Welcome to Nampa, Idaho
Nampa, Idaho, the third-largest city in the state with a population of over 100,000, is a vibrant hub in the Treasure Valley, just 20 miles west of Boise.
Founded in 1886 by Alexander and Hannah Duffes, Nampa grew from a railroad stop along the Oregon Short Line into a bustling agricultural and commercial center, earning its nickname “The Heart of the Treasure Valley.”
Named after a Shoshoni word that may mean “moccasin” or refer to a local chief, Nampa boasts a rich history tied to irrigation projects, such as the Ridenbaugh Canal, which transformed the desert into fertile farmland.
Home to the Northwest Nazarene University and the historic Warhawk Air Museum, Nampa, ID, blends small-town charm with modern amenities, offering RVers a gateway to Idaho’s outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and a thriving food scene in the sunny Snake River Valley.
Three Unique Activities in Nampa
Visiting the Warhawk Air Museum
The Warhawk Air Museum, located at Nampa Municipal Airport, is a must-visit for RVers interested in aviation and military history. This 40,000-square-foot museum features an extensive collection of World War II aircraft, including the P-51 Mustang and P-40 Warhawk, alongside artifacts such as uniforms, weapons, and personal stories from veterans. Interactive exhibits and a kid-friendly scavenger hunt make it engaging for all ages, while the monthly Kilroy Coffee Klatch offers free admission for veterans to share their stories. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the museum has ample RV parking at 201 Municipal Dr, Nampa, ID 83687. Admission is $12 for adults, with discounts for seniors and children. RVers can easily spend a few hours exploring, with nearby picnic areas for a post-visit lunch, making it a perfect blend of education and inspiration.
Exploring Lake Lowell Park
Lake Lowell Park, part of the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge, offers RVers a scenic escape just 10 miles southwest of Nampa, ID. This 1,200-acre reservoir is ideal for birdwatching, with over 200 species like bald eagles and great blue herons, and features a 4-mile loop trail for hiking or biking along the water’s edge. The trailhead at Upper Dam, accessible via Midland Blvd, provides stunning views of the Owyhee Mountains and opportunities for fishing (bass and catfish) or kayaking. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with free entry, though a Discover Pass is recommended for nearby state-managed areas. RV parking is available at the Upper Dam lot, suitable for smaller rigs, but larger RVs should use caution on narrow access roads. This tranquil oasis is perfect for RVers seeking nature and relaxation near Nampa’s urban amenities.
Nampa’s Farmer Market
The Nampa Farmers Market, held every Saturday from April to October (9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) in downtown Nampa at Lloyd Square, is a vibrant community event showcasing the Treasure Valley’s agricultural bounty. RVers can browse over 60 vendors offering fresh produce, artisan cheeses, homemade jams, and local crafts, with live music and food trucks adding to the festive atmosphere. Highlights include sampling Idaho huckleberry treats and exploring nearby historic storefronts on 1st St S. The market is pet-friendly (leashed pets only) and offers ample street parking for RVs along 12th Ave S. Free to attend, it’s a great way to connect with Nampa’s community spirit and stock up on local goods for your RV kitchen, making it a delightful morning outing.
Restaurants in or Near Nampa
Idaho Pizza Company (Several Locations -Treasure Valley)
Ambience: A warm, welcoming pizzeria with a buffet‑style salad bar and build‑your‑own‑pizza setup—ideal for families with kids of all ages.
Kid Appeal: Many locations include arcade games to keep little ones happily occupied while waiting or after eating houseofpalmer.co.
Why it’s great: Flexible menu, interactive pizza-making experience, and casual vibe that makes dining out with kids easy and fun.
Le Baron’s Honker Café (Nampa, ID)
- Cuisine: Classic American diner
- Ambiance: Le Baron’s Honker Café, at 1210 2nd St S, Nampa, ID 83651, is a nostalgic diner with a retro vibe, featuring red vinyl booths, checkered floors, and vintage signs. The casual, welcoming atmosphere attracts locals and visitors alike, with a jukebox adding to the charm. The menu offers comfort food classics like chicken-fried steak, homemade meatloaf, and all-day breakfast with fluffy pancakes. Their famous pies, especially huckleberry, are a must-try. The diner’s central location near downtown Nampa has a parking lot suitable for smaller RVs, with additional street parking nearby. Open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., it’s a cozy stop for RVers seeking a taste of Idaho’s heartland (208-466-1551).
The Tower Grill (Nampa Municipal Airport)
Ambience: Situated directly by the runway, it’s a captivating spot where kids can watch planes take off and land, delighting aviation-loving families.
Menu: Offers hearty breakfast, burgers, omelets, and fun airplane-themed dishes; perfect for casual family brunches or dinners .
Why it’s great: Combines good food, relaxed service, and an engaging environment that keeps kids entertained with minimal fuss.
RV Parks in or Near Nampa
Country Corners RV Park (Caldwell, ID, ~7 miles from Nampa, ID)
Country Corners RV Park, located just off I-84 in Caldwell, is a well-maintained campground offering a peaceful base for exploring Nampa and the Treasure Valley. The park features 50 sites with full hookups (30/50 amp, water, sewer), including pull-throughs for rigs up to 60 feet. Amenities include WiFi, clean restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, a dog run, and a convenience store. The flat, grassy sites are surrounded by farmland, providing a serene setting with easy access to Nampa’s attractions via I-84. Activities include biking along nearby trails and visiting the Warhawk Air Museum. Open year-round, the park is pet-friendly (leashed pets only) and requires reservations during peak seasons (208-453-8797). Its proximity to downtown Nampa and modern amenities make it a top choice for RVers.
Mason Creek RV Park (Nampa, ID)
Mason Creek RV Park (Nampa’s First RV Park) is situated in the picturesque town of Nampa, Idaho, and offers an excellent spot for a fun and relaxing vacation. Campers may look forward to many great attractions just beyond the campground including the Warhawk Air Museum, the Canyon County Historical Nampa Train Depot Museum and the exciting Snake River Stampede Rodeo along with the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge for wildlife viewing, scenic viewing, hiking and biking, Sawtooth Winery, the Wilson Springs Ponds, Canyon County Historical Museum, Rusty Retro Antiques & Oddities, golf courses and great local eateries. Amenities offered at the park include pull-through sites, water, sewerage, and 30/50 amp service. Whether it’s for a night or two, we hope to see you soon!
Ambassador RV Park (Caldwell, ID, ~8 miles from Nampa)
Ambassador RV Park, located at 615 E 5th St, Caldwell, ID 83605, is a welcoming campground with a small-town feel, just a short drive from Nampa via I-84. The park offers 60 RV sites with full hookups (30/50 amp, water, sewer), including pull-throughs for larger rigs up to 50 feet. Amenities include high-speed WiFi, a clubhouse, laundry facilities, clean restrooms, showers, and a pet-friendly dog park (leashed pets only). The campground’s proximity to Caldwell’s historic downtown and the Snake River Valley wine region makes it a great base for RVers. Activities include visiting nearby wineries or exploring the Nampa Civic Center. Open year-round, reservations are advised (208-454-8585), especially during summer events. The park’s clean, well-organized facilities and friendly staff ensure a comfortable stay for Nampa-bound travelers.
RV Propane Fill-Up Stations Near Nampa
U-Haul Moving & Storage of Nampa (Nampa, ID)
- Directions:. The U-Haul is at 2112 Caldwell, Blvd, Nampa, ID 83651, on the right.
- Details: U-Haul Moving & Storage of Nampa offers propane refills for RV tanks, handling both ASME and DOT cylinders. Open Monday through Saturday, 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m., and Sunday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., the facility offers competitive pricing (call 208-467-1102 for rates). The spacious lot accommodates larger RVs, and staff are trained for safe refills. The location also sells RV supplies and offers storage, making it a one-stop shop. Its central position off I-84 ensures easy access for RVers visiting Nampa attractions like the Warhawk Air Museum. Confirm availability during peak summer months, and bring adapters for non-standard tanks.
Chevron Station (Caldwell, ID, ~7 miles from Nampa)
- Directions: From downtown Nampa, take I-84 W for 5 miles to exit 29. Turn left onto Franklin Rd, then right onto 10th Ave S. The Chevron is at 2809 Blaine St, Caldwell, ID 83605, on the left.
- Details: This Chevron station provides propane refills for RV tanks, open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Pricing is per gallon (call 208-459-6582 for rates), and the station handles ASME and DOT tanks. The lot is RV-friendly, but larger rigs should navigate carefully due to nearby fuel pumps. Staff ensure safe handling, and the station offers snacks and RV essentials. Its location near I-84 makes it a convenient stop for RVers exploring Nampa or heading to Lake Lowell. Check for peak-hour traffic, and call ahead to confirm propane availability during busy seasons.
Dump Stations Near Nampa
Country Corners RV Park Dump Station (Caldwell, ID, ~7 miles from Nampa)
- Directions: From downtown Nampa, take I-84 W for 5 miles to exit 29. Turn right onto Franklin Rd, then left onto Simplot Blvd. The RV park is at 17671 Oasis Rd, Caldwell, ID 83607.
- Details: The dump station at Country Corners RV Park is free for registered guests and $8 for non-guests, open year-round from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. It supports gray and black water dumping, with potable water for rinsing nearby. The station accommodates most RV sizes via paved roads, and RVers should bring their own hoses and follow disposal guidelines. Call 208-453-8797 to confirm hours, especially in winter when access may be limited. The park’s proximity to Nampa’s attractions and I-84 makes it a practical stop for waste disposal and campground amenities.
Nampa RV Park Dump Station (Nampa, ID)
- Directions: From downtown Nampa, head south on 11th Ave S, then turn left onto Greenhurst Rd. Continue for 2 miles; the RV park is at 3708 E Greenhurst Rd, Nampa, ID 83686, on the right.
- Details: Nampa RV Park’s dump station is free for guests and $10 for non-guests, open year-round during campground hours (8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.). It supports gray and black water dumping, with a potable water spigot for rinsing. The station is accessible for most RV sizes, with clear signage and paved roads. RVers must bring their own hoses and adhere to park rules to prevent spills. Call 208-466-8080 for availability, as summer months can be busy. Its central location near Lake Lowell and downtown Nampa makes it a convenient stop for RVers exploring the area.
Books About Nampa’s History
Nampa: by Author Larry Cain
- Summary: Nampa began as a railroad siding on the Idaho Central Railway in 1885. There was no town then, only a water tower and a few shacks. In 1886, however, Alexander Duffes incorporated the town of Nampa. A year later, the Boise & Idaho Railway was completed, and the city grew from 15 to 50 houses. By 1904, cultivated land reached 40,000 acres. The Deer Flat Reservoir, finished in 1909, irrigated 150,000 acres, and farms, livestock, and fruit orchards flourished across the desert. Canning and evaporating facilities were built to process local crops, and an iron foundry, lumber yards, and other industries contributed to the town’s growth, eventually reaching a population of 1,500. Three railroads converged in Nampa to transport local goods to markets worldwide. Today, Nampa is Idaho’s second-largest city.
Final Thoughts for The Smart RVer
Nampa, Idaho, shines as a vibrant destination for RVers, blending rich history, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm in the heart of the Treasure Valley. From exploring the Warhawk Air Museum’s aviation treasures to hiking Lake Lowell’s scenic trails or savoring the Nampa Farmers Market’s local flavors, there’s something for every traveler. Enjoy hearty meals at The Buffalo Grill or Casa Mexico, and rest easy at RV-friendly campgrounds like Country Corners or Nampa RV Park.
With convenient propane and dump stations nearby, your journey through Nampa is seamless and memorable. Dive into the city’s story and let Nampa’s welcoming spirit inspire your next RV adventure. Pack your rig, embrace the Idaho sunshine, and discover why Nampa, ID, is a true gem in the Treasure Valley!