Normally, we opt for dispersed camping. We choose to explore dirt roads through national forest land or BLM. In other words, we look for brown signs. They mean freedom to us. Free from crowds and free from fees. No neighbors, no eavesdropping on conversations. Just a forest full of privacy and maybe a few cows.
However, over the past few summers, I’ve enjoyed the perks of the campground lifestyle. Getting to know your camp neighbors can be fun. Making new connections and sharing a few laughs isn’t all that bad. The amenities of some campgrounds offer are enjoyable as well. Plus, the shade of cottonwood trees and well-maintained grassy areas lessen the harsh 90-degree summer days.
There’s one campground in southeastern Idaho that I’ve grown to fancy if I’m being honest. Located along one of my many forks of the Snake River, this place is charming and delightful. Heise Hot Springs is near Ririe, ID. This family-owned property has packed a lot of fun activities on their bend of the river.
Take a dip in the hot spring pools.
They have a large outdoor pool fed by natural hot springs. There’s even a hotter pool for the winter months. You can always hear kids laughing and splashing long into the evening hours of summer.
Above the pools, if you look closely, you’ll find cables stretched from numerous rock croppings along the side of the canyon walls. Their zip line course is a must if you’re brave enough to soar above the river and rocks.
Soar along the canyon via the Zip Lines.
If you prefer to keep your two feet on the ground, I suggest an enjoyable round of golf at their 9-hole golf course. I absolutely love this course. It’s great for beginners. Easy to walk, you can play all nine holes in about an hour. The grass is lush and green, and the views of the canyon walls are lovely.
Whack some golf balls around on green grass.
Kelly Canyon Ski area is another couple miles up the road. From here, you can bike or explore on your ATV. There are numerous paths and dirt roads to wander. The best part is the cows grazing alongside the trails. I like cows.
Bike, hike, and explore numerous trails.
You’ve now worked up an appetite after your long day of biking, ATV-ing, fishing, golfing, swimming, and ziplining. Wouldn’t you know, Heise also serves up cold beer and delicious pizza to replenish your energy, sleep hard and do it all again the next day.
Heise Hot Springs is the best camping in southeast Idaho, in my opinion. They offer something for just about everybody. You can also find great smiles and friendly hospitality from their staff. Check out the store at their main check-in office for the campground. Homemade embroidered tea towels to outfit your camping digs can be bought here, courtesy of my aunt Mary Anne.
Heise is a great base camp if you want to check out more of the southeastern Idaho area. A day trip to Mesa Falls is a short drive and a dramatic waterfall. You can even touch a beaver pellet at the visitor center. And stopping for fried pie, sweet or savory, mixed soda, and a scoop of Reed’s ice cream at White Sparrow Country Store is a must.
Eat great food; pizza, pies, and ice cream.
Most of all, don’t forget to take the time to be still. Watch for the beaver along the river banks while the sun sets. The moose and the osprey could all make a special appearance as well. I hope you consider making Heise Hot Springs a summer destination and see why I believe it to be the best camping in southeast Idaho.
Semi-Pro Tips
- Make a reservation here, especially if you’re planning a weekend stay; this place can fill up.
- Go mid-week, and have a quieter stay.
- Ask for Devon when you check-in.
