Tent camping opportunities near Twin Falls, Idaho extend from the South Hills to surrounding mountains at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 feet. Campsites typically open between May and October, with higher elevation locations accessible only during summer months when roads dry out. Several campgrounds offer creek-side settings that provide natural cooling during hot summer days.
What to do
Creek exploration: Bear Gulch Campground provides access to small streams and hiking opportunities away from the summer heat. "After a long drive down a washboard dirt road for about 40 minutes we finally made it to the campground. We came up here looking to escape the heat of the city and were not disappointed. It was a good 10 degrees cooler and cooled off quickly when the sun went down," notes Amanda M.
Alpine lake fishing: The trailhead at Independence Lakes Campground offers access to multiple fishing lakes. "My son fished with hopes of catching a grayling. He took the winning photo of the lake!" reports Colette A. The lakes are stocked annually, making this a reliable fishing destination from July through October.
Rock climbing: Multiple routes await climbers at Bread Loaves Group Campsite in City of Rocks National Reserve. "Withing 100' of the site are ~20 routes and one of the mega classics of the City, Bloody Fingers on the east side of the loaves," writes Alan B., noting that "the walls nearby face east and provide an excellent opportunity for some night or moonlight climbing."
What campers like
Temperature differences: Bear Gulch offers noticeable relief from Twin Falls summer heat. Amanda M. notes, "It was a good 10 degrees cooler and cooled off quickly when the sun went down. A handful of flies and bees but haven't noticed mosquitoes as of yet."
Trail access: Independence Lakes offers rewarding hiking directly from the campground. "It's a 2.5 mile hike to the first lake. It inclines all the way up. You are treated with beautiful back country views, met with several switch backs before reaching the first lake. There are 3 lakes," explains Vanessa H.
Shade availability: Most tent sites in the area offer at least partial shade. At Bread Loaves, one visitor noted their site "provides a good respite from the wind even if tents in nearby sites are getting blown around and has the best shade in the area!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many South Hills campgrounds require preparation. For Bear Gulch, Amanda M. advises, "Secure what you can as your stuff will vibrate everywhere," due to washboard conditions. Similarly, for Independence Lakes, Cody E. warns, "We were able to get up to the parking lot but I wouldn't recommend it. If my trailer was not lifted we would have had issues."
Walk-in requirements: Several campgrounds require carrying gear from parking areas. At Bread Loaves, Angela S. notes, "The rest of the group set up tents and hammocks down at the actual campsite which is a short distance downhill. If you have a ton to pack...you may not like this site."
Seasonal considerations: Visit timing affects conditions significantly. For Independence Lakes, Alan B. advises it "is best visited in late summer fall as it is very marshy there earlier in the year." Most campgrounds are open June through September, with some higher elevation sites only accessible July through October.
Tips for camping with families
Hiking difficulty levels: Independence Lakes trails accommodate families but require preparation. Vanessa H. shares, "Based off my experience, the hike up to the lakes is dog friendly and baby carrying friendly," but also notes the continuous incline over 2.5 miles.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be significant in higher elevations. At Bear Gulch, the 10-degree temperature drop at night requires appropriate clothing and sleeping gear for children, especially during spring and fall camping.
Activity options: Bread Loaves offers both climbing and biking opportunities. Angela S. reports, "It was such a great location for climbing and mountain biking. A trail started right at the parking lot, which is where the bathroom is too."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance: High-clearance vehicles are necessary for many campgrounds. Cody E. warns about Independence Lakes: "We stopped at this campground hoping it was Trailer Friendly. We were able to get up to the parking lot but I wouldn't recommend it. If my trailer was not lifted we would have had issues."
Parking limitations: RV campers often need to separate from their sites. Amanda M. notes Bear Gulch had "No problem fitting our 33" motorhome and extra vehicle," while at Bread Loaves, Angela S. shares, "We brought a camper and just parked it at the parking lot....I slept in it with my little ones....the rest of the group set up tents and hammocks down at the actual campsite."
Service availability: Cell service is virtually non-existent at most tent camping locations. Amanda M. reports "No cell service at all" at Bear Gulch, making advance planning essential for RV campers who might need assistance.
