M
MATTHEW R.
Guide
GuideKootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park
No shade; hope for clouds; good facilities
Nice clean bathrooms, showers, water and electricity. No trees for shade so cloudy weather is ideal.
Best Campgrounds in Idaho
Idaho's camping landscape ranges from established campgrounds in state parks to dispersed sites on public lands. Ponderosa State Park near McCall features a peninsula campground with electric hookups and cabin options, while Craters of the Moon National Monument offers the Lava Flow Campground with tent and RV sites. Developed facilities like Camp Coeur D'Alene provide glamping accommodations, while Cauldron Linn offers free dispersed camping on BLM land. Several state parks including Henrys Lake, Bruneau Dunes, and Massacre Rocks maintain campgrounds with varying amenities and reservation requirements.
Many Idaho campgrounds operate seasonally, with peak availability from late May through September. Henrys Lake State Park opens from May to mid-October, while others like Three Island Crossing and Bruneau Dunes remain accessible year-round. Primitive sites generally lack potable water and other amenities during winter months. High-elevation locations may experience snow and freezing temperatures well into spring, limiting accessibility. Campgrounds near water features tend to fill quickly during summer weekends and holidays. "Dirt roads with loose gravel but my AWD SUV had no problem towing my 30ft camper up and down to the waters edge," noted one camper about Mackay Reservoir.
Waterfront camping spots receive consistently positive reviews, with locations along rivers and lakes being particularly popular. Several dispersed camping areas near creeks provide more privacy than developed riverfront sites, which tend to fill quickly. As one visitor to North Fork Coeur D'Alene River noted, "The river spots fill up pretty fast, and the creek spots have more privacy." Campgrounds with mountain views also attract attention, with one camper describing "beautiful unobstructed views to the East, South and West" at Redtail Campground in McCroskey State Park. Proximity to attractions like hot springs and hiking trails enhances appeal, though campers should be prepared for variable conditions including mosquitoes and occasional noise from highways or trains at some locations.
Best Camping Sites in Idaho (1,441)
1. Lava Flow Campground — Craters of the Moon National Monument
63 ReviewsArco, IDWebsite+1 (208) 527-1335"This is what you would expect in the wilderness of Idaho! A unique location, and an experience worth having!"
"All facilities are closed so it’s just camping and exploring the park which is all within walking distance of the campground. Very friendly ranger working the front! Level sites on pavement."
2. Yellowstone Park / West Gate KOA Holiday
42 ReviewsWest Yellowstone, MTWebsite+1 (406) 646-7606$35 - $120 / night
"I enjoy all the amenities, the only thing I wish it had was a sewer at the individual sites, but it’s ok because they have a couple within the park located towards the exits."
"9/6/19 Conveniently located, 6 miles from west entrance of park. We had a pull thru site, 45,. Level gravel site."
3. Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed
40 ReviewsMurtaugh, IDWebsite+1 (208) 732-7200"One moment you are driving through farmland. The next moment a canyon appears out of nowhere. There is a beach there are waterfalls and the views are absolutely amazing."
"Serene camping away from most road noise and good spacing from other campers. We visited in early August and the river was low enough that we camped out on the beach."
4. Peninsula Campground — Ponderosa State Park
36 ReviewsMcCall, IDWebsite+1 (208) 634-2164$15 - $40 / night
"Ponderosa is in beautiful McCall, Idaho. Close to downtown and the lake. Great hiking trails. Good park for a family. The campsites are right next to one another, so not much privacy there."
"Great walking path around and down to the lake as well! Quick 10min ride into town for a nice lake side dinner."
5. Three Island Crossing State Park Campground
35 ReviewsGlenns Ferry, IDWebsite+1 (208) 366-2394"There is a picnic table and fire ring for having an enjoyable outdoor experience. there is a huge grass open area adjacent to the site which is nice for outdoor sports."
"Long paved with water and electric on one side and the pick-nik table behind us. It has 1 fire ring/grill in a box area. As crowded as the park seems, it’s very quite."
6. Henrys Lake State Park Campground
34 ReviewsIsland Park, IDWebsite+1 (208) 558-7532$60 - $70 / night
"This campground is situation on Henrys Lake and provides amazing views from the campground. There are trails to explore without going too far."
"Save money with the Idaho State Parks Pass. RV and tent camping fishing and boating. I have stayed here numerous times. Cell service spotty but can be achieved."
7. Massacre Rocks State Park Campground
34 ReviewsRockland, IDWebsite+1 (208) 548-2672"This beautiful state park is located right off of the freeway about 7 miles outside of American Falls, Idaho."
"You definitely want a lower loop site to get away from the freeway noise, plus you will have more shade during peak summer heat."
8. Bruneau Dunes State Park Campground
34 ReviewsBruneau, IDWebsite+1 (208) 366-7919$29 - $39 / night
"Bruneau Dunes State Park is a hidden gem in Idaho just 20 min off I-84 in Idaho not far from Boise."
"If you don't want to leave Idaho but you want to feel like you're in the dessert, this is an awesome place to camp!"
9. Mountain Home RV Park
29 ReviewsMountain Home, IDWebsite+1 (208) 580-1211"Walking distance to Walmart."
"This RV park is a little close to the highway, but was actually very quiet and is close to plenty of recreation. It was super clean, had great showers, and a really lovely staff."
10. Targhee Creek
28 ReviewsWest Yellowstone, MTWebsite"This site is about 20 miles west of Yellowstone in Idaho. Great spot with easy access. Beautiful views and the blue mountains in the distance at sunset make this site a crowd pleaser."
"We originally wanted to stay farther south in Idaho after leaving Jackson but we weren’t happy with the location."
Recent Camping Photos in Idaho
893 Photos of 1441 Idaho Campgrounds
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Beautiful Boise National Forest
Recent Reviews in Idaho
4321 Reviews of 1441 Idaho Campgrounds
Mark S.
TravelerTwin Falls 93 RV Park
Expensive run down RV Park
Twin Falls 93 RV Park is an expensive, run down, in need of repair rv park that provides only the basics. It offers restrooms, showers, laundry, dog parks and is about 15 minutes from the city of Twin Falls. Our site was not level (off about 4 inches) and many other sites were not level either. Most motor homes had the front tires off the ground. Unfortunately, they are very expensive for what you get, which includes sites that are only 50 feet or less in length (forcing you to park your truck sideways if you have a trailer over 35 feet or motor home), even though they say they are deluxe sites and big rig friendly. Many times there were Class As and Class Cs that were parked in the rv park roads by several feet due to the sites not being long enough. When driving through the park you have to be very careful due to so many big rigs extending past the short sites and into the interior roads. On some of the sites, the grassy area with the hookups is higher than the rest of the site, making it difficult to hook up the sewer so that it drains properly. There is a man made concrete pond that is completely dry and full of debris, as if it hasn’t been used in years. The whole time we were there, 2 of the dryers in the laundry room were broken, and the remaining dryers required 2 cycles (double the cost) to actually dry the clothes. There is a bench in one dog park that has a broken back, which was not fixed in the time we were there. For what it costs to stay there ($1,281 for a little over a month after good sam discount), you would think they could afford to fix things, which makes us think they just don’t care. The rv park wifi was completely unusable, because it dropped every minute or two. The park was very noisy, being right next to the highway. Water quality is very hard which stained our shower floor and walls. No late checkout was permitted even though they were not busy when we checked out. We will not stay here again.
Jordan B.
ScoutHenrys Lake Boat Access
Best camping EVER
As a 22 year old wanting to disperse camp, this was the best place ever. Very quiet, nice bathroom building, right against the lake with an amazing view of the mountains. Best nights ever here. Technically the “campsite” is closed right now for renovations but the sign says dispersed camping is NOT affected so you can still just follow dispersed camping rules and stay in the gravel and dirt areas. I truly recommend if you need a quick place to park to stay the night. Hidden gem
- LLance C.Guide
Canyon Springs RV Resort
Good value for price.
Been staying here long term for a couple weeks now. Overall it's nice, quiet and clean. It's a little tight maneuvering a large rv into some spaces. A couple gripes, only 2 trash dumpster locations in the whole park and not close to the spaces. No utvs allowed at all. They forbid using them at all even to take out trash, laundry ,shower, hot tub etc.
- LLance C.Guide
Caldwell Campground and RV Park
Way overpriced.
Stayed here long term for 4 months. The price they charge is criminal for what you get. I paid $850+ a month. All spaces are dirt. Bathrooms and showers aren't very clean. Laundry machines are broke more often than not. The freeway noise is terrible.
My wife never felt comfortable there due to some creepy tenants. If possible, stay somewhere else. They don't filter their water. I noticed when I left that my hose screen was almost plugged up with sediment and mineral deposits. - Jason B.Guide
Caribou Highlands Golf & RV
Farmland rv resort
I was the only one here. Has about 8 pull through spots. They are close together. Some shade trees. Dump at rv site. Caution I did drive about 4 miles of gravel roads but not rough. Bathroom was basic. No to inside, and dead field mouse to greet me. Appears to have shower but I’m using my rv bathroom. The views are beautiful though and no one around to bother you. Their policy is no guns on rules…. Drive is about 20 mins to lava hot springs. I did have to go up and down a severe 6+percent grade to get to Grady.
Shawn S.
RangerSnake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp
Impressive
This is a full blown campground! No hook ups, trash, or such, but it does have pit toilets. It is very well maintained with designated large gravel spots and a large circle over flow lot. We are in the over flow and it is perfect (except a little horse smell since it is bt horse corals). This is one of the best free camp spots I have found. It fills up by evening so get here before 5 is my recommendation. It is patrolled by security/ police and it looked like they were taking license plate numbers last night to make sure no one stays longer than the 5 days max.
- DDavid S.Traveler
Frank C Jones King Hill Area
Only Two Sweet Spots
The area has been turned into a nice boat launch with lots of parking and toilet. There is a nice spot down a side road that will accommodate one vehicle and makes it difficult for anyone else to turn around. As you come down the hill, you can see it off to your left. If someone is already there don’t bother to check it out. There is another beach spot right at the entrance to the lot that will fit a tent. Everyone else can needs to camp in the lot but it could fit many. Vehicles including big trailers.
- Jason B.Guide
Massacre Rocks State Park Campground
Nice quiet park on river
Came in here late after long drive. Can do same day book in and has pull through available. Longer campers beware. Sites are also not the most level. Good view of the river.
Guide to Idaho
Camping in Idaho offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and a chance to unwind in nature. Whether you're looking for hot springs, riverside spots, or mountain views, Idaho has something for everyone.
What to do
- Explore Hot Springs: Many campgrounds, like Bonneville, are close to hot springs. One camper said, “The hottest pools are close to the cascades, coolest are near the river.”
- Hiking and Biking: Campgrounds like Iron Creek provide access to popular trails. A visitor noted, “You are far away from the main road so no road noise but sometimes hikers will accidentally drive through the campground loop.”
- Fishing and Water Sports: At Stanley Lake Campground, you can enjoy fishing and other water activities. One reviewer mentioned, “Incredible views from about half of the sites.”
What campers like
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. One camper at Sockeye Campground said, “Clean quiet campground. Plenty of great spots to choose from.”
- Quiet Atmosphere: Many campgrounds, like North Fork Campground, are known for their peaceful settings. A visitor shared, “It’s a quiet place. It is dusty. The camp host was awesome.”
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and campsites. A review for Salmon River Campground noted, “Cleanest vault toilets ever. Asphalt roads and sites in good condition.”
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds do not have electric hookups or showers. A camper at Pine Flats mentioned, “The site has no hookups, but is paved and easily navigated.”
- Wildlife Awareness: Be bear aware, especially in areas like Iron Creek. One visitor cautioned, “Be bear aware. There was snow this visit.”
- Reservation Recommendations: Some popular spots fill up quickly. A camper at Sunny Gulch Campground advised, “Plan ahead. I came on a Monday afternoon in mid-July and got the last site available.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with nearby activities. At Stanley Lake Campground, a reviewer said, “The lake and mountains are so beautiful.”
- Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets for chilly nights. A camper at Iron Creek noted, “Even in the summer, nights drop into the 30s.”
- Engage in Outdoor Activities: Encourage kids to explore nature. One family at Sockeye Campground enjoyed, “Gorgeous views. Any kind of water sports you crave.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A visitor at Iron Creek mentioned, “The road to get back to the campsite is pretty rough, but if you have a higher clearance vehicle it would be okay.”
- Plan for Limited Services: Be prepared for no cell service in many areas. A camper at North Fork Campground said, “Zero cell reception from ATT, Verizon or TMobile.”
- Bring Your Own Water: Some campgrounds do not have water hookups. A reviewer at Pine Flats noted, “There is drinking water via spigot at a few locations.”
Idaho camping is an adventure waiting to happen, with plenty of options for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What permits do I need for camping in Idaho's national forests?
What permits do I need for camping in Idaho's national forests?
Most Idaho national forests require a recreation pass for day use areas, but overnight camping typically requires separate permits. In the Targhee National Forest, campgrounds like Grand View Campground (Targhee NF) charge around $18/night with no additional permits needed. For dispersed camping on BLM land and many national forests, no permits are required, but there's typically a 14-day stay limit. Some areas like Swan Falls - Idaho Power have established spots on BLM land that don't require permits. Always check with the specific forest district office before your trip, as permit requirements can vary by location and season.
When is the best season for tent camping in Idaho?
When is the best season for tent camping in Idaho?
Late spring through early fall (mid-May to mid-September) offers the best tent camping conditions in Idaho, with summer being peak season. Pettit Lake Campground in the Sawtooth area provides excellent summer camping with access to hiking trails and lake activities. At higher elevations like Henrys Lake State Park Campground, the prime season is shorter (June-August) due to cooler temperatures. Fall brings beautiful colors but cooler nights. Many campgrounds close for winter, though some remain open with limited facilities. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms in summer and potentially frosty nights in late spring and early fall.
What are the best campgrounds in Idaho for first-time visitors?
What are the best campgrounds in Idaho for first-time visitors?
Peninsula Campground — Ponderosa State Park near McCall is perfect for first-timers with its proximity to town, lake access, hiking trails, and family-friendly atmosphere. While campsites are close together, the location and clean facilities make it an ideal starting point. Smoky Mountain Campground — Castle Rocks State Park offers another excellent option with well-maintained facilities and proximity to both Castle Rocks State Park and City of Rocks National Preserve. For those seeking a quieter experience, Iron Mountain Campground in Mary Minerva McCroskey State Park provides beautiful views of the Palouse region with fewer crowds.
Where can I find free dispersed camping spots in Idaho?
Where can I find free dispersed camping spots in Idaho?
Idaho offers abundant free dispersed camping opportunities on BLM and national forest lands. Herrick Reservoir Access provides free camping with a 10-day limit, though be careful to respect private property boundaries and watch for signage. The area around Swan Falls offers dispersed camping on BLM land, though it's more established than truly primitive. Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed is another free option. When dispersed camping in Idaho, always follow Leave No Trace principles, camp in previously used sites at least 200 feet from water sources, and check local regulations as some areas may have fire restrictions or seasonal closures.
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