Camping in Idaho: The Best Tent And RV Sites

Have you ever wondered what camping in Idaho would be like?

Whether you’re looking for a scenic mountain backdrop or an open desert panorama, Idaho has something for everyone. With hundreds of campsites and stunning landscapes all across the state, there is no shortage of adventure to choose from. Plus, with miles of hiking trails and spectacular vistas just waiting to be explored, it’s the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts.

You don't have to worry about missing out on modern conveniences either since many of these campgrounds offer amenities such as restroom facilities, showers, grills, and WiFi access so you can stay connected while roughing it outdoors. Prepare to have your eyes opened to the many amazing opportunities for adventure in Idaho.

Come along with us as we hike through the sights and sounds of Idaho.

Idaho - Brief History

Idaho's history dates back to the time of Native American tribes, including the Shoshone, Nez Perce, and Bannock. In the early 1800s, explorers, mountain men, and fur traders discovered the area that is now Idaho for themselves. The discovery of gold in the 1860s drew thousands of people and helped to establish towns and settlements. Idaho officially became a state in 1890.

Outdoor Focus

Outdoor activities have played a significant role in Idaho's history and economy. The state's vast wilderness areas offer abundant opportunities for hunters, fishermen, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Idaho's streams, lakes, and rivers are renowned for their trophy fish, including salmon and trout. Some of the world's best ski resorts are also located here.

National & State Parks

Idaho is home to more than a dozen national parks and monuments, including Yellowstone, Glacier, and Grand Teton National Parks. These parks draw millions of visitors each year and provide a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. The state also boasts over 30 state parks, which offer a variety of recreational opportunities, including boating, swimming, and picnicking.

One of the most significant outdoor attractions in Idaho is the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The area covers over 750,000 acres of forests, mountains, and lakes, and offers an extensive network of trails for hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking. The area is also home to several alpine lakes, including Redfish Lake, which is a popular destination for boaters, fishermen, and kayakers.

Idaho's history is deeply intertwined with the state's outdoor activities, national parks, and state parks. They are not only essential components of the state's economy but also help to preserve Idaho's natural beauty and wildlife for generations to come.

Idaho National Parks & Recreation Areas

Idaho has several national parks which attract hordes of tourists annually. The most popular parks in the state are Yellowstone National Park, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, and Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is located in Eastern Idaho and is widely known for its geysers, wildlife and the famous Yellowstone River. The park has several amenities including campgrounds, lodges, and picnic areas. Visitors can indulge in a variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The closest town is West Yellowstone, Montana on the east side of the park,

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area offers an excellent outdoor experience with activities such as camping, hiking, boating, and fishing. It is located in western Idaho and offers visitors stunning views of the Snake River and the Seven Devils Mountains.

Sawtooth National Recreation Area

Sawtooth National Recreation Area is located in Central Idaho and is known for its rugged mountains and crystal-clear lakes. Visitors can engage in activities such as camping, hiking, horseback riding, and fishing. The park has several amenities such as cabins, campgrounds, and picnic areas.

Craters of the Moon National Wilderness

Craters of the Moon National Wilderness in Idaho is a unique and breathtaking wilderness area located just outside of the city of Arco. This sprawling wilderness area is known for its awe-inspiring volcanic landscape, which is made up of deep canyons, cinder cones, and miles of hardened lava fields. The park boasts several amenities, including picnic areas, campsites, and hiking trails. One of the most popular hiking trails is the North Crater Flow Trail, which takes visitors on a journey through the center of an ancient lava flow.

Overall, each of these parks in Idaho provides unique experiences and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether it's hiking, fishing, or camping, there is something for everyone to appreciate and admire in Idaho's national parks and recreation areas.

Idaho National Forests

Boise National Forest: Spread across 2.5 million acres in western Idaho, Boise National Forest offers a wide range of recreational activities including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. The forest is home to over 70 lakes and 14,000 miles of streams, making it a popular destination for water enthusiasts. A few amenities include hot springs, developed campgrounds, and a variety of trails for hiking and biking.

Sawtooth National Forest: Located in central Idaho, Sawtooth National Forest is a paradise. Covering over 2 million acres, the forest has diverse terrain, from snow-capped peaks to lush valleys, making it a popular spot for hiking, backpacking, wildlife viewing, and fishing. The forest has several campgrounds, picnic areas, and trails, including the popular Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

Caribou-Targhee National Forest: Caribou-Targhee is the second-largest national forest in the lower 48 states, covering 3 million acres in eastern Idaho and western Wyoming. The forest has over 2,000 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as several campgrounds and picnic areas. One of the unique features of this forest is the presence of the Teton Mountains, which provide breathtaking scenery to visitors.

Idaho Panhandle National Forest: Located in the northern panhandle of Idaho, this national forest offers a diverse landscape ranging from dense forests to rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and rivers. Activities include camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. Amenities include developed campgrounds, boat launches, and ranger-led educational programs. Visitors can explore several trails, including the popular Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, which runs over 70 miles through the heart of the forest.

Idaho State Parks

Idaho boasts some of the most beautiful state parks and recreation areas in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Here are some of the most popular state parks in Idaho and the facilities/amenities they offer:

1. Harriman State Park – Located near the border of Montana, Harriman State Park is just an hour from Yellowstone National Park. The park is renowned for its clear waters, abundant wildlife, and towering peaks. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, hiking, and camping. The park also has several campgrounds that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

2. Ponderosa State Park – Situated on a peninsula in the breathtaking Payette Lake, Ponderosa State Park is surrounded by nearly 1,000 acres of lush forest cover. This pristine park offers top-notch amenities, such as hiking/biking trails, a variety of camping sites, swimming beaches, and a world-class visitor center. Visitors can also rent kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards to explore the pristine lake.

3. City of Rocks National Reserve – Located in the southern part of the state, the City of Rocks National Reserve displays hundreds of monolithic granite spires and cliffs. Here, adventurous visitors can climb rocks, hike through canyons, and explore caves. The park has several campgrounds and picnic areas that offer beautiful views of the rocks.

4. Heyburn State Park - Located on the shores of Lake Chatcolet, this park offers plenty of activities including swimming, canoeing, fishing, and boating. There are also hiking trails winding around the lake and picnic areas located near beach access points. The campsites feature full hookups and additional amenities such as fire rings, restrooms with showers, and a dump station.

5. Bruneau Dunes State Park – This park is one of the most unique in Idaho, with the largest sand dunes in North America. The park offers visitors a variety of activities such as sandboarding, hiking and picnicking. Bruneau Dunes State Park also has an observatory that provides stargazing opportunities at the park's popular "star parties."

6. Lake Cascade State Park – This state park is a nature lover's paradise located in South Central Idaho. The park offers activities such as fishing, boat rentals, swimming, and bird watching. There are several campgrounds and RV camping sites available for visitors to pitch a tent.

What You Can See

Idaho boasts an array of popular cities and towns to explore. Among the most well-known are Boise, Coeur d'Alene, Meridian, Idaho Falls, Idaho City, Twin Falls and Pocatello. In the capital city of Boise, you'll find attractions like the Boise River Greenbelt and Zoo Boise for family fun. Coeur d'Alene is a beautiful lakefront town with plenty of activities from golfing to sailing. Last but not least, Meridian is a growing city full of shopping and dining opportunities as well as outdoor recreation.

Lake Coeur d'Alene: Located in northern Idaho, Lake Coeur d'Alene is a popular destination for outdoor recreation such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is approximately 25 miles long and covers over 30,000 acres, making it ideal for water sports. In addition, visitors can enjoy camping, horseback riding, and hiking in the surrounding area.

Priest Lake: This pristine lake is located in the northernmost part of Idaho and offers visitors over 72 miles of shoreline to explore. The lake is known for its crystal clear water and numerous outdoor recreation opportunities, including fishing, kayaking, camping, and hiking. Additionally, visitors can enjoy many events throughout the year, including the Priest Lake Triathlon and the Priest Lake Spring Festival.

Lake Pend Oreille: As the largest natural lake in Idaho, Lake Pend Oreille offers visitors a wide range of activities, including fishing, boating, sailing, and camping. The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Selkirk Mountains, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, deer, and moose.

Payette Lake: Located in central Idaho, Payette Lake is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. The lake offers visitors a range of activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and water skiing. In addition, visitors can explore the surrounding area, which includes hiking trails, hot springs, and golf courses.

Chatcolet Lake: Situated in the southern part of Idaho, Chatcolet Lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and water sports. The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the St. Joe Mountains, and offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and camping

Snake River: As the longest river in Idaho, the Snake River offers visitors a wide range of activities, including fishing, boating, white water rafting, and camping. In addition, visitors can explore the Snake River Canyon, which offers some of the most scenic views in the state.

Lava Hot Springs: Located in southeastern Idaho, Lava Hot Springs is a popular destination for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The area is home to a number of hot springs, which are known for their therapeutic properties. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.

Kirkham Hot Springs: Situated in central Idaho, Kirkham Hot Springs offers visitors a scenic and relaxing outdoor experience. The hot springs are located in a forested canyon and are accessible via a short hike. Visitors can enjoy soaking in the hot pools and exploring the surrounding area, which includes several hiking trails.

Sawtooth Mountain Range: This stunning mountain range is located in central Idaho and offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and rock climbing. The range is home to some of the most scenic landscapes in the state, including alpine lakes and glacier-carved valleys.

Bruneau Dunes: Located in southwestern Idaho, Bruneau Dunes is a unique destination for visitors seeking outdoor adventure. The area is home to the tallest sand dune in North America, which visitors can climb and explore. Additionally, visitors can enjoy camping, stargazing, and wildlife viewing.

Garden Valley: This quaint town is located in central Idaho and offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. The area is home to a number of hot springs, which are popular with visitors seeking relaxation.

Craters of the Moon National Monument: Situated in southeastern Idaho, this unique destination offers visitors a glimpse into the volcanic past of the region. The area is home to a series of lava flows and cinder cones, which visitors can explore via hiking trails. Additionally, the monument is home to a range of wildlife, including pronghorn, coyotes, and badgers.

Tent Camping Sites

Idaho offers some of the most scenic landscapes and tent sites for tent campers in the entire USA.

Kirkham Campground

Kirkham Campground, located in the Boise National Forest, is a popular choice for its proximity to the Payette River and its abundance of activities that include hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Amenities at Kirkham include tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings.

Lava Flow Campground

Lava Flow Campground, located in Craters of the Moon National Monument, offers a unique camping experience in its striking volcanic landscape. Campers can explore caves and lava tubes, hike through lava fields and marvel at the unusual rock formations. The campground offers tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings.

Glacier View Campground

For a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains, Glacier View Campground, situated in the Boise National Forest, is the perfect destination. The campground is located next to a serene lake and offers access to hiking and fishing activities. Amenities here include tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings.

And More...

Other popular campgrounds in Idaho include the Mountain Home RV Resort, which offers both RV and tent camping options, and the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, which offers stunning views of North America’s deepest river gorge. Campers can enjoy hiking, fishing, and hunting activities. Amenities at both locations include flush toilets and showers.

With so many great options for tent camping in Idaho, visitors are sure to find the perfect destination to explore the great outdoors. Each location offers its unique blend of outdoor activities, amenities, and stunning natural scenery, making for a memorable camping experience.

RV Parks

Idaho is a state which is abundant in natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. Several RV parks in Idaho offer a wide range of facilities and amenities to make camping and traveling more comfortable and enjoyable for RV campers. Let's take a look at some of the best RV parks in Idaho.

1. Yellowstone RV Park - Situated in Island Park, Idaho, Yellowstone RV Park offers a range of facilities for its guests. The park is equipped with WiFi, a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a laundry facility. Yellowstone RV Park is located close to Yellowstone National Park and offers stunning views of the mountains.

2. Mountain View RV Park - This RV Park is located in Arco, Idaho, and is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges. It offers a variety of amenities such as WiFi, BBQ facilities, and picnic areas. The best part about this park is that it is pet-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions along for their RV adventure.

3. Riverside RV Park - Located in Lewiston, Idaho, Riverside RV Park is a great place to stay for those who enjoy water activities such as fishing and boating. The park overlooks the beautiful Clearwater River and allows fishing right from the park. Amenities include WiFi, a playground for kids, and picnic areas.

4. Coeur d’Alene RV Resort - Located in Post Falls, Idaho, Coeur d'Alene RV Resort is a five-star RV park that offers luxurious amenities such as an onsite spa, fitness center, and clubhouse. The park is situated on the banks of the Spokane River, which provides a beautiful backdrop. It also offers an indoor heated pool, golf course, and hiking trails.

5. Teton Valley RV Park - This RV park is located in Victor, Idaho, and is a great place to stay for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as skiing or mountain biking. The park is situated at the base of the Teton Mountains and offers a range of amenities such as WiFi, hiking trails, and a volleyball court.

6. Rambler RV Park - This is a stunning destination for campers and RVers of all types. Located near the Bitterroot Mountains and Salmon River, it offers serene, natural surroundings for weekend getaways or longer adventures. The park features full hookups, recreational amenities like horseshoe courts and playgrounds, and easy access to activities such as fishing and hiking.

All of the top RV parks in Idaho offer beautiful natural surroundings and a range of amenities to make your RV adventure more enjoyable. Whether you prefer a luxurious resort or a more rustic campground, Idaho has something for everyone.

Adventure Activities

Idaho is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of activities in its stunning natural landscapes. Here are some of the most popular outdoor pursuits in Idaho:

1. Fishing: With numerous lakes and rivers, Idaho is a prime location for fishing. It offers a diverse range of fish species such as rainbow trout, brown trout, steelhead, and salmon. The State also has a catch-and-release policy for certain fish like cutthroat trout, which helps them maintain a healthy population.

2. Hiking: Idaho offers a variety of hiking trails in its vast wilderness areas. From easy day hikes to challenging summits, there is no shortage of options for hikers. Some popular trails include Table Rock Trail, Boise River Greenbelt Trail, Hell's Canyon Trail, and Sawtooth Lake Trail.

3. Camping: Idaho's vast forests and scenic parks provide ample opportunities for camping. Campers can choose from primitive campsites to fully equipped RV parks, depending on their preferences. Some of the best campsites in Idaho are located in the Sawtooth National Forest and Yellowstone National Park, where campers can enjoy stunning views of mountains and lakes.

4. Skiing and Snowboarding: Idaho's snow-covered mountains provide a perfect playground for winter sports enthusiasts. The State has several world-class ski resorts, including Sun Valley, Bogus Basin, and Tamarack. With an average snowfall of over 300 inches, skiing and snowboarding in Idaho is an experience not to be missed.

5. Rafting and Kayaking: Idaho's rivers and streams offer some of the best whitewater rafting and kayaking experiences in the country. The Salmon River, also known as the "River of No Return," is a popular destination for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts. The river offers a range of rapids, from Class II to Class IV, providing excitement for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.

In summary, Idaho is a nature lover's paradise, offering a wide range of outdoor activities. From fishing and hiking to skiing and snowboarding, there is something for everyone in this beautiful State. So pack your gear and explore the great outdoors of Idaho!

Final Thoughts

To conclude, Idaho is a unique state known for its outdoor beauty and a vast array of camping locations. From the majestic mountains to the secluded forests and canyons, there is no shortage of places to explore when it comes to camping in Idaho. Not only are there plenty of sites to see, but you'll also find diverse and comfortable ways of camping as well. Whether you choose to camp in an RV, on a lakefront, or in a tent in the wilderness, you'll be sure to have an unforgettable experience with whatever adventure you choose. So consider taking advantage of what this great state has to offer and go camping in Idaho!

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