In the quiet beauty of Ririe, Idaho, right by the rolling hills and adventure hot spots like Heise Hot Springs and Kelly Canyon, sits a hidden gem – Mountain River Ranch. It is a charming blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, making it the kind of place that works well for unplugged weekend getaways and for large group gatherings or family reunions.

Only 30 minutes from Idaho Falls, this family-oriented campground has a little bit of everything: glamping yurts, themed dry cabins, RV spots, tent camping, and even a lodge perfect for large families. It is the perfect basecamp for exploring southeast Idaho’s outdoor playground, and it’s got plenty of fun packed right into the property itself.

At Mountain River Ranch, choosing your home for the weekend is half the fun. You can choose from old west-themed cabins, modern glamping yurts, and cozy campsites. 

Visitors can explore the grounds and pick out the exact spot they want to book using the handy Virtual Campground Tour on the Mountain River Ranch website. Just click the little “i” icons for info on each cabin, yurt, or site number so you know the name of the spot you want to book.

Quick rundown of the options:

• Dry Cabins (Western Themed): Rustic cabins in the Western-themed town like the Sheriff’s Office, Water Tower, and General Store (an actual store). This is right out of a classic Western movie. They are cozy and perfect for summer. These cabins don’t have running water, but showers and bathrooms are just a short walk away.
• The Outpost Lodge: The only cabin on-site with a private kitchen and bathroom. Ideal for families or those looking for full amenities. View the Outpost Lodge on Airbnb
• Glamping Yurts: Modern touches like electricity, fans, and Wi-Fi, along with linens on the beds, make these yurts feel far from roughing it.
• RV & Tent Sites: With 64 RV spots and plenty of tent spots, traditional campers have plenty of room to stretch out.

It’s not just the variety that stands out, it’s the atmosphere. A stay here feels a little like stepping into a slower time, where campfires crackle and the lake calls out for paddleboards and kayaks.

Speaking of that lake, it is the centerpiece of the ranch and a perfect spot to spend sunny afternoons. The water is ideal for floating, paddling, and playing, and there is even a golf challenge hosted on some weekends, where guests chip golf balls across the water.

Visitors are encouraged to bring:

• Kayaks
• Paddleboards
• Inflatable tubes or floaties

There is also a cantina and pavilion available to rent for group events or celebrations. Located next to the lake, these spaces are perfect for birthdays, reunions, or other gatherings.

See our experience below.

Mountain River Ranch is surrounded by incredible day-trip opportunities. Just minutes away are some of Ririe’s top outdoor destinations and family attractions.

A few local highlights:

• Heise Hot Springs: Soak in natural mineral pools or enjoy the waterslide and pool during summer months.
  
• Kelly Canyon: Known for winter skiing and summer trails.
  
• Cress Creek Nature Trail: A scenic, family-friendly hike with interpretive signs and beautiful views of the Snake River valley.
  
• Big Jud’s Express: A must-stop local restaurant famous for giant burgers and classic diner fare.
• Mini Golf: Golfing & mini golf at 7N Ranch Resort
• Heise Pizza: Some of the best pizza and so convenient when you’re exploring the area.

This region of Idaho is all about adventure. You can explore winding forest trails in the morning, grab lunch at a local eatery, and be back at the ranch in time to watch the sunset over the lake. The next day you can spend all afternoon paddleboarding or kayaking on the exclusive lake at Mountain River Ranch. 

Even mornings are a treat at Mountain River Ranch. Right at the entrance, guests will find a cute little coffee trailer, open in the mornings. It serves fresh coffee, hot cocoa, and pastries. It makes for the perfect way to start a day of hiking, paddling, or relaxing on the porch of your cabin.

There is also a general store on-site. It adds a touch of convenience while still keeping the “Old West” feel alive.

This spot is just as dreamy in the fall, with golden leaves swirling around the cabins and cool, crisp evenings ideal for campfires and cozy glamping nights. In the summer, the lake becomes the heart of the ranch, with guests splashing in the sun and families exploring all the nearby hikes and hot springs.

What makes it really special, though, is how versatile and welcoming the experience is for every type of traveler.

What guests love most:

• A variety of unique lodging options
• Peaceful lake access for water activities
• Proximity to natural hot springs and hiking
• Family-friendly atmosphere
• On-site amenities like coffee, general store, and rental pavillions
• Themed Western cabins that bring charm and character
  

It’s a place where kids can be free, couples can unplug, and groups can gather to make memories that last.

Booking your perfect spot at Mountain River Ranch is simple. Start with the virtual campground tour to explore the layout, then reserve your cabin, campsite, RV spot, or yurt on the site.

Mountain River Ranch brings together the charm of an outdoorsy getaway, the ease of modern glamping, and the adventure of Idaho’s great outdoors. With its peaceful lake, cabins, and unbeatable location near Heise, Ririe, and Kelly Canyon, it is a place that leaves you already planning your next visit before you’ve even packed up to leave.