Castle Rocks State Park RV & Campground Guide
Idaho
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Located just 2 miles outside the town of Almo in Idaho's Cassia County, Castle Rocks State Park offers a diverse array of outdoor recreational opportunities in the shadow of the Albion Mountains and the majestic 10,339-foot-tall Cache Peak. At this 1,240-acre park, visitors can see remnants of a historic working ranch that dates back to 1888 as well as historic Native American pictographs. The park borders the Sawtooth National Forest and is close to the City of Rocks National Reserve.
Spring 34-56 F
Summer 59-87 F
Fall 38-61 F
Winter 22-39 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Castle Rocks State Park
Castle Rocks State Park is home to Smoky Mountain Campground, which has sites with water and electric hookups. The 38 campsites at this campground are big enough for even the largest rigs to pull through. Each of the sites comes with its own picnic table and grill. Restrooms and showers are located within the campground. Wi-Fi access is available at the Visitor Center. ADA-accessible sites and restrooms are also available. There's a dump station RV campers can use near the entrance. In addition to the campsites, you can also rent a yurt or deluxe cabin. You can stay in the bunkhouse instead if you'd like to extend your visit to the park.
What to Do at
Castle Rocks State Park
With a disc golf course, equestrian trails, huge boulder fields perfect for rock climbing, and fishing opportunities, the park offers something for just about everyone. In addition to all these adventures, you can join in on ranger-led activities, including guided wildflower hikes, geology walks, and other nature programs.
Fishing
Idaho is known for its excellent fly-fishing opportunities. Bait your line for trout, chinook, salmon, or steelhead at the park's fishing pond. Castle Rocks participates in the State Park Fishing Equipment Loaner Program, so you can borrow rods, tackle and bait when you visit the park. You'll need an Idaho fishing license before you head out. These can be purchased online in advance of your trip at a cost of $11.50 per day.
Geocaching
You'll find at least one geocache hidden within the park. Check your geocaching app to find clues to its location.
Nature Watching
Some of the rock formations you'll see in the park date back 2.5 million years. To learn more about the park's geology and natural history, go on a ranger-led geology hike. With Pinyon pine forests, wetland areas, and rocky outcrops, the natural beauty of Castle Rocks State Park is unparalleled.
Stargazing
You can enjoy stargazing here because the skies at Castle Rocks State Park are some of the darkest in the nation. The site is located far from the light pollution of any nearby cities.
Flora and Fauna
Wildflowers blooming in spring are the park's most notable plant life. Also, keep an eye out to spot the mountain bluebird, Idaho’s state bird, along with some of the 119 neotropical migratory birds that pass through the area. A rarer find, the Cassia crossbill can be spotted in the Albion Mountains. Other birds you might spot include ravens, woodpeckers, hermit thrushes and wood thrushes, turkey vultures, ruby-throated hummingbirds, scarlet tanagers, yellow-bellied sapsuckers, and blue-headed vireo.
Hiking
Hikers will find plenty of trails to choose from at Castle Rocks State Park, including easy, moderate, and more difficult treks. One of the more popular hikes is the Castle Rocks Trail Outer Loop, which loops around the park for a little more than 4 miles while offering a challenging climb. It peaks at 6,720 feet.
Climbing
Rock climbers from around the world flock to Castle Rocks State Park to challenge themselves on the hundreds of routes available at the park. Head out on the Backyard Boulders Trail to find some of the best spots.
Biking
Mountain bikers are welcome to explore most of the trails within the park. Popular trails for cyclists include the Castle Rocks Loop Trail and the Castle Rocks Trail, both of which offer a challenging uphill climb for experienced riders. Try the Eagle Rock Grove Trail if you're looking for a flatter, easier ride.
How to Get to
Castle Rocks State Park
Castle Rocks State Park sits along Highway 77 near the town of Almo in southern Idaho near the Utah border. Once you're on Highway 77, turn west onto E 2800 S/Big Cove Ranch Road, and after about a third of a mile, take a slight left onto E 2800 S/Big Cove Rd/E Taylor Road. Follow it for about 2 miles until you reach the park entrance.
Entering Castle Rocks State Park
The parks roads and the roads around the campground are all paved, so you should have no problem navigating them in your RV.
Castle Rocks State Park Entry Fee (per vehicle) : $7.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Castle Rocks State Park
The park is open year-round. In the winter, visitors flock to the park to enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even ice climbing.
While visiting the park, look out for large mammals such as cougars, moose, and coyotes. Visitors often spot mule deer at the park as well. Some of the birds you might spot include the sage grouse, pinyon jay and Virginia's warbler.
RVs are welcome at any of the site in the park's campground.
Overnight camping costs start at $28 per night for Idaho residents and $31 per night for visitors from out of state. Reservations can be made online through the park's website or by telephone up to nine months in advance of your trip.
Your pets are welcome to join you as you explore Castle Rocks State Park, but they are not allowed in any of the facilities or buildings. You must clean up after them and keep them leashed at all times.