Craters Of The Moon Group Campground

Star4.05
23 reviews
1266 Craters Loop Rd., Arco, ID, 83213
Stargazing

Quick Facts

5,886 ft

Price

$8 - $9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Craters Of The Moon Group Campground
$8.00 - $9.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fee per night for group campsite ranges between $8 and $9, depending on the reservation method. Additional fees apply for reservations made online or...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$8.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
(208) 527-1300brianna_bowhay@nps.gov
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What Campers Say

4.05

Satisfactory

Based on 23 reviews

12 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciouswell-maintained

"Reviews highlight the campground's privacy, cleanliness, and suitability for stargazing. Some reviewers mention challenges such as wind and bugs, while others praise the spacious layout and well-maintained facilities."

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Campground Map

1266 Craters Loop Rd., Arco, ID, 83213

Craters Of The Moon Group Campground

1266 Craters Loop Rd., Arco, ID, 83213

Driving directionsNestled behind Sunset Cinder Cone about .75 miles up a gravel road on the north side of U.S. Highway 20/26/93. Check-in at the Visitor Center in order to gain access to this gated area. GPS users please enter 1266 Craters Loop Rd., Arco, Idaho, 83213.
Accessible via U.S. Highway 20/26/93; road is gravel for the last .75 miles. No RVs or trailers are allowed.
Nearby places
Arco, ID - 18 miles (approx. 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, restaurants, and supplies are available in Arco, ID, 18 miles east.

Best Time to Camp at Craters Of The Moon Group Campground

Experience dramatic seasonal contrasts in this high desert wonderland. Summer days can soar to a toasty 90°F, perfect for early morning explorations before seeking afternoon shade. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wilderness of extreme cold. For the most comfortable adventures, visit during the gentle temperatures of spring and fall, when wildflowers bloom among the lava rocks or autumn light bathes the volcanic formations in golden hues.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Open in summer but days can reach ~90°F; wind and limited shade noted as issues.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall called ideal for camping with moderate weather and enjoyable hiking conditions.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5
Top 11% in ID

Spring noted as ideal for camping with moderate weather and good hiking.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is open for reservations May–September; winter stays not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May through September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open for reservations May through September.

About Craters Of The Moon Group Campground

Hidden behind a private gate, Craters of the Moon Group Campground offers an exclusive retreat where organized groups can immerse themselves in one of America's most otherworldly landscapes. This secluded sanctuary provides the perfect basecamp for exploring ancient volcanic wonders while enjoying the camaraderie of group camping under star-filled skies.
The Craters of the Moon Group Campground is exclusively designed for tent camping and accommodates organized groups of up to 30 people. RVs and trailers are not permitted due to size limitations.
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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
Maximum stay limits are unknown.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Recreational options around the campground include hiking, biking, and stargazing. The Visitor Center and a 7-mile loop drive are located 1.5 miles from the site. The area provides opportunities for climbing Sunset Cone, which offers outstanding views but requires a strenuous hike. Nearby Goodale's Cutoff provides a historic trail for mountain biking. Stargazing is a major highlight due to the lack of light pollution, with one reviewer noting, "If you are looking for that perfect spot to view the Milky Way, you seriously need look no further."
HikingHiking opportunities include climbing Sunset Cone, which is described as strenuous but rewarding. The area includes additional trails near the campground, with one reviewer noting that there are "tons of tiny hike trails for kids to play along."
ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
BikingGoodale's Cutoff, a historic trail near the campground, is highlighted as a great location for mountain biking.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsStrong winds are common, and visitors have reported difficulties with setting up canopies. Swarms of bugs can be problematic during certain seasons.

Weather at Craters Of The Moon Group Campground

Reviews

4.1
23 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Craters Of The Moon Group Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's privacy, cleanliness, and suitability for stargazing. Some reviewers mention challenges such as wind and bugs, while others praise the spacious layout and well-maintained facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews

What Campers Love

- Secluded and private, suitable for organized groups - Excellent stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution - Clean and well-maintained vault toilets - Spacious layout with amenities like...
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Based on 23 reviews

Common Concerns

- Windy conditions, which can disrupt setups like EZ-Ups - Limited shade, especially during hot summer months - Bugs were problematic for at least one reviewer
Based on 23 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Stargazing can be spectacular due to minimal light pollution; consider bringing a telescope. - Be prepared for windy conditions—secure tents and other setups. - Visit in spring or fall for cooler...
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Based on 23 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are noted as ideal for camping due to moderate weather and enjoyable hiking conditions. Summer can be hot and windy, and bugs may be an issue for some campers.
Based on 23 reviews

Camper Quotes

"If you are looking for that perfect spot to view the Milky Way, you seriously need look no further." - Julee Gonzales "The bathroom was very nice...clean and no smell." - Martha H. "The kids could...
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Based on 23 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews frequently mention the spacious layout and privacy of the group camping area. Users appreciate the seclusion and well-maintained facilities.
Based on 23 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is a mixed experience. While there are accessible features such as a picnic table and vault toilet, paths leading to these features are not fully accessible.
Based on 23 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews address pet policies or pet-related experiences at this campground.
Based on 23 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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