Swan Valley, Idaho sits at approximately 5,500 feet elevation at the western edge of the Palisades Reservoir along the Snake River. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with cool evenings even during peak season. Many campgrounds in the area offer limited seasonal operation from May through October due to winter snowfall that makes access difficult during colder months.
What to do
Mountain biking near Victor: Teton Valley Resort provides convenient access to trails. "We spent a few days here. Inexpensive with decent wifi and 5G Verizon coverage. Friendly staff. Extended my stay because it was so nice," noted one camper at Teton Valley Resort.
Kayaking on Palisades Reservoir: Launch points accessible from several campgrounds along Highway 26. "It was great good help and very well put together the snake River is very close and beautiful," mentioned a visitor about Palisades Cabins & RV Park.
Visit nearby hot springs: Astoria Hot Springs located between Alpine and Hoback Junction makes a perfect day trip. "There is also a nice, new hot springs, Astoria, between Alpine and Hoback Junction," reported campers staying at Alpine Valley RV Resort.
What campers like
Dark sky stargazing: Areas away from town centers offer exceptional night viewing. "This park has very clean bathrooms, great showers, and grass so thick you don't need to wear shoes! Great setting, helpful staff and out in an area of dark skies," explained a camper at Palisades Cabins & RV Park.
Community activities: Some parks organize social events for guests. "My personal favorite… they have little s'more bags that they give you and do little community bonfires each night," shared a visitor at Alpine Valley RV Resort.
Mountain views in all directions: Surrounding peaks create panoramic scenery. "This is a brand new still under construction RV park with amazing views in all directions. They have great water pressure and very good WIFI," noted a reviewer at Alpine Valley RV Resort.
What you should know
Limited year-round facilities: Most campgrounds close during winter months. "I stayed here late winter and it looks like half the sites are closed in the winter. In addition to rv sites they offer full service cabins, dry cabins, and yurts," reported a camper at Teton Valley Resort.
Variable cell coverage: Signal strength changes significantly throughout the region. "If you're looking to hike Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Jackson's and Driggs/Darby, you will not find a better location to easily access all location," explained a visitor at Grand Teton RV Getaway.
Distance considerations: Allow extra driving time when planning activities. "This is a small RV Park with cabins. It is pretty but small. It it 53 miles to Jackson Hole, WY. The Good Sam site says it is 24 miles to Jackson Hole. So this could be a problem," warned a visitor about Palisades Cabins & RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks offer dedicated play areas. "At first we were not sure about this campground based on location. We were pleasantly surprised! The staff were very friendly and accommodating. The park for the kids was perfect and the pool was open too!" reported guests at Snake River RV Park & Campground.
Pool facilities: Swimming options available at select locations. "This campground has a blend of cabins mixed with the RV sites so it has a ton of added value with the heated pool/hottub, laundry, showers looked decent," noted a camper at Teton Valley Resort.
Noise considerations: Some areas experience noise from roads or nightlife. "Don't tent camp here. The tent area is about 20 yards from an extremely loud bar. People are outside it yelling til after 2am. Awful," cautioned a tent camper at Greys River Cove RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Check utility placement before arrival. "The only problem with this park is the sewer electric water setup which was designed for classs c rvs and is too far back for class as. The owner assured us he was planning on fixing the problem this winter," noted a visitor at Rusty Spur RV Park.
Pull-through availability: Limited during peak season but available at many locations. "Large, flat gravel park like many in the west. Roads, lots clearly marked. Beautiful, clean individual bathrooms like in a house, including tub-showers!" reported a visitor at Yellowstone Lakeside RV Park.
Site leveling requirements: Many parks have gravel pads requiring adjustment. "The sites all looked very level, but are open. All of the pull-through sites, existing and expansion, are oriented such that every other pair pull through in opposite directions and share utilities," explained a full-time RVer about Yellowstone Lakeside RV Park.
