Kelly Island Campground
4.4314 reviews1405 Hollipark Drive, Idaho Falls, ID, 83401, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$10 - $35/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
14 campsites
Season
Open approximately m...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$10 - $35/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
14 campsites
Season
Open approximately m...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsKelly Island Campground
$10.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreation use fee for single campsites is $10 per night, double campsites are $20 per night, and the group campsite costs $35 per night. Group site...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$45.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider208-524-7500BLM_ID_UpperSnakeOffice@blm.gov
What Campers Say
4.43
Recommended
Based on 14 reviews
47 Google reviews
Most mentioned
quietpeacefulcleanfriendly
"Reviews for Kelly Island Campground are generally positive, with users praising its peaceful and scenic location, affordability, and cleanliness. Some minor complaints relate to site conditions and bugs."
Fees & Passes at Kelly Island Campground
$10 - $35/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: 5 day
Cancellation: Not stated in the source material.
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Upper Snake Field Office, BLM website.
Best Time to Camp at Kelly Island Campground
From mid-May through late September, this riverside retreat transforms with the seasons. Early summer brings mild temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures, while July delivers sun-drenched days ideal for river activities—though savvy campers come prepared with insect repellent for the seasonal mosquito visitors. Throughout the camping season, nature puts on a show as cottonwood trees release their ethereal white seeds, creating magical moments as they drift through the warm air like summer snow.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Mid-May to mid/late September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open approximately mid-May to mid/late September.
About Kelly Island Campground
Nestled within a whispering cottonwood forest along the pristine South Fork of the Snake River, this semi-developed campground offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and comfortable amenities. Wake to the gentle murmur of the river and spend your days casting for native trout, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply relaxing beneath the dappled shade of ancient cottonwoods. The campground welcomes RVs with spacious pull-through sites and provides essential amenities including vault toilets, a central water spigot, picnic tables, and fire rings for evening gatherings under starlit skies. Adventure seekers will find endless opportunities for boating, wildlife watching, and exploring nearby OHV trails, though motorized vehicles must remain outside the peaceful campground boundaries.
Kelly Island Campground offers a variety of camping accommodations, including single campsites and a group campsite.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May through late September, this riverside retreat transforms with the seasons. Early summer brings mild temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures, while July delivers sun-drenched days ideal for river activities—though savvy campers come prepared with insect repellent for the seasonal mosquito visitors. Throughout the camping season, nature puts on a show as cottonwood trees release their ethereal white seeds, creating magical moments as they drift through the warm air like summer snow.
Natural Features and SceneryThis riverside sanctuary captivates visitors with its stunning natural tapestry. Towering cottonwood giants create a living cathedral overhead, their leaves rustling secrets in the breeze while providing cooling shade throughout the campground. The South Fork of the Snake River flows serenely past your campsite, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky and inviting quiet contemplation or exciting fishing adventures. Beyond the river corridor, the majestic Snake River Range foothills rise dramatically, painting an ever-changing backdrop of shadows and light that photographers and nature lovers find irresistible.
Geological RegionSet within a rare cottonwood gallery forest ecosystem, the campground occupies one of the West's most precious riparian habitats along the South Fork of the Snake River. This verdant ribbon of life winds through the landscape, creating a lush oasis where the river's ancient path has carved a sanctuary between the arid uplands and the dramatic Snake River Range foothills that dominate the horizon.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe group site accommodates 30-35 people and 4 large RVs, while single campsites appear to be standard size.
Sites PrivacyThe group site is described as 'very private and spacious' by a user review, while general campsite privacy levels are not detailed.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite selection near the river provides scenic views but may increase exposure to mosquitoes. Choose shaded sites for a cooler camping experience during hot months.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
5day
Groups
The group site accommodates 30-35 people and 4 large RVs and is the only reservable site at the campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 14 single and double campsites and 1 group site. Sites are spacious and semi-developed with a mix of pull-through and standard configurations.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen approximately mid-May to mid/late September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for the group site can be made by calling the Upper Snake Field Office at 208-524-7500 or visiting in person at 1405 Hollipark Drive, Idaho Falls, ID 83401.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 14 single and double campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Group sites require reservations.
Cancellation PolicyNot stated in the source material.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Kelly Island Campground provides opportunities for trout fishing, hiking, boating, wildlife viewing, and OHV riding nearby. However, ATV use is not allowed within the campground itself. The location along the South Fork of the Snake River offers scenic and recreational value.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding area, although specific trail details are not provided.Fishing
Trout fishing along the South Fork of the Snake River is highlighted as an excellent activity at this campground.Boating
Boating opportunities are available nearby, as the campground is situated along the South Fork of the Snake River.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is noted as an activity, with the cottonwood gallery forest and proximity to the river providing a natural habitat for various species.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No specific mention of non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, although boating is noted.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits/rings.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include the proximity to the river, which could pose a risk to children, and significant mosquito presence during hotter months.
Weather at Kelly Island Campground
38
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Idaho Falls, approximately 23 miles away, including hospitals, police stations, and fire services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-May to mid/late September.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresSituated directly along the South Fork of the Snake River. Water activities such as fishing and boating are popular.
Common complaintsSome reviewers noted uneven and lumpy campsites, which made tent setup difficult, and a perceived lack of maintenance in certain areas.
HostThe campground has seasonal camp hosts who have been described as knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly. Reviewers highlight the cleanliness of the site and the presence of a well-maintained vault toilet.
Campground Map
1405 Hollipark Drive, Idaho Falls, ID, 83401, USA
Driving directionsApproximately 23 miles northeast of Idaho Falls, Idaho. Cross Heise bridge, continue towards Kelly Canyon. After 2.3 miles, continue straight onto gravel road as the paved road veers left to head up Kelly Canyon. Drive one-half mile and turn right at the Kelly Island Campground sign.
The campground can be accessed via a gravel road for approximately 0.5 miles after the paved road ends. Overall, the road conditions are manageable, but navigating might be challenging for certain vehicles during adverse weather conditions.Nearby places
Idaho Falls: 23 miles (~30 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies such as groceries, camping gear, and fuel can be found in Idaho Falls, 23 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
14 reviews
Kelly Island Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Kelly Island Campground are generally positive, with users praising its peaceful and scenic location, affordability, and cleanliness. Some minor complaints relate to site conditions and bugs.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently highlight the campground's tranquility, scenic setting along the river, affordability, clean facilities, and friendly camp hosts. One user noted, 'Very peaceful and clean,' while...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users complained about mosquitoes, the poor taste of the water, and the lumpiness of the campsites. One reviewer mentioned, 'All the campsites were so lumpy there was no way to comfortably put a...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Follow road signs rather than solely relying on Google Maps, as some users reported issues with navigation. Pack bug spray for mosquitoes, and consider alternative drinking water if the taste is a...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Mosquitoes and other bugs were reported as being a nuisance during the summer months. Cottonwood seeds were described as 'annoying at times' in July. Summer temperatures can be high, and shade from...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Nice and clean, on the river, spacious, and affordable at $10 a night.' - Arthur Back
2. 'We used the group site for a small family reunion. It's very private and spacious.' - Kristine Hill
3....
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The group site is praised for its spaciousness and privacy, making it suitable for family reunions. Individual campsite conditions were criticized by one user for being too lumpy for tent camping.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were found.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences were available.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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