Summit View Campground provides dispersed camping near Soda Springs at 42.56° N latitude, situated in the Caribou National Forest. This region ranges from 5,500 to 9,000 feet in elevation with summer temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby valleys. Most campgrounds in this area are seasonal, typically operating from late May through September depending on snow conditions.
What to do
Forest exploration: Caribou National Forest Emigration Campground sits directly adjacent to forest land with hiking opportunities from your site. As one camper noted, "There was a little dirt road that went off from the campground that we didn't have time to explore" and another mentioned "trails right off the campsite."
Water activities: Bring fishing gear to Blackfoot Reservoir Campground where visitors report "Beautiful lake and good fishing." The nearby reservoir provides opportunities for boating and shoreline fishing, with one reviewer mentioning they "Loved our stay" at this scenic location.
Hot springs experience: The town's mineral pools are a major attraction. A visitor to Lava Hot Springs West KOA shared, "They are across the street from the rustic hot springs but a short walk or drive to the other side of town are the more modern pools." For summer visitors, "You can also rent tubes to float down the creek that runs parallel to the town."
What campers like
River proximity: Sites along the Portneuf River offer cooling water access during hot summer months. A Lower Portneuf Campground visitor described it as "gorgeous" with "beautiful river and waterfalls" providing natural white noise for sleep.
Wildlife viewing: The forests and meadows near Soda Springs host diverse wildlife. One camper at Blackfoot Reservoir noted seeing "Birds and occasional moose" while camping, and others report mule deer sightings in the early mornings and evenings.
Scenic landscapes: Mountain views and forest settings characterize the region's dog friendly campgrounds near Soda Springs. At Summit View Campground, a camper described "tall lodge pole pines, and hillsides covered in mules ear flowers," creating a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience significant train disturbances. At Lower Portneuf Campground, a camper warned: "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." Another reported "about 8 trains coming through between 1am-6am."
Varied weather conditions: Mountain elevations mean temperatures can drop significantly at night. Prepare for potential sudden weather changes even in summer. Some campgrounds at higher elevations like Eightmile Canyon may experience spring snow lingering into June.
Booking windows: Most developed campgrounds in this region fill quickly during peak summer weekends. A camper at Lower Portneuf noted, "We came on a Thursday morning in late September and there were only two spots left."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water options: For families with children, consider campsites with water features. One camper mentioned Lava Hot Springs West KOA is "very kids friendly during summer months" with tubing and swimming opportunities nearby.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer designated play areas. A visitor to Lava Spa RV Park mentioned their location "is right on main street and you can walk to a large number of sites, restaurants, shops, historic museum and buildings and a small market."
Pet considerations: Many campgrounds welcome dogs, but with restrictions. When planning visits to local attractions, note that "dogs aren't permitted at the public hot springs facilities," according to reviews, and pet daycare options are limited in the area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV campers should check site specifications carefully. At Summit View Campground, a reviewer cautioned: "Use caution with large rvs/trailers if you're worried about getting a scratch on your vehicle. The loops to turn around at the end of the camp sites appeared challenging for some longer vehicles towing 35'+ trailers."
Water and hookups: While many campgrounds have water available, hookup configurations vary. At Caribou Highlands Golf & RV, a reviewer noted they offer "10 pull-through sites with FHUs (30/20 AMP)" that are "long enough for big rigs."
Off-season advantages: Consider shoulder season visits for quieter experiences. Blackfoot Reservoir Campground offers "Beautiful, level, improved sites with electric hook-ups" with amenities including "Pavilions over each picnic table. Fire rings. Vault toilets - very clean."
