The best camping near Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge adventure.

Discover Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Top-rated campgrounds near Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge

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The Aspen Grove Inn at Heise Bridge

74 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Rigby, ID

In the beautiful Idaho countryside, our Inn is in the beloved year-round recreation hotspot called Heise-Kelly Canyon. We have a wide variety of rooms and sites. Including: 4 log cabins that sleep 4 in 2 queen log beds with mini kitchenettes, 3 sources of heat, and en suite bathrooms 4 Moonlight Cottages with AC and heat that sleep 5 or 6 in 2 queens plus one adult friendly twin (cottages B and D) or two kid-friendly twins bunked together (cottages A and C), mini-kitchenettes, and just a few steps away is the deluxe no-fee Loo-uvre Restroom and Shower House Two 20' diameter year-round yurts with themed decor-- each sleeps 4 in one queen and two twins with all bed and bath linens, plus a very well-stocked kitchen, and a firepit, pergola, picnic table and Char-griller charcoal BBQ outside. Camper trailer-- 16' vintage camper Little Buffy that sleeps 2 and has a mini-kitchenette and guests use the Loo-uvre Restroom/Shower House close by. New to the Lodge is Adirondack-style "The Bunkie" that sleeps 6 or 7 plus has a desk, microwave and fridge. All bed and bath linens are provided in all of our rooms. Firepits are a-plenty! Our Inn also has great tent sites, plus both 30 amp and 50 amp RV/Camper sites with water and electric, a firepit and picnic table each, plus a fee dump station. We are currently planning/building another shower/restroom house and a laundry mat. There is a fee dump station on site. With over ten acres of property to play at and stroll, your stay will be one of fun, peace and quiet. Our RV & Camp is fun! We have our famous Borrow Barn with loads of complementary activities including a 9 hole disc golf course with maps/disc/scorecards, free pedal boats, Little Free Library #69967, volleyball, tetherball, badminton, board games and more, plus our cruiser bicycles in our Bike Corral are for guests to enjoy on property also. Children must be watched always and very closely-- enjoy being with your children on the property. A beautiful Restroom and Shower House is fee free. We are located in the Heise-Kelly Canyon of southeast Idaho with fabulous sunrises and sunsets. We are very close to hiking, hot springs, rapelling, 200+ miles of ATV and SxS trails, golf, mini-golf, a driving range, skiing, ice cream parlor and two restaurants, and the mighty Snake River corridor right across the road. 90 minutes to the east to Jackson/GTNP/then South Gate in YNP (2 routes-- the mountain pass or the easy Snake River route), and 90 minutes to the north to West Yellowstone/Yellowstone West Gate (2 steep mountain passes). Both routes are beautiful with waterfalls, gorgeous mountain views, and Idaho countryside. We are 20 minutes from Bear World in Rexburg, and less than two hours from Grand Teton Park and Yellowstone National Park regardless of which of the four routes that you take, with each route including a beautiful waterfall. 90 minutes to the east to Jackson/GTNP/then South Gate in YNP (2 routes-- the mountain pass or the easy Snake River route), and 90 minutes to the north to West Yellowstone/Yellowstone West Gate (2 steep mountain passes). Both routes are beautiful with waterfalls, gorgeous mountain views, and Idaho countryside.

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Hover Campground in Swan Valley!

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents9 acres · Swan Valley, ID

This campground offers boat rentals , fly shop , fishing licenses, ohv stickers , laundry room , playground , and bonfires! Each cabin is fully furnished Small kitchenettes , full bathroom , high speed WiFi , and private porches and fire pits. And 2 parking spaces Seven beautiful , 50amp pull-through RV sites , with full hook ups in full shade ! Pets are welcome on leashes! Dog beds are provided in cabins to keep dog hair off the sleeping beds :) We are located right next to the Snake River , so if you enjoy fishing , hiking , boating, hiking, or anything outdoors , this is the place !

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Lava Campground

219 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Lava Hot Springs, ID

We are located right off of highway 30. If you are coming in off of I15 you will continue on highway 30 passing Lava Hot Springs. You will see the KOA East on your right hand side. After passing the KOA East you will start going up a hill. Continue up the hill for .5 miles. You will see a Lava Campground sign take you first right onto Fish Creek Road and then another immediate right onto Fish creek extension road. This road will bring you down into the campground. Lava Campground is a local family owned Campground. Cameron and Annie along with their 2 boys Kash and Jaxson built Lava Campground from the ground up. They have always embraced the company of others and love when people can come stay and play with them. When they decided to build a campground they were excited about the possibility to create a place for people to feel at home and have a great time camping. They have an endless need for adventure, anything outdoors and fun- sign them up! They have fallen in love with the campground and being part of the Lava Hot Springs community. The new friends they've made during ownership have been priceless to them. Each year Cam and Annie continue to make improvements to the campground. The creativity they hold is endless and their goal is to make the campground a place where people truly want to be and hope that people feel like part of their family during their stay. Lava Campground is a gem and unique. Cam and Annie came up with the idea to rent out the vintage campers which has become the theme for Lava Campground. They've designed the entire property to give a blast from the past kind of feeling. With a vintage playground, glamping wall tents, 5 remodeled retro campers, studio apartment, and spacious RV and tents sites. The location offers the perfect balance of being close to local attractions and conveniences while enjoying a relaxed country atmosphere, located just 1 mile East of Lava Hot Springs passed KOA East on the Portneuf River and Fish creek border you will be close to all Lava Hot Springs has to offer. Come and enjoy the warmth of Lava Campground and feel at home while you are here.

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The Park at Swan Valley

26 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Irwin, ID

Learn more about this land: Enjoy a QUIET location with full RV hookups or pitch your tent in the heart of Swan Valley, Idaho! A mile off the highway, near Palisades Reservoir, this location is within driving distance to Jackson Hole, The Grand Tetons, and Yellowstone National Park. Level gravel sites + full hookups for RVs (50 & 30 amp), + grassy area with 20+ acres for tents, shower & bathroom available for tent guests as well! Gate entrance closes 10pm! Please message us to let us know your ETA (208) 701-CAMP

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Moonlight Mine Acres

6 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Pocatello, ID

Learn more about this land: Views of the valley from the top. Mixture of pine trees, maples and shrubs Canyon area provides great shade Access to trails, BLM land, and old mines 7 Miles from Interstate 15 - great stopping area if on you way to Yellowstone, the Tetons, etc. Trails cut throughout and lots of wildlife. Lower site by the stream (last 5 photos) offers easy access from the road, power and potable water.

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Ranch View Hillside

1 site · RV, Tent17 acres · Fairview, WY

Come spend a relaxing time at the base of one of the mountain foothills in stunning Star Valley, WY with a view over a rippling creek below, ranches spread across the valley floor, and watch the sunrise over the mountains on the other side! As the only camper on our 17 acres surrounded by several larger ranches, you will be overlooking part of the old Oregon Trail in the valley below. Above and around you are a rocky hillside covered with wild berry bushes, many songbirds, and larger wildlife like deer, snowshoe hares, elk, foxes, and coyotes. A moose or bear might even wander by. The hillside rises steeply behind you, turning into more mountains as it climbs out of sight. It is generally a quiet rural area about 6 miles from a town with gas, groceries, coffee shops, restaurants, laundromat, camper showers, and other amenities available. There are many trailheads for hiking nearby as well as fishing access to the main river at multiple points across the valley. The Star Valley and Oregon Trail history museums in town provide a fascinating look into the history of this valley. And the largest intermittent spring in the world is a beautiful short hike from a nearby trailhead. In the summer you'll probably hear Red Winged Blackbirds singing in the willows along the creek below and spot brilliant Western Tanagers flitting among the bushes. Bring your binoculars and some patience and you will likely spot a huge variety of other birds as well! This hillside is tucked in the middle of many working ranches so you might see cowboys ride by on horseback, a herd of cows being moved from one pasture to another, or 4 wheelers moving around depending on the time of year. This is a boon-docking site with no water, power, or toilet available. Just lots of nature and views! Plan for pack it in/pack it out and help us keep this spot of nature a place where many people can enjoy the peace of time in the mountains. The parking spot its self is a flat graveled pad suitable for rigs up to a 26 feet in length or tent camping. A small sitting area with a pair of chairs is provided for you to enjoy your morning coffee while watching the sunrise if you like. There is a gravel lane that comes up the hill from the paved county road below, and then the campsite sits off to the side of that tucked into a corner of the steep hillside. Family lives in a cabin further up the hillside, but out of both sight and earshot from the campsite. Sadly no campfires due to the danger of a wildfire. Camp stoves are just fine. We love our pets, and yours are welcome! But please keep them on a leash due to the high volume of wildlife in the area, some of which can easily kill a dog. Verizon phones usually have service in this particular spot, other carriers tend to be hit and miss. Plan to check in sometime after 3:00 p.m. on the day of your arrival and check out before 11:00 a.m. so we have a little bit of time in between guests to do any mowing or other maintenance to the site area.

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The Lucky Dawg Park

11 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Rigby, ID

Hi HipCampers. We have 1 acre which is mostly flat and grassy with a large canal running down the south side of the property. The canal has tall trees all along it for shade. There is a rope swing in one of the trees to swing into the water and another rope on the bridge to grab and get out. There is plenty of room to turn around. The property can accommodate anysize rig. Camping spots are dispersed. Park where you would like. There is a Table and fire ring. First come first served. Thank you for looking and staying with us.

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Buffalo Springs Campsite

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Driggs, ID

Secluded campsite in the aspens all to yourself. Campsite borders South Bates Road so easy access. 1/2 mile from HWY 33. No other neighbors. 1 mile from Driggs. 13 miles from Grand Targhee Resort. 33 miles from Jackson WY. 75 miles from Idaho Falls. 95 miles from West Yellowstone, MT. Close to Teton River. Parking for RV. Back in. Includes picnic table, fire Pit, portable restroom, and trash bin. Includes power to charge all of your accessories. Campfires allowed. Site has RV power hook up. Address is 920 S Bates Road, Driggs ,ID

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Mountain View Glamping Yurt

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Bancroft, ID

Nestled high in the Rocky Mountains of southeast Idaho at an elevation of 6500 ft, our yurt has magnificent views of Mt. Bonneville and the surrounding Pebble Creek Basin. Along with a handful of neighbors, within a private property recreational area, we are surrounded by the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, with vehicle access from mid-May through mid-November each year. Pebble Yurt has a 30 ft diameter with a partial loft for a total of 900 ft2 of indoor living space. You will be completely off grid, but with running hot and cold water, solar electricity, and heating and cooling features. We also feature an indoor shower, sink, and composting toilet. Bring your ATV's, mountain bikes, or hiking boots to explore the Pebble Basin. Or take a short drive to Lava Hot Springs for world-class hot pools, water slides, or white water rafting. Fishing in the Portneuf River or Chesterfield Reservoir, exploring the Chesterfield historic town site, or trying out a zipline or go-cart are other local activities. Pebble Yurt was built circa 2010 by a retiring forest service employee to the highest standards. We've used that canvas to create a unique glamping experience for our guests, with the best creature comforts available in a wilderness setting.

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Grand Teton RV Getaway

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Victor, ID

Your private RV parking spot is backed up to Trail Creek, with a bounty of berry bushes and willows that provide a cozy campsite. Less than a mile from downtown Victor, this location is convenient for all activities in the Tetons. Grand Teton National Park is a 25 mile drive. It is around 100 miles to two different entrances to Yellowstone National Park, making it possible to do a long day trip loop. There is plenty of mountain biking, hiking, and rivers to explore. Grand Targhee and Teton Village are each about 20 miles and both have lots of fun summer activities. Jackson Hole is 25 miles away.

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Starlit Meadow - A Tranquil Retreat

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Shelley, ID

Escape to the tranquil beauty of "Starlit Meadow," a unique camping experience where the natural world converges with the cosmic wonders of the night sky. Nestled away from the urban hustle and bustle, this serene property offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to camp beneath a breathtaking canopy of stars. Property Description: Location: Starlit Meadow is situated in Shelley, ID, providing a serene respite from city life while remaining easily accessible. Stargazer's Paradise: Our secluded meadow is renowned for its exceptional stargazing opportunities. With minimal light pollution, you can witness the Milky Way and countless constellations in all their glory. Meadow Camping: Pitch your tent or set up camp in our spacious meadow, where the gentle rustling of a single majestic tree provides shade and solace. This peaceful meadow is perfect for solo adventurers or small groups. Horse Neighbors: Adjacent to the property are a few majestic horses. While they add to the pastoral charm, please note that they are not to be disturbed. Former Hayfield: Starlit Meadow has a history as a productive hayfield, and you can still find traces of its agricultural heritage. It's a testament to the land's rustic charm. Nature Immersion: Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature. Encounter local wildlife, from songbirds to deer, in their natural habitat. Activities: Whether you're a stargazer, photographer, or simply seeking a tranquil getaway, Starlit Meadow offers a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of our proximity to YELLOWSTONE, perfect for day trips and additional adventures. Eco-Friendly: We are committed to preserving the environment. Please respect Leave No Trace principles and help us keep this pristine land beautiful. Book your stay at Starlit Meadow and experience the magic of camping under a canopy of stars on this former hayfield. It's a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, stargazers, and those looking to reconnect with the simple beauty of the natural world. Don't miss the opportunity to create unforgettable memories in this celestial oasis.

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Wolverine Adventures

11 sites · RVs, Tents1000 acres · Firth, ID

Located at the base of Wolverine Canyon is our little slice of heaven called Wolverine Ranch. It is a 100 year old working cattle ranch. The Camp is located in the Headquarters Wolverine Ranch and we decided to name it Wolverine Adventures after a saying that Kelly and Robyn's family has. If something has to be done on the Ranch that is of a more difficult nature, we ask one another "What time is it? Adventure time!" This gets us through the more demanding tasks on the Ranch and allows us to have fun and humor through it all. As you pull through the Juniper log archway you will drive right through the corrals. Gates may be closed but are to contain cattle and horses, not to keep people out. Come on in and please close the gate behind you. Wolverine and Jones Creeks run through camp and we do allow catch and release fishing with an Idaho Fishing License of course. Camp is the perfect place to unwind after driving all day and unplug from the busy world outside of the gates. THERE IS NO CELL SERVICE AT CAMP!! You may get signal a short walk up a hill above camp. We do allow campfires but only in the community fire pit area. There is a hot water shower with 180 degree views of the Juniper covered hills while you wash the stress away. We do also have a flushing toilet and potable water right in camp. We do offer a few add on Adventures such as trail rides or Ranch tours. These will need to be discussed in advance of your arrival. Communication with Robyn is encouraged via HipCamp messaging as we often are out of service and need to know an approximate ETA. We prefer to meet every guest and help you get settled in, answer any questions, and apprise you of any information you will need to enjoy your stay. There is abundant wildlife that frequent The Camp, including White Tailed Deer, Mule Deer, Song Birds, Racoons, skunks, and snakes. We do allow pets, however they must be on leash and under control at all times, The Camp has resident chickens and cattle and horses are always nearby.

The best camping near Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge guide

Overview

About

A Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge camping experience invites you to the heart of Idaho's wildlife wonderland. Found amongst the mountainous forestland of southeastern Idaho, the refuge is a significant part of the historic Grays Lake. Its unique high elevation and expansive 22,000 acre bulrush marsh provide an unparalleled backdrop for camping enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Serving as a sanctuary for the largest breeding population of sandhill cranes in North America, the Refuge allows campers to not only enjoy the outdoor experience, but also witness an exceptional wildlife spectacle. Itâ€™s an opportunity to be truly immersed in nature's symphony, making every camping trip a unique adventure. But the benefits of camping near Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge don't end there. The sprawling marshland is a playground for various activities. Indulge in birdwatching, capturing the vibrant avian life through your lens, or sketch the landscapes that unfold before your eyes. When the day turns to night, gather around a warming campfire beneath a blanket of stars, adding to the magic of your camping experience. Just a short drive from the refuge, Soda Springs presents a lively contrast, offering attractions like the geyser and historic sites. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a wildlife aficionado, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, a Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge camping adventure is a gateway to the magnificent wilderness that Idaho has to offer.

When to go

The best time to visit Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is mild and the migratory birds are present. Winter months can be harsh, with limited access due to snow and cold temperatures, making wildlife spotting more challenging.

Know before you go

Check for seasonal closures, as parts of the refuge are off-limits from April 1st to September 19th to protect nesting birds.
Bring binoculars for wildlife observation, as animals are best viewed from a distance.
Prepare for limited amenities; the nearest fuel and supplies are in Soda Springs, ID, and Thayne, WY.
Respect the habitat by staying on designated trails and roads during your visit.
Remember, the refuge is open from sunrise to sunset, with no overnight parking allowed.