Kelly Island Campground

For Idahoans who know and love the outdoors, the Snake River isn't just a waterway; it's a lifeline for recreation, relaxation, and adventure. Located in Ririe, Kelly Island Campground is a true gem nestled along the scenic South Fork of the Snake River. This is a special place that balances a semi-developed, convenient camping experience with the raw, natural beauty of the surrounding cottonwood gallery forest and the foothills of the Snake River Range. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful, well-maintained place to set up camp, with the added benefit of being right on the water. For locals, it offers a perfect retreat without a long, complicated journey, serving as a tranquil basecamp for exploring one of Idaho’s most beloved river corridors.

The reviews from campers consistently highlight the beautiful setting and the high level of maintenance at the campground. Visitors note that the site is "beautiful" and "very clean and maintained," with a helpful and "nice" camp host on-site to ensure a smooth stay. A standout feature for many is the direct access to the Snake River, with several of the 14 individual sites located right on the water's edge. This provides an excellent backdrop for fishing, wildlife viewing, or simply enjoying the serene views. The sense of a "very clean and maintained campground" is a recurring theme, which speaks volumes about the quality of the experience. The spaciousness of the sites, even for large groups, has exceeded expectations for some, while others have been pleasantly surprised by the low number of bugs, allowing them to enjoy their time outdoors without a hitch.

Kelly Island Campground is conveniently located in Ririe, ID 83443, USA. This location is easily accessible for residents of Idaho Falls, Rexburg, and other nearby communities. The campground is situated on Forest Road 130, and while the road to the site is gravel, it is a small journey to a beautiful destination. The campground is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which ensures it is a public land accessible to everyone for a low cost. The accessibility of the site is further enhanced by its wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, a thoughtful feature that makes this beautiful natural area available to a broader range of visitors. The on-site parking at each of the campsites is a great convenience, allowing campers to easily unload their gear and set up camp.

The services offered at Kelly Island Campground are designed to provide a comfortable and functional camping experience. While it is a semi-developed site, it has key amenities that make a big difference. Each individual site comes with its own picnic table and a fire ring, making it easy to enjoy meals and campfires. The campground provides a central spigot for running water, a significant convenience for drinking and cooking needs. Public restrooms, which are vault toilets, are available and are noted in reviews for being clean and well-maintained. While there are no electrical hook-ups for RVs, some sites offer RV water hookups, and the group site can accommodate large RVs. A day-use group site is also available for larger gatherings or events. The presence of a seasonal camp host adds a layer of security and assistance, ensuring a pleasant and well-managed environment.

Services provided to ensure a pleasant and convenient stay at Kelly Island Campground:

• Running Water: A central spigot for access to water for drinking and cooking.

• Tent Sites: 14 single campsites available for tent camping.

• Group Site: A separate group site for day use or overnight stays, accommodating up to 35 people and several large RVs.

• On-site Parking: Convenient parking at each individual campsite.

• Picnic Tables: Each site is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.

• Public Restroom: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available for public use.

• RV Water Hookup: Some RV sites have water hookups available.

Features and Highlights that make Kelly Island Campground a standout choice:

• Riverside Location: A few of the sites are located directly on the South Fork of the Snake River, providing incredible views and direct access for fishing and boating.

• Beautiful Scenery: The campground is set in a stunning natural environment with cottonwood trees and views of the Snake River Range foothills.

• Hiking and Outdoor Activities: The campground is a perfect basecamp for hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and boating, with opportunities for OHV riding nearby.

• Family-Friendly and Pet-Friendly: With a safe environment and kid-friendly hikes nearby, along with the allowance of dogs, it is an excellent destination for the entire family.

• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking lots make the beautiful outdoors more accessible to all.

Kelly Island Campground is located at Ririe, ID 83443, USA. For more information, you can contact the Bureau of Land Management's Upper Snake Field Office at (208) 524-7500. It is important to note that most of the sites are first-come, first-served, with only the group site available for reservation. It is wise to have a backup plan, especially during peak season, as the campground is popular.

So, what is worth choosing about Kelly Island Campground? For locals in Idaho, it's the perfect blend of managed amenities and untamed nature. It offers the comfort of a well-maintained site with a fire ring and a picnic table, but with the added bonus of being in a truly beautiful, wild setting. The opportunity to camp right on the Snake River is a rare and special treat. The fact that it is family-friendly and allows dogs makes it a no-brainer for a weekend getaway with the whole crew. This campground is a testament to the idea that you don't have to go deep into the wilderness to find a genuine outdoor experience. Kelly Island provides a serene and accessible escape, inviting you to enjoy the timeless beauty of the Snake River and create lasting memories with every visit. It's a place where the simple pleasures of camping are elevated by a stunning location and a thoughtful design that prioritizes your experience.

Kelly Island Campground

Ririe, ID 83443, USA