How do I book a campsite in Idaho?

To book a campsite in Idaho , you can use the following resources: Hipcamp: Browse and book private campsites, ranches, vineyards, and more across Idaho . Idaho State Parks: Find information on state park campgrounds and make reservations through Reserve America. Recreation.gov: Book campsites, cabins, and other facilities at federal recreation sites like national forests and BLM lands. Make sure to research the specific campground or site you're interested in to understand the reservation process and any additional requirements, such as permits or fees.

Camping in Idaho: Best Idaho Campgrounds 2023

Q: Is it legal to camp anywhere in Idaho?

Yes, it is legal to camp in Idaho , but restrictions apply depending on the area and land management agency. Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds and specific areas on public lands, such as those managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and Idaho State Parks. Dispersed camping is also allowed in some areas, but it's essential to follow the rules and regulations set by each land management agency. Make sure to research the specific area where you plan to camp, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. For a list of camping options in Idaho , you can visit Hipcamp.

United States
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Idaho

95% (5442 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Idaho

Top camping destinations

Idaho Panhandle National Forests

626 campgrounds

Conkling Park

512 campgrounds

Chipmunk Rapids National Recreation Trail

654 campgrounds

Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

514 campgrounds

Sawtooth National Forest

212 campgrounds

Boise National Forest

153 campgrounds

Coeur d'ALene River National Recreation Trail

627 campgrounds

Post Falls

526 campgrounds

12 top campgrounds in Idaho

100%

(8)

Available this weekend

100%

(21)

Smokejumper Tiny Home Resort

5 sites · Lodging2 acres · Idaho City, Boise

Come experience an all new tiny home 45 minutes from Boise!! Brand new modern tiny homes that come complete with full bathroom, kitchen and two sleeping areas. Equipped with the latest in Smart Glass technology for privacy, firepits with cooktop for outdoor dining and minutes to the infamous Idaho City Hot Springs resorts and tons of other outdoor activities!

Teton Peaks Resort

9 sites · Lodging, RVs6 acres · Tetonia, Teton

At the base of the Teton Mountains, less than an hour from Jackson Hole, expansive views + rustic charm await in Tetonia, Idaho. Enjoy sports of the season and park your keister in one of our cozy spots. Offering Tiny Homes, Glamping Tents, Lodge Suites, and RV Sites. Our breathtaking Teton Valley, ID location is centrally located between Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks. We have plenty of outdoor recreation and excellent fishing outside our doorstep as well.

96%

(54)

Small Yurt in the Woods

1 site · Lodging12 acres · Sandpoint, Bonner

We have created this place and lived here for over 17 years. Our two boys who are 15 and 18 love to play and create their own piece of heaven. We desire to share it with others and allow them to see the magic of yurt living. We also live in a 30-ft yurt on the property that is our special place. Learn more about this land: This 14-foot yurt is a short walk of about 50 yards from the guest parking. You will pass our 30-ft family yurt going to your own private space. The property has a great remote feeling and has space to move around. There is a queen custom bed and room for a child or two on the floor if desired. There is a small gravity feed water system for the yurt and your own private outhouse. Plenty of wood for you to stay warm by the fire inside and an outdoor shower shared by our family. The kitchen comes with pots and pans, plates, etc. and a few extras. You will hear the sounds of nature and North Idaho at times out in your yurt as trains pass through the valley to Canada. We are 1.5 miles away from the tracks. If you are into being independent and open to new experiences then we would love to share our space with you. Please pull in the drive and pull up past the big garage and park to the left by the Yurt Parking Sign. Then walk towards the trail sign and follow the path. Recommended for you to bring a headlamp and outdoor slippers to walk to the outhouse or shower during your stay. We have towels at the yurt for your use. We can provide a Therm-a-rest bed for your child if needed. Please bring your own wood for outside fires at the fire pit.

Lucky Me Ranch

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Meridian, Ada

This is our home and an overflow for our personal and boarder's older pasture pet horses. We love the views on this property and love to share with friends, family and travelers. We still have more plans for property improvements and if you can, hope you can come back again to see the changes. Currently, we are able to provide our horses with hay from the pastures and offer a great place for horses and people! We are a farm. You will see us tending to chickens, irrigating or harvesting hay pastures, feeding farm animals and working on the property in any way it needs. Our property is situated on a hill so we see Big Sky and lots of sunsets. We have a full horse facility just 4 miles away at the Laughing Horse Ranch. If you would like to arrange a Horse Experience, please notify us with as much notice as possible as we are very busy. We have a variety of spaces available. For RV's - gravel pull through with 30 amp and water (no sewer dump) For Tents - Tree spot with shade for small tents up to 4 person ONLY For Tents - depending on our watering cycle - grass or pasture open land no shade For Tents - Sandy spot - no shade Accessibility to any of these spots is subject to change based on watering of the pastures and lawns, heat waves, mud, basically mother nature and I can't do anything about that. We will help you find the best spot upon arrival. We have just opened up out Cowboy Cabin as a "Glamping Camping Experience." AC and heater, coffee maker, mini fridge and microwave.

Urban Tree Sanctuary

4 sites · RVs1 acre · Boise, Ada

Humble half acre urban property nestled in trees within 15 mins to downtown Boise and the Boise River/ Greenbelt. You will be surrounded by locust, oak, walnut, fruit trees, seasonal berries and our friendly chickens. RV/Van camping in driveway with access to backyard, fire pit, hammocks, and BBQ. Tent campers are free to find a spot anywhere on the property.

Under $50

94%

(164)

Lucky Me Ranch

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Meridian, Ada

This is our home and an overflow for our personal and boarder's older pasture pet horses. We love the views on this property and love to share with friends, family and travelers. We still have more plans for property improvements and if you can, hope you can come back again to see the changes. Currently, we are able to provide our horses with hay from the pastures and offer a great place for horses and people! We are a farm. You will see us tending to chickens, irrigating or harvesting hay pastures, feeding farm animals and working on the property in any way it needs. Our property is situated on a hill so we see Big Sky and lots of sunsets. We have a full horse facility just 4 miles away at the Laughing Horse Ranch. If you would like to arrange a Horse Experience, please notify us with as much notice as possible as we are very busy. We have a variety of spaces available. For RV's - gravel pull through with 30 amp and water (no sewer dump) For Tents - Tree spot with shade for small tents up to 4 person ONLY For Tents - depending on our watering cycle - grass or pasture open land no shade For Tents - Sandy spot - no shade Accessibility to any of these spots is subject to change based on watering of the pastures and lawns, heat waves, mud, basically mother nature and I can't do anything about that. We will help you find the best spot upon arrival. We have just opened up out Cowboy Cabin as a "Glamping Camping Experience." AC and heater, coffee maker, mini fridge and microwave.

Teton Peaks Resort

9 sites · Lodging, RVs6 acres · Tetonia, Teton

At the base of the Teton Mountains, less than an hour from Jackson Hole, expansive views + rustic charm await in Tetonia, Idaho. Enjoy sports of the season and park your keister in one of our cozy spots. Offering Tiny Homes, Glamping Tents, Lodge Suites, and RV Sites. Our breathtaking Teton Valley, ID location is centrally located between Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks. We have plenty of outdoor recreation and excellent fishing outside our doorstep as well.

Paradise on Mirror Lake

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Sagle, Bonner

***Voted BEST Hipcamp in Idaho for 2022 and 2nd BEST in 2023!*** Like a postcard photograph, our Hipcamp is perched up about 50 feet over Mirror Lake, sitting in a mountain bowl on one end of the lake. Campers will have gorgeous views and sunsets over the lake. Fishing, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, hiking and wildlife watching abound. The campsite is off-the-beaten path so you'll be away from the crowds, yet the site is still close to other area attractions like Lake Pend Oreille (10 min. drive), charming downtown Sandpoint (15 min. drive) & Silverwood Theme Park (30 min. drive). The beauty and allure of Mirror Lake led to it being featured in two Hollywood movies -- Dante's Peak (1997) and Mel (1998). The lake itself is excellent for fishing, and stocked with Kokanee, Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Cutthroat Trout. Swimming in nearby Talache Landing (a.k.a. Talache Beach) on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille is an absolute must-do. The views are absolutely stunning and the water is crystal clear -- and quite refreshing on a hot day. Fishing is best done in a canoe or small boat which can be put in at our campground dock (free) or at the nearby public boat ramp ($5 fee). Fishing off of the campground dock is also a possibility but beware that lily pads are prevalent. Please obey all of the camp rules which are listed on the laminated brochure at the campground entrance. The most important campground rule is leaving the campground just as you found it. This means packing out all trash to prevent wildlife from visiting our campground! A bit of history... In 2021, the campsites were graveled and graded, each with their own picnic table and fire pit. A mulch tent pad was added to Campsite #2. An on-site portable toilet was also installed at this time. In 2022, 50-30-20-Amp electric pedestals for camper and RV use were installed in campsites #1 and #2. (Electric fee may apply -- please ask Host.) Also, a sand tent pad was installed in campsite #4. In 2023 a brand-new 70' elevated nature-walk & dock were installed on the lakefront. In campsite #3, a mulch tent pad was installed. Also, an interactive "Enchanted Forest" was added to the campground, which lights up a night to reveal all of the woodland creatures that live there! (Kids love this!) In 2024, a well & pump will be installed, allowing campers to fill up with potable water within steps of each campsite. Also, a new grass beach will be created by the dock, which will be great for picnicking. As the host for this campground, I do not live on-site. You may reach me anytime before, during, or after your stay via phone, text or Hipcamp messenger. I almost always respond within a few minutes. Detailed directions, and camp information will be sent to every booked guest 48 hours prior to their arrival. When selecting your campsite, please take note of the following: Best lake views: Campsite #2. (Campsites #3 & #4 have limited lake views) Easiest RV access: Campsite #1. Most private: Campsite #1 or Campsites #3 & #4 when booked together. Most shade: Campsites #3 and #4. Sunniest: Campsite #1. Electric access: Campsites #1 & #2. Nearest to port-a-potty: Campsite #3. Nearest to lake: Campsite #2. Best for large parties: Campsite #2 (fits 2+ RVs) or booking Campsites #3 & #4 together.

Your Spot by Whitewater Park

1 site · RV1 acre · Boise, Ada

Stay at this secluded site within walking distance of over 75 continuous acres of public parks, which provide access to the Boise River and the 25-mile Greenbelt path system. Bernadine Quinn Riverside Park and Esther Simplot Park feature a vast network of ponds, trails, open play areas, shelters, and public restrooms with opportunities for swimming, walking, fishing, and paddle sports. The Boise Whitewater Park features unique, adjustable standing waves for river surfing and kayaking. Gear rentals for water sports are available nearby at Corridor Surf Shop and Idaho River Sports. Also within close proximity are locally owned coffee shops, wineries and restaurants. Downtown Boise is 2 miles away.

Urban Tree Sanctuary

4 sites · RVs1 acre · Boise, Ada

Humble half acre urban property nestled in trees within 15 mins to downtown Boise and the Boise River/ Greenbelt. You will be surrounded by locust, oak, walnut, fruit trees, seasonal berries and our friendly chickens. RV/Van camping in driveway with access to backyard, fire pit, hammocks, and BBQ. Tent campers are free to find a spot anywhere on the property.

Star Hosts in Idaho

100%

(21)

Smokejumper Tiny Home Resort

5 sites · Lodging2 acres · Idaho City, Boise

Come experience an all new tiny home 45 minutes from Boise!! Brand new modern tiny homes that come complete with full bathroom, kitchen and two sleeping areas. Equipped with the latest in Smart Glass technology for privacy, firepits with cooktop for outdoor dining and minutes to the infamous Idaho City Hot Springs resorts and tons of other outdoor activities!

Your Spot by Whitewater Park

1 site · RV1 acre · Boise, Ada

Stay at this secluded site within walking distance of over 75 continuous acres of public parks, which provide access to the Boise River and the 25-mile Greenbelt path system. Bernadine Quinn Riverside Park and Esther Simplot Park feature a vast network of ponds, trails, open play areas, shelters, and public restrooms with opportunities for swimming, walking, fishing, and paddle sports. The Boise Whitewater Park features unique, adjustable standing waves for river surfing and kayaking. Gear rentals for water sports are available nearby at Corridor Surf Shop and Idaho River Sports. Also within close proximity are locally owned coffee shops, wineries and restaurants. Downtown Boise is 2 miles away.

Phoenix Rising Ranch

5 sites · Lodging20 acres · Priest River, Bonner

This is a very private and quiet place, more of a sanctuary and not a party place. The only thing you hear is nature, a breeze through the pine trees, the birds, and the creek. This property was and is an organic permaculture farm in the forest. There are two orchards and an organic garden. The water is from a spring. The La Luna cabin is off-grid with an option to plugin if needed. Hot Showers at my cabins are private and outdoors. There's nothing more wonderful than a hot spring-fed shower. The toilets are composting. (No water is wasted here)! Two of the cabins were built from the trees on the property by the first family that lived here in the earlier 1900s. The Birds Nest cabin was originally a tool shed that needed a LOT of Love to be in the condition that it is today. It does have power, running water and wi-fi. There is the option to take an acrylic painting class, banjo, guitar or fiddle lessons, paddleboard lessons, and have a real old-timey campfire with a glass of wine or two with live music performed by our famous Fiddlin Red on the fiddle, banjo, and guitar. Your experience here may change your life forever! We haven't added all the experiential options yet, so if there is something you are interested in please inquire. Every year we make it more and more magical and interesting. It's four miles up a county-maintained dirt road and one mile to a non-motorized lake. I can't see my neighbors, but they are awesome artists and musicians and some of them are off the grid! If you're bringing a pet, they must be on a leash and be quiet pets. If you are bringing a child they also need to be quiet and respectful. I want to keep my neighbors and my other guests happy with a peaceful atmosphere. Thank you!

Paradise on Mirror Lake

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Sagle, Bonner

***Voted BEST Hipcamp in Idaho for 2022 and 2nd BEST in 2023!*** Like a postcard photograph, our Hipcamp is perched up about 50 feet over Mirror Lake, sitting in a mountain bowl on one end of the lake. Campers will have gorgeous views and sunsets over the lake. Fishing, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, hiking and wildlife watching abound. The campsite is off-the-beaten path so you'll be away from the crowds, yet the site is still close to other area attractions like Lake Pend Oreille (10 min. drive), charming downtown Sandpoint (15 min. drive) & Silverwood Theme Park (30 min. drive). The beauty and allure of Mirror Lake led to it being featured in two Hollywood movies -- Dante's Peak (1997) and Mel (1998). The lake itself is excellent for fishing, and stocked with Kokanee, Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Cutthroat Trout. Swimming in nearby Talache Landing (a.k.a. Talache Beach) on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille is an absolute must-do. The views are absolutely stunning and the water is crystal clear -- and quite refreshing on a hot day. Fishing is best done in a canoe or small boat which can be put in at our campground dock (free) or at the nearby public boat ramp ($5 fee). Fishing off of the campground dock is also a possibility but beware that lily pads are prevalent. Please obey all of the camp rules which are listed on the laminated brochure at the campground entrance. The most important campground rule is leaving the campground just as you found it. This means packing out all trash to prevent wildlife from visiting our campground! A bit of history... In 2021, the campsites were graveled and graded, each with their own picnic table and fire pit. A mulch tent pad was added to Campsite #2. An on-site portable toilet was also installed at this time. In 2022, 50-30-20-Amp electric pedestals for camper and RV use were installed in campsites #1 and #2. (Electric fee may apply -- please ask Host.) Also, a sand tent pad was installed in campsite #4. In 2023 a brand-new 70' elevated nature-walk & dock were installed on the lakefront. In campsite #3, a mulch tent pad was installed. Also, an interactive "Enchanted Forest" was added to the campground, which lights up a night to reveal all of the woodland creatures that live there! (Kids love this!) In 2024, a well & pump will be installed, allowing campers to fill up with potable water within steps of each campsite. Also, a new grass beach will be created by the dock, which will be great for picnicking. As the host for this campground, I do not live on-site. You may reach me anytime before, during, or after your stay via phone, text or Hipcamp messenger. I almost always respond within a few minutes. Detailed directions, and camp information will be sent to every booked guest 48 hours prior to their arrival. When selecting your campsite, please take note of the following: Best lake views: Campsite #2. (Campsites #3 & #4 have limited lake views) Easiest RV access: Campsite #1. Most private: Campsite #1 or Campsites #3 & #4 when booked together. Most shade: Campsites #3 and #4. Sunniest: Campsite #1. Electric access: Campsites #1 & #2. Nearest to port-a-potty: Campsite #3. Nearest to lake: Campsite #2. Best for large parties: Campsite #2 (fits 2+ RVs) or booking Campsites #3 & #4 together.

Urban Tree Sanctuary

4 sites · RVs1 acre · Boise, Ada

Humble half acre urban property nestled in trees within 15 mins to downtown Boise and the Boise River/ Greenbelt. You will be surrounded by locust, oak, walnut, fruit trees, seasonal berries and our friendly chickens. RV/Van camping in driveway with access to backyard, fire pit, hammocks, and BBQ. Tent campers are free to find a spot anywhere on the property.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

80%

(41)

Boise National Forest

Lowman, Idaho

95%

(76)

Sawtooth National Forest

Challis, Idaho

82%

(22)

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Stanley, Idaho

89%

(35)

Idaho Panhandle National Forests

Clark Fork, Idaho

100%

(14)

City Of Rocks National Reserve

Oakley, Idaho

78%

(9)

Payette National Forest

Mc Call, Idaho

100%

(4)

Three Island Crossing State Park

Glenns Ferry, Idaho

87%

(27)

Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

Caribou National Forest

Idaho

Camping in Idaho guide

In the eastern reaches of the Pacific Northwest, Idaho offers recreation throughout the year, from whitewater rafting to backcountry exploration. Winter sports are big, with ski resorts all over the state. If you're planning on camping, summer is the best time to visit, particularly if you want to see Idaho's many hiking trails, hot springs, waterfalls, or lakes. Hipcamps are your best private camping option, while Idaho State Parks manages many of the public campgrounds in the state, most coming well equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. Some also have yurts, and many offer RV sites with full hookups.

Where to Go

The Idaho Panhandle

Between Washington and Montana and stretching up to Canada’s border, this forested region is ideal for winter skiing and snowboarding, plus hiking, biking, and kayaking in warmer months. Highlights include Nez Perce National Historic Park and Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, where the Pandhandle rivers are particularly beloved by whitewater rafters. Popular camping areas include Priest Lake State Park, Heyburn State Park, and Farragut State Park, and you can also find campgrounds on the Banks of Lake Pend Oreille and Lake Coeur d'Alene.

Southwest Idaho

On the border of Oregon, southwestern Idaho features lots of outdoor and cultural attractions, plus plenty of wineries and breweries. Boise, the state’s capital, is here and despite its small size, the fast-growing city has great museums and restaurants. Popular getaways from the city include Payette National Forest, Boise National Forest, Ponderosa State Park, Lake Cascade State Park, and Bruneau Dunes State Park.

Central Idaho

Characterized by alpine landscapes and crystalline lakes, central Idaho is as known for its summertime hiking as it is for its ski resorts, including the world-famous Sun Valley. Some of the best camping spots in the region include Redfish Lake in Sawtooth National Forest, Craters of the Moon National Monument, and the City of Rocks National Reserve.

Eastern Idaho

The gateway to Yellowstone National Park, eastern Idaho is chock-full of outdoor fun, from fishing on the Snake River's South Fork to cruising down the country's longest Main Street in Island Park. Summer is great for hiking and biking, while winter brings opportunities to ski and snowmobile against the backdrop of the Tetons. The region is also home to a handful of hot springs, the most famous of which is the odorless Lava Hot Springs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is legal to camp in Idaho, but restrictions apply depending on the area and land management agency. Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds and specific areas on public lands, such as those managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and Idaho State Parks. Dispersed camping is also allowed in some areas, but it's essential to follow the rules and regulations set by each land management agency. Make sure to research the specific area where you plan to camp, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. For a list of camping options in Idaho, you can visit Hipcamp.

The 14-day camping limit in Idaho refers to the maximum number of consecutive days you are allowed to camp at a specific location on public lands, such as national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas. After 14 days, campers must move to a new location at least 5 miles away from the original site. This rule helps to protect the environment, reduce the impact on resources, and ensure that everyone has a fair opportunity to enjoy camping on public lands. Some campgrounds may have different stay limits, so it's essential to check the specific rules for the location you plan to visit.

Yes, boondocking is legal in Idaho on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and in certain areas of national forests. Boondocking, also known as dispersed camping, is a type of camping where you camp outside of designated campgrounds, often without facilities or services. Some popular boondocking locations in Idaho include the Boise National Forest, Kooskia, and Buhl areas. Always make sure to follow Leave No Trace principles, respect local regulations, and practice responsible camping when boondocking in Idaho.

To book a campsite in Idaho, you can use the following resources:

Hipcamp: Browse and book private campsites, ranches, vineyards, and more across Idaho.
Idaho State Parks: Find information on state park campgrounds and make reservations through Reserve America.
Recreation.gov: Book campsites, cabins, and other facilities at federal recreation sites like national forests and BLM lands.

Make sure to research the specific campground or site you're interested in to understand the reservation process and any additional requirements, such as permits or fees.