1 campground with availability this weekend
Lava Hot Springs West KOA and Downata Hot Springs offer upscale glamping accommodations nestled near Soda Springs in the scenic southeastern Idaho region. Luxury yurts and stylish glamping units provide a perfect blend of nature and comfort with modern amenities including electricity, comfortable bedding, and climate control options. "Gorgeous area, will definitely go back again. Super well maintained and bathrooms were clean," noted one visitor about the region's accommodations. The glamping sites feature private outdoor spaces with picnic tables and fire rings where guests can relax after exploring local attractions. Both locations maintain shower facilities and clean restrooms, while their proximity to natural hot springs creates an ideal retreat for those seeking a refined outdoor experience without sacrificing comfort.
The natural mineral hot springs serve as the centerpiece attraction for glamping visitors, with Lava Hot Springs' famous pools just minutes from glamping accommodations. Guests can soak in therapeutic waters after a day of adventure, with pools ranging from comfortably warm to intensely hot. Trail systems near glamping sites provide opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing, while the Portneuf River offers tubing and swimming during summer months. One camper highlighted that there's "easy access into town to go tubing or to the hot springs. There's a paved trail around all of the camp sites." The glamping season typically runs from May through October, with peak visitation during summer months when water activities are most accessible. Advance reservations are recommended as these distinctive glamping opportunities tend to fill quickly, particularly for weekend stays during high season.
"This used to be open camping in a field but they have recently fenced it in, leaving just 8 camping spots, fairly close together. This is a popular place with full-time nomads."
"We parked our 34 ft motor home right next to a river waterfall and did some fishing. A fire pit was already established. Excellent spot right outside of town with good cell service."
"But it’s the perfect spot if you want to be around all the fun action of Lava Hot Springs. You’re walking distance to the river, restaurants, the pool and all the fun stuff in Lava."
"Kid, pet friendly, walking distance to food and fun. One of the best KOA’s we have stayed at."
"Our site had enough flat areas for two 2+ dome dents. There was a little path to the bathrooms."
"There's a trail from the upper loop that goes to the large parking area at Emigration Pass, where there are other trails. There's some noise from Hwy 36, which is nearby though not visible."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $20 - $100 / night
"Not all campsites have a fire pit, so you have to rent one. There’s also not a “play” area. This campground is nice, but it’s a little tight."
"There’s a paved trail around all of the camp sites for bikes and skateboards and the owners are incredibly friendly. Clean bathrooms /showers as well."
from $40 - $85 / night
"Great little cabins with bathrooms the hot pools were 100 feet away and a heated swimming pool. In the summer time the pool is nice and cold and there are water slides."
"We are car camping in a Tesla and the destination charge gave us the oomph to go up to Jackson WY the more scenic way via Soda Springs ."
"Staff will help ensure a relaxing stay. Pool is heated but not hot, due to being in the trees there is a few floating items but gets cleaned every day. Creek runs through the front of camp."
"I like staying at KOA’s during road trips - I choose a cabin so I can have a bed, there are plenty of things for the kids to do and everyone can find their pace/place to wind down from the day."
"Camping gets you access to the hot springs from check in until 4pm the next day. There’s running water in the bathhouse with a toilet and shower. There’s yoga classes included in the price as well."
"Set up camp. Very quiet. Minimal road noise. Everyone is spread out. Main issue—can’t really tell how far the reservoir tide will come up."
"One of the best perks was having a brewery within walking distance. There’s also a small market nearby, which was convenient for picking up any last-minute food or camping essentials."
"Large fire pit, at the back of the campground, the creek was 10 ft from our tent. Trail for hiking right there and the cleanest bathrooms!"
"Fairly good access to this campground. Gravel road for several miles but it's wide and graded. Campground roads are gravel."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $20 - $120 / night
"6 spots arranged in a circle vault toilets trail behind with a bridge over the creek not very much traffic 8$ a night."
LegendNice enough spot. No access down to the creek. Some large spots for a larger party. Technically closed for the season but you can still enjoy the site without water access or trash services. Remember to dig a hole if you use the restroom. Its disgusting to come across. Even moreso when the dog rolls in it. Its not hard to clean up after yourself
TravelerStaying the night at the dispersed campsite near Melvin Brewing. Rained most of the day, but the ground was rocky enough that we did not have any issues with mud. Was very nice to be able to see the river and short walking distance to the brewery.
GuideWe pulled in with a 36 ft fifth wheel and walked down behind the brewery to scope the situation. We ended up pulling down into a totally flat and quiet area. Us and one other trailer. Another pulled in the next day. Fuel stations the brewery for a quick bite to eat and it's all good. Would definitely stay here again! We plan on staying at least four days before pulling out due to an arriving storm. There are no trees or anything else around.
GuideThe first night of our two night reserved and prepaid campsite was in a different site for an rv. The camp host was drunk and gave our site away to another family that didn’t have a reservation. Since they were all set up, we were tossed into the only other available site left. That site was a no show so I guess we got “lucky.” I paid $8 extra just to reserve. Otherwise it’s $20 a night for a tent site. The host yelled at his son in front of us, too. He wasn’t a young child and was actually super nice and tried to help. It was so uncomfortable. The campground itself was not bad. A weird layout for a few sites. I would stay again if there was a new host. We were right next to the water. The second night we were able to move into our actual reservation. Then it rained and hailed. Funny how that seems to happen on the weekends. We survived. It definitely was an experience with the weather that time. lol there’s trails and a lot of trees surrounding. Really nice location.
GuideGreat, quiet spot with incredible views to wake up to in the morning. The brewery was no open when we arrived, so unfortunately did not get a chance to experience. Dirt road in was not as bad as I anticipated. Very quiet.
GuideWe camped here with our 4 boys on a Wednesday and Thursday night end of July. We almost had the place to ourselves!
Super family friendly! The kids loved the waterpark. The slides were a blast! Big water slides for our older boys, and a baby pool, splash pad and little kid water slide for the 3 year old.
The pool is on the warmer side, 90°-95°F. It can feel a bit warm on a hot day. But the kids never complained. Very budget friendly for the price. Tons of lifeguards, which was nice for added safety.
Pool has a cool history, and feels very vintage in a good way! Super charming.
We never did the hot soaking pools because it was too hot. But would be awesome in winter!
Trailer/rv sites D49-D57 seemed the best in the park. Tons of shade, and backed up to an open space for the most incredible sunsets!
Has a swing set, sandbox, basketball court and volleyball court for kids to play.
Flushing toilets in multiple spots, showers that you have to pay quarters to use. If you use the pool, free showers in the locker room.
Had a good amount of basic supplies in the main office. And a fun snack bar with ice cream, swirl cones, pizza, nuggets, burgers, etc.
The spots are pretty close together. We really lucked out and had the whole row to ourselves Wednesday night. Almost completely full on Thursday night. Felt way more cramped with all the extra trailers.
The kids absolutely loved it, and so did we! Would definitely do this trip again!
RangerFree boondocks camping near the river and brewery. Not a lot of spots. It's perfect for vans, and small RVs. I'm pulling a 20' RV. You are close to town for fuel and supplies. No water or dumpsters. ATT signal is 5G.
GuideWhen you arrive you need to go to check in at Shoshone-Bahhock Casino registration desk. The RV Park is all pull through. Have a small grassy area between sites. Full hook up. This note is for 30amp trailer, when you plug into power box, you to switch on all amps. Large grassy with a cover picnic tables. Has showers and laundry.
TravelerWe were driving south from Yellowstone and and to fly off from SLC two days later. We were looking for a spot to stop for the night that wasn’t too urban. Downata has been a blessing. Quiet place with amazing hot springs and very modern pools. Also many sport activities for the kids. An amazing sunset and great people at the desk that were both extremely kind and welcoming but also allowed us to check out a tad later for us to enjoy the site in the morning! Amazing memories for sure. Thank you from Switzerland
Patrick
Camping areas near Soda Springs, Idaho cater to outdoor enthusiasts at elevations around 5,000-6,000 feet in southeastern Idaho's mountainous terrain. The region experiences cool nights even during summer months, with temperatures commonly dropping to the 40s after sunset. Water access varies significantly between developed campgrounds and dispersed sites, with many primitive areas lacking potable water sources.
River recreation: 5 minutes from town. At Lower Portneuf Campground, campers enjoy fishing and water activities. "Paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing are primo," notes Chelsey M. The campground sits adjacent to waterfall features on the river.
Hot springs soaking: Multiple options. Natural mineral pools provide relief for tired muscles after hiking. "The hot mineral pools are open until 11 PM and are amazing, especially in the evenings in the cooler weather," reports Shannon P. about options near Lava Hot Springs.
Hiking nearby trails: The area features varied terrain for day hikes. At Willow Flat Campground, "The hike to the headwaters is a must and if you're feeling up to it you can hike over the mountain to Bloomington Lake," recommends Kassidy S.
Natural waterfall settings: The Portneuf River creates scenic camping backdrops with rushing water sounds. One camper at Lower Portneuf noted, "I didn't realize what a great spot it was until the next morning when exploring the river area. WOW! Awesome! This is a real hidden gem!"
Proximity to town amenities: Many sites offer quick access to local facilities. At Lava Hot Springs West KOA, "You're walking distance to the river, restaurants, the pool and all the fun stuff in Lava," explains Jon M.
Varied accommodation options: Beyond traditional camping, glamping close to Soda Springs, Idaho includes cabins and unique lodging. At Downata Hot Springs, "They also have covered wagons you can stay in (cute idea on a tent cabin)," mentions Anthony B., highlighting the region's diverse glamping structures.
Train noise affects sleep: Multiple campgrounds report railway disruptions. "The real kicker is, because there's a crossing to get into the campground, the trains blast their horn literally right as they pass you. Like excessively so, unnecessarily so," warns Brett T. about Lower Portneuf.
Seasonal crowds: Peak visitation occurs summer through early fall. "We came on a Thursday morning in late September and there were only two spots left," reports Shannon P., indicating how quickly sites fill during peak periods.
Weather fluctuations: Mountain elevation creates variable conditions. At Montpelier Creek KOA, one camper noted, "It was raining and the temperature was 37 degrees and due to drop to 29 overnight," highlighting spring weather variability.
Look for campgrounds with built-in activities: Several areas offer family-specific amenities. "There is a nice little eatery and a load of other fun things... a great place for families where parents can relax as the kiddos entertain themselves," notes Glen B. about Downata Hot Springs.
Consider water proximity: Sites near water features entertain children. "My boys could have stayed two weeks fishing the creek! Lots of trout," mentions Beth B. about Willow Flat Campground, adding that despite cold temperatures, the water was "clean and refreshing."
Seek out playground facilities: Some campgrounds include play structures for younger campers. "This campground is very kids friendly during summer months," says Louis L. about Lava Hot Springs West KOA, where playground access comes with most sites.
Advance reservations essential: RV sites fill quickly during peak season. At Reservoir Disperse Camping near Melvin Brewing, one visitor advised that "Advance reservations are recommended as these distinctive glamping opportunities tend to fill quickly, particularly for weekend stays during high season."
Site selection matters: Position consideration affects camping experience. "The road from the brewery is about 100 yards and dirt. Its very bumpy but go slow with some clearance and its 2wd fine," notes Johny R. about navigating to dispersed sites.
Water level awareness: Check seasonal conditions before arriving. "Also be advised the tides change often many people have found themselves under water as told by the wait staff at Melvin," warns Dutchess S., emphasizing the importance of site selection relative to water features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Soda Springs, ID?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Soda Springs, ID is Lower portneuf campground with a 3.8-star rating from 16 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Soda Springs, ID?
TheDyrt.com has all 20 glamping camping locations near Soda Springs, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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