Best Tent Camping 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 Tent Sites in Idaho (392)

    1. Targhee Creek

    26 Reviews
    West Yellowstone, ID
    Website

    "Nice place even had a bear box for food storage."

    "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."

    2. Swan Falls - Idaho Power

    16 Reviews
    Murphy, ID
    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."

    3. Green Bay Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED 2024

    12 Reviews
    Kaniksu National Forest, ID
    Website
    +1 (208) 263-5111

    "There is a single vault toilet, they ask that you bring a bucket and shovel for solid waste. Bring your own way to dispose of trash, and have a way to lock it up, or animals WILL get into it."

    "Lightning cutting across the lake was a real spook. We brought our kayaks into the water in the sunny part of the day, other camping spots available by boat if you can get there!"

    4. Bear Lake State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Fish Haven, ID
    Website
    +1 (208) 945-2565

    "This RV park is along side Bear Lake. A short stroll across the large beach and you can set up shade, have a relaxing day on the beach."

    "If coming from Idaho Falls stay on 30 Hwy till Montpelier then take 89 hwy to St Charles. If ya coming from Jackson Wy stay on 89 Hwy . If ya need Groc stop at the store in Montpelier."

    5. Warm Slough

    10 Reviews
    Rexburg, ID

    "Great spot to hang out outside of Rexburg. Each site has a fire ring and plenty of privacy. Toilets are operating and clean. Right on the banks of the slough and there’s even a resident moose!"

    "Lots of options with fire rings and tables. Really nice and peaceful once you find it :-)

    GPS for my spot: 43.8731862, -111.8663080"

    6. McClendon Spring Campground

    11 Reviews
    Malta, ID
    +1 (208) 677-6600

    "You may be a little unsure when you are driving to it, but trust me this place is great. Offers great views of the mountains and Malta below."

    "What a great find during our travels through Southern Idaho. Situated by a pond with lots of birds made our stay very peaceful."

    7. Redfish Inlet Trailhead

    8 Reviews
    Stanley, ID
    Website

    "The views are amazing as your at the foot of an incredible drainage to hike. Your close to the wilderness so be prepared for the adventures that await. There is no water, so bring a filter."

    "The sunset over the lake was spectacular – the water was so clear and peaceful, I could have sat there all night."

    8. Lake Elsie Campground

    8 Reviews
    Osburn, ID
    Website
    +1 (208) 765-7223

    "Easy to drive up to. Any vehicle will do. Dirt road to the top where you will find a lovely little lake with 4-5 camp spots surrounding it."

    "You’ll want to bring good cars because the road gets pretty primitive. Awesome lake for kayaking and paddle boarding."

    9. Bootjack Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Island Park, ID

    "Island Park, ID

    44.5781, -111.341

    Dept Fish & Wildlife 

    14 day limit (doesn't seem to be enforced, but seems to be more seasonal campers, not permanent) Grass Spaces for even big rigs."

    "Great location. Close to yellowstone. Cattle range, but quiet. Lots of free spots for big and small rigs."

    10. Caldwell Campground and RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Caldwell, ID
    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."

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Showing results 1-10 of 392 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews in Idaho

3354 Reviews of 392 Idaho Campgrounds



Guide to Idaho

Idaho offers a stunning backdrop for tent camping, with diverse landscapes ranging from serene lakes to rugged mountains. Whether you're seeking solitude or adventure, there's a perfect spot waiting for you.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $30

  • Enjoy a free stay at Targhee Creek, where you can pitch your tent in a beautiful, natural setting without any fees.
  • For a more structured experience, Bear Lake State Park Campground offers sites starting around $30, complete with amenities like drinking water and picnic tables.
  • If you're looking for a primitive experience, Bootjack Dispersed Camping is free and allows you to immerse yourself in nature without the distractions of modern conveniences.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • At Redfish Inlet Trailhead, you can explore the vast Sawtooth wilderness, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching.
  • Lake Elsie Campground is a great base for kayaking and paddleboarding, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Experience the thrill of fishing and swimming right from your site at Swan Falls - Idaho Power, where the river provides ample opportunities for water activities.

Campground features that enhance your stay

  • Caldwell Campground and RV Park offers clean facilities, including showers and a sanitary dump, making it a convenient choice for families.
  • For a more rustic experience, Waddington Creek Primitive Campsite provides a peaceful riverside setting with fire pits, perfect for a cozy evening under the stars.
  • Warm Springs Campground features several dispersed sites along a well-traveled forest road, allowing for easy access to nearby attractions while still enjoying a quiet camping experience.