The best desert camping in Idaho

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Preston, ID

(398)

My Grandfather owned this property for many years. He dry farmed this land and raised nine children to be hardworking. I visited this property many times to work along side my father and grandfather. I remember horseback riding and building a shed for my grandfathers combine. I recently purchased this property from my grandparents and got to work building my tiny home that my new family lives in. Learn more about this land: **New hammock posts on site #4** These campsites are at the mouth of Cub River Canyon. The views are expansive and beautiful. National forest is only a few minute drive away along with a handful of reservoirs and river access. Come enjoy the views. These are primitive campsites with no potable water. There are antique farm implements visible on the property.

2. Kraay's Market & Garden

99%

(254)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Bellevue, ID

The property has so much history. Larry purchased the 16 acres in 1978 as nothing but a field. His dream was to raise Arabian Horses, so that is what the property was set up to do and he did just that, very successfully. We did convert a few acres into a Market Garden a few years ago and started Kraay's Market Garden, you can find us online. We would love to share our place with you!

3. The Meadow

99%

(137)

5 sites · Lodging · 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.

4. Sandhill View Ranch Campsites ⛺️

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Notus, ID

(76)

Nestled in the rolling hills of southwestern Idaho, this high desert campsite offers a breathtaking view of the Treasure Valley. The valley stretches out before you, with its patchwork of green fields, winding rivers, and bustling towns and cities. In the distance, you can see the rugged peaks of the Owyhee Mountains rising up against the blue sky. The campsite itself is situated on a gravel and dirt leveled site for you to pitch your tent on a level spot, with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. As the sun sets, you settle into your camping chair, watching the stars come out one by one. The cool night air is alive with the sounds of crickets and frogs, and you can't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility. at the slowly come alive with the twinkling lights of the towns and cities. You know that you've found a special place here. In the morning, you wake up to a chorus of birdsong.From here, you can see for miles, and you feel a sense of awe where the beauty of nature and the peace of the countryside come together to create a truly unforgettable camping experience. vastness and beauty of the Idaho countryside.

5. Secret Canyon Ranch

99%

(75)

3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Malad City, ID

Meadow Springs campground lies at the foot of the Elkhorn hills, on St. John’s bench in SE Idaho. Surrounded by open fields and accessible only by dirt road, this unique spot is located next to two small natural ponds, and as such, is a terrific spot for bird watching and golden sunsets. It is the site of an old homestead, and the surrounding land is still actively farmed, so you can look out over open fields of this year’s crop as you enjoy dinner and quiet evenings in the fresh air.Whether you come as a single family for an adventurous night outdoors, or as a group with one to several tents or RV’s, this site has room to accommodate and is far enough away to be remote, (no neighbors!) while still close enough to town and other attractions to be convenient.--10 minutes from downtown Malad (Picture a small Idaho town with no stoplight still, but easy-to-find grocery, drive-in, pizza place, hospital, bar, etc)--15 mins from Devils Creek Reservoir and Malad Summit trails--20 minutes from Downata Hot Springs--30 minutes from Lava Hot Springs--3 hours from Yellowstone and Jackson HoleLearn more about this land:Come escape and recharge in a private campground under the shade of giant poplars alive with birdsong and a sky full of stars you can actually see. Located on the ancestral lands of the Shoshone-Bannock people, this campsite is nestled under a grove of poplars planted by the original homesteaders over 100 years ago. It features a Tipi, a newly built outhouse, two swings, a picnic table, fire-ring, cast-iron hand pump to access well water, plenty of flat ground for tents, RV's, and car parking, and most importantly, wide-open space in every direction. If you are looking for somewhere completely opposite of hectic city living, this is it.

6. Brasil Beef RV & Tent Camping 🏔

95%

(30)

15 sites · Tents, RVs · Shoshone, ID

Welcome to Brasil Beef high desert pasture 🏜️ 🌵 Our property is 4 miles from BLM, 5 miles from the Mammoth caves and 10 miles from the Ice Caves. You may be greeted by horses, cattle or dogs on our property, and it's quite possible that you will encounter snakes 🐍 and hear coyotes at night (light sleepers take this into account). We do not have designated areas but, please don’t block the turn around area to the far south, please park wherever you desire, walk your route as this virgin ground has many rocks. 🪨 If leveling is an issue & you need to block the road, let’s verify we have no other campers coming. There is a runoff river that runs through the property in the early spring but, rarely has water, however, it has amazing lava rock (similar to Black Magic Canyon which isn’t far away); We also like to use it for campfires! Do not drive into the river bottom unless you have 4WD. Please reach out with questions and we look forward to your visit! Check out all of our extras! We raise Wagyu beef & offer liver dog treats, sourdough bread, we often have dozens of eggs on hand from a local chicken farmer and I make tallow lotion with a dear friend! I am happy to help you source anything you may be interested in while in our little community! 🚌-40ft+ Class A motorhome, traveling East down the 520N you need to turn left on the gravel road (North 250E) and right on 670N-at the stop sign turn right on 3 mile rd E and it will connect you to 520N where you will turn left into the property as the gate is angled to enter this way.

7. Sweet Pepper Ranch's Glamping Tent

1 site · Lodging · Nampa, ID

(38)

Sweet Pepper Ranch is a horse ranch nestled between a town and country. We raise mustangs and Quarter Horses and teach the Western discipline of ranch riding. We manage our land in an eco-friendly horse manner--composting/manure management, non-toxic pest control, pasture management with rotational grazing, drought-tolerant native landscaping, mud and dust control, wildlife enhancement, equine enrichment--and more! We also offer farm tours, RV/LQ parking, and horse motel accommodations. Guests are invited to enjoy our solar heated pool, outdoor patios, wireless internet, evening bon fires (weather and time-permitting), horse farm tours (by appointment only, separate fee) and our friendly ranch atmosphere. Coffee and fresh, local bakery pastry included for breakfast, brought warm to your tent at about 7am. Learn more about this land: Sweet Pepper Ranch is a small-scale horse ranch in the high desert of southwestern Idaho. We are nestled in a rural agricultural setting yet close to stores and conveniences. We raise and train horses and work all day to exercise and train our horses as well as run the day-to-day aspects of running a large horse property. Our equestrian facilities include individual paddocks with attached runs (12’ x 52’), automatic waterers, feeders, rubber stall mats, a 200' x 300' outdoor sand arena, a 72’ x 120’ indoor arena, two round pens (one large), numerous trail obstacles, large-scale permanent outdoor obstacles, an outdoor washrack, as well as parking, port-a-potty, arena bleachers, and picnic table areas. Nearby activities abound from visiting rodeos and wineries to trail riding at sunset near waterfalls or hiking painted desert canyons. There are wildlife refuges to visit, hot springs to relax in, wilderness mountains to explore, scenic rivers to raft, railways to travel along--and North America’s largest concentration of breeding raptors to dazzle you. Learn more and see photos at the Sweet Pepper Ranch website or like us on Facebook at Sweet Pepper Ranch. See you down the road!

8. Bristol Park Historic Cabins

75%

(4)

4 sites · Lodging · Lava Hot Springs, ID

Bristol is bordered by the Portneuf River to the North and Mt Moh to the South, offering river access and a host of trails. Fishing in the river is great, boasting rainbow, cut throat, brook and brown trout. There's also a few great swimming holes right below the property, including a 15 ft. waterfall. Guests may hike trails to the old mines, or be directed to a plethora of trails for biking nearby. The setting at Bristol is uniquely peaceful for the busy tourist town of Lava Hot Springs. Although still technically within city limits, the place offers an atmosphere of it's own, seemingly outside of time. Once a miners camp and stage coach stop along the Oregon Trail, we have worked hard to maintain the buildings and grounds. With an abundance of trees, (bonus if you can name all varieties) the main compound is well shaded through the hot summer months. Our single room, quaint cabins have a shared bathroom with showers and towels available. We are a minutes walk from the hot springs and downtown, so no need to fight for a parking spot!

9. The Hess Hobby Farm

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Buhl, ID

(2)

Absolutely nothing fancy but it’s quiet and out in the country. Enjoy the quiet country setting with animals to pet and birds to listen to, sometimes an occasional tractor, lol. I have 2 rv spots with water and electrical hookup. I’m sorry no sewer. Longer than a couple days?-there are options. Interested in more than overnight- please message me for options. You can experience

10. Rock Wren Hideway

6 sites · Lodging · Elba, ID

(3)

READY TO CAMP WITHOUT THE HASSLE?Our staff at Rock Wren Hideaway is here to take care of the details so you can play your heart out! Our campground is an idyllic stretch of southern Idaho and we aim to take care of the necessities so you can be free to experience the gorgeous natural scenery and more fully and deeply connect with your loved ones. Come see why Rock Wren Hideaway is a great place to spend some time away from it all.

11. Vantage Riverstone

112 sites · Vantage, WA

Vantage Riverstone stands out as a premier camping destination in Vantage, Washington, offering a unique blend of tent camping and full RV hookups with both 30 and 50 amp options. This campground is perfect for those seeking a memorable outdoor experience, whether you prefer the simplicity of tent camping or the convenience of RV amenities. For guests looking for more spacious accommodations, Vantage Riverstone also features rental houses. Each house is equipped with two to three beds and includes a full kitchen or kitchenette, making it an ideal choice for families or groups. Conveniently located just 15 minutes from the renowned Gorge Amphitheater, Vantage Riverstone is open year-round, providing easy access to a variety of activities. Enjoy concerts, fishing, hunting, hiking, and more, all within minutes of your stay. Come and explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Vantage Riverstone has to offer!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Camper favorites in Idaho

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Sweet Pepper Ranch's Glamping Tent

1 site · Lodging · Nampa, ID

(38)

Sweet Pepper Ranch is a horse ranch nestled between a town and country. We raise mustangs and Quarter Horses and teach the Western discipline of ranch riding. We manage our land in an eco-friendly horse manner--composting/manure management, non-toxic pest control, pasture management with rotational grazing, drought-tolerant native landscaping, mud and dust control, wildlife enhancement, equine enrichment--and more! We also offer farm tours, RV/LQ parking, and horse motel accommodations. Guests are invited to enjoy our solar heated pool, outdoor patios, wireless internet, evening bon fires (weather and time-permitting), horse farm tours (by appointment only, separate fee) and our friendly ranch atmosphere. Coffee and fresh, local bakery pastry included for breakfast, brought warm to your tent at about 7am. Learn more about this land: Sweet Pepper Ranch is a small-scale horse ranch in the high desert of southwestern Idaho. We are nestled in a rural agricultural setting yet close to stores and conveniences. We raise and train horses and work all day to exercise and train our horses as well as run the day-to-day aspects of running a large horse property. Our equestrian facilities include individual paddocks with attached runs (12’ x 52’), automatic waterers, feeders, rubber stall mats, a 200' x 300' outdoor sand arena, a 72’ x 120’ indoor arena, two round pens (one large), numerous trail obstacles, large-scale permanent outdoor obstacles, an outdoor washrack, as well as parking, port-a-potty, arena bleachers, and picnic table areas. Nearby activities abound from visiting rodeos and wineries to trail riding at sunset near waterfalls or hiking painted desert canyons. There are wildlife refuges to visit, hot springs to relax in, wilderness mountains to explore, scenic rivers to raft, railways to travel along--and North America’s largest concentration of breeding raptors to dazzle you. Learn more and see photos at the Sweet Pepper Ranch website or like us on Facebook at Sweet Pepper Ranch. See you down the road!

Bristol Park Historic Cabins

75%

(4)

4 sites · Lodging · Lava Hot Springs, ID

Bristol is bordered by the Portneuf River to the North and Mt Moh to the South, offering river access and a host of trails. Fishing in the river is great, boasting rainbow, cut throat, brook and brown trout. There's also a few great swimming holes right below the property, including a 15 ft. waterfall. Guests may hike trails to the old mines, or be directed to a plethora of trails for biking nearby. The setting at Bristol is uniquely peaceful for the busy tourist town of Lava Hot Springs. Although still technically within city limits, the place offers an atmosphere of it's own, seemingly outside of time. Once a miners camp and stage coach stop along the Oregon Trail, we have worked hard to maintain the buildings and grounds. With an abundance of trees, (bonus if you can name all varieties) the main compound is well shaded through the hot summer months. Our single room, quaint cabins have a shared bathroom with showers and towels available. We are a minutes walk from the hot springs and downtown, so no need to fight for a parking spot!

The Hess Hobby Farm

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Buhl, ID

(2)

Absolutely nothing fancy but it’s quiet and out in the country. Enjoy the quiet country setting with animals to pet and birds to listen to, sometimes an occasional tractor, lol. I have 2 rv spots with water and electrical hookup. I’m sorry no sewer. Longer than a couple days?-there are options. Interested in more than overnight- please message me for options. You can experience

Rock Wren Hideway

6 sites · Lodging · Elba, ID

(3)

READY TO CAMP WITHOUT THE HASSLE?Our staff at Rock Wren Hideaway is here to take care of the details so you can play your heart out! Our campground is an idyllic stretch of southern Idaho and we aim to take care of the necessities so you can be free to experience the gorgeous natural scenery and more fully and deeply connect with your loved ones. Come see why Rock Wren Hideaway is a great place to spend some time away from it all.

Vantage Riverstone

112 sites · Vantage, WA

Vantage Riverstone stands out as a premier camping destination in Vantage, Washington, offering a unique blend of tent camping and full RV hookups with both 30 and 50 amp options. This campground is perfect for those seeking a memorable outdoor experience, whether you prefer the simplicity of tent camping or the convenience of RV amenities. For guests looking for more spacious accommodations, Vantage Riverstone also features rental houses. Each house is equipped with two to three beds and includes a full kitchen or kitchenette, making it an ideal choice for families or groups. Conveniently located just 15 minutes from the renowned Gorge Amphitheater, Vantage Riverstone is open year-round, providing easy access to a variety of activities. Enjoy concerts, fishing, hunting, hiking, and more, all within minutes of your stay. Come and explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Vantage Riverstone has to offer!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Stories from the community

C

Chris

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountain Top Getaways

We had a great time staying at site #5! Would highly recommend it. The views were beautiful, amazing stars at night, and super convenient location to head in to town quickly.

S

Sabrina

October 2025

Tent

Easy directions for arrival, one of the cleanest portable toilets I’ve ever used & a beautiful piece of land that gifted me the most lovely sunrise m. Would recommend for solo travelers - thank you for giving me a safe place to sleep! (-:

J

James

October 2025

21 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at The Hess Hobby Farm

A great stop! Marni was so friendly and helpful with directions. There’s an adorable cat who will try to be your best friend. All-in-all, the place is nice, not too close to the main house, and all the amenities were as described.

D

Dyan

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Secret Canyon Ranch

The yurt is clean and in a great location. The dogs and I loved it. Julie went out of her way to make sure I was comfortable.

L

Lisa

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rock Wren Hideway

Rock Wren is absolutely beautiful! The tent feels luxurious with lots of personal touches to help guests feel comfortable. The night we spent was really cold, and the hosts provided extra blankets. We were super cozy. Would love to come back!

H

Hallie

October 2025

32 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sandhill View Ranch Campsites ⛺️

Lovely view, Tyler super helpful, very quiet location.

Erin

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Great place, mama kitty gave us a great warm welcome and even spent the night with us in the tipi. They do have a propane heater for the tipi but you have to light it with a lighter so keep that in mind for cold nights! (We didn’t bring a lighter and wished we did because it got pretty cold)

Laron

October 2025

1 night at The Meadow

We had a great stay at Doug and Shannon’s cabin! Located close to Salmon, but still remote and private. We stayed plenty warm in the cabin, and enjoyed the swing by the water. Would definitely recommend and would stay again next time we are in the area!

C

Cyn

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Hess Hobby Farm

Really enjoyed our stay at Marni’s site! It had everything we needed for a comfortable overnight stop - potable water, a nice campfire area, and a safe, quiet spot before heading down to Lake Tahoe. The two pygmy goats were adorable, and Tonks the kitty totally stole the show - she’s so friendly and social, and made the whole experience extra fun (and hilarious). Marni was an awesome host - super chill, welcoming, and attentive. Would definitely stay again!

Cat

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Meadow

This was a very cute and homey cabin, perfect for a weekend getaway with my boyfriend. He originally wanted to camp, so even though the cabin is rustic, it was perfect for us. I especially enjoyed sitting on the loveseat on the porch. And having a coffee maker! The hosts were so friendly and welcoming.

E

Emily

October 2025

34 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Sandhill View Ranch Campsites ⛺️

Very cozy. Quiet with all the stars you can take in. Tyler was a very kind and helpful host. Thanks for a great stay!

C

Christian

September 2025

25 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at Mountain Top Getaways

Cord provided excellent directions to the site, which made getting there simple. Once we arrived, we were blown away by how peaceful and quiet it was. The campsites are well spread out, so it truly felt like we had the whole mountain to ourselves. A perfect place to relax and recharge — we’ll definitely be back!

M

Moe

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Mountain Top Getaways

Stunning views and great communication from the host. Site 6 was perfectly secluded and you get to enjoy both the sunset and sunrise.

A

Aaron

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Meadow

Had a great weekend at the cabin. Lots of nice touches and what a serene setting only 15 minutes from Salmon.

H

Howard

September 2025

Tent

Spot was a beautiful little oasis in the middle of Idaho plains. Was so cool to be nestled in farmland next to a streamer and actual green grass. Tyler went above and beyond to accommodate me and when we did get a chance to meet he was genuine, kind and gave me tomatoes and an onion from his garden! You can tell he loves hosting and sharing his beautiful space. Seriously grateful that I got to stay and experience it. Feels cinematic really. Thanks Tyler!

C

Carshena

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sandhill View Ranch Campsites ⛺️

Cute, safe spot for a quick overnight stop. No issues finding the location and setting up on the designated tent spot. We were able to squeeze a 4 person and a 2 person tent on the ‘designated’ established site. Super clean bathroom. Host was very respectful and courteous. Other reviews say the highway noise wasn’t noticeable but it was for us. Still didn’t take away from our experience.

S

Sarah

September 2025

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Mountain Top Getaways

Loved staying here. We stayed at site 5 and the views were beautiful. One of the highlights was hearing beautiful elk! The drive up was a little scary but short and totally doable.

L

Lisa

September 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets