Public Campground
1013-001
Coolin, Idaho
Campground in Idaho.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Minnetonka Cave
Minnetonka Cave, in beautiful St. Charles Canyon northwest of Bear Lake, offers a half-mile of fascinating stalactites, stalagmites, and banded travertine in nine rooms. From mid-June until Labor Day, over 20,000 people visit the Cave and take the guided tours. The cave stays a brisk 40 degrees all year so bring your jacket! Minnetonka is one of two caverns administered by the Forest Service. Within St. Charles Canyon are campgrounds and a large group use areas with fishing and hiking nearby.
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Idaho, Minnetonka Cave Campground offers a perfect gateway for RV travelers seeking to explore one of the region's most captivating natural wonders. The campground serves as an ideal base for visitors interested in spelunking adventures, outdoor recreation, and experiencing the unique geological formations that make this area special.
The main attraction drawing visitors to this area is Minnetonka Cave itself, a stunning underground cavern system featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations. The cave tour is an educational and visually remarkable experience that provides insight into Idaho's geological history. For RV travelers, having a comfortable home base nearby means you can spend your days exploring the cave and surrounding natural areas without the stress of traveling long distances from your sleeping quarters.
The region surrounding Minnetonka Cave is characterized by beautiful high-desert and forested terrain typical of central Idaho. The area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, with numerous trails winding through nearby canyons and across scenic overlooks. Wildlife viewing is another popular activity, as the region is home to various species of birds, small mammals, and occasionally larger wildlife. The campground's location makes it convenient for those interested in geology, nature photography, and outdoor education.
Minnetonka Cave Campground attracts a diverse range of visitors throughout the camping season. Families with children enjoy the cave tour as an educational outing that combines adventure with learning. Couples seeking peaceful getaways appreciate the tranquil forest setting and relatively uncrowded atmosphere compared to larger tourist destinations. Serious RV enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers value the location as a jumping-off point for exploring the greater Idaho wilderness.
The camping experience here emphasizes natural beauty and outdoor exploration rather than extensive on-site amenities. This makes it ideal for travelers who enjoy a more rustic camping experience and want to spend their time exploring the natural attractions rather than staying at the RV site. The seasonal operation means visitors should plan their trips accordingly to ensure the campground and cave tours are open.
The main attraction drawing visitors to this area is Minnetonka Cave itself, a stunning underground cavern system featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations. The cave tour is an educational and visually remarkable experience that provides insight into Idaho's geological history. For RV travelers, having a comfortable home base nearby means you can spend your days exploring the cave and surrounding natural areas without the stress of traveling long distances from your sleeping quarters.
The region surrounding Minnetonka Cave is characterized by beautiful high-desert and forested terrain typical of central Idaho. The area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, with numerous trails winding through nearby canyons and across scenic overlooks. Wildlife viewing is another popular activity, as the region is home to various species of birds, small mammals, and occasionally larger wildlife. The campground's location makes it convenient for those interested in geology, nature photography, and outdoor education.
Minnetonka Cave Campground attracts a diverse range of visitors throughout the camping season. Families with children enjoy the cave tour as an educational outing that combines adventure with learning. Couples seeking peaceful getaways appreciate the tranquil forest setting and relatively uncrowded atmosphere compared to larger tourist destinations. Serious RV enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers value the location as a jumping-off point for exploring the greater Idaho wilderness.
The camping experience here emphasizes natural beauty and outdoor exploration rather than extensive on-site amenities. This makes it ideal for travelers who enjoy a more rustic camping experience and want to spend their time exploring the natural attractions rather than staying at the RV site. The seasonal operation means visitors should plan their trips accordingly to ensure the campground and cave tours are open.
4.7
Rating
957
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Lava Hot Springs is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
Idaho weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Lava Hot Springs.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Lava Hot Springs. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Minnetonka Cave Reviews
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April Whitefield
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by April Whitefield
First of all, the drive up was beautiful. It was worth it. There was plenty of parking available. The staff was very friendly. The cave was quite amazing to see. It may be a little bit more difficult for older people or people that are out of shape. That is a lot of stairs. And it does get very slippery in places. If you are not very careful you could have an accident. But they do have some gravel... First of all, the drive up was beautiful. It was worth it. There was plenty of parking available. The staff was very friendly. The cave was quite amazing to see. It may be a little bit more difficult for older people or people that are out of shape. That is a lot of stairs. And it does get very slippery in places. If you are not very careful you could have an accident. But they do have some gravel on the floors and they have handrails the entire span of the cave. It was a very enjoyable tour. And the guide was able to answer any questions. Would definitely go again.
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Christina Bennett
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Christina Bennett
Beautiful cave and the guide was super knowledgeable and friendly. I will say there are a lot of stairs, some with an almost vertical incline. A guy in our group had to turn back due to asthma related issues. Wear good shoes with traction as some spots in the cave are slippery. Be prepared for a wait if they are very busy. Only 30 people are allowed in a tour. Worth the drive, the wait, and the ef... Beautiful cave and the guide was super knowledgeable and friendly. I will say there are a lot of stairs, some with an almost vertical incline. A guy in our group had to turn back due to asthma related issues. Wear good shoes with traction as some spots in the cave are slippery. Be prepared for a wait if they are very busy. Only 30 people are allowed in a tour. Worth the drive, the wait, and the effort.
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Samanta Campos
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Samanta Campos
Best experience ever! The caves are a gem in the mountains, you need to purchase your ticket in advance because you risk yourself to drive all the way up and could be that the ticket are sold out. It’s a 1.5 hours tour, the guides are super friendly, it’s a little cooler inside so being a lightweight jacket 🙂
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Samanta Campos
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Samanta Campos
Best experience ever! The caves are a gem in the mountains, you need to purchase your ticket in advance because you risk yourself to drive all the way up and could be that the ticket are sold out. It’s a 1.5 hours tour, the guides are super friendly, it’s a little cooler inside so being a lightweight jacket 🙂
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Loralie Carter
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Loralie Carter
The tour guides made it fun. They shared some comedy, some history, and some science. It was also nice and cool which made it such a treat during the summer. And the paths are well maintained. The tours are very coordinated so there's not much lag time which is nice.
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Loralie Carter
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Loralie Carter
The tour guides made it fun. They shared some comedy, some history, and some science. It was also nice and cool which made it such a treat during the summer. And the paths are well maintained. The tours are very coordinated so there's not much lag time which is nice.
G
Nathan “Nate” Barr
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Nathan “Nate” Barr
Great cave tour experience! Our guide Jared did a really good job and we loved hearing all of the facts about the cave, the formations and the history. The bats were fun to see too! We were glad to have our jackets on hand with how cool the cave was inside.
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Nathan “Nate” Barr
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Nathan “Nate” Barr
Great cave tour experience! Our guide Jared did a really good job and we loved hearing all of the facts about the cave, the formations and the history. The bats were fun to see too! We were glad to have our jackets on hand with how cool the cave was inside.
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