Best Tent Camping near Meridian, ID

Tent campsites near Meridian, Idaho range from established campgrounds to dispersed areas along rivers and in nearby mountains. Shafer Butte offers tent-only sites with maintained tent pads, fire rings, and picnic tables less than an hour from downtown Boise. The Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area provides dispersed tent camping opportunities with drive-in access and proximity to the Snake River, though amenities are minimal.

Most tent campgrounds in the region have basic facilities with varying levels of development. Shafer Butte features nicely maintained tent pads and is open from June 15 to September 30, making it a seasonal option for tent campers. Sites at Swan Falls along the Snake River include fire pits but not all have picnic tables, and the area operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. The road to Swan Falls includes a steep grade that requires careful navigation, especially when wet. Vault toilets are available at most established sites, though drinking water is limited or unavailable at many locations.

Areas farther from Meridian offer deeper seclusion and better tent camping experiences. The tent sites at Shafer Butte are described as open and mostly flat, making them suitable for families new to tent camping. The campground sits off the main road, providing relatively quiet surroundings with scenic mountain views. At Swan Falls, tent campers can find small sites along the river, though the area can become busy on weekends. According to one visitor, "It is a little more private and quiet. I like this campground because it is more geared toward tent camping. There is limited space for larger RVs." Tent campers should be prepared for varying weather conditions, as higher elevation sites like Bald Mountain Campground (open June to October) experience cooler temperatures even in summer.

Best Tent Sites Near Meridian, Idaho (21)

    1. Caldwell Campground and RV Park

    9 Reviews
    Caldwell, ID
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 454-0279

    $28 - $43 / night

    "Approx, 10-12 Grassy Tent sites, with shady trees, on a small 6 acre lake with entertaining ducks that do not beg for food. Lol. Lots of RV sites with full hook ups, including, 105 long term users."

    "Clean facilities.. , need a code to use them, Roads are dusty, if people would drive slow it would e nicer, Busy place, this is a flat rate place."

    2. Idaho City Yurts — Idaho Parks and Recreation State Headquaters

    4 Reviews
    Boise, ID
    15 miles
    Website

    "I have only been to there in the winter but I imagine that hiking in is just a beautiful!   You need to bring everything but a bed and stove, which are in the yurt.  "

    "Firewood included in purchase of renting. One time I went I miss read the reservation date and got kicked out by another group. So we had to hike down in a snow storm. It was still fun."

    3. Swan Falls - Idaho Power

    17 Reviews
    Murphy, ID
    27 miles
    Website

    "It is dry camping with no hookups. No reservations, so it's on a first come first serve basis. Our site had a fire pit but no picnic table. Fishing was awesome."

    "There’s a little trail system you can wonder above that gives great views too. The sites are well maintained with fire rings and picnic table and there’s a pit toilet as well."

    4. Shafer Butte

    4 Reviews
    Horseshoe Bend, ID
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 587-7961

    $10 - $75 / night

    "Tent only, but nicely maintained tent pads, fire rings and picnic tables. Perfect place to teach young ones the joy of camping; campground is open, mostly flat and easy to keep your eyes the tykes."

    "It was a no frills place and we were dirtier than usual since there was no running water. it also had no firewood for sale, so we hauled ours up. We knew all this going in, so it didn’t matter."

    6. Cottonwood Campground

    1 Review
    Idaho City, ID
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 587-7961

    7. Willow Creek Campground

    3 Reviews
    Idaho City, ID
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 587-7961

    8. Owyhee River - Below Dam - Owyhee Dam Park

    4 Reviews
    Adrian, OR
    42 miles

    "Just follow Owyhee Lake Rd along the river and you will find spaces to set up your tent or RV. It is a bit deserty, so beware of snakes. You will find quite a few places before the tunnel."

    "If you want the site in the pictures, which was fairly quiet other than a few people checking if it was open, take the first right after the bridge and follow the trail down."

    9. Bald Mountain Campground

    1 Review
    Idaho City, ID
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 392-6681

    "Nice primitive USFS site. It's about 30 min above the highway so a bit far. Close to the bald mtn lookout"

    10. Banks

    2 Reviews
    Banks, ID
    35 miles
    Website
Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 21 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Tent Camping Reviews near Meridian, ID

377 Reviews of 21 Meridian Campgrounds


  • Anna W.
    Jul. 7, 2019

    Boise National Forest Bad Bear Campground

    Nice little campground. Small sites.

    Bad Bear is a nice little campsite outside of Idaho City. The sites are good size with adequate privacy. There is lots of tree cover for shade during those warm summer days, and a babbling brook at the back of the campground. Each site had a picnic table, fire ring, and there is a well for water and a vault toilet. We enjoyed our stay here, mostly because there wasn't anyone else camping in the campground when we were there in mid-July! Score! We grabbed the big site, but the other sites seemed a bit small. Would recommend for a easy campsite close to Idaho City and just a quick little jaunt from Boise.

  • C
    Feb. 4, 2021

    Celebration Park

    Everything a campground should be

    Celebration Park is the perfect campground for basic boondocking (with bathrooms). It is remote and wild with non-stop views from every site and many outdoor activities nearby. At the entrance to the campground, there is a visitors center, many picnic tables, fire rings, an interpretive walk, and access to the riverfront. This is where the bathrooms are containing a single sink, electrical outlet and two toilets. No showers are available. The bathroom was exceptionally clean when I stayed there. The park adjoins BLM land. There are no hookups for power, water or sewer. Potable water is accessed from the bathrooms and spigots near the entrance. The camping area goes on for at least 1/4 mile along the river and more sites are away from the water. 

    Some reviewers mention the bugs. Yes there were swarming gnats when I visited in February, not unbearable, but worth noting if that bothers you. Also note the wind coming down the gorge creates some showy sandstorms. (See video) Hey, it's the outdoors.

    The county park is located on the Snake River Gorge about 25 miles from the nearest town. It is located on the northern fridge of the Morley Birds of Prey Sanctuary. You will awaken to the sound of the ducks and geese and can watch hawks and ravens soar on the winds rushing through the gorge. This is not the best place for watching the raptors, as I learned on staying there. Swan Falls south about 15 miles is for wildlife viewing, nevertheless, there was plenty to see and I spent two nights there. 

    A walk up away from the river takes you to a large lake and you can also cross the historic rail bridge to the other bank of the river and climb to the top of the gorge. Excellent place for stargazing, but avoid the sites closest to the visitor center where the lights interfere with prevent perfect darkness.

  • Amy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2020

    Edna Creek

    Nice Campground

    Edna Creek campground is  off of Highway 21 and is a little farther off the main road that some of other near by campgrounds.   It is a little more private and quiet.  I like this campground because it is more geared toward tent camping.  There is limited space for larger RVs.  There are no RV type amenities.  Just vault toilets, picnic tables and campfire rings.  I believe there is also a water pump.  Lots of access to hiking around here which is a plus for me!

  • Jeff M.
    May. 10, 2018

    Shafer Butte

    One of my favorites

    Less than an hour from downtown Boise. Beautiful, scenic views, off the main road so it's mostly quiet. Tent only, but nicely maintained tent pads, fire rings and picnic tables. Perfect place to teach young ones the joy of camping; campground is open, mostly flat and easy to keep your eyes the tykes. One of the most enjoyable drives, ever.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2021

    Deadwood Campground

    Small, near hotsprings

    Great but small NF campsite at the Deadwood trailhead. 6 sites with picnic tables and fire rings. Clean vault toilets.

  • Jeff M.
    May. 9, 2018

    Macks Creek Park

    Great for casusl RV camping

    Small campsite, approx 6-7 hard pads with vault toilet at one end. Site sits directly on a busy, paved roadway that follows Lucky Peak and Arrowrock Reservoir. Also, directly acro townss the street from RV camping is a busy, tent only campsite. The view of the River is nice, but the noise and outside distractions are not my cup of tea. But it's close to town, so there's that....

  • B
    Jul. 8, 2018

    Rivers Edge RV Park

    Best little Campgound in the area!

    Best little Campgound in the area! Sits right on the Snake River, large grassy area with lots of shade, Cabins, tent sites, limited full hookups, electric, covered picnic tables, small boat dock, 2 horseshoe pits excellent catfishing, supplied fire rings (you can buy wood there), they just added a TeePee! The host, Turk, and his wife, Meghan, are absolutely, by far the best camp hosts we've ever dealt with. Dogs are allowed. BEST SUNSETS EVER!

  • Davidson L. H.
    Sep. 13, 2022

    Troutdale

    Good For Week Days

    Driving highway 21, pass Lucky Peak and making a right after the bridge is the most heart wrenching drive once you are driving along side Arrow Rock Reservoir, one of the most dangerous drives in the country. It's a one lane road off a shear cliff with vehicles going both ways. Best to drive through on a Monday through Thursday. The campground is basic, but I preferred the dispersed camping site adjacent to the river on the grounds. There is some good hiking and backpacking once you get past the small mountain town of Atlanta. Vaulted toilet, and fire rings. The river is great for swimming, and near by hot springs. Animals we saw in the area are Bald Eagles, Meadowlarks Grouse, Whitetail deer, deer, snakes. When hiking in spring and summer wear snake gaiters.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2022

    Celebration Park

    Great option for low fee

    Sites are next to the river and have amazing views of the surrounding terrain.

    Trash cans are located at each designated site as well as a level area to set up.

    There is cell reception in case you are interested but the wifi was poor.

    The fire pits are locked during fire season.

    Unfortunately, my site was a victim of irresponsible campers who left trash and urinated near the tent site. Obviously not the campground’s fault but something to be aware of.

    $5 fee with dropbox. 3 night max (within 30 day period.)


Guide to Meridian

Tent campsites near Meridian, Idaho range from lakeside locations with fishing access to high-elevation mountain sites with cooler summer temperatures. Most sites are within a 45-minute drive from town, with camping options available from spring through fall depending on elevation. The terrain typically features desert conditions at lower elevations and more wooded sites in the mountains.

What to do

Fishing for trophy brown trout: The Owyhee River - Below Dam - Owyhee Dam Park offers exceptional fly fishing opportunities for those willing to make the drive. "If you enjoy Fly Fishing for Brown Trout, this place is awesome. There is dispersed camping all along the river below the dam. It is very rugged, but there are amenities for camping," explains one visitor.

Mountain recreation access: Shafer Butte campground provides direct access to Bogus Basin Mountain Resort's summer activities. According to a camper, "Bogus Basin is very close. During the Summer Season they have scenic chairlift rides; inter tubing, mountain coaster, climbing wall, live music on weekends, food and beverage, mountain biking with lift service, mountain bike rentals, and hiking. Family friendly."

Birding and wildlife viewing: The Snake River corridor offers prime opportunities to observe birds of prey, with Swan Falls providing strategic viewing locations. "The best part of this place is watching the birds of prey and the scenic canyon views," reports one visitor who recommends early morning or evening hours for optimal viewing.

River activities: Multiple tent camping locations along the Snake River allow for kayaking, swimming, and paddling. "We were able to launch our kayaks for fishing and paddling for a couple of days," notes one camper about the river access at these waterfront sites.

What campers like

Proximity to Boise: Caldwell Campground and RV Park offers tent sites on a fishing pond just 25 minutes from Meridian. A camper shares, "The lakeside location and walking trails are beautiful. Feels like living outside of town but still close to everything town offers."

Riverside camping: Tent campers appreciate the small, intimate sites along the Snake River. "Located just a 40 minute drive from the city of Boise, this campground is the perfect quick getaway. There are many campsites to choose from tucked down along the river, and the best part is, they are all free!"

Winter yurt options: For those interested in off-season camping, the Idaho City Yurts provide heated shelter during colder months. "Nice and clean. Easy to warm up. Some games lots of beds. Firewood included in purchase of renting," reports a winter visitor, making this an all-season option when other tent sites are closed.

Shade availability: Tent sites with tree cover are highly valued in this region where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. "It has shade and that's a huge plus," notes one camper about Caldwell Campground, highlighting the importance of finding sites with natural cooling during hot summer months.

What you should know

Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful navigation. At Willow Creek Campground, "Many people have died driving back in this dirt road on the edge of the reservoir. So be very careful. Once you make it though you have a very nice spot only 45 minutes away from town on the river!"

Seasonal availability: Most higher elevation sites have limited seasons. Bald Mountain Campground only operates June through October, while Shafer Butte is open June 15 to September 30.

Water access considerations: Some riverside camping areas have challenging water access points. "Lake access is only through the tent campers sites in front of us or going around the lake through full time resident campers sites," explains a visitor at one location.

Insects: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water in early summer. "We must have gone when the mosquitos were bad because holy cow were they bad, and no amount of anything repelled them. From 8am to about 10 pm, they swarmed us all!"

Temperatures: Despite hot days, mountain camping can get surprisingly cold at night. Temperatures at Shafer Butte and Bald Mountain can drop into the 40s even in July and August, requiring appropriate sleeping gear.

Tips for camping with families

Look for flat, open sites: Morley Nelson Snake River Dispersed Campsites offer accessible areas for families. "We parked right beside the river, and it was absolutely gorgeous. However, I don't recommend taking a car on this road. It's definitely an ATV road as it's very rough."

Consider age-appropriate terrain: Some campgrounds are better suited for younger children. A camper at Shafer Butte notes it's "Perfect place to teach young ones the joy of camping; campground is open, mostly flat and easy to keep your eyes the tykes."

Plan for no amenities: Many dispersed camping areas have no facilities. Families should bring portable toilets, extra water, and trash bags. "It is dry camping with no hookups. No reservations, so it's on a first come first serve basis," notes one camper about riverside sites.

Weekend crowds: Expect more company on weekends, especially at free sites. A camper describes one experience: "Our first night (Thursday) was peaceful and not terrible. Friday night though, about 8 cars pulled in and parked like assholes, piled 7 tents onto the beach and blasted their damn mariachi music all night."

Tips from RVers

Size restrictions: Many camping areas near Meridian have limited space for larger vehicles. Swan Falls accommodates RVs "smaller than 27'" according to one RVer who brought their 27' travel trailer.

Power considerations: Banks and most primitive camping areas have no hookups, requiring self-contained power solutions. Generator use may be restricted at some locations.

Grade challenges: Some access roads have steep sections. "The drive down from the top is pretty steep. Ensure your vehicle is powerful enough to pull your rig back up the grade," warns an RVer who visited the Snake River sites.

Site selection for larger vehicles: At Caldwell Campground, "Spots for short-term stays are pull-thrus with full hookups. A little slice of grass separates each RV." This makes it one of the more accommodating options for larger rigs near Meridian.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Meridian, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Meridian, ID is Caldwell Campground and RV Park with a 3.6-star rating from 9 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Meridian, ID?

TheDyrt.com has all 21 tent camping locations near Meridian, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.