Best Campgrounds in Idaho

One of the least populated states in America, Idaho is the third state that makes up the Pacific Northwest—besides Oregon and Washington. This is a large and wild state, spanning two time zones and stretching from the Canadian border all the way south to Utah and Nevada. Its vast tracts of old-growth forests, various subranges of the Rocky Mountains and Hells Canyon, America’s deepest canyon, make camping in Idaho an essential thing to do during any visit.

Idaho’s wide variety in landscapes and biotopes, from arid plains to towering mountains, from pristine forests to river canyons, attract an equally varied array of visitors. Fishermen are drawn to the state’s abundant and exceptional fish species. It’s the West’s only inland state where you can catch blue-ribbon trout as well as king salmon and steelhead. Mountain bikers, rock climbers, and boaters find delight camping in Idaho’s wildernesses.

Hiking and camping in Idaho is, however, arguably the state’s most popular outdoor pursuit. And it’s available all across the state. A particularly great destination is the Boise National Forest, the location of the awesome Red Mountain Trail. Other fantastic places to go backpacking and camping in Idaho include Craters of the Moon National Monument, the remarkable Bruneau Dunes State Park and iconic Yellowstone National Park, a sliver of which lies in the state’s southeastern corner.

In the middle of southern Idaho lies Shoshone Falls, a series of huge cascades on the Snake River sometimes referred to as the “Niagara of the West”. The Snake River meanders its way further west, making up the northern part of the Oregon and Idaho border, and flows through massive Hells Canyon. Ten miles wide and almost 8,000 feet deep, this is the deepest river canyon in North America, an absolutely natural gem to explore when camping in Idaho.

Best Camping Sites in Idaho (1,390)

    1. Lava Flow Campground — Craters of the Moon National Monument

    57 Reviews
    Arco, ID
    Website
    +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. Camp Coeur D Alene

    41 Reviews
    Coeur d'Alene, ID
    Website
    +1 (208) 664-4471

    $39 - $83 / night

    "Very cute campside with free cano’s to use"

    "Even though the sites are small and close together, they are at different levels as you go up the hill combined with the sites and cabins being tucked under the giant pines, gives you a sense of privacy"

    3. Yellowstone Park / West Gate KOA Holiday

    40 Reviews
    West Yellowstone, ID
    Website
    +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."

    4. Peninsula Campground — Ponderosa State Park

    36 Reviews
    McCall, ID
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Glenns Ferry, ID
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Island Park, ID
    Website
    +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

    31 Reviews
    Rockland, ID
    Website
    +1 (208) 548-2672

    "This beautiful state park is located right off of the freeway about 7 miles outside of American Falls, Idaho."

    "This is a surprise off the 84 in Idaho so if you are looking for a campground off the main freeway this is it it's got a dump station it's got rv camping tent camping it is got a great history and it's"

    8. Bruneau Dunes State Park Campground

    31 Reviews
    Bruneau, ID
    Website
    +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. Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    29 Reviews
    Murtaugh, ID
    Website
    +1 (208) 732-7200

    "Private and peaceful situated inside snake river gorge Come cool water jumping spots… river is peaceful. Lots of wind!"

    "We arrived on a Monday morning around 9am. Before driving down the hill we got out and walked it to make sure we could make it. We’re driving a one ton GMC with Artic Fox truck camper."

    10. Mountain Home RV Park

    27 Reviews
    Mountain Home, ID
    Website
    +1 (208) 580-1211

    "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."

    "Lots of people take walks at night around the streets of the park. I can’t rave about this place enough. STAY HERE!"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 1,390 campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Idaho

3769 Reviews of 1390 Idaho Campgrounds



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 camping is available in Idaho?

According to TheDyrt.com, Idaho offers a wide range of camping options, with 1390 campgrounds and RV parks in Idaho and 177 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground in Idaho?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Idaho is Lava Flow Campground — Craters of the Moon National Monument with a 4-star rating from 57 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Idaho?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 177 free dispersed camping spots in Idaho.

What are the best parks in Idaho?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 463 parks in Idaho that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.