents a significant draw for the area's campgrounds. Several campers mention the convenience of staying near Lava Hot Springs' mineral pools as a primary reason for selecting nearby campgrounds despite some drawbacks. Train noise affects several campgrounds in the region, with multiple reviewers noting the sound of train horns at night. Riverside camping spots are particularly valued, with the Portneuf River and various reservoirs offering fishing and water access. Fall camping receives positive reviews for reduced crowds and pleasant temperatures. As one visitor to Downata Hot Springs remarked, "We were the only guests on a weekday after the kids are back in school. Got some road tips and local history from the friendly camp hosts and had a very pleasant stay."
