City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park near Almo, Idaho are popular glamping destinations about 90 miles from Park Valley, Utah. Located at elevations ranging from 5,500-7,000 feet, these areas feature unique granite formations dating back 2.5 billion years. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F during daytime hours while dropping to 40-50°F at night, requiring visitors to pack for temperature variations.
What to do
Rock climbing opportunities: City of Rocks Campground offers nearly 100 routes for climbers of all skill levels. "This is a very popular area, but you can still find solitude if you want it. Plenty of activities as well; climb all day, check out Register Rock, or hike the City of Rocks Loop trail around the site to get a little bit of everything," notes Katherine B.
Historical exploration: Visit Register Rock to see the names of emigrants who traveled the California Trail in the 1800s. "It was interesting to see the emigrants' names on the rocks and imagining them arrive in this small valley of strange formations," shares Scott H.
Hiking options: Multiple trails accommodate different fitness levels, including the City of Rocks Loop trail. "Another amazing April camping trip down at City of Rocks. Spent four glorious days hanging out with the old rocks," writes Amy C., who adds that the campground is "SO spread out you will never notice if it's full."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Smoky Mountain Campground at Castle Rocks State Park provides well-separated camping areas. "The RV sites are very private and nicely spread out with pine trees in between. Great views of City of Rocks," notes kristin S.
Dark skies for astronomy: The region offers exceptional stargazing conditions. "We went to bed early and opened the blinds on the front stargazing window of our Lance. The view was breathtaking! It was such a clear night (and so dark in the campground) that we could see hundreds of stars and fell asleep looking at them," explains Layla D.
Year-round accommodation options: Rock Wren Hideaway provides glamping accommodations with comfortable beds and dining options. "This was amazing- they had everything we needed. The food was so delicious! The tents/rooms were big and beautiful! The beds were super comfy!" reports Julie B.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Temperatures fluctuate dramatically between day and night. "We stayed with our 2 dogs in April, it was definitely warm in the sun, but very cool at night and in the shade. It is high desert, summer months must be stifling!" warns Katherine B.
Water availability varies: Bennett Springs and other campgrounds may have limited facilities. "The sites are nicely spread out, with a few pit toilets and refuse cans between them. Check out the map on the NPS site and make a reservation to ensure you get the spot you want," advises Katherine B.
Seasonal road conditions: Access roads can be snow-covered in spring. "Took the long drive up and arrived at the campground at night. Didn't see the snow and almost got stuck. Currently (5/10/24) there is snow blocking the entrance and impassible," warns Colin.
Tips for camping with families
Shade selection: Choose sites carefully based on sun exposure. "Shade is key in the summer months. Use the 'Shade Legend' on the NPS site," recommends Niki S.
Creek access: Twin Lakes Campground offers sites with water features. "When we can't get to the top of Mt. Harrison because there's still snow there, but we're itching to go camping, we come to Bennett Springs. Our favorite site has a little creek right next to it. Great for kids to play in," shares Angela S.
Local dining options: Rock City Pizza and Tracy's General Store in Almo offer family-friendly food options. "Tracy's also has a nice Cafe. They even offered a VEGAN burger. Progressive in this out of the way spot," notes Nancy C.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Scruffy Buffalo Ranch near Almo and other area campgrounds have size limitations. "Larger trailers have limited spots so check dimensions before reserving," advises Jodie S.
Supply planning: Limited services mean coming prepared. "This campground is 40 miles or so from the interstate so make sure you are well provisioned before you arrive," suggests Russell B.
Hookup options: Smoky Mountain campground offers partial hookups. "There are some RV/equestrian sites that have 30/50 amp power and water hookups. There is a dump station on the road to the grounds but it was closed for repairs when we visited," reports kristin S.
