Caldwell, Idaho sits at 2,375 feet elevation in the Treasure Valley along the Boise River, with hot summers reaching 90°F and winters typically dropping below freezing. Most camping options remain open year-round, with temperatures becoming most comfortable for tent camping from late spring through early fall. The area offers a mix of riverside camping, hot springs access, and lakeside options within 30 minutes of the city center.
What to do
Fishing access: The Snake River provides excellent catfish opportunities at Snake River RV Resort where anglers can catch channel catfish in spring months. "When the weather warms up in the spring this is a great place to catch channel catfish in the shallows. I caught 10 small mouth Bass, couple were keepers! There's plenty of catfish, trout and, if you get lucky, Salmon," reports a regular visitor.
Greenbelt trails: Multiple campsites connect to paved walking and biking paths. At Boise Riverside RV Park, the location enables car-free exploration. "We rode bikes along the path, enjoyed the river, toured Boise state and downtown, and even ate dinner without ever getting in our car," writes a camper. The paths connect to rivers, downtown areas, and natural features.
Hot springs soaking: Given's Hot Springs offers indoor thermal waters at 94°F. "The springs/pool was surprisingly refreshing even tho 94 degrees on a hot day in July. Fun place, little historical landmark describing the Givens' trek westward on a covered wagon," notes a visitor. The hot springs remain open later than the campground, staying accessible until 9pm.
What campers like
Level sites: Many campgrounds in the area provide flat, stable parking areas. At Abundant Life RV Park, visitors appreciate the practical layout. "All spots are easy parking. Park for kids, dog area, propane refills. Clubhouse with really nice showers," reports one camper. The level sites accommodate various RV sizes and simplify setup.
Swimming options: Natural water features provide relief during hot summer days. "The bathrooms and showers are excellent! Clean, secure. The lakeside location and walking trails are beautiful. Feels like living outside of town but still close to everything town offers," writes a visitor to Caldwell Campground and RV Park. The small lake area includes ducks and fishing opportunities.
Grassy tent areas: Tent campers find dedicated spaces with shade at multiple locations. "There are approx. 10-12 Grassy Tent sites, with shady trees, on a small 6 acre lake with entertaining ducks that do not beg for food," notes a camper. Most tent sites cost $22-27 per night, typically lower than RV sites with hookups.
What you should know
Highway noise: Several campgrounds near I-84 experience traffic sounds. "Good site for RV camping but if you're tent camping there are probably better options depending on what you're looking for. The tent sites are super close together and there is a lot of highway noise," warns a visitor about one location.
Seasonal temperatures: Summer heat can make shade essential for comfort. "Because there is no shade at all, sitting outside on the patio & tiny table is pointless. 98% of the people stay inside. We had to run the AC all day," reports one camper about summer conditions at a local RV resort.
Limited dispersed options: Most camping near Caldwell is in established campgrounds rather than free sites. Country Corners Campground offers a compromise with more natural settings. "Traveling across the state and we looked for a place to roll into later in the evening. Called this campground to see if there were any spots available and talked to a very nice woman on the phone who was able to get us in a tent spot immediately."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: Campsites with activities keep children engaged. "The park is impeccably maintained. The pool, hot tub, and steam room are centrally located and are clean and inviting," writes a visitor about amenities available at RV resorts in the area.
Tent location selection: Families with tents should seek shaded areas away from highways. "The tent sites are super close together and there is a lot of highway noise. If you're looking for a quick site with amenities this is good though. It has shade and that's a huge plus," advises a camper about managing with children.
River safety awareness: Snake River access points require supervision with currents that can be stronger than they appear. "We pulled in after the office closed. We didn't receive a packet, which we have become accustomed to, but we had a site map and found our camp space. We were right next to the lake #69. Lake access is only through the tent campers sites in front of us," notes one family describing river and lake accessibility.
Tips from RVers
After-hours check-in: Many campgrounds provide late arrival options. "Even after hours was easy to check-in. I will add that they are very communicative about your upcoming visit. I received several messages from them ahead of my visit to provide additional info and welcome," shares an RV camper describing their experience.
WiFi reliability: Connection quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "5G and 2G wifi were excellent. Towers throughout property for access points. Never a weak signal. I was able to telecommute and stream without any issues and never used my Hotspot or cell data," reports one working camper.
Electrical inspection: Check power hookups before finalizing setup. "You can drop your garbage bag at the back of your camper in the morning and they pick it up and dump it for you. If you need propane, they will pick up your tank and bring it back to you," notes a camper describing service levels that can compensate for other challenges.
