Caldwell, Idaho camping areas combine high desert landscape at 2,375 feet elevation with riverfront access along the Snake River. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F while winter brings occasional snow and freezing temperatures. Cell service is typically strongest near the interstate corridor with coverage becoming more limited at rural riverside campgrounds in the surrounding area.
What to do
Kayaking on Snake River: The Snake River near Rivers Edge RV Park offers warm water paddling opportunities. "I enjoyed the fact that you can kayak from the camp area on the Snake River, and within just a couple miles, you officially kayaked to Oregon," notes Matt S.
Fishing for catfish: Snake River access points provide productive fishing spots for several species. "I caught 10 small mouth Bass, couple were keepers! There's plenty of catfish, trout and, if you get lucky, Salmon," shares Lawrence P. about his experience at Rivers Edge.
Vineyard tours: The Caldwell area features vineyards within short driving distance of campgrounds. "We found a local vineyard that is a pleasure to visit. Good food, good wine and a great view of the vineyard while eating," according to Matt S., who stayed at Rivers Edge.
Greenbelt cycling: The paved Boise Greenbelt trail system extends for 19 miles from Boise Riverside RV Park. "There is a greenbelt that runs from the campground all the way to Lucky Peak Reservoir, a distance of 19 miles," says Mike H.
What campers like
Waterfront tent sites: Tent camping options include waterfront spots with grass at select locations. "Tent camping was easy, middle of the campground. I was the only tent, counted 10 RVs. Felt safe. $22. The water was so warm I swam at midnight!" reports Mary D. about Rivers Edge RV Park.
Spacious pull-through sites: Canyon Springs RV Resort offers longer sites for bigger rigs. "Their pull through site was long enough for both our Class A and our tow vehicle. Decent amount of concrete pad... We had a Pull Through site, which is approximately 70 feet long," according to Rachel H.
Pool and recreation amenities: Several parks near Caldwell feature swimming pools for summer heat relief. "They have a fairly nice new bathhouse, a few washers & dryers, a workout room, community room, and a small playground," Kevin D. notes about Abundant Life RV Park.
Convenient garbage service: Some RV parks provide additional services beyond standard hookups. "You can even drop your garbage bag at the back of your camper in the morning and they pick it up and dump it for you," writes Jeff & Steff about their stay at Ambassador RV Resort.
What you should know
Industrial surroundings: Some RV parks near Caldwell are located in mixed-use areas. "The park is situated in a heavily industrial / used auto / RV lots / retail area. Even so, the park is mostly surprisingly quiet," explains Kevin D. about Abundant Life RV Park.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between locations. "Cell service (AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile) is pretty bad at most of this park. There is a very busy local highway (Business I-84) and Interstate (the actual I-84) close by so the cell towers can't keep up," Kevin D. shares about Abundant Life RV Park.
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures require cooling options. "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 Mark S. about Ambassador RV Resort.
RV appearance requirements: Some parks have screening processes for incoming vehicles. "I was asked to first email pictures of all 4 sides of my RV so that management could approve the vehicle for the one-night stay, as they needed to 'keep out the $10,000 RVs,'" mentions hanaa about Hi-Valley RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for parks with dedicated play spaces. "Park for kids, dog area, propane refills. Clubhouse with really nice showers," notes Heather N. about Abundant Life RV Park.
Recreation options: Some parks offer activities beyond traditional camping. "It has a lot of outdoor-oriented recreation amenities, plus a clubhouse," Rachel H. shares about Canyon Springs RV Resort.
Indoor activity spaces: For hot days, indoor recreation areas provide alternatives. "In the clubhouse you can play pool, watch tv, swim in the pool or lounge in the jacuzzi. There's also a wonderful kitchen where you can reserve the room for a get-together," recommends penny V. about Boise Meridian RV Resort.
After-hours programs: Special events sometimes occur at Caldwell Campground and RV Park. "They even had Easter activities for families the morning we were leaving," Christopher N. mentions about his stay at Abundant Life.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose river-adjacent sites when possible. "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," shares Jenna M. about Caldwell Campground.
Check electrical connections: Inspect hookups before settling in. "When we hooked up I found the 30 amp outlet melted & broken and the 110 outlet blackened from spark damage," warns Dave S. about Boise Riverside RV Park.
After-hours arrival process: Know the procedures if arriving late. "Showed up, pulled our information from the office board. Simple to find spot," explains Bill about Abundant Life RV Park.
Laundry facilities: Multiple washers and dryers are available at select parks. "Laundry & showers were immaculate. The pool and jacuzzis were the nicest I've used," notes Mark S. about Ambassador RV Resort.
