Lake Walcott State Park

3.98

59 reviews

959 E Minidoka Dm, Rupert, Idaho, 83350-9471, United States

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

4,206 ft

Price

$26 - $46/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Idaho State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,206 ft

Price

$26 - $46/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Idaho State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Lake Walcott State Park

$26.00 - $46.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camp fees vary by type and include a one-night motor vehicle entrance fee (MVEF). Additional MVEF and per-person charges may apply. Tent sites start...

Standard Site Fee$26.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$46.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

3.98

Mixed Reviews

Based on 59 reviews

345 Google reviews

Most mentioned

shadehikinglake

Some mention

bugs

"User reviews are mixed, with positive comments about the park's natural beauty and recreation options countered by complaints about maintenance issues, bugs, and sprinklers."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

959 E Minidoka Dm, Rupert, Idaho, 83350-9471, United States

Lake Walcott State Park

959 E Minidoka Dm, Rupert, Idaho, 83350-9471, United States

Driving directionsLake Walcott is located 11 miles NE of Rupert, ID. From I-84 take exit 211 to Rupert, ID. Pass through three stop lights. As the highway begins to curve to the right, you need to take a left to cross the railroad tracks and then take an immediate right. Take another immediate right to the NE (follow the signs) that puts you onto State Highway 24.

The campground is accessible from major roads, with paved highways leading to the park. Seasonal closures or unpaved road challenges are not mentioned.

Nearby places

Rupert (11 miles NE), other nearby towns not explicitly listed with distances.

Nearby supplies

Grocery stores are located greater than 1 mile from the park. Additional nearby supplies include fuel stations, restaurants, and other essentials, also located more than 1 mile away.

Best Time to Camp at Lake Walcott State Park

Lake Walcott's dramatic seasonal transitions create year-round adventures for every type of camper. Summer transforms the park into a sun-drenched paradise, with temperatures climbing to a toasty 93°F – perfect for water activities and evening campfires. As autumn paints the refuge in golden hues, temperatures gradually cool, leading to crisp winter mornings that can dip to a brisk 20°F. The warmer months bring nature's full symphony, including various insects that remind you you're truly in the wild. Those irrigation sprinklers? They're dedicated workers, keeping the landscape lush throughout the seasons.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Summer popular with swimming/boating; complaints about bugs and maintenance.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Early/fall season noted as less crowded with comfortable temps.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Early season less crowded and comfortable temps; good time to visit.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Open year-round but no winter recreation or facilities described.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season pricing and date ranges are unspecified.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round; specific closure dates or seasonal adjustments are not mentioned.
Current Alerts: Occasional bathroom closures, sprinkler issues, and maintenance-related disruptions are noted.

About Lake Walcott State Park

Nestled within the pristine Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge, Lake Walcott State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its remarkable blend of modern amenities and untamed natural beauty. Whether you're seeking the comfort of a cozy cabin, the adventure of tent camping, or the convenience of full RV hookups, this diverse park delivers. Adventure seekers can launch their boats into the shimmering waters, explore winding trails, or test their skills on the scenic disc golf course. While visitors consistently rave about the park's breathtaking landscapes, it's worth noting that the irrigation sprinklers can be enthusiastic, and summer brings its share of buzzing companions – all part of the authentic outdoor experience that makes Lake Walcott memorable.

Lake Walcott State Park supports various camping styles, including RV and tent camping, as well as cabin lodging. Primitive camping options are also listed.

Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape where ancient geological forces have shaped both the land and its stories. Lake Walcott State Park sits within the protected embrace of Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge, where millennia-old lava flows tell tales of the Earth's fiery past. This unique intersection of geological wonder and ecological sanctuary creates a living museum where every rock formation and wildlife sighting connects visitors to the region's deep natural heritage.

Weather and SeasonsLake Walcott's dramatic seasonal transitions create year-round adventures for every type of camper. Summer transforms the park into a sun-drenched paradise, with temperatures climbing to a toasty 93°F – perfect for water activities and evening campfires. As autumn paints the refuge in golden hues, temperatures gradually cool, leading to crisp winter mornings that can dip to a brisk 20°F. The warmer months bring nature's full symphony, including various insects that remind you you're truly in the wild. Those irrigation sprinklers? They're dedicated workers, keeping the landscape lush throughout the seasons.

ElevationPerched at the edge of the shimmering lake within the expansive wildlife refuge, Lake Walcott State Park offers a gentle terrain that welcomes adventurers of all abilities. The park's position along the water creates a unique microclimate where lake breezes temper summer heat and create ideal conditions for the diverse ecosystem that thrives here.

Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be captivated by Lake Walcott's stunning tapestry of water, sky, and verdant shoreline. The lake's glassy surface mirrors dramatic Idaho skies while serving as a stage for nature's daily performances. Watch majestic mule deer emerge from morning mists, clever raccoons investigate the twilight hours, and elegant pelicans glide across sunset-painted waters. The air fills with the calls of countless ducks and shorebirds, creating an ever-changing soundtrack to your outdoor escape. Every viewpoint reveals another postcard-worthy scene of lush greenery meeting pristine waters.

Geological RegionLake Walcott State Park showcases the dramatic intersection of ancient volcanic activity and thriving modern ecosystems within the Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge. Ancient lava flows frame the lake's edges, creating a striking contrast with the vibrant life they now support. This geological wonderland hosts an impressive cast of wildlife characters – from graceful mule deer and resourceful raccoons to soaring pelicans and diverse waterfowl. Sharp-eyed visitors might spot hunting hawks by day or hear the haunting calls of owls by night, all thriving in this unique landscape where fire-forged rock meets life-giving water.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limits are unspecified.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum guest limits are unspecified.

Groups

No specific group camping details provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCabins, tent sites, and RV spots are scattered across shaded and open areas. Some sites are lakefront with paved paths.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via state park websites, direct calls, and reservation systems. Specific URLs or apps are not listed.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are walk-up and first-come-first-served; reservations are recommended for premium sites and cabins.

Cancellation PolicyCamp fees are non-refundable as stated in reviews. Cancellation policies and deadlines are unspecified.

AccessibilityThe campground is reported to be handicap-friendly with paved trails and accessible paths. One reviewer stated, "It’s pet and children-friendly and also is handicap-friendly, if you want to enjoy the views from your mobility cart along their many paved trails and lookout areas.

Site SizeSome sites are spacious enough to accommodate larger vehicles; for instance, a reviewer stated, "We had site #15, a lakefront pull-through site that fit our 40’ fifth wheel easily.

PrivacyPrivacy at campsites appears to be limited. Several users mentioned the proximity of sites and the lack of seclusion: "No real privacy," one reviewer noted.

Recommended SitesReviews suggest RV and cabin sites are preferable due to sprinkler issues affecting tent sites. Lakefront sites are appreciated for views but may face bug infestations.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Lake Walcott State Park offers a wide variety of activities to engage campers of all interests. Popular activities include disc golf, hiking, fishing, and boating. One reviewer praised the recreation options, saying, "This park is a hidden gem with lots of recreation options. It has great boating, fishing, and camping. It is well maintained and has one of the best disc golf courses in Idaho."

HikingHiking trails of various difficulties are available, including easy, moderate, and difficult paths. A user mentioned, "Great paved biking trails and a playground for the kids."

FishingFishing opportunities exist but have received mixed reviews. As one user wrote, "The fishing was awful! The whole reason we chose this place was for the fishing and all 5 of us got skunked."

SwimmingA designated swimming area is available. One reviewer described, "Good size cove for swimming with trees lining the shore providing the right amount of shade and sun."

BikingThe park features paved biking trails suitable for all skill levels. According to one user, "Terrific walking/biking paths."

BoatingBoating is well-supported with boat ramps and docks. "There’s lots of water. Lots of people come for boating," a reviewer shared.

Wildlife viewingThe park offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. "There’s plenty of wildlife to see," said a reviewer, noting deer, pelicans, and other birds.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential dangers include frequent raccoon activity, bug infestations (mosquitoes, spiders, etc.), and sprinklers causing flooding in campsites. Sirens from dam operations may cause noise disturbances at night.

Active AlertsOccasional bathroom closures, sprinkler issues, and maintenance-related disruptions are noted.

Fire PolicyCampfires permitted in designated areas only.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours enforced between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are available within the facility, including first aid supplies and ranger stations. Closest hospital and police station details are not explicitly provided.

Trash & RecyclingNo detailed information about trash and recycling facilities is available.

Water FeaturesDirectly adjacent to Lake Walcott, with opportunities for boating, fishing, paddle boating, and kayaking.

Camp HostMixed reviews on campground hosts. Some describe them as helpful; others mention lack of communication and friendliness.

Weather at Lake Walcott State Park

Reviews

4.0

59 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Lake Walcott State Park has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are mixed, with positive comments about the park's natural beauty and recreation options countered by complaints about maintenance issues, bugs, and sprinklers.

Review Summaries

Based on 59 reviews

What Campers Love

Many users praised the park for its natural beauty, wildlife, and recreation options such as disc golf, hiking, and boating. One user noted, "The lake was pretty awesome to hang out in. Lots of...

Based on 59 reviews

Common Concerns

Several users complained about malfunctioning facilities, bugs, and inconsistent maintenance. "The sprinklers! I mean give me a break. You can't expect tent campers to endure a daily dousing," one...

Based on 59 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing bug spray and being prepared for sprinkler schedules. "Bring bug repellent and enjoy this oasis!" one user suggested.

Based on 59 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Early in the season, the park is less crowded and temperatures are more comfortable. However, bugs are prevalent during summer, and some facilities may be out of order during peak times.

Based on 59 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "The amount of watering did seem excessive." 2. "This park is a hidden gem with lots of recreation options." 3. "Fishing was awful!" 4. "We had plenty of chairs, towels and even a Bluetooth...

Based on 59 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

One user highlighted site #15 as a good choice, describing it as a "lakefront pull-through site that fit our 40’ fifth wheel easily."

Based on 59 reviews

Accessibility Features

Paved paths and accessible facilities make the park suitable for campers with mobility challenges. "It’s pet and children-friendly and also is handicap-friendly," one reviewer noted.

Based on 59 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Raccoons are a common issue for pet owners: "Beware of raccoons at night who want your food." Pets are allowed but must be kept leashed.

Based on 59 reviews

0 review

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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