Snake River Stampede Rodeo

Even though you may see that the Ford Idaho Center shows RV parking with hookups, this feature is not offered to visitors and guests during the rodeo. Since the RV spots are reserved for the rodeo's contestants, your best bet is to find a camping spot at one of the nearby RV parks.

RVers who want to turn a trip to the rodeo into an RV vacation won't have to worry about lengthy drives to and from the Ford Idaho Center because there are several RV parks within an eight-mile radius of the venue. The RV parks offer both pull-through sites and back-in sites and accommodate small travel trailers up to large big rigs. If full hookup camping is your style, then you are in luck because many of the camping spots nearby offer resort-style camping. 

If you prefer off-the-grid camping on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or dispersed camping land, there are several areas on the outskirts of Nampa. Most of those camping areas are more than fifty miles away, so it may be difficult to stay that far and attend the rodeo. One way to make your RV trip memorable is to plan stops along your route to or from the rodeo. Choose from free camping areas or more modern campgrounds in one of the Idaho state parks.

During some events, such as the rodeo, volunteers help provide golf cart transportation from the parking lot to the rodeo area, but the use of shuttles varies from year to year. ADA seating, parking, and assistance are available. Guests who need information on ADA accessibility for the event are encouraged to call ahead and speak to a member of the staff for details.

Nampa, Idaho is usually hot in July with only a slight chance for rain. When you are packing your clothes for the rodeo, consider the weather, but also bring your best boot cut jeans, cowboy boots, cowboy hats, and your biggest belt buckle. Part of the fun when you attend a rodeo is dressing in your best western gear. Even in the hottest months, western-wear fashion can include long-sleeved shirts and jeans.

Taking your RV to Idaho in the summer means preparing for time sitting outside once you've returned to your RV from the rodeo. Pack folding chairs and an outdoor rug and bring a citronella candle. The only gear you will need for the rodeo is your western wear and something to carry a few necessary items like sunscreen, lip balm, and some cash. Before packing a bag, be sure you check the rules on the size of the bag permitted at the venue.

When you pack your suitcases or your RV, one thing you don't ever want to forget is a small first aid kit. Even though many camping areas are close to a medical facility or a store, it's easier to bring a first aid kit filled with commonly needed supplies like bandages, antibiotic ointment, pain killers, and stomach remedies. If you get a blister from wearing your new boots to the rodeo, you won't have to worry about putting those boots back on the next day because you've got bandages on hand.

After a long day at the rodeo snacking on popcorn and other concession-style food, you might get back to the rig and want to put your feet up and not worry about cooking. Plan on bringing some easy to heat items or premade food or snacks in case you want food, but you don't feel like cooking. Since the rodeo is an afternoon event, maybe you want to cook up a breakfast filled with protein. Most RVs have propane stoves, so one way to get a quick meal is to warm premixed egg whites and already cooked bacon over the stove. Starting the day off with a good breakfast is always a good idea.

If you aren't feeling like cooking after the rodeo, you don't have to worry about limited food and beverage options nearby. Nampa has several chain restaurants and coffee shops to choose from if you want a taste you are familiar with already. If you prefer local fare, ask around for which cafés and coffee shops are the best places to try for your interests. There are several locally owned businesses within six miles of the venue.

One of the great things about the Snake River Stampede is that the event provides local charities a way to raise money by taking part in the rodeo through volunteer efforts and fundraising. Generally, local organizations raise money by providing food and beverages to rodeo patrons. During the rodeo, several food and merchandise vendors set up tents, and they sell their goods. Not all of the vendors are charitable organizations, but those who are raising money will appreciate your patronage.