Camping near Wendell, Idaho occurs within the Snake River Plain at approximately 3,500 feet elevation. Summer temperatures often reach 90-100°F during July and August, while winters bring freezing temperatures and occasional snow. RV sites around the Wendell area typically cost $20-40 per night, with many campgrounds offering direct river access but limited cell reception in canyon areas.
What to do
Kayaking to Blue Heart Springs: From Miracle Hot Springs, paddlers can access this hidden gem. "Great hot spring camp site. They have different pools of varying temperatures, alligators, trees and plenty of room for each site. I stop by every time I swing through Idaho," notes Jared W., who also mentions the kayaking opportunities.
Explore Shoshone Falls: Located about 20 minutes from Twin Falls-Jerome KOA, this natural attraction draws many campers. "Just 20 minutes to Shoshone Falls, clean, spacious, pool, and a bit noisy from kids in the pool," reports Ioan P., highlighting the convenient access to this 212-foot waterfall.
Visit Hagerman Horse Fossil Beds: The national monument sits near camping options in Hagerman. "It has good access to many boat docks along the Snake and also has easy access to the world renowned Hagerman Horse Fossil Beds," explains Alan B. about the area's geological and historical significance.
What campers like
Hot spring soaking options: Multiple temperature pools offer relaxation after hiking or paddling. "The hot spring pools themselves are fantastic. Newly built, 21 individual tub rooms plus a big, deep swimming pool with perfect temperature water, a hot hot hot pool, a more shallow less hot big pool, and another pool yet!" raves Beth M. about Miracle Hot Springs.
Affordable riverside camping: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the free options near Twin Falls. "Each space has a picnic table and fire ring, and there are drop toilets and trash bins. All the sites look pretty level. Easy to find off the highway. No trees, so little privacy," explains Kendra T. about Snake River Canyons Park.
Shade during hot summer days: Mature trees at several campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. "Lots of shade and Grassy sites with plenty of space. Well kept. Clean restrooms and laundry. Quiet with no road noise. Level pull-throughs," reports Marty S. about camping at Hagerman RV Village.
What you should know
Wind exposure: Many campsites in the area lack adequate wind protection. At Balanced Rock County Park, Jess G. reports: "Awesome night at balanced rock. We had the camp ground to ourselves. Very peaceful and beautiful right on a creek. Lots of sounds of animals and surrounding critters at night. Perfect view of the night sky! The only downfall was that it was very windy at night. Especially since the camp ground is settled between a canyon."
Limited cell coverage: Reception varies widely throughout the area. "No wifi or cell service in park, which I didn't mind, just was not prepared for. The showers are at the Pool, not the campground and do not have any curtains," shares Sandra V. about staying at Miracle Hot Springs.
Overnight noise considerations: Highway and railroad proximity affects some sites. At Wilson's RV Park, Karl notes: "Close to freeway - definite road noise. If your site is near dump station you will have a strong sewer smell. Wifi unreliable."
Tips for camping with families
Indoor pool options: Family-friendly swimming facilities provide entertainment when river conditions aren't suitable. "The geothermal swimming pool was nice. It was really warm—like a mild hot tub or super warm bath. There are hot mineral baths that we didn't try because they cost even more than it cost us to swim in the pool," explains a visitor to 1000 Springs Resort.
Playground access: Several parks feature play areas for children. At Rock Creek RV Park, "The Rock Creek winds through the park past picnic tables and covered gathering areas. There are two playgrounds, multiple shelters, a handicapped accessible fishing pier, and biking/walking path," according to Wanderfalds L.
Budget-friendly activities: Low-cost entertainment keeps families happy during multi-day stays. "We enjoyed kayaking for two hours and there were so many beautiful birds. Lots of Mexican food around! Campsites were in beautiful shape," reports Annabeth S. about the area's accessible activities.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare with adequate equipment as many sites feature uneven terrain. "The only thing if you in a trailer the ground is very uneven just bring leveling blocks and you will be good!" advises Tyler M. about camping at Banbury Hot Springs.
Overnight stopovers: Several locations offer convenient pull-through sites for those passing through. "We pulled in late lastnight, easy to find right off main road hwy 93, close to Twin Falls. Clean vault toilets, roads pretty well maintained. Large sites with table and fire ring and quite. Sites are free," shares Kristie C. about Snake River Canyons Park.
Sprinkler awareness: At irrigated campgrounds, protect your equipment from nighttime watering. "We had a large pull-thru site with water, sewer, and electric that accommodated our fifth wheel and dually Ram with no problems. Be forewarned that this park is green and beautiful because sprinklers run at night and may hit your camp chairs and bbq," cautions Jeff & Steff about Hagerman RV Village.
