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Best Campgrounds in Idaho

4,517 Reviews
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

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 (1,456)

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

    66 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. Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    44 Reviews
    Murtaugh, ID
    Website
    +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."

    3. Yellowstone Park / West Gate KOA Holiday

    43 Reviews
    West Yellowstone, MT
    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

    38 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. Massacre Rocks State Park Campground

    37 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."

    "You definitely want a lower loop site to get away from the freeway noise, plus you will have more shade during peak summer heat."

    6. Three Island Crossing State Park Campground

    36 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."

    7. Henrys Lake State Park Campground

    35 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."

    8. Bruneau Dunes State Park Campground

    34 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. Mountain Home RV Park

    29 Reviews
    Mountain Home, ID
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    West Yellowstone, MT
    Website

    "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."

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903 Photos of 1456 Idaho Campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Idaho

4517 Reviews of 1456 Idaho Campgrounds

  • Natalie G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2026

    Miracle Hot Springs

    Great hidden gem!

    We loved this campsite for our family of 6!

    We brought our trailer to site 3, which I feel was the best site for trailers. Near a busier road, but was not a problem with the sound wall. Trees for shade, and our awning was able to cover most of the area for shade during the day.

    Has water and electric, no sewage. No WiFi, but we brought our Starlink.

    All sites have picnic tables and smaller fire pits. No wood sold on site, so bring or go buy in town.

    Running toilet and dumpster near campsites. Showers by hot springs pools that were stocked with shower gel, shampoo and conditioner. Bring your own towel.

    The hot springs were so great! A little pricey for our bigger family. Wish it was included if you stay there, which is why just 4 stars. We did it one day, and we got access for the whole day. Bigger pools with benches running along the side. Was so nice and clean!

    The creek that runs right through the camp was our favorite! Shallow enough for the 3 year old. With deeper parts further down to fully swim. We’d take our chairs in there and sit, the kids could play. Glad we brought sand toys for them to collect rocks and clams.

    Camp host was so kind! Sites seem spread apart enough. The campsites had the best spots along the creek!

    Day 1 we played in the creek a ton after setting up.

    Day 2 we did the hot springs. Then we drove to Twin Falls to see Shoshone Falls (amazing!) and Perrine Bridge. Perfect little day trip about 50 minutes away.

    On day 3 we brought our own stand up paddle boards and kayaks and launched from Blue Heart Kayaking to go see Blue Heart Spring. Incredible! Blue Heart Kayaking is the closest launch point. Is just $10 per person over age 8 if you bring your own equipment. They have kayaks and SUP to rent there too! About a 20 minute paddle there, 40 minutes back. Doable with the little kids! We loved this and highly recommend!

    We went to the Hagerman Dump Station on the way out to dump and clean our tanks. Right between the shell station and library in downtown Hagerman. No fee, just donations. No dumpster.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2026

    Springy Point

    Small and tight spots

    Beautiful and right on the water. Flush toilets and showers.

  • David and Charity M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2026

    Cactus River Ranch RV & Campground

    Gorgeous river view site

    Just three RV sites which made it feel private. The bathrooms with showers were very nice. Electric and water hookups right by the river was a great find!

  • OThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2026

    Ricketts RV Camp

    Not free any more

    Unfortunately, this spot is no longer free. They charge $20 per night. Still cheaper than most campgrounds. The bathroom is in good shape. Very near town.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2026

    Ricketts RV Camp

    Nice & Clean campground.. good location from Twin Falls and Shoshones Falls

    Easy to find not far from the main highway of Twin Falls. Concrete pad, fire ring, 2 vault toilets and 2 garbage cans … as of July 1, 2026 there is a charge of $20 a night. Sheriff patrolled the area. Also an area for horses.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2026

    Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    Very dangerous roads

    No idea how any vehicle could get to the river… there is an upper area to park up in but too hot. The dirt road to the supposed BLM camping area also very rugged! Disappointing

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2026

    County Road 210 Dispersed

    Popular boondocking area

    Not far from Redfish Lake off of Highway 75 this disperse camp area has easy access for all size rigs, some places alongside Salmon River others inside the forest. We stayed two nights amongst the pine trees. It was quiet and enjoyable. Free!!

  • David H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2026

    Wolf Flats Recreation Area

    Lots of trees and brush next to river.

    This area is next to the Snake River, with lots of trees and brush, that are loaded with birds.

    The access road is a well graded with dirt and gravel. Fishermen use this as a high speed at times, transportation route for their boats and vehicles to up river access. There can be a lot of dust and noise when the traffic is high. Most of the traffic stops after dark.

    There are some sites that are along the river and some away from the river.  A few sites are fairly private. There are quite a few places to get larger rigs or groups in.

    There are a few spots that are level, but most are not. 

    We arrived late in the day, middle of the week in mid-June and most sites were already taken.

    We did end up finding a nice spot near the river, and spent a pleasant evening and night.

    People do seem to be leaving a lot of trash in these sites. Spent quite a bit of time picking up food packages and other assorted garbage.

    The only toilet we saw was at the entrance to the area. It was clean and well stocked.

    We would stay again.

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?

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?

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?

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?

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.

Keep Exploring

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