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The best camping in Idaho

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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% (7.8K) 9,000 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Idaho

The Park at Swan Valley

1. The Park at Swan Valley

99%
(476)
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
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Full hookups
Paradise on Mirror Lake

2. Paradise on Mirror Lake

99%
(795)
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.
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Electrical hookup
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Snake River RV Park & Campground

3. Snake River RV Park & Campground

82%
(47)
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!
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Full hookups
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!
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Sawtooth National Forest

5. Sawtooth National Forest

96%
(79)
National forest in Idaho · 683 sites
Find four-season outdoor fun in this mountainous landscape.
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🌲 Black Lake Overlook Retreat

6. 🌲 Black Lake Overlook Retreat

Saint Maries, ID · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to a private retreat overlooking Black Lake in North Idaho. On 11 wooded acres above the Black Lake community, Black Lake Overlook Retreat offers beautiful views, space to explore, and easy access to some of the Pacific Northwest's best adventures- combing privacy, natural beauty, and peace in one of North Idaho's most iconic settings along the Rose Lake Scenic Byway. You will have access to the whole property including private hiking trails. Black Lake Overlook Retreat allows visitors to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. Lake views, birdsong, colorful sunsets, star-filled skies, sunny days, shady hammocks, wildflowers, and thimbleberry bushes are all part of the experience. Days can be spent exploring nearby trails, lakes, rivers, and mountain towns before returning to camp for a quiet evening overlooking the water. The property is our family's private retreat - conveniently located on Black Lake, and near Harrison, Coeur d'Alene, Wallace, the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, Route of the Hiawatha, Silverwood Theme Park, Silver Mountain Resort, and countless opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, swimming, wildlife watching, birding, and exploration. The location offers the best of both worlds: privacy and space of 11 wooded acres with convenience just minutes away. Valley Mart convenience store, fuel, and basic supplies are less than 10 minutes from the property. Waterfront dining, ice cream, shopping, full grocery, and public sandy beach 20 minute drive from property, or bike on the trail for a day of sightseeing, wildlife watching, and adventure - right from Black Lake. About Our Retreat This retreat is stems from the dream of sharing this area with friends & family. Our family has been in the area since the 50s. There have been countless hours of clearing brush, cutting trails, caring for the land, and slowly bringing the vision to life. Our hope is to create a place where family and friends can gather, and future generations of our children/grandkids can enjoy the same connection to nature, adventure, and time together. We're grateful to share with guests who appreciate quiet mornings, outdoors, camp-cooked meals, exploration, adventures, colorful sunsets, and star-filled nights. Happy Camping, Kara.
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CampCDA

7. CampCDA

94%
(83)
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.
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Kraay's Market & Garden

8. Kraay's Market & Garden

99%
(267)
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!
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Cardwell Spur- RV and Camping Park

9. Cardwell Spur- RV and Camping Park

100%
(18)
Athol, ID · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our peaceful, privately owned forest retreat 10 miles north of Coeur d' Alene Idaho and just 2.5 miles (an 8-minute drive) from Silverwood Theme Park and a nearby gas station and grocery store. Tucked away among towering old-growth trees, this secluded property offers a quiet, natural escape with plenty of space to relax. We offer six spacious RV sites (30x10 feet minimum each), each with individual power and water hookups, and two grassy fields ideal for tent camping. Tent campers can access water and electricity at a shared station near the indoor restroom. Guests have access to a clean bathroom with a flush toilet and sink for added comfort. The property is home to abundant native wildlife and provides a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. A retired homeowner lives on-site, available if needed, while still allowing guests plenty of privacy. Whether you're visiting the theme park or looking for a peaceful nature stay, this forested getaway is the perfect spot to call home during your North Idaho adventure.
Pets
Electrical hookup
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Under the Cedars

14. Under the Cedars

100%
(235)
Priest River, ID · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
There are mountains, wetlands, meadows and forest land right in our back yard where we often see wildlife that call our area home. Elk, deer, turkeys, geese, ducks. rabbits, squirrels and the occasional cougar or bear. At any time, one critter or another will stroll through and check out our guests. We don't have a view of the river but it's nearby and our meadows and mountains offer a peaceful scene all its own. Camp surrounded by Old Growth Cedars and towering Grand Fir, stargaze by night, enjoy a campfire, smores and time with your family, Our peace includes little to no cellular service and don't offer internet or satellite tv. Feels like we're in the country but we live on a paved county road and only 4 miles from the city of Priest River. Bring your boat for a trip on the Pend Oreille River to Lake Pend Oreille. Launching is a short distance away at the Mud Hole, Priest River City Beach or Riley Creek Campground. Try your hand at fishing for bass, kokanee, perch, northern pike, and trout in the river or on the lake. Wake up in a peaceful woodsy setting where elk, deer, the occasional moose and turkeys roam the property and are often seen in the meadow. Load up your ATV, side by side or motorcycle and head for Priest Lake right from here. It’s a 21 mile (40 minute ride) to Coolin, ID. Enjoy the back county and take some of the IDL roads along the way to explore scenic drainages and in July/August pick some luscious huckleberries (the state fruit of Idaho) for a pancake or milkshake treat. In the fall, a nice central location for hunting camp. Want to go skiing or enjoy the summer lift ride? Head up to Schweitzer Mountain, about an hour drive away (38 miles/65 mins). The city of Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille (Idaho's largest lake) are a half hour away (26 miles/33 mins) and Silverwood Theme Park in Athol, ID less than an hour away (36 miles/52 min).
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Cagle Cove

15. Cagle Cove

99%
(218)
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!
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Snake River Glamping

16. Snake River Glamping

100%
(34)
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.
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Sandhill View Ranch Campsites ⛺️

17. Sandhill View Ranch Campsites ⛺️

96%
(88)
Caldwell, ID · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
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Electrical hookup
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All In Ranch

18. All In Ranch

98%
(98)
Kuna, ID · 1 site · Tent, RV
We only allow overnight stays. Our property is a safe stop for you when traveling through our great state. We have a 10 acre farm, with horse boarding, chickens, goats, dogs, cats, miniature cows raised for junior rodeo. The property is video monitored 24/7. We have plenty of room for you to dry camp, and have a safe night stay when traveling through on your way to scenic mountain adventures.
Toilets
Picnic table
The Aspen Grove Inn at Heise Bridge

19. The Aspen Grove Inn at Heise Bridge

94%
(468)
Rigby, ID · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
In the beautiful Idaho countryside, our Inn is in the beloved year-round recreation hotspot called Heise-Kelly Canyon. We have a wide variety of rooms and sites. Including: 4 log cabins that sleep 4 in 2 queen log beds with mini kitchenettes, 3 sources of heat, and en suite bathrooms 4 Moonlight Cottages with AC and heat that sleep 5 or 6 in 2 queens plus one adult friendly twin (cottages B and D) or two kid-friendly twins bunked together (cottages A and C), mini-kitchenettes, and just a few steps away is the deluxe no-fee Loo-uvre Restroom and Shower House Two 20' diameter year-round yurts with themed decor-- each sleeps 4 in one queen and two twins with all bed and bath linens, plus a very well-stocked kitchen, and a firepit, pergola, picnic table and Char-griller charcoal BBQ outside. Camper trailer-- 16' vintage camper Little Buffy that sleeps 2 and has a mini-kitchenette and guests use the Loo-uvre Restroom/Shower House close by. New to the Lodge is Adirondack-style "The Bunkie" that sleeps 6 or 7 plus has a desk, microwave and fridge. All bed and bath linens are provided in all of our rooms. Firepits are a-plenty! Our Inn also has great tent sites, plus both 30 amp and 50 amp RV/Camper sites with water and electric, a firepit and picnic table each, plus a fee dump station. We are currently planning/building another shower/restroom house and a laundry mat. There is a fee dump station on site. With over ten acres of property to play at and stroll, your stay will be one of fun, peace and quiet. Our RV & Camp is fun! We have our famous Borrow Barn with loads of complementary activities including a 9 hole disc golf course with maps/disc/scorecards, free pedal boats, Little Free Library #69967, volleyball, tetherball, badminton, board games and more, plus our cruiser bicycles in our Bike Corral are for guests to enjoy on property also. Children must be watched always and very closely-- enjoy being with your children on the property. A beautiful Restroom and Shower House is fee free. We are located in the Heise-Kelly Canyon of southeast Idaho with fabulous sunrises and sunsets. We are very close to hiking, hot springs, rapelling, 200+ miles of ATV and SxS trails, golf, mini-golf, a driving range, skiing, ice cream parlor and two restaurants, and the mighty Snake River corridor right across the road. 90 minutes to the east to Jackson/GTNP/then South Gate in YNP (2 routes-- the mountain pass or the easy Snake River route), and 90 minutes to the north to West Yellowstone/Yellowstone West Gate (2 steep mountain passes). Both routes are beautiful with waterfalls, gorgeous mountain views, and Idaho countryside. We are 20 minutes from Bear World in Rexburg, and less than two hours from Grand Teton Park and Yellowstone National Park regardless of which of the four routes that you take, with each route including a beautiful waterfall. 90 minutes to the east to Jackson/GTNP/then South Gate in YNP (2 routes-- the mountain pass or the easy Snake River route), and 90 minutes to the north to West Yellowstone/Yellowstone West Gate (2 steep mountain passes). Both routes are beautiful with waterfalls, gorgeous mountain views, and Idaho countryside.
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Full hookups
Moonlight Mine Acres

20. Moonlight Mine Acres

98%
(83)
Pocatello, ID · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Views of the valley from the top. Mixture of pine trees, maples and shrubs Canyon area provides great shade Access to trails, BLM land, and old mines 7 Miles from Interstate 15 - great stopping area if on you way to Yellowstone, the Tetons, etc. Trails cut throughout and lots of wildlife. Lower site by the stream (last 5 photos) offers easy access from the road, power and potable water.
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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