Discover the best beach campgrounds in Idaho with campfires

United States
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Idaho

97% (623 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Idaho

Under $50

Available this weekend

98%

(128)

The Meadow

5 sites · Lodging3 acres · Carmen, ID

Welcome to the Weaver's Meadow. We have lived on this property for the past 31 years and it is the very spot where a blind date led to an engagement which let to a beautiful love story and 3 wonderful children. Now, we hope you too can come and enjoy the utterly breathtaking beauty of our secluded, creekside paradise. Nestled among the aspen trees you will find a one room cabin complete with bed, table and chairs, wood cookstove and all the amenities you will need to truly relax with the comfort of a cozy cabin to forget the outside world.

Waterfront RV camping brownlee

5 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Huntington, OR

Learn more about this land: We have 125 acre farm ranch that is waterfront on brownlee reservoir. We have multiple camping spots along the water. There are 4 rv or camp trailer camp spots available. All 4 spots are dry camping. No power or water currently. we have a spot to launch boats which is right between sight 3 and 4. Good fishing. Very little boat traffic. Very private. In the fall big horn sheep frequently rut on the property. We usually have fresh eggs on hand. Dry climate. Sage brush and juniper trees here. We have a easy to access spot to fill up water to your camp trailers or rvs. The water is from a spring and Water tastes really good. This area has a lot of history. Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe often stayed in this area and on the property. In fact this was where his tribe met to discuss and decide to try to go to escape to Canada. This is where that journey started. You can still find arrow heads on the shoreline every so often. I’m ruffly 15 miles north of Huntington oregon. 13 miles of which is dirt road. The property sits at the base of lookout mountain. Really good cell service here with Verizon Full bars. If you decide to come camp make sure your directions take you through Huntington. Google sometimes likes to try to get people to drive over the mountain. Or if your coming from the north it sometimes wants you to go through Richland and then on 34 miles of dirt road. Going Through Huntington onto snake river rd is the easy way to go.

Teton Corners River Preserve

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Rexburg, ID

Teton Corners has been a favorite fishing and stayover spot for generations, and we felt we should step up and adopt it since we didn't want to see it developed, ripped apart or closed off. Know that by staying here, you are helping preserve this small piece of natural beauty in Idaho. It may not be the biggest preserve, but you have to start somewhere. Come stay a night! Learn more about this land: Come to our riverside getaway at Teton Corners. This 3 acre peninsula into the Teton River provides amazing trout fishing right from your tent door (licenses issued just 1 mile down the road). This gorgeous nature area is minutes from town, with easy access to HWY20 and HWY33. Deer, moose, bald eagles and osprey frequent the area year round, as well as beaver, waterfowl and night owls. RV dumps right down the road, as well as a 27 hole golf course, if that's your thing. Or just relax, dip your feet in the Teton River and listen to the water pass by. Note: River levels fluctuate over the season. We've tried to take pictures of all water seasons for reference.

Cagle Cove

5 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Greenleaf, ID

Learn more about this land: Pick your camping spot around a secluded private fish filled pond. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching. Fire rings and picnic tables at each spot. Located near snake river/Sunnyslope wine country, and golf course. 30 to 45 minutes from Boise but feels like you are away from civilization. Pet friendly area and no nearby neighbors. Amazing opportunity to s t a r g a z e. Although there is room for multiple campers, we have limited the reservations to 4 spots. Drug free!

99%

(46)

Waterfront Adventures

6 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Dover, ID

Beautiful far reaching southern views, shallow warm water, boat into Sandpoint. Week days are discounted 10% Paddleboards and kayaks are available for use in the bay. Hiking and biking, stargazing, kite flying, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Ski/snowboard at Schweitzer only 45 min drive to the mountain. Boat launch 2 miles away. A couple of mooring balls available, ask on availability. Shallow, soft, clay bottom. 17' water bouncer, slide for fun times playing in the water during the summer months. Two sandy beaches shared with Hipcampers and family.

12 top beach campgrounds in Idaho with campfires

99%

(115)

Cagle Cove

5 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Greenleaf, ID

Learn more about this land: Pick your camping spot around a secluded private fish filled pond. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching. Fire rings and picnic tables at each spot. Located near snake river/Sunnyslope wine country, and golf course. 30 to 45 minutes from Boise but feels like you are away from civilization. Pet friendly area and no nearby neighbors. Amazing opportunity to s t a r g a z e. Although there is room for multiple campers, we have limited the reservations to 4 spots. Drug free!

Teton Corners River Preserve

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Rexburg, ID

Teton Corners has been a favorite fishing and stayover spot for generations, and we felt we should step up and adopt it since we didn't want to see it developed, ripped apart or closed off. Know that by staying here, you are helping preserve this small piece of natural beauty in Idaho. It may not be the biggest preserve, but you have to start somewhere. Come stay a night! Learn more about this land: Come to our riverside getaway at Teton Corners. This 3 acre peninsula into the Teton River provides amazing trout fishing right from your tent door (licenses issued just 1 mile down the road). This gorgeous nature area is minutes from town, with easy access to HWY20 and HWY33. Deer, moose, bald eagles and osprey frequent the area year round, as well as beaver, waterfowl and night owls. RV dumps right down the road, as well as a 27 hole golf course, if that's your thing. Or just relax, dip your feet in the Teton River and listen to the water pass by. Note: River levels fluctuate over the season. We've tried to take pictures of all water seasons for reference.

Waterfront RV camping brownlee

5 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Huntington, OR

Learn more about this land: We have 125 acre farm ranch that is waterfront on brownlee reservoir. We have multiple camping spots along the water. There are 4 rv or camp trailer camp spots available. All 4 spots are dry camping. No power or water currently. we have a spot to launch boats which is right between sight 3 and 4. Good fishing. Very little boat traffic. Very private. In the fall big horn sheep frequently rut on the property. We usually have fresh eggs on hand. Dry climate. Sage brush and juniper trees here. We have a easy to access spot to fill up water to your camp trailers or rvs. The water is from a spring and Water tastes really good. This area has a lot of history. Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe often stayed in this area and on the property. In fact this was where his tribe met to discuss and decide to try to go to escape to Canada. This is where that journey started. You can still find arrow heads on the shoreline every so often. I’m ruffly 15 miles north of Huntington oregon. 13 miles of which is dirt road. The property sits at the base of lookout mountain. Really good cell service here with Verizon Full bars. If you decide to come camp make sure your directions take you through Huntington. Google sometimes likes to try to get people to drive over the mountain. Or if your coming from the north it sometimes wants you to go through Richland and then on 34 miles of dirt road. Going Through Huntington onto snake river rd is the easy way to go.

Waterfront Adventures

6 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Dover, ID

Beautiful far reaching southern views, shallow warm water, boat into Sandpoint. Week days are discounted 10% Paddleboards and kayaks are available for use in the bay. Hiking and biking, stargazing, kite flying, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Ski/snowboard at Schweitzer only 45 min drive to the mountain. Boat launch 2 miles away. A couple of mooring balls available, ask on availability. Shallow, soft, clay bottom. 17' water bouncer, slide for fun times playing in the water during the summer months. Two sandy beaches shared with Hipcampers and family.

The Meadow

5 sites · Lodging3 acres · Carmen, ID

Welcome to the Weaver's Meadow. We have lived on this property for the past 31 years and it is the very spot where a blind date led to an engagement which let to a beautiful love story and 3 wonderful children. Now, we hope you too can come and enjoy the utterly breathtaking beauty of our secluded, creekside paradise. Nestled among the aspen trees you will find a one room cabin complete with bed, table and chairs, wood cookstove and all the amenities you will need to truly relax with the comfort of a cozy cabin to forget the outside world.

Home on the Range Campsite

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Clark Fork, ID

This area is a fabulous collision of cultures that gives a Rustic-Mountain-Beach-relaxed-adventure vibe! (say that 3 times fast!) This is evident even on our property, as historically, it has been a hippy gathering site, a logging area, and a cattle range! We bought it as our 'forever home' and are working to create a forested ranch retreat. The property is off grid and offers all the serenity and remote feeling of a National Forest, but has quick access to daytime fun relaxation at the beach. For those who love both land and water, it couldn't be a better combination!Learn more about this land:RUSTIC MOUNTAIN BEACH DREAM! Camp in mountain solitude with the lake and beach only a short drive away. Enjoy Scotchman's peak and mountain views, sightings of wildlife and horses, stargazing, forest trailheads just down the quiet road; all in a relaxed beachy atmosphere. Shopping, tourist attractions, and all that comes with an eclectic town are just an hour away in Sandpoint. However, a few excellent restaurants can be found in Clark Fork and Hope. Campsites are private and out of view of our off-grid home but just a quick walk away. And you just might enjoy adventure tales from us about riding our horses across America, or make memories when we take you in to pet our horses, collect chicken eggs...or share in whatever farm excitement is happening! A note for booking your best stay: Campsite 1 has the best views, but is best for tent camping or very short trailers. Campsite 2 is flatter and the better option for trailers, oversize tents, and larger groups.

97%

(88)

Triple M

11 sites · Lodging15 acres · Rathdrum, ID

Triple M Camp is an 15-acre camp property located on Upper Twin Lake, ID. There are 6 cabins, situated conveniently between the cabins is the restroom with 6 showers, sinks and toilets, 3 per gender. The Pavilion, a large covered concrete area, is a short walk from the restrooms. We are not directly on the lake, but above for stunning views of it and the surrounding mountains. On the Lower Twin Lakes is the Twin Lakes Village Golf Course. Also nearby is the popular tourist town Coeur d’ Alene, ID. Silverwood Theme Park is about 20 minutes away. Not to mention several other lakes within 30 minutes.

96%

(47)

Parkside Mountain Ranch

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents450 acres · Plummer, ID

Private Exclusive Campsites is what we will provide for you while staying with us! Parkside Mountain Ranch provides private camping on a 450 acre mountain with trails for any type of adventure. PMR has a variety of camping experiences you can pick from to accommodate while camping with us. Have a family get together, a business retreat, trail ride your horse with your barn buddies, send us a message and let us know what you would like and we will make your camping just the way you want it to be. Heyburn State Park Rocky Point is less than a mile away. Hipcampers can enjoy the Lake Chatcolet which offers a beach, marina, and a boat launch. Heyburn State Park South Side entrance is located on the same road as PMR. PMR will have sites with over night horse stalls too. Sooo bring your horse camping with you! We want to provide you with beautiful views and private rustic camping!

94%

(9)

Shaunna D.'s Heaven on Earth - Romance, Adventure and Relaxation Await!

3 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · Priest River, ID

Meet your hosts at Cedar River, Shaunna and Jeremiah. Along with their children and extended family, this couple has realized a dream a lifetime in the making. Cedar River is the 'labor of love' child of veteran wedding photographer (Jeremiah Andrews) and sustainability entrepreneur (Shaunna Dahlberg). The home and property on Priest River was purchased as a family gathering place and dream retirement home. Shaunna and Jeremiah eagerly undertook the formidable task of updating and renovating their dream retreat from top to bottom. The home has been transformed into a warm and inviting place for family and friends to share amazing meals, good drink, and bountiful laughter. Beyond the main house, Jeremiah and Shaunna envision sharing the beauty of Priest River with the ones they cherish most. Cedar River was built (quite literally, stone by stone) as their own custom, forested riverside wedding setting. The two are ecstatic with the simple elegance and quirky bohemian vibe of the property as they share in the magical moments coming to life. Jeremiah and Shaunna look forward to the adventure that comes with growing as a family, a couple, and hosts to the Inland Northwest's newest premier waterfront wedding, event and camping venue.

Lemhi River Natural Area Camping

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Salmon, ID

Welcome to our serene retreat along the picturesque Lemhi River. Situated on five acres downstream from a magnificent river restoration project, our property offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Cast your line into the pristine waters of the Lemhi River and enjoy the thrill of fishing in one of nature's finest playgrounds. As night falls, marvel at the brilliance of the star-studded sky and listen to the soothing sounds of the surrounding wilderness. With direct access to BLM land, adventure awaits just beyond our doorstep. Lace-up your hiking boots or hop on your mountain bike to explore the scenic trails that wind through the rugged terrain. For a relaxing escape, take a short drive to Sharkey Hot Springs and immerse yourself in the rejuvenating waters. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or seeking adventure in the great outdoors, our unique property along the Lemhi River offers the perfect retreat for your next getaway.

100%

(3)

Yurt Camping on Arcadia Reservoir

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Ashton, ID

Learn more about this land:Four-season yurt that can sleep up to 6 adults and up to 10 total. Access by vehicle (summer) or snowmobile (winter). Separate indoor kitchen/eating areas vs sleeping area (inside sturdy vinyl Army tent). Wood stove inside the tent will keep you warm all night. Bring your own sleeping bags, food, and water. Primitive outhouse near the yurt. So much to do - so much to see (moose and deer are commonplace).SUMMER: Access to private lake: swimming and fishing and boating (no gas engines allowed). Private sand dune area for ATVs, with access to hundreds of miles of public land trails. St Anthony Sand Dunes, Civil Defense Caves, Ice Caves and Island Park Reservoir are all accessible on an ATV day trip. Yellowstone National Park is an 80 minute drive, though accessing the property requires a 6.5 mile drive on a dirt road, a total of 25 minutes from Ashton. Two campfire rings on the property to choose from for your evening gatherings.

100%

(1)

The Hidden Frog On Kelso Lake

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Athol, ID

Tucked away in the mossy rocks, The Hidden Frog offers a half acre of private, forested camping on the banks of Kelso Lake. The 60 acre lake allows non-motorized watercraft only, which makes for a peaceful, relaxing stay. The parking area has room for a vehicle and trailer up to 60ft long combined, plus another area for a single vehicle. It is a shared driveway, so you must leave room for vehicles to get around you. You can choose to set up camp there, or down a short path to the lake where there is ample flat ground for a tent. The path is cleared but rocky, so always make sure to watch your step! A fire ring, shovel, bucket of water, emergency fire extinguisher, table, 2 chairs and one 13gal garbage bag are provided for your use. I live next door, so I'm around if there is anything you need (don't be afraid to ask!) There are no other amenities right now, but we plan on adding some as we start to make some money (i.e. an outhouse, electrical.) The shoreline is very bushy and rocky- not ideal for fishing, boating or swimming, but there is a free public boat launch site .4mi down the road, plus another at Granite lake .7mi away. Both offer a toilet, and a place for swimming and fishing (must have a fishing licence.) Please respect the boundaries and do not cross into neighbors' yards. Also, do not disturb the mosses growing on the rocks (it is a fragile ecosystem!) and respect the wildlife that make the space their home. Wildlife you may encounter includes deer, moose, beaver, otters, chipmunks, squirrels, frogs, salamanders, eagles, osprey, blue herons, ducks, and many other bird species- we are located on the Idaho Birding Trail. Nearby attractions include: Silverwood Theme Park (12mi,) Clagstone Meadows for hunting and/or hiking (1mi,) The Lavendar Farm (3.9mi,) Athol Orchards (11mi,) Farragut State Park (11mi,) Round Lake State Park (15mi)

Dog-friendly getaways

97%

(133)

Waterfront RV camping brownlee

5 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Huntington, OR

Learn more about this land: We have 125 acre farm ranch that is waterfront on brownlee reservoir. We have multiple camping spots along the water. There are 4 rv or camp trailer camp spots available. All 4 spots are dry camping. No power or water currently. we have a spot to launch boats which is right between sight 3 and 4. Good fishing. Very little boat traffic. Very private. In the fall big horn sheep frequently rut on the property. We usually have fresh eggs on hand. Dry climate. Sage brush and juniper trees here. We have a easy to access spot to fill up water to your camp trailers or rvs. The water is from a spring and Water tastes really good. This area has a lot of history. Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe often stayed in this area and on the property. In fact this was where his tribe met to discuss and decide to try to go to escape to Canada. This is where that journey started. You can still find arrow heads on the shoreline every so often. I’m ruffly 15 miles north of Huntington oregon. 13 miles of which is dirt road. The property sits at the base of lookout mountain. Really good cell service here with Verizon Full bars. If you decide to come camp make sure your directions take you through Huntington. Google sometimes likes to try to get people to drive over the mountain. Or if your coming from the north it sometimes wants you to go through Richland and then on 34 miles of dirt road. Going Through Huntington onto snake river rd is the easy way to go.

Cagle Cove

5 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Greenleaf, ID

Learn more about this land: Pick your camping spot around a secluded private fish filled pond. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching. Fire rings and picnic tables at each spot. Located near snake river/Sunnyslope wine country, and golf course. 30 to 45 minutes from Boise but feels like you are away from civilization. Pet friendly area and no nearby neighbors. Amazing opportunity to s t a r g a z e. Although there is room for multiple campers, we have limited the reservations to 4 spots. Drug free!

Home on the Range Campsite

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Clark Fork, ID

This area is a fabulous collision of cultures that gives a Rustic-Mountain-Beach-relaxed-adventure vibe! (say that 3 times fast!) This is evident even on our property, as historically, it has been a hippy gathering site, a logging area, and a cattle range! We bought it as our 'forever home' and are working to create a forested ranch retreat. The property is off grid and offers all the serenity and remote feeling of a National Forest, but has quick access to daytime fun relaxation at the beach. For those who love both land and water, it couldn't be a better combination!Learn more about this land:RUSTIC MOUNTAIN BEACH DREAM! Camp in mountain solitude with the lake and beach only a short drive away. Enjoy Scotchman's peak and mountain views, sightings of wildlife and horses, stargazing, forest trailheads just down the quiet road; all in a relaxed beachy atmosphere. Shopping, tourist attractions, and all that comes with an eclectic town are just an hour away in Sandpoint. However, a few excellent restaurants can be found in Clark Fork and Hope. Campsites are private and out of view of our off-grid home but just a quick walk away. And you just might enjoy adventure tales from us about riding our horses across America, or make memories when we take you in to pet our horses, collect chicken eggs...or share in whatever farm excitement is happening! A note for booking your best stay: Campsite 1 has the best views, but is best for tent camping or very short trailers. Campsite 2 is flatter and the better option for trailers, oversize tents, and larger groups.

Waterfront Adventures

6 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Dover, ID

Beautiful far reaching southern views, shallow warm water, boat into Sandpoint. Week days are discounted 10% Paddleboards and kayaks are available for use in the bay. Hiking and biking, stargazing, kite flying, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Ski/snowboard at Schweitzer only 45 min drive to the mountain. Boat launch 2 miles away. A couple of mooring balls available, ask on availability. Shallow, soft, clay bottom. 17' water bouncer, slide for fun times playing in the water during the summer months. Two sandy beaches shared with Hipcampers and family.

Teton Corners River Preserve

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Rexburg, ID

Teton Corners has been a favorite fishing and stayover spot for generations, and we felt we should step up and adopt it since we didn't want to see it developed, ripped apart or closed off. Know that by staying here, you are helping preserve this small piece of natural beauty in Idaho. It may not be the biggest preserve, but you have to start somewhere. Come stay a night! Learn more about this land: Come to our riverside getaway at Teton Corners. This 3 acre peninsula into the Teton River provides amazing trout fishing right from your tent door (licenses issued just 1 mile down the road). This gorgeous nature area is minutes from town, with easy access to HWY20 and HWY33. Deer, moose, bald eagles and osprey frequent the area year round, as well as beaver, waterfowl and night owls. RV dumps right down the road, as well as a 27 hole golf course, if that's your thing. Or just relax, dip your feet in the Teton River and listen to the water pass by. Note: River levels fluctuate over the season. We've tried to take pictures of all water seasons for reference.

Star Hosts in Idaho

99%

(98)

Teton Corners River Preserve

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Rexburg, ID

Teton Corners has been a favorite fishing and stayover spot for generations, and we felt we should step up and adopt it since we didn't want to see it developed, ripped apart or closed off. Know that by staying here, you are helping preserve this small piece of natural beauty in Idaho. It may not be the biggest preserve, but you have to start somewhere. Come stay a night! Learn more about this land: Come to our riverside getaway at Teton Corners. This 3 acre peninsula into the Teton River provides amazing trout fishing right from your tent door (licenses issued just 1 mile down the road). This gorgeous nature area is minutes from town, with easy access to HWY20 and HWY33. Deer, moose, bald eagles and osprey frequent the area year round, as well as beaver, waterfowl and night owls. RV dumps right down the road, as well as a 27 hole golf course, if that's your thing. Or just relax, dip your feet in the Teton River and listen to the water pass by. Note: River levels fluctuate over the season. We've tried to take pictures of all water seasons for reference.

Waterfront Adventures

6 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Dover, ID

Beautiful far reaching southern views, shallow warm water, boat into Sandpoint. Week days are discounted 10% Paddleboards and kayaks are available for use in the bay. Hiking and biking, stargazing, kite flying, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Ski/snowboard at Schweitzer only 45 min drive to the mountain. Boat launch 2 miles away. A couple of mooring balls available, ask on availability. Shallow, soft, clay bottom. 17' water bouncer, slide for fun times playing in the water during the summer months. Two sandy beaches shared with Hipcampers and family.

The Meadow

5 sites · Lodging3 acres · Carmen, ID

Welcome to the Weaver's Meadow. We have lived on this property for the past 31 years and it is the very spot where a blind date led to an engagement which let to a beautiful love story and 3 wonderful children. Now, we hope you too can come and enjoy the utterly breathtaking beauty of our secluded, creekside paradise. Nestled among the aspen trees you will find a one room cabin complete with bed, table and chairs, wood cookstove and all the amenities you will need to truly relax with the comfort of a cozy cabin to forget the outside world.

Cagle Cove

5 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Greenleaf, ID

Learn more about this land: Pick your camping spot around a secluded private fish filled pond. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching. Fire rings and picnic tables at each spot. Located near snake river/Sunnyslope wine country, and golf course. 30 to 45 minutes from Boise but feels like you are away from civilization. Pet friendly area and no nearby neighbors. Amazing opportunity to s t a r g a z e. Although there is room for multiple campers, we have limited the reservations to 4 spots. Drug free!

Waterfront RV camping brownlee

5 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Huntington, OR

Learn more about this land: We have 125 acre farm ranch that is waterfront on brownlee reservoir. We have multiple camping spots along the water. There are 4 rv or camp trailer camp spots available. All 4 spots are dry camping. No power or water currently. we have a spot to launch boats which is right between sight 3 and 4. Good fishing. Very little boat traffic. Very private. In the fall big horn sheep frequently rut on the property. We usually have fresh eggs on hand. Dry climate. Sage brush and juniper trees here. We have a easy to access spot to fill up water to your camp trailers or rvs. The water is from a spring and Water tastes really good. This area has a lot of history. Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe often stayed in this area and on the property. In fact this was where his tribe met to discuss and decide to try to go to escape to Canada. This is where that journey started. You can still find arrow heads on the shoreline every so often. I’m ruffly 15 miles north of Huntington oregon. 13 miles of which is dirt road. The property sits at the base of lookout mountain. Really good cell service here with Verizon Full bars. If you decide to come camp make sure your directions take you through Huntington. Google sometimes likes to try to get people to drive over the mountain. Or if your coming from the north it sometimes wants you to go through Richland and then on 34 miles of dirt road. Going Through Huntington onto snake river rd is the easy way to go.

Nearby parks

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80%

(41)

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100%

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Pocatello Field Office

Pocatello, Idaho

Beach camping in Idaho with campfires guide

Overview

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.