FAQ for Camping Reservations

Reservations are available year-round and same-day in City of Rocks.

City of Rocks.

Your Guide to Camping Reservations at City of Rocks

Reservations are available year-round and same-day for campsites at City of Rocks. Please read through this FAQ to answer common questions and make your reservation process smooth.

Are reservations required to camp in City of Rocks or Smoky Mountain Campground?
Yes. Reservations are required year-round for all campsites.

Why have City of Rocks and Castle Rocks moved to year-round and same-day reservations?
Reservation-only camping ensures campers know they have a site before arriving, reducing conflicts over reservations. This strategy also eliminates paper waste from camping envelopes and daily tags, helping reduce the parks' environmental footprint.

How do I make reservations?
Reservations can be made online at ReserveAmerica or by calling 888-922-6743.

Are there still walk-in campsites?
No. All campsites, including those previously available for walk-ins (e.g., sites with letters C-G), now require reservations.

What if I don’t have cell service in City of Rocks, Smoky Mountain, or Almo?
Make your reservation before leaving home to ensure you secure a site. WiFi is available 24/7 at the Visitor Center in Almo, accessible in the grassy area west of the building.

Can I set up camp and then make a reservation?
No. You must have a reservation before setting up camp.

Can Visitor Center Rangers make reservations for me?
No. While Rangers are happy to assist with questions or issues, they cannot make reservations for you.

What if the campgrounds are full?
From June to October, campgrounds often reach capacity. Nearby options include private campgrounds in the Almo area, nightly house rentals, or hotels/inns in the surrounding community.

How far in advance can I make reservations?
Reservations operate on a 9-month rolling window. For example, if you want to camp on June 15, reservations open on September 15 of the previous year.

How late can I make reservations?
Same-day reservations can be made until midnight on the day you wish to stay.

Are same-day reservations available at Castle Rocks’ overnight facilities?
No. The Lodge, Bunkhouse, and Yurt at Castle Rocks require advance reservations to accommodate cleaning schedules.

I think a site is a no-show. Can I camp there?
No. If a site appears unoccupied, visit the Visitor Center to confirm availability. Rangers will contact the original reservation holder before making the site available.

What if I reserve a site and don’t like it?
Photos of all campsites are available on ReserveAmerica and this website. If your reserved site doesn’t work for you, visit the Visitor Center to explore alternative options. For more information before reserving, call the Visitor Center at 208-824-5901 for assistance in selecting a site that meets your needs.

What about winter camping? Will campsites be plowed and stay open year-round?
City of Rocks staff work hard in winter conditions to ensure roads to Bath Rock and Twin Sisters remain passable. To ensure accessibility, reserve a site at Bath Rock or Twin Sisters. If you cannot access your site due to weather, visit the Visitor Center to move to an available site at no extra cost. Rangers are available to assist if you get stuck, as safety is always the priority.

Do I need a credit card to make a reservation?
ReserveAmerica accepts checks and money orders. More details are available on their website or by calling the reservation line.

Why do I have to pay a reservation fee, even for same-day reservations?
The $10 reservation fee applies to all reservations. Idaho State Parks offers a reduced camping fee for qualifying families to help alleviate costs. Contact the Visitor Center for details.

Are the equestrian campsites at Smoky Mountain just for equestrian use?
No. These sites are not limited to campers with livestock. If equestrian sites are booked, you can reserve a regular campsite and keep horses in the Castle Rocks Ranch Unit corral or check availability at Juniper Group Camp or local private campgrounds in Almo.

Can I get notified if there is a cancellation on the dates I want to stay?
Yes. On ReserveAmerica, look for the “Create Availability Notification” link below the campground map. Follow the instructions to receive email alerts for cancellations matching your desired dates.