Most wildfires are preventable. Be fire safe

The best camping in Idaho

·

In the eastern reaches of the Pacific Northwest, Idaho offers recreation throughout the year, from whitewater rafting to backcountry exploration. And with fewer people than New York City and over 60% of the state covered in public land, Idaho is the perfect host for your next outdoor adventure. 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. From yurts to Yellowstone, we’ve nailed down some of Idaho’s best spots to pitch your tent or park your RV.

95% (8.6K) 8,847 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Idaho

The Park at Swan Valley

1. The Park at Swan Valley

99%
(520)
Irwin, ID · 20 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%
(855)
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, C, D, E and F. Nearest to water tower (potable water): Sites C, D, E and F. 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
Mini Acres Farm

3. Mini Acres Farm

98%
(99)
Emmett, ID · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to more than 6 acres of peaceful countryside, where wide-open spaces, mature shade trees, and quiet surroundings create the perfect place to relax and recharge. Conveniently located just 15–20 minutes from several nearby towns and cities, you'll enjoy the tranquility of the country without being far from modern conveniences. Choose from a spacious, tree-shaded RV site featuring 30-amp electric service, fresh water, a picnic table, and a fire pit, or settle into one of two unique car/tent campsites nestled in a beautiful grassy park beneath trees. Each campsite includes a large wooden deck with a charming A-frame shelter and seating area, along with a private fire pit—perfect for enjoying peaceful mornings, afternoon naps in the shade, and evenings around the campfire under the stars. Love to Ride? Cyclists can take advantage of quiet, picturesque country roads and nearby off-road trails that provide excellent opportunities for adventure and exploration. Enjoy Fishing? Anglers will appreciate the abundance of nearby fishing destinations, including ponds, lakes, rivers, and reservoirs just a short drive away. Bringing Horses? We offer plenty of room for horses, along with optional access to our riding arena, overnight horse stall boarding, and grazing pasture. Enjoy scenic country riding and explore miles of nearby trails on BLM land. Whether you're looking for outdoor recreation or simply a quiet place to relax, you'll find it here in a truly peaceful country setting.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Boise National Forest

4. Boise National Forest

81%
(43)
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

96%
(81)
National forest in Idaho · 683 sites
Find four-season outdoor fun in this mountainous landscape.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Angell Creek Campground

6. Angell Creek Campground

95%
(130)
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 $35 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
Burke Creekside lisa J's

7. Burke Creekside lisa J's

96%
(400)
Wallace, ID · 16 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
Snake River Glamping

8. Snake River Glamping

96%
(62)
Irwin, ID · 6 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

9. Cagle Cove

99%
(234)
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
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

90%
(39)
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
Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

13. Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

88%
(28)
National forest in Idaho · 413 sites
Get out of town! No, really. Need a little vacation from everyday life? The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest provides premium “unplug and unwind” opportunities. The four million diverse acres offers breathtaking scenery, wildlife viewing galore, ample hiking and backpacking trails, and basically any outdoor activity you can imagine. Whether you’re lookin’ for a cozy cabin escape, a family reunion getaway, or to explore the backcountry, folks of all strokes will be pleased with the array of overnight accommodations. From the dry rugged canyons, to the moist cedar forests. to the rolling uplands, the varied landscape is home to a myriad of animal inhabitants. Known for their wild character, nearly half of the forests are designated wilderness. Ready for some ragin’ rapids? The forests are home to three rivers, popular among adrenaline junkie floaters—the Selway, the Lochsa, and the Salmon. Whatever your MO, there’s a way to relax and recharge at this National Forest!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Kraay's Market & Garden

14. Kraay's Market & Garden

99%
(298)
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
Five Acre Woods

15. Five Acre Woods

98%
(46)
Athol, ID · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Just ten minutes from Silverwood Theme Park and five minutes from beautiful Farragut State Park! Five Acre Woods Campground is nestled deep in the vast pines on the back half of our property. Enjoy a peaceful stay while still being close to it all. Looking to do some hiking? We are loaded with nearby alpine lakes, peaks, and more trails to suit your needs and adventure cravings. Danny has hiked the majority of them in the area and is always up to help plan and recommend local hikes. Furthermore, we are nearby and centralized to many must-see places. As stated, Silverwood Theme Park and Farragut State Park (including their gun range) are all located ten minutes or less from our property. Other places to see include Bayview, Idaho and Sandpoint, Idaho - both situated on beautiful Lake Pend Oreille. Things to note: -Your site will be fully stocked to meet your camping needs! This includes a picnic table, a smokeless fire pit, fire starting materials, and a pad or pads to accommodate your tent(s). -Nicely sized firewood bundles will be available for purchase. -Our campground has a fully functioning outhouse that we take great pride in maintaining to ensure cleanliness and a pleasant experience. It may just be the biggest outhouse you’ve ever seen! -Our campground now has potable water! Near the firewood stand you will find a spigot that can be used for your camping needs. Your site will have a large six gallon container of non-potable water to be used in the case of a fire emergency (if safe to do so). -Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash. Please pick up after your pet. -Tessa and Danny were both born and raised in Northern Idaho. If you have questions or need suggestions on anything at all feel free to ask! -We live in an area of five acre lots. You can expect to hear the occasional, friendly neighborhood noise. Five Acre Woods officially opened May 2025, and we're always aiming to improve our space. Please let us know if you have any questions prior-to or after booking and we'd be happy to answer them. We're so excited for you to book with us!
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
City of Rocks RV

16. City of Rocks RV

97%
(38)
Almo, ID · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
City of Rocks RV, in Almo, Idaho offers wide open mountain views at the entrance to the City of Rocks National Reserve. We provide partial hookups (water and electric 20/30/50), "Big Rig" pull-thru sites, Pioneer Bathrooms (rustic outhouse), and the beauty and seclusion of the Silent City of Rocks and the Almo Valley. We now have free wifi. Seasonal heated outdoor shower is free to guests May-October. We also have tent sites available. Enjoy our new enclosed, leash free, dog play area. We are conveniently located just outside the entrance to the Park on the City of Rocks Road. Big Rig access has always been limited in the City of Rocks so we made every site large with pull thru access. Public RV dump station is only 1 mile away. Whether you are here to climb, camp, hike, snowshoe, bird, fish, hunt, stargaze, relax, or all the above, we offer the ideal base-camp. We hope to see you soon!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mountain Top Getaways

17. Mountain Top Getaways

97%
(427)
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: **UPDATED: Old, small, frustrating toilet has been replaced per camper request!** **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
Cactus River Ranch RV

18. Cactus River Ranch RV

97%
(129)
Salmon, ID · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Currently, the property has 3 full RV hook-up with water, 30-50 amp power and septic (Site #1 - 30 amp, Site #2 - 50 & 30 amp, Site #3 - 50 & 30 amp). There is also 1 campsite for either a vehicle or tent, with access to complete bathhouse and shower facilities. Cactus River Ranch is located 12 minutes outside of Salmon, Idaho along the Salmon River. The sites have river front views with your own private river access. Hiking and mountain biking options are available right out the back door up Henry's Creek trail. Amazing fly fishing or bird watching location! Williams Lake is located 6 miles up the road and offers a variety of recreation activities including fishing, swimming, paddle-boarding, canoeing, or sight seeing. If you are looking for an area that is out of town, THIS IS IT!! We also have overnight stalls available for horses. Please make sure RV tanks are empty in order to hook up to septic. No RV dump station on site. With the river location, we get very windy conditions along the river corridor. Awnings can easily become damaged during these conditions. Please take notice and consider putting awnings away so that they don't get damaged. Along the same lines, please don't have campfires if the winds are high. Make sure your dogs are on a leash. We have mules on the property that DO NOT like dogs. This is for the safety of your dog. No fireworks on the premises. We do have a couple small trash cans that get dumped on Thursdays...that being said....we are NOT a dump. If trash cans are full or you have large items, please haul your trash to Lemhi County Landfill. They are open Monday-Friday: 7am-5:15pm and have dumpsters open on the weekend.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Waterfront cabin and camping

19. Waterfront cabin and camping

96%
(179)
Huntington, OR · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land: We have 125 acre farm ranch that is waterfront on brownlee reservoir. We have 5 different camping vacations options. 1 cabin to rent. 1 camp trailer on a nice waterfront lot as well as 3 camp sports 1 with water and power hook ups (site. 2 water wheel) and 2 dry camp spots. 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 an 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. We just added a 24ft pontoon boat for rent. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wolverine Adventures LLC

20. Wolverine Adventures LLC

95%
(117)
Firth, ID · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Located at the base of Wolverine Canyon is our little slice of heaven called Wolverine Ranch. It is a 100 year old working cattle ranch. The Camp is located in the Headquarters Wolverine Ranch and we decided to name it Wolverine Adventures after a saying that Kelly and Robyn's family has. If something has to be done on the Ranch that is of a more difficult nature, we ask one another "What time is it? Adventure time!" This gets us through the more demanding tasks on the Ranch and allows us to have fun and humor through it all. As you pull through the Juniper log archway you will drive right through the corrals. Gates may be closed but are to contain cattle and horses, not to keep people out. Come on in and please close the gate behind you. Wolverine and Jones Creeks run through camp and we do allow catch and release fishing with an Idaho Fishing License of course. Camp is the perfect place to unwind after driving all day and unplug from the busy world outside of the gates. THERE IS NO CELL SERVICE AT CAMP!! You may get signal a short walk up a hill above camp. We do allow campfires but only in the community fire pit area. There is a hot water shower with 180 degree views of the Juniper covered hills while you wash the stress away. We do also have a flushing toilet and potable water right in camp. We do offer a few add on Adventures such as trail rides or Ranch tours. These will need to be discussed in advance of your arrival. Communication with Robyn is encouraged via HipCamp messaging as we often are out of service and need to know an approximate ETA. We prefer to meet every guest and help you get settled in, answer any questions, and apprise you of any information you will need to enjoy your stay. There is abundant wildlife that frequent The Camp, including White Tailed Deer, Mule Deer, Song Birds, Racoons, skunks, and snakes. We do allow pets, however they must be on leash and under control at all times, The Camp has resident chickens and cattle and horses are always nearby.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Idaho 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 ParkHeyburn 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 ForestBoise National ForestPonderosa State ParkLake 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Respect other campers: Finally, be respectful of other campers in the area. Keep noise levels down, and avoid wandering into other campsites uninvited.

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:

  1. Hipcamp: Browse and book private campsites, ranches, vineyards, and more across Idaho.
  2. Idaho State Parks: Find information on state park campgrounds and make reservations through Reserve America.
  3. 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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field