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.

Idaho

The Best Camping in Idaho | 100+ ID Campgrounds

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Upper Crossing, ID has a lot to offer. Upper Crossing is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Upper Crossing, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Upper Crossing

The Best Camping Near Upper Crossing, Idaho

Deep Creek Campground features 3 campsites complete with picnic tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet. Site will accept RV's or trailers to 30 feet. Stock can be kept in this campground.

Deep Creek

## Overview

Alta Campground is located in a scenic forest in the heart of Montana's Bitterroot National Forest. The West Fork of the Bitterroot River flows nearby, giving visitors access to some of the best fishing the area has to offer, as well as other water-related recreation. 

## Recreation

Fly fishing and wading in the Bitterroot River, which runs alongside the campground, are popular activities. During high water season, canoeing and rafting are available as well. A variety of trails and unimproved roads are great for exploring by bike or off-road vehicle. Hiking trails to various mountain peaks, including to Lookout, Razorback and Thunder Mountains, as well as Beaver and Deer Creek Points, are nearby. The Alta Pine interpretive trail is nearby. Painted Rocks Lake is located about five miles north of the campground. Visitors enjoy swimming, boating and fishing. Anglers will find mountain whitefish and a variety of trout. 

## Facilities

The campground offers 14 campsites, three of which are accessible, for tent and RV camping. Each site can accommodate up to 10 people and two vehicles. Utility hookups are not available. Parking spurs are gravel. Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are provided. A campground host is available on-site and trash collection bins are placed throughout the facility. Please properly store food in vehicles or hard sided campers to reduce attractants to wildlife, such as bears.

## Natural Features

The campground is located along the West Fork of the Bitterroot River, a popular fishing river in the area. Large, yellow-barked ponderosa pine trees tower above many of the campsites, which along with fir, aspen and lodgepole pine, provide pleasant shade. The campground is situated at an elevation of about 4,580 feet.   
  
A variety of wildlife can be seen in the area, including bald eagles, mule and white-tailed deer, moose, elk, bighorn sheep and numerous songbirds. 

## Nearby Attractions

The Alta Ranger Station, located on the West Fork of the Bitterroot River, was the first Forest Service Ranger Station in the United States, built in 1899. It remains a popular tourist location and is just minutes from the campground. Hughes Creek, once a vibrant placer gold mining site, is nearby. The historic area accounted for 88 percent of all the placer gold recovered in Ravalli County from 1904-1948. A variety of natural hot springs can be found about 18 miles from the campground. The nearest town is Conner, which provides some services and is about 27 miles away. Darby is about 30 miles away and offers full services.

## Charges & Cancellations

A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees. For full details see NRRS Reservation Policy.

Alta Campground

Salmon Base Camp Trailhead has adequate parking for both cars and trailers. It offers access to trail #27, #19, the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and the Frank Church Wilderness. Facilities include a wooden outhouse, stock ramp, and hitching rails.

Base Camp Campground

Rombo Campground is located in a scenic area along the West Fork Bitterroot River in the mountains of southwestern Montana. The area is home to a variety of big game and wildlife, and provides access to a number of outdoor activities, including fishing, seasonal rafting and various trail opportunities. Recreation Fly fishing and wading in the West Fork Bitterroot River are popular activities. During high water season, kayaking and rafting are available as well. Painted Rocks Lake is just five miles south of the campground. Visitors enjoy swimming, boating and fishing. Anglers will find mountain whitefish and a variety of trout. Many trails and unimproved roads in the area are great for exploring by bike or off-road vehicle. Hiking trails to various mountain peaks are nearby. Facilities The campground offers 14 sites, four of which are accessible, for tent and RV camping. Individual sites can accommodate up to 10 people and two vehicles. A day use group picnic area is also available on a first come, first serve basis and can accommodate up to 30 people. Picnic tables, campfire rings and grills are provided, as are accessible pit toilets and drinking water. A campground host is on-site. Utility hookups are not available. Parking surfaces are gravel. Natural Features The campground is located along the West Fork of the Bitterroot River. Large yellow-barked ponderosa pine trees tower above many of the campsites, which along with fir, aspen and lodgepole pine, provide pleasant shade. The campground is situated at an elevation of 4,600 feet. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the area, including bald eagles, mule and white-tailed deer, moose, elk, bighorn sheep and numerous songbirds. Nearby Attractions The Alta Ranger Station, located on the West Fork of the Bitterroot River, was the first Forest Service Ranger Station in the United States, built in 1899. It remains a popular tourist location and is a short distance from the campground. Horse Creek Hot Springs is about 29 miles from the campground via a gravel road. Fuel, a post office and a general store can be found in Conner, 16 miles from the campground. Darby is 24 miles from the campground. It is a full-service community with laundry facilities, lodging and a grocery store, among other amenities. ADA Access: N

Rombo Campground

Indian Creek Campground

Painted Rocks State Park

Slate Creek Campground is located right near Painted Rocks lake and has 7 sites complete with picinic tables and fire rings, and a vault toilet. Campground can accommodate RV's or trailers to 25 feet.

Slate Creek

## Overview

Magruder Rangers House is one of seven buildings still used by Forest Service trail crews and wilderness rangers, but it is open to the public through parts of the year. It provides visitors with access to two designated wilderness areas, plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and exploration and a comfortably equipped place to stay.

## Recreation

Hunting and fishing are popular activities enjoyed by visitors to the area. The adjacent Selway River and a variety of nearby mountain streams are well known for trout fishing. Anglers might see bullhead, rainbow, steelhead and cutthroat trout, as well as mountain whitefish. There are a variety of trails that traverse the area, including the 11-mile Sweet Creek Trail. It follows a creek bed and connects to other trails in the area. It is open to hiking and horseback riding. Bicycles and motorized travel are not allowed within wilderness boundaries but is allowed on roads. 

## Facilities

The two-story, five-room log cabin has two bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen and an indoor bathroom. It has beds with mattresses, as well as futons, to sleep up to 10 people. A wood stove for heat is available in the basement of the cabin and firewood is provided. The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs, refrigerator, propane stove and propane lights. Cooking and eating utensils are available, as well as various cleaning equipment. During the summer and fall, hot and cold running water is available for the kitchen and bathroom, which has a flush toilet and a shower. The water system is turned off during the winter. Water is turned on from June through mid-October. An outdoor vault toilet is provided. Guests will need to bring their own bedding, towels, food, matches, garbage bags and toilet paper, among other necessities. It is required that guests replenish the cut firewood supply and clean the cabin prior to leaving. The cabin is accessible by four-wheel drive and high-clearance vehicles. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety. Livestock are not permitted at the Magruder Cabin compound.

## Natural Features

The house is located on the Selway River, between the 1.2-million-acre Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and the 2.3-million-acre Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness areas, at an elevation of about 4,000 feet. It was once the residence of the district ranger and his family.   
  
Most of the area is covered by coniferous forests, with open meadows near the river. Because of its size, the wilderness provides a secluded habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Large populations of mountain lions and grey wolves live in the area, as well as lynx, coyote, fox, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk, moose, deer and black bears (learn about [outdoor safety](http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/bitterroot/learning/safety-ethics)). 

## Nearby Attractions

The adjacent Magruder Road provides drivers with a unique experience in the back country of Montana. The road was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and remains much the same now as it did then. It continues to the Nez Perce Pass and is open in early June.

Magruder Rangers House

Nez Perce National Forest Granite Springs Campground

Sam Billings Memorial Campground is located off of the West Fork Rd and consists of 12 campsites complete with picnic tables, and fire rings. There is also a large area ideal for group activities. Other facilites include vault toilets. Campground can accommodate RV's or trailers to 30 feet.

Sam Billings Memorial Campground

Looking for the best campgrounds near Nampa, ID? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Idaho camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Nampa and user-submitted reviews.

Nampa

The Best Camping Near Nampa, Idaho

Looking for the best campgrounds near Meridian, ID? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Meridian. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Meridian. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Meridian

The Best Camping Near Meridian, Idaho

Pocatello is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Pocatello, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Pocatello

The Best Camping Near Pocatello, Idaho

Searching for the best camping near Idaho Falls, ID? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Idaho camping adventure.

Idaho Falls

The Best Camping Near Idaho Falls, Idaho

Caldwell is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Caldwell campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Caldwell, ID. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Caldwell

The Best Camping Near Caldwell, Idaho

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, has both a lovely lake and a fancy name. Not only that, but you’ll also get access to multiple national forests in your backyard.

The best camping near Coeur d'Alene is in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, closer to Kellogg, ID. If you’re planning to travel towards Missoula, this is a perfect camping spot along the way. Even if you aren’t Missoula-bound, the national forests outside Coeur d’Alene demand your attention. If you’re looking for something a bit more subdued, find a campsite near Lake Coeur d’Alene and enjoy a weekend on the waterfront. There are a handful of established campgrounds by the lake with full amenities and RV access available.

Coeur d'Alene

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Coeur d'Alene. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Coeur d'Alene, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Coeur d'Alene, ID. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

The Best Camping Near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

You’ll find Twin Falls in the southern section of Idaho, roughly 100 miles from Craters of the Moon National Monument. While not always as popular as the northern half of the state, south Idaho also has its share of public lands for hiking and camping.

The best camping near Twin Falls is south of the city, with large areas of BLM and USFS land available for dispersed campgrounds. Beyond that, you’ll find City of Rocks National Reserve, which offers developed tent and RV campsites near Almo, ID. If you plan to venture out that way, know that while it’s beautiful, your best bet is to be as self-sufficient as you can. Since Almo is a small, unincorporated community, you may not be able to count on all the amenities you hoped for.

Twin Falls

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Twin Falls, ID has a lot to offer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Twin Falls, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Twin Falls camping trip.

The Best Camping Near Twin Falls, Idaho

Looking for the best campgrounds near Lewiston, ID? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Lewiston, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Lewiston

The Best Camping Near Lewiston, Idaho

Are you in need of a campground near Post Falls, ID? Post Falls is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Post Falls camping trip.

Post Falls

The Best Camping Near Post Falls, Idaho

Rexburg, ID is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Rexburg is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Rexburg camping trip.

Rexburg

The Best Camping Near Rexburg, Idaho

Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, ID is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests camping trip.

Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

The Best Camping Near Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, Idaho

Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Salmon-Challis National Forest. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Salmon-Challis National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

The Best Camping Near Salmon-Challis National Forest, Idaho

Join the fun near Caribou-Targhee National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Caribou-Targhee National Forest campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Caribou-Targhee National Forest, ID. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Caribou-Targhee National Forest

The Best Camping Near Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Idaho

Payette National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Payette National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Payette National Forest

The Best Camping Near Payette National Forest, Idaho

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Idaho Panhandle National Forests is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Idaho Panhandle National Forests

The Best Camping Near Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Idaho

Boise National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Boise National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Idaho camping adventure.

Boise National Forest

The Best Camping Near Boise National Forest, Idaho

Kaniksu National Forest, ID is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Kaniksu National Forest

The Best Camping Near Kaniksu National Forest, Idaho

City of Rocks National Reserve is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of City of Rocks National Reserve. Find the best campgrounds near City of Rocks National Reserve, ID. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

City of Rocks National Reserve

The Best Camping Near City of Rocks National Reserve, Idaho

Searching for the best camping near Clearwater National Forest, ID? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Clearwater National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Clearwater National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

Clearwater National Forest

The Best Camping Near Clearwater National Forest, Idaho

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Craters of the Moon National Monument. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Craters of the Moon National Monument, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Craters of the Moon National Monument and user-submitted reviews.

The Best Camping in Upper Crossing

Top Campgrounds in Upper Crossing (153)

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