Campsites near Jordan Valley, Oregon sit in high desert terrain at elevations around 4,200 feet, creating stark temperature fluctuations between day and night. The Snake River forms the Oregon-Idaho border and serves as a recreational centerpoint for several rv campgrounds in the Jordan Valley region. Summer daytime temperatures often exceed 90°F while winter brings potential for snow and freezing conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Rivers Edge RV Park provides direct river access for fishing enthusiasts. "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., who found the experience rewarding.
Explore petroglyphs: Celebration Park contains ancient rock art and cultural artifacts. "There are a lot of activities there including hiking, swimming, fishing, the information center and atlatl throwing. There are also petroglyphs in the area," explains Amy S., highlighting the educational opportunities.
Visit nearby vineyards: The agricultural areas surrounding Snake River RV Resort offer vineyard visits. One camper mentioned, "We found a local vineyard that is a pleasure to visit. Good food, good wine and a great view of the vineyard while eating."
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts diverse birds and wildlife, particularly near water. A visitor at Celebration Park observed, "You will awaken to the sound of the ducks and geese and can watch hawks and ravens soar on the winds rushing through the gorge."
What campers like
River swimming: The Snake River water temperature can be surprisingly comfortable. Mary D. shared about Rivers Edge RV Park, "The water was so warm I swam at midnight! That's 5 stars."
Grass camping areas: Many campers appreciate the maintained green spaces at rv campgrounds near Jordan Valley. Lawrence P. noted about Snake River RV Resort, "The grounds are well kept and the grass is GREEN! They water just about, if not, every day!"
Hot springs access: Given's Hot Springs offers mineral water relaxation. "The indoor pool is great. It's as warm as a bathtub, but still cool enough that you don't overheat in 15 minutes," reported Reed M. about the natural hot spring facility.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location provides excellent dark sky viewing. Meredith S. recommends at Celebration Park, "I recommend taking a hike at dark across the bridge and up the Mesa and stargaze."
What you should know
Site configuration challenges: Many parks have unusual hookup layouts. Greg K. observed at Sunny Ridge RV Park, "Shade sites are few: 3, 4, 11, 12, 13, 14 and maybe 15, sites 2 and 10 are partial shade. There's some green grass/weeds, but the site I'm in is dirt with some brown scrub."
Bathroom conditions vary significantly: Facility maintenance differs between campgrounds. One camper at Given's Hot Springs noted, "The facilities are VERY outdated, but still functional. The only water available comes from the hot spring, so you have to take cold water to mix it."
Extreme seasonal conditions: Summer heat can be intense while winter brings cold temperatures. Jeremy M. reported, "Here at the beginning of July. Only two other campers. Very hot. 100 degrees. Too hot to do anything."
Limited grocery options: The remote location means fewer services. A Sunny Ridge RV Park guest mentioned, "The town is too small to support a grocery store but the convenience and small hardware stores have some basics."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: Be cautious with water activities, particularly with children. "I do not recommend swimming In the Snake though, the stretch of river that flows through this park is dangerous and pulls people under," warns Jill R. about certain sections of the river.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer learning activities. "There's a large area at the road's end for turning around, though the approach to the gated campsites is somewhat rough," notes Norm F. at Celebration Park, where historical features create exploration opportunities.
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with recreational facilities. Tommy C. appreciated Rivers Edge RV Park noting, "Super skeptical driving in and then you arrive and it was perfect. Quite grounds overall, little basketball court my little guy was stoked about and the river highlighted the views."
Wildlife viewing for children: The area's natural habitat provides animal observation chances. A visitor to Sunny Ridge RV Park mentioned, "There are cattle on the hillside behind the park, and deer wondered around as I was setting up."
Tips from RVers
Big rig considerations: Several rv campgrounds in Jordan Valley area can accommodate larger vehicles but require planning. "Wanted to give it 5... Nice sites, lots of choices. But the weird part is the owners aren't around. No one's around. Gotta problem? You're totally on your own. Check out the sewer connection before you commit," advises Jill R. about setup challenges.
Hookup distances: Bring extra-length hoses and power cords. Greg K. from Riverside RV Park observed, "There are about 10 pull-through sites and a couple back-in sites. All of them have water and 30/50 service. There's a dump station on site for a donation of $5."
Road conditions: Some approaches to campgrounds require careful navigation. Barry S. said about Snake River RV Resort, "Staff was super friendly and helpful. Grounds are well kept and river access is abundant. Lots of full timers but all were very nice and willing to chat and interact."
Self-sufficiency needed: Remote locations mean limited services. Vanessa F. recommended about Given's Hot Springs, "Fyi the pool/campground does not open until noon- can call ahead on their site for reservation. Pool open until 9- extra charge to swim if more than two campers."
