95% (7.6K) • 8,890 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Idaho
The Park at Swan Valley
1. The Park at Swan Valley
99%
(462)
Irwin, ID · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land:
Enjoy a QUIET location with full RV hookups or pitch your tent in the heart of Swan Valley, Idaho! A mile off the highway, near Palisades Reservoir, this location is within driving distance to Jackson Hole, The Grand Tetons, and Yellowstone National Park.
Level gravel sites + full hookups for RVs (50 & 30 amp), + grassy area with 20+ acres for tents, shower & bathroom available for tent guests as well!
Gate entrance closes 10pm! Please message us to let us know your ETA
(208) 701-CAMP
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Paradise on Mirror Lake
2. Paradise on Mirror Lake
99%
(771)
Sagle, ID · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
>>> Voted #1 Campground in Idaho 2022, 2024 & 2025 (Hipcamp Awards) <<<
Like a postcard photograph, Bigfoot Campout sits perched over Mirror Lake on one end of a mountain bowl. 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) and 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. The stocking is typically scheduled for the first week of June each year, so if you are an angler, it's best to come after June 7th for the best fishing.
Paying homage to the Bigfoot legend in northern Idaho, the theme of this campground is all things Sasquatch! Can you find all 9 Sasquatch hiding throughout the campground?
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).
When selecting your campsite, please take note of the following:
Best lake views: Sites A, C and D. (Sites 1, 2, 3, E and F have partially obstructed lake views due to trees.)
Easiest RV access: Site B. It's a pull-through site.
Most private: Sites A, B, 1, 2 and 3, or Sites C/D or E/F, when booked in pairs. (Do not book C/D or E/F for complete privacy unless you book them in pairs.)
Most shade: Sites A, E and F.
Sunniest: Sites B, C and D.
Electric access: Sites B, C and D. (C/D share a power pedestal.)
Nearest to a Port-a-Potty: Sites A, D and E.
Nearest to lake: Site A.
Best for large parties: Book Sites C/D together for larger RV camping parties, or book Sites E/F together for moderate-sized tent camping parties.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Kraay's Market & Garden
3. Kraay's Market & Garden
99%
(262)
Bellevue, ID · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Boise National Forest
4. Boise National Forest
81%
(42)
National forest in Idaho · 653 sites
You could say Boise National Forest is in the tri-forest area. It is surrounded on all sides by Payette, Salmon-Challis, and Sawtooth National Forests, it is situated conveniently close to both urban fun in Boise, and limitless wilderness adventures everywhere else. Alpine tundra is dotted with evergreen forest in the green rolling hills here, topped with snow, and anchored by sparkling valley waterways. The Payette River is great for rafting, while Banks Beach and Beehive Bend are just some of the prime access points on the forest’s 250 lakes and reservoirs (Arrowrock Reservoir has surprisingly primo salmon fishing for central Idaho).
Hikers will find 500 trails, including some that lead to 360-panoramic views at fire lookouts. The ambitious should try 10,000-foot high Trinity Mountain, while more liesurely trekkers will get just as good a view at Silver Creek. As if that’s not all enough to keep you busy, there are also endless mountain biking trails, including a scenic route along Shafer Butte. You’ll have your hands full at this intersection of so many great parks!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sawtooth National Forest
5. Sawtooth National Forest
95%
(77)
National forest in Idaho · 683 sites
Find four-season outdoor fun in this mountainous landscape.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Bethlehome
6. Bethlehome
Moyie Springs, ID · 1 site
Dense cedar forest in the mountains with quiet 13 foot bell tent
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Snake River Glamping
7. Snake River Glamping
100%
(19)
Irwin, ID · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
We have 2 canvas tents, 1 log cabin, and 2 bring your own tent sites along the Snake River in Swan Valley Idaho. Each cabin and glamping tent sites have electricity, minifridge, queen size bed and heat. Portable toilets and a community outdoor shower on 700ft of riverfront. Access to some of the best trout fishing in the U.S. is just steps from your stay. Mountain views with nesting Osprey. Elk and deer also wander the property. Horseback riding and boat rentals are available nearby. One-hour drive to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Teton Park, and two hours to Yellowstone. Also attractions in our valley are Falls creek falls, an assume view just steps from your car you can stand on top of a wide spread waterfall dropping into the snake river. Just a couple miles from camp is Palisades creek trailhead, a wonderful hike along a wide creek through the forest with multiple foot bridges crossing the creek and leading to 2 mountain lakes. we have seen a family of moose at the lower lake 2 out of 3 times we hiked it. A trail to the right just before the lake brings you to an out cropping of rocks giving you an elevated view. And of course Palisades reservoir, a 20 mile long stretch of water is just 3 miles from camp. The dam keeps the water flow of the snake at optimal flow all season.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cagle Cove
8. Cagle Cove
99%
(205)
Greenleaf, ID · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Burke Creekside lisa J's
9. Burke Creekside lisa J's
96%
(364)
Wallace, ID · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
We are excited to host you at our special property! It is
The perfect location for RV camping (tent camping allowed if accompanied by an RV). Whether you are just relaxing by the creek with friends and family or ready for an adventure. Burke is the spot for ATVs and Snowmobiling, Fishing, Hunting, Biking (Hiawatha Trail) Hiking, and Sightseeing old Mines. We now have STARLINK.
We also have a Chalet for rent on our property. This is
a gorgeous, serene getaway in the Historic ghost town of
Burke Idaho. Built in the early 1900's and newly remodeled with all the comforts of home.
Located 7.5 miles northeast from the town of Wallace. Centrally located within minutes
of 2 major Ski resorts. Private hot tub, wood stove and many other features. Immediate access to many snowmobile, ATV, or hiking trails
from the front door of this home.
Home includes an attached garage and lots of parking for trucks with trailers.
Year round activities available throughout the area including snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, hiking and biking or just take a stroll along the creek or play in the snow.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Salmon-Challis National Forest
10. Salmon-Challis National Forest
82%
(22)
National forest in Idaho · 429 sites
Idaho oh Idaho. You never disappoint. The Salmon-Challis National Forest represents this flawlessly. Rugged mountains give way to untamed rivers; granite peaks gaze over sapphire alpine lakes; whitewater rafters cascade through rapids; and each day’s quest can lead to a different trail in the epic Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, which happens to be the largest contiguous wilderness area in the continental United States! Rugged and remote, this country offers millions of acres filled with breathtaking views from gravel roads, enough fish to stock your freezer all winter, and groves of cedar trees where you can set up your tent and peer out to the ocean of stars. At night listen to the coyotes call, the owls hoot, and the clink of cans as you toast to this recreational heaven. Idaho of Idaho, you are so much more than just a potato!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Idaho Panhandle National Forests
11. Idaho Panhandle National Forests
89%
(38)
National forest in Idaho · 539 sites
It doesn’t get much prettier than the Idaho panhandle. Situated between Big Sky Country of Montana and the vibrant evergreen fields of Washington (which seriously look Photoshopped to the naked eye), this forest holds more than half the state’s surface waters, and wilderness vibes are guaranteed by the deer, elk, bear, caribou, and wolf populations who call this spot home. Moist maritime air comes in from the Pacific coast, and historic cabins dot the landscape. Near Spokane and the border can get busy on the weekends, but with this much acreage you can always find seclusion here. Make sure to check out at least a portion of the bikeable and walkable Hiawatha Trail—weaving 15 miles through tunnels and across high steel trestles in the Bitterroot Mountains, it’s been called one of the most scenic stretches of railroad in the country.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
City Of Rocks National Reserve
12. City Of Rocks National Reserve
100%
(16)
National park in Idaho · 64 sites
Discover the majestic City of Rocks National Reserve and its climbing paradise.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Payette National Forest
13. Payette National Forest
78%
(9)
National forest in Idaho · 279 sites
Lakes, creeks, and peaks, oh my! Payette National Forest has ‘em all. Salmon-Challis National Forest and Nez-Pearce Clearwater National Forest are its neighbors, while its Victor Peak, Loon Creek, Loon Lake, North Loon Mountain, Bruin Mountain, Bear Pete Mountain, and Boulder Creek could keep you busy for months. Forage for mushrooms or berries, fish in the chinook salmon hatchery at the South Fork of the Salmon River, or snowboard down Brundage Mountain. Hike to the three historic fire lookouts, or check out the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, the second largest wilderness area outside Alaska (don’t worry, plenty before you have visited and returned).
In this wealth of outdoor activity, it’s hard to tear yourself away for a visit into town. However, you will be glad you took the time to visit the closest town of McCall, where luxury mountain lodges have thermal spas perfect for resting your aching bones in between treks up or down the mountains.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Snake River RV Park & Campground
14. Snake River RV Park & Campground
82%
(41)
Idaho Falls, ID · 113 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the charm of our unique RV park in Idaho Falls, Idaho, where we offer a full-service experience year-round amidst stunning natural beauty. Our spacious pull-through sites can accommodate vehicles up to 85 feet, making it easy for you to settle in and enjoy your stay. Whether you prefer grassy tent areas or cozy tiny camping cabins, we have the perfect spot for everyone.
Our park is equipped with essential amenities, including 50 and 30 amp electric hook-ups, a propane fill station, a convenient dump station, and laundry facilities. Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the campground.
Families will love our extensive recreational options, featuring a refreshing swimming pool, horseshoe pits, basketball courts, and a fantastic playground for the kids. We also cater to long-term guests, providing a welcoming environment for those looking to stay a while.
So come on down, back in, pull in, or pull through, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. We are dedicated to making your stay enjoyable and memorable!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Wolf Lodge Campground
15. Wolf Lodge Campground
86%
(177)
Coeur D'alene, ID · 89 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
WOLF LODGE CAMPGROUND
We are a people-oriented campground located just east of beautiful Lake Coeur d'Alene in North Idaho, with creek access to the lake. Whether you are a family or only one person, we are here to make your stay at Wolf Lodge Campground an enjoyable occasion.
Come and relax in this beautiful, fun, and friendly environment. We are surrounded by mountains in a wooded setting. Our RV sites are shaded and grassy with spacious long-level pull-thru and nice private back-in sites up against the mountain. All of our tent sites are grassy, many are shaded by the creek. We have five unique rustic cabins, each with its own special features.
Whether you are just passing through or planning to visit for a week or two, we invite you to "Come on By"... We are looking forward to hosting you and making your stay with us a memorable one! There are many fun complimentary activities available and many things to do right at the campground or within a very short distance. We offer canoe and kayak rentals for a relaxing paddle down the creek, which meanders through some very pretty scenery all the way out to the lake. A large grassy playground is available for children of all ages, and a fully fenced doggy park for the 4 legged ones. We also set up and host a nightly group campfire for roasting s'mores, or just visiting with your fellow campers.
Check out our amenities listed below:
Spacious grassy area for various games such as lawn bowling, corn hole, soccer, etc.
Fenced-in dog park
A unique camp store that offers groceries, snacks, ice cream, sodas, souvenirs, gifts, supplies, firewood, and ice (no alcohol or tobacco)
Nightly group campfire (weather permitting), where you can enjoy making s'mores or bring a cocktail and socialize with other campers
Private campfires are available only at tent sites and tent trailer sites; propane fire pits are allowed at RV sites.
Recently renovated and expanded restrooms and showers, which are very clean and ADA-compliant.
Free Wi-Fi is available, with a good signal at most sites (not recommended for streaming TV).
Good satellite signal at most sites, but no cable hookups.
Playground for the younger kids.
The covered pavilion is available for family gatherings.
Horseshoe pits, shuffleboard, and volleyball court.
Laundry room with new front-loading machines.
Lake Coeur D'Alene is located within 2 miles of the campsite.
Swimming is allowed in the creek, but there is no lifeguard on duty.
Fishing is allowed in the creek, but it is catch-and-release only.
Rentals are available for canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, float tubes, three-wheeled fun cycles, and a Bayliner Capri speed boat for lake fun.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Mountain Top Getaways
16. Mountain Top Getaways
97%
(406)
Preston, ID · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Angell Creek Campground
17. Angell Creek Campground
96%
(101)
Island Park, ID · 6 sites
Angell Creek Campground is located in beautiful Island Park Idaho. It has been in our family for over 50 years. We are surrounded by pine trees, and it is a quiet place to escape the noise of the world. It is a place to recharge and enjoy the outdoors. Our campsite is close to West Yellowstone and only 30 mi. from Yellowstone National Park. Island Park has a lot to offer including: boating, waterskiing, fishing, canoeing, swimming, hiking, trail riding and much more. All of these activities are within a few minutes away. We are in close proximity to highway 20 and easy access to services and dining. We have a very large parking area where you can park trailers and vehicles. We have about 3 acres and have 5 RV spots. We have a central sheltered picnic area and a big fire pit on each RV spot. Each pad is rented at $32 a night with provided 50 and 20 amp service with an adapter provided for 30 amp service. No water or sewer is provided. There is a porta potty on location from mid May until end of October. Must pack out all of your trash or be a accessed a cleaning fee per lot. Although wanting to keep this campground in a primitive state, we will be adding a few updates in coming years. Pets allowed on a leash only.
Electrical hookup
Pets
Lakeview Majesty
18. Lakeview Majesty
96%
(232)
Sandpoint, ID · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy our beautiful peaceful, scenic property while tent camping or RV camping (full hookups). Gorgeous views of Idaho's largest lake, Lake Pend Oreille. Wake up in a peaceful woodsy setting where deer and turkeys roam the property. Stargaze by night, while you enjoy every lake amenity available by the day, only half a mile away! Sandpoint Marina and beach are only 12 miles away! Want to go skiing? Head up to Schweitzer Mountain, only a short 30 minute drive away.
NOTE: All campers over 12 foot tall please take the Sunnyside Cut off Road.
Do not go under railroad tracks it only has a 12 foot clearance.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Turnipseed Creek Campsites
19. Turnipseed Creek Campsites
95%
(54)
Sandpoint, ID · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property is located on 7 forested acres a few miles from Sandpoint. We have a few different houses on the property where parts of my family live. There are 3 rental spots that are all creek side and next to each other. You can wade in the shallow creek, swim in the pond, enjoy a walk up the road or camp area and just enjoy your camp spot surrounded by the forest and creek. There are also many trails and adventures within a 15 min drive of the property.
We have a few dogs that live on property and like to come say hi to the campers and play fetch. The dogs are all friendly, but we ask that any guests bringing their own dogs please keep them on a leash as we do not know how they would all interact each other or local wildlife.
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
CampCDA
20. CampCDA
94%
(78)
Coeur D'alene, ID · 88 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Founded in 1967, our year round campground has long been a place for families to relax, reconnect, and enjoy the great outdoors together, and over the years it has become the heart of many family vacations and annual camping traditions.
For every style of camper, we offer a variety of accommodations, including 19 cozy cabins, 45 spacious RV sites, and 26 tent spots. Families can get away from everyday life and enjoy the lake with kayak, canoe, pedal boat, paddle board, jet ski, and boat rentals right on-site. Guests can also unwind at the pool and hot tub, and look forward to our brand-new splash park opening in the summer of 2026. Family-friendly fun is at the heart of everything we do, and we are dedicated to creating a welcoming place where memories are made for all ages.
We have proudly hosted countless family reunions, anniversaries, church organizations, adventure excursions, and even a few weddings, creating memories that span generations.
We have recently upgraded a few of our amenities which include, the main bathroom facilities, dog park, playground, office and our pool area! We offer a wide variety of activities
We will be offering propane refills and have a dump station right on the grounds, Coming Summer 2026!
Please call us with any questions at (208) 664-4471.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jim
2 days ago
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
We camped at site C. This is a very peaceful and serene setting. You are surrounded by trees and have a peekaboo view of Mirror Lake which is very nice.
There was electrical hookups and a nice picnic table.
When we booked this site, we knew that Site C and site D share electric hookups, but what we didn't expect was zero privacy from the 2 campsites.
Site C and Site D are one large common campsite which would be perfect for families to share or friends traveling together.
Families would enjoy it.
See more
L
Lisa
5 days ago
22 ft truck camper
With pets
We just needed a place to crash for the night on our way home from a trip. This was clean and quiet and just what we needed.
See more
k
katie
6 days ago
29 ft travel trailer
With kids
This was a really nice spot! Our group had 2 RV sites plus the tent site - all flat, close together, we got the run of the lawn with picnic tables/cornhole/horseshoes and a nice fire pit!
They had extras of lots of stuff (hose, cords, first aid kits, etc!) which was really nice too.
Lisa and Phil were so nice and welcoming, and our kids loved playing with their granddaughter!
Easy to explore the creek, get into Wallace, check out the old mines!
We can’t wait to come back for huckleberry season!
See more
L
Lauren
6 days ago
Tent
Great place to camp! Great host! Camped there multiple times & will continue to go back!
See more
S
Seth
6 days ago
Tent
A quaint, quiet campground.
Nathaniel did a great job of communicating directions and instructions prior to arrival.
The camp was clean, the bathrooms/port-a-potties were quite tidy and the setting was peaceful.
Some wayfinding signage around the grounds (to navigate to the resource sheds, etc.) would have been great, but definitely not a dealbreaker.
Also, another table or 2 in the fern trail parking/communal dining area would have been great additions. Again, though, definitely not dealbreakers, as we got to know a couple of folks who were staying at the adjacent fern trail camp site.
All-in-all, this was a great little location that we would be happy to re-visit.
See more
H
Hannah
6 days ago
Tent
We booked camp site #2 but when we arrived Lisa took us to an even better site that was available for the night. She was very hospitable and made sure we were well taken care of!
See more
K
Kelly
6 days ago
Tent
The campsite was quite private. Onsite parking available. Mirror lake was beautiful! We brought our paddle boards and it was so easy to drop them in the lake off the dock near the campsite. Location was so close to Sandpoint, lots of nearby access to Lake Pend Oreille, and less than an hour from Coeur d'alene if you're seeking additional adventures.
The picnic table is shared amongst 3 campsites so just be prepared to share some common space if you are running on a similar meal schedule as a neighbor.
See more
Sierra
6 days ago
20 ft travel trailer
We loved our stay at this camp. At first we were worried it would be noisy with how close to town we were, but other than an occasional car it was very quiet and we got the peaceful nature getaway we were hoping for. The creek made for great ambiance and we got to enjoy deer and turkeys wandering through our camp.
Our only confusion was on if fires were allowed, because HipCamp kept sending us notices that they were not but also encouraging us to buy firewood bundles. The host stopped by and let us know that they were fine in the communal fire pit and even provided wood, which we very much appreciated.
My one piece of advice would be to travel with friends and rent both sites 1 and 2. They're close together, so the vibe might be less secluded if you didn't want to interact with your neighbors. But we had a great time and will definitely be back!
See moreS
Sarah
6 days ago
Tent
With kids
Very clean and cute! Plenty of room on the site for my 12-person tent and camp kitchen, plus lots of extra room for kids to play and explore.
See more
M
Mike
1 week ago
29 ft travel trailer
With pets
Always a great place to camp. Very clean and even had some firewood there!
See moreA
Aaron
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
We camped in a tent spot at the last minute before the sun went down. The spot was great: we had a picnic table for cooking, Wifi for making plans for the next day, and the running water in the creek was a nice aound to go to sleep to.
When we woke up Lisa provided a lot of extra information that was helpful to keep us safe and entertained for our trip.
See more
A
Anna
2 weeks ago
Tent
Had everything we needed for a tent camping home base while we explored City of Rocks!
See more
T
Thomas
2 weeks ago
35 ft travel trailer
With pets
Great spot , close to town but private and quite. The creekside was great
See more
B
Brian
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Mountain Top Getaways
Beautiful open land in rolling hills. Private, serene, and pretty flowers on the property
See more
D
David
2 weeks ago
Tent
Popped in for a few nights just to sleep in a tent I set up. The place was clean and very inviting. I had zero issues. The host was very responsive and helpful. I would have enjoyed spending more time there but was very busy during my stay.
See more
P
Peter
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
The tent spot is great. We pulled up our cars and were able to park right next to it. A perfect picnic table for any meals you might be trying to set up, and not too far from downtown Boise. Friendly dogs as well, just be ready to be woken up by the rooster around 7 AM. Would highly recommend.
See more
Shannon
2 weeks ago
Tent
GORGEOUS views at dry camp 5, totally private, I wish I could've stayed longer. The only thing to make note of is the drive up there- up a steep hill with tall grasses that will scrape against your undercarriage! But my lil 2wd car that struggles up hills made it up just fine!
See more
J
Jennifer
2 weeks ago
Tent
Way exceeded my expectations! Especially How accommodating the host was. They even met me down the road to make sure I found the turn OK.. so friendly. A nice peaceful location. Toilet was clean and area felt very safe.
See more
P
Patricia
2 weeks ago
19 ft campervan
This.was our first night ever in a sprinter van and Britt’s site got us off to a great start! It was a beautiful panoramic view upon a rising that afforded gorgeous views of the sunset and stars. Britt was very responsive and we highly recommend this stop!
See more
SCOTT
2 weeks ago
Tent
Lots of horses. Nice little segregated site in back of parking area. Probably best suited for an RV but would work for a tent as well. Very friendly hosts and dog.
See moreIdaho camping guide
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.
When to go
The weather is an essential factor when it comes to camping. Idaho's climate is generally semi-arid, with hot summers and cold winters. The peak season for camping in Idaho is from June to August, during which campgrounds can be crowded, and reservations may be required. If the campsite is at a high elevation, it may be more suitable to visit during the late spring or summer months when the snow has melted. The best time to go camping in Idaho is during the summer months, preferably in May or September for a more peaceful experience.
Know before you go
- Research your camping options: Idaho offers a wide range of camping options, from primitive campsites to RV parks. Research your options ahead of time to find a spot that fits your needs and preferences.
- Plan for the weather: Idaho's weather can be unpredictable, so make sure you pack accordingly. Bring warm clothing for chilly nights and rain gear in case of storms.
- Prepare for wildlife encounters: Idaho is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears and mountain lions. Make sure you know how to store your food and garbage properly to avoid attracting unwanted visitors.
- Follow Leave No Trace principles: When camping in Idaho (or anywhere else), it's important to follow the Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all of your trash, staying on established trails, and leaving natural features undisturbed.
- Respect other campers: Finally, be respectful of other campers in the area. Keep noise levels down, and avoid wandering into other campsites uninvited.
