Are you dreaming of your next outdoor adventure but don’t know where to pitch your tent? Idaho offers some of the most spectacular camping experiences in the Pacific Northwest, with over 30 state parks and millions of acres of pristine wilderness waiting to be explored. In 2020, Idaho State Parks welcomed 7,671,582 visitors, shattering previous records by more than 1.2 million and showcasing a remarkable surge in outdoor recreation, the kind of demand that makes planning ahead more important than ever.

From lakeside campsites with crystal-clear waters to mountain retreats surrounded by towering peaks, Idaho camping spots and some of the best campgrounds in Idaho deliver unforgettable experiences for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re seeking good camping spots in Idaho for family adventures or remote backcountry locations for solitude, this guide covers the gems that make Idaho a premier camping destination.

To create this comprehensive list, we analyzed dozens of camping reviews, explored state park resources, and gathered insights from experienced Idaho campers across forums and outdoor communities. The result? A handpicked collection of the best camping spots in Idaho, ranked for scenery, amenities, accessibility, and overall camping experience.

Top 3 Quick Picks for Best Camping Spots in Idaho

Editor’s Choice: Redfish Lake Campground
Best for Families: Bear Lake State Park
Most Scenic: Stanley Lake Campground

15 Best Camping Spots in Idaho (Complete Reviews)

1. Redfish Lake Campground

If you’re searching for the most iconic of all Idaho camping spots, Redfish Lake Campground delivers postcard-perfect scenery in the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. This popular destination sits at the base of the dramatic Sawtooth Mountains, offering campers direct access to one of Idaho’s most photographed alpine lakes.

The campground provides easy access to hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and water activities. Many visitors love the short walk to the lake’s sandy beach, making it perfect for families with kids. The nearby Redfish Lake Visitor Center offers educational programs and boat rentals for those wanting to explore the lake further.

However, this popularity comes with a trade-off. Reservations fill up months in advance, especially for weekend spots during peak summer season. The campground can feel crowded during July and August, so consider visiting in early June or September for a more peaceful experience.

Pros:

• Stunning mountain and lake views
• Sandy beach access
• Well-maintained facilities with flush toilets and showers
• Close to hiking trails and the visitor center
• Great for photography enthusiasts

Cons:

• Extremely popular, hard to get reservations
• Can be crowded during peak season
• Higher elevation means cooler nights

2. Bear Lake State Park

For families seeking good camping spots in Idaho with plenty of activities, Bear Lake State Park stands out as a premier destination. Located on the Idaho-Utah border, this unique lake is famous for its brilliant turquoise waters and Caribbean-like appearance, earning it the nickname “Caribbean of the Rockies.”

The park offers excellent swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities. Kids especially love the relatively warm water temperatures and sandy beaches. The campground features modern amenities, including restrooms, showers, and a dump station, making it ideal for RV camping as well as tent camping.

The lake’s unique ecosystem supports several endemic fish species, and the area offers great wildlife viewing opportunities. Raspberry season in late July brings a bonus for campers who enjoy foraging.

Pros:

• Beautiful turquoise lake, perfect for swimming
• Family-friendly with warm water and sandy beaches
• Modern facilities and amenities
• Great for water sports and fishing
• Unique geological features

Cons:

• Can get windy, especially in the afternoons
• Popular destination, reserve early
• Limited shade in some camping areas

3. Stanley Lake Campground

Nestled in the Sawtooth National Forest, Stanley Lake Campground offers one of the most scenic Idaho camping experiences for those seeking mountain solitude. This smaller campground provides an intimate setting with incredible views of the Sawtooth peaks reflected in the pristine alpine lake.

The campground sits at 6,400 feet elevation, providing cooler temperatures during hot summer months. Hiking enthusiasts appreciate the direct access to numerous trails, including the popular Stanley Lake Creek Trail. Photography opportunities abound, particularly during sunrise and sunset when the mountains create dramatic reflections on the lake’s surface.

The intimate size means only 18 sites, creating a more peaceful atmosphere compared to larger campgrounds. However, this also means reservations are essential and spots fill quickly.

Pros:

• Spectacular mountain reflections on the lake
• Cooler temperatures at higher elevations
• Excellent hiking trail access
• Peaceful, intimate campground setting
• Great for photography

Cons:

• Very limited sites, books up fast
• Higher elevation means potential for cold nights
• Shorter camping season due to elevation

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4. Bruneau Dunes State Park

For a completely different Idaho camping experience, Bruneau Dunes State Park offers something unique among western camping destinations. Home to North America’s tallest single-structured dune at 470 feet, this park provides an almost desert-like environment that’s unlike typical Idaho camping spots.

The park excels for families with kids who love sand activities like sandboarding and dune climbing. The visitor center houses an excellent observatory for stargazing, taking advantage of the area’s dark skies. Lake fishing is available at the small lake within the park.

Unlike mountain campgrounds, Bruneau Dunes remains accessible year-round, making it perfect for off-season camping when other Idaho destinations are snowed in. The unique landscape also offers incredible sunset and sunrise photography opportunities.

Pros:

• Unique dune landscape
• Year-round camping availability
• Great for families and kids
• Excellent stargazing opportunities
• Sand activities like sandboarding

Cons:

• Can be extremely hot in summer
• Limited shade availability
• Different experience from typical forest camping

5. Hell’s Canyon National Recreation Area

Adventure seekers looking for the best camping spots in Idaho for rugged outdoor experiences should consider Hell’s Canyon, North America’s deepest river gorge. This massive recreation area offers diverse camping opportunities from developed campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites.

The area provides world-class whitewater rafting, jet boat tours, and challenging hiking trails. Wildlife viewing opportunities include bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and various bird species. The dramatic scenery includes towering canyon walls and the powerful Snake River.

Multiple campground options exist within the recreation area, from riverside sites to elevated viewpoints. The diversity means campers can choose their preferred level of amenities and remoteness.

Pros:

• Dramatic canyon scenery
• Excellent wildlife viewing
• Multiple camping options available
• Great for adventure activities
• Less crowded than other popular spots

Cons:

• Can be extremely hot in summer at lower elevations
• Some areas require high-clearance vehicles
• Limited services in remote areas

6. Henry’s Lake State Park

Fishing enthusiasts and wildlife watchers will find Henry’s Lake State Park among the top Idaho camping spots for their interests. This high-elevation lake sits at 6,472 feet and is renowned for excellent trout fishing and diverse bird watching opportunities.

The park serves as an important waterfowl habitat, making it a premier destination for birders during migration seasons. The lake’s clear, cold waters support healthy populations of brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. Moose sightings are common, especially during early morning and evening hours.

The campground provides a peaceful setting with mountain views and direct lake access. Sites accommodate both tents and RVs, with modern restroom facilities available.

Pros:

• Excellent fishing for multiple trout species
• Outstanding wildlife and bird watching
• Peaceful mountain setting
• Good facilities for families
• Less crowded than some popular destinations

Cons:

• Higher elevation means shorter season
• Can be windy
• Limited activities beyond fishing and wildlife viewing

7. Ponderosa State Park

Located on a peninsula jutting into Payette Lake near McCall, Ponderosa State Park offers some of the most accessible good camping spots in Idaho. The park combines beautiful lake access with old-growth ponderosa pine forests, creating a perfect blend of water and forest camping.

Summer visitors enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing on Payette Lake, while the surrounding forest provides excellent hiking and nature study opportunities. The park’s location near McCall means easy access to restaurants, shops, and additional recreational activities.

Winter camping is available for those seeking a snowy Idaho experience, with opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The park maintains year-round facilities, making it one of the few Idaho camping destinations accessible in all seasons.

Pros:

• Beautiful lake access with a forest setting
• Near McCall for additional amenities
• Year-round camping availability
• Good hiking trails within the park
• Family-friendly facilities

Cons:

• Popular location, can be crowded
• Higher costs due to developed facilities
• Limited primitive camping options

8. Craters of the Moon National Monument

For campers seeking truly unique Idaho camping spots, Craters of the Moon offers an otherworldly volcanic landscape unlike anywhere else in the state. This National Monument preserves a vast lava field with interesting geological formations, caves, and cinder cones.

The monument’s campground provides easy access to numerous hiking trails through the lava fields. Cave exploration opportunities exist for adventurous visitors, though proper equipment and caution are required. The stark landscape offers incredible night sky viewing with minimal light pollution.

Educational programs help visitors understand the area’s volcanic history and unique ecosystem. Despite the harsh-looking landscape, the area supports surprising wildlife diversity adapted to the volcanic environment.

Pros:

• Unique volcanic landscape
• Excellent stargazing opportunities
• Educational programs available
• Interesting cave exploration
• Uncrowded compared to other destinations

Cons:

• Limited shade and harsh environment
• Very hot in summer
• Limited water availability
• Not ideal for families with small children

9. Priest Lake State Park

In northern Idaho, Priest Lake State Park offers pristine wilderness camping among old-growth forests and crystal-clear lake waters. This less-discovered gem provides some of the best camping spots in Idaho for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

The lake’s clear waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Hiking trails lead through dense forests of cedar, hemlock, and white pine. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, elk, and various bird species.

The park offers both developed and primitive camping options, allowing visitors to choose their preferred level of amenities. The remote location means fewer crowds but also requires more planning for supplies.

Pros:

• Pristine, less-crowded wilderness experience
• Crystal-clear lake waters
• Excellent hiking in old-growth forests
• Good wildlife viewing opportunities
• Multiple camping options are available

Cons:

• Remote location requires more planning
• Limited services nearby
• Shorter season due to northern location
• Can be difficult to reach in poor weather

10. Lucky Peak State Park

Just minutes from Boise, Lucky Peak State Park proves that excellent Idaho camping spots exist close to urban areas. The park sits on Lucky Peak Reservoir, offering water recreation opportunities with city convenience nearby.

Three separate units provide different camping experiences, from sandy beach areas to more secluded forest sites. Water activities include swimming, boating, water skiing, and fishing. The proximity to Boise means easy access to supplies and emergency services.

The park’s location makes it perfect for weekend getaways or as a base camp for exploring other southern Idaho attractions. Despite being close to the city, the park maintains a natural feel with good wildlife viewing opportunities.

Pros:

• Close to Boise for convenience
• Multiple recreation areas to choose from
• Good water recreation opportunities
• Easy access to supplies and services
• Family-friendly facilities

Cons:

• Can be crowded due to proximity to Boise
• More developed, less wilderness feel
• Water levels can fluctuate significantly
• Road noise from nearby highways

11. Castle Rocks State Park

Rock climbing enthusiasts and geology lovers will find Castle Rocks State Park among the most interesting Idaho camping spots. The park features impressive granite spires and rock formations that create a dramatic landscape perfect for climbing and exploration.

The park offers both developed camping sites and more primitive backcountry options. Rock climbing ranges from beginner-friendly routes to challenging technical climbs. Hiking trails provide access to various rock formations and viewpoints.

Wildlife in the area includes raptors that nest on the rock faces, making it excellent for bird watching. The unique landscape provides outstanding photography opportunities, especially during golden hour lighting.

Pros:

• Unique granite rock formations
• Excellent rock climbing opportunities
• Good wildlife viewing, especially raptors
• Less crowded than major destinations
• Interesting geological features

Cons:

• Limited water sources
• Can be hot and dry in summer
• Requires climbing skills for full enjoyment
• Remote location with limited services

12. Winchester Lake State Park

Tucked away in north-central Idaho, Winchester Lake State Park offers peaceful Idaho camping experiences surrounded by rolling hills and agricultural landscapes. The small lake provides good fishing and quiet water recreation opportunities.

The park’s location makes it perfect for those seeking a quieter alternative to busier camping destinations. Hiking trails explore the surrounding countryside, and wildlife viewing includes deer, various birds, and occasional elk.

The campground provides modern amenities while maintaining a rustic feel. The peaceful setting makes it ideal for families with young children or campers seeking relaxation over adventure.

Pros:

• Peaceful, quiet camping environment
• Good for families with young children
• Less crowded than popular destinations
• Modern amenities available
• Pleasant hiking opportunities

Cons:

• Limited activities compared to larger parks
• Smaller lake with fewer water recreation options
• Can be less interesting for adventure seekers
• Remote location requires planning

13. Massacre Rocks State Park

Along the historic Oregon Trail, Massacre Rocks State Park combines camping with historical significance. The park preserves important pioneer history while providing access to Snake River recreation and interesting geological formations.

The visitor center offers educational programs about Oregon Trail history and the area’s geology. Hiking trails lead to historical markers and provide river access for fishing and boating. The park’s location along the Snake River creates habitat for diverse wildlife.

Camping options include sites suitable for both tents and RVs, with modern restroom facilities. The historical aspect adds educational value, making it particularly interesting for families.

Pros:

• Rich historical significance
• Educational programs available
• Snake River access for water activities
• Good wildlife viewing opportunities
• Interesting geological features

Cons:

• Can be hot and windy in summer
• Limited shade in some areas
• Less dramatic scenery than mountain destinations
• May be less appealing to non-history enthusiasts

14. Three Island Crossing State Park

Another historically significant location, Three Island Crossing State Park, marks an important Oregon Trail river crossing. The park offers Snake River access combined with pioneer history interpretation.

The park provides good fishing opportunities and river access for floating. Educational programs help visitors understand the challenges faced by Oregon Trail pioneers. Wildlife viewing includes various waterfowl and riparian species.

Modern camping facilities serve both tent and RV campers. The park’s location provides easy access to other Snake River attractions and nearby communities for supplies.

Pros:

• Historical significance and educational value
• Good river fishing opportunities
• Modern camping facilities
• Wildlife viewing along the river
• Easy access to supplies and services

Cons:

• Can be extremely hot in summer
• Limited activities beyond history and fishing
• Less scenic than mountain locations
• May not appeal to all camping interests

15. Harriman State Park

Part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, Harriman State Park offers some of the most wildlife-rich Idaho camping spots. The park’s 11,000 acres provide habitat for elk, moose, deer, and numerous bird species.

The Henry’s Fork of the Snake River flows through the park, providing world-class fly fishing opportunities. Miles of hiking and biking trails explore diverse habitats from meadows to forests. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, especially during early morning and evening hours.

The park’s location near the Montana and Wyoming borders makes it perfect for extended trips exploring the greater Yellowstone region. Educational programs focus on wildlife ecology and habitat conservation.

Pros:

• Exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities
• World-class fly fishing on Henry’s Fork
• Part of Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
• Excellent hiking and biking trails
• Educational programs available

Cons:

• It can be crowded during peak season
• Higher elevation limits the camping season
• Requires reservations
• More expensive than some alternatives

How to Choose the Best Idaho Camping Spots

Here’s what to consider when selecting from Idaho’s many camping options:

Seasonal Accessibility 

Idaho’s camping season varies dramatically by elevation and location. Lower elevation spots like Bruneau Dunes offer year-round access, while high mountain campgrounds may only open from July through September. Check current conditions and road access before traveling, especially for early or late season trips.

Activity Preferences

Different Idaho camping spots excel for different activities. Water enthusiasts should focus on lakeside locations like Bear Lake or Redfish Lake. Rock climbing enthusiasts will prefer Castle Rocks, while history buffs should consider Oregon Trail sites like Massacre Rocks. Match your camping destination to your primary interests.

Crowd Tolerance 

Popular destinations like Redfish Lake and Bear Lake can feel crowded during peak summer months. If solitude is important, consider lesser-known gems like Winchester Lake or visit popular spots during shoulder seasons. Remote locations typically require more self-sufficiency but offer greater privacy.

Amenities Needed 

Idaho camping spots range from primitive sites with vault toilets to full-service campgrounds with showers, dump stations, and visitor centers. RV campers need sites with appropriate hookups, while backpackers might prefer primitive options. Consider your comfort needs and plan accordingly.

Weather Considerations 

Idaho’s diverse geography creates varied weather conditions. High elevation sites can experience freezing temperatures even in summer, while desert locations like Bruneau Dunes can be extremely hot. Pack appropriate gear for your chosen destination’s typical conditions.

Conclusion

Idaho’s camping destinations offer incredible diversity, from alpine lakes surrounded by dramatic peaks to unique volcanic landscapes and historic pioneer sites. The best camping spots in Idaho cater to every interest and skill level, whether you’re seeking family-friendly adventures or remote wilderness experiences.

Each destination on this list provides something special, from the iconic mountain scenery of Redfish Lake to the unique dunes of Bruneau Dunes State Park, proving why they rank among the best campgrounds in Idaho. For campers who want quick setup across these varied locations, pop-up camping tents are a practical option. Success in choosing the right spot depends on matching your interests, season, and comfort preferences with what each location offers best.

Plan ahead, especially for popular summer destinations, and prepare for Idaho’s diverse conditions. With proper planning, your Idaho camping adventure will create memories that last a lifetime while showcasing why the Gem State deserves its reputation as a premier outdoor destination.

Frequently Asked Questions?

What are the best months for camping in Idaho? 

The best months for camping in Idaho vary by elevation and location. Lower elevation sites like Bruneau Dunes offer year-round camping, while mountain destinations typically open from June through September. July and August provide the warmest weather but also the biggest crowds. For fewer crowds and still good weather, consider June and September.

Do I need reservations for Idaho camping spots? 

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular destinations like Redfish Lake, Bear Lake, and Stanley Lake during peak summer months. Many Idaho state parks use the Reserve America system, while federal sites use Recreation.gov. Some remote locations offer first-come, first-served sites, but popular spots fill early in the day.

What should I pack for Idaho camping? 

Idaho camping requires preparation for varied conditions. Essential items include layers for temperature changes, rain gear, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, insect repellent, and bear spray for backcountry areas. High elevation sites require warm sleeping gear even in summer. Always pack more water than you think you’ll need, especially for desert locations.

Are Idaho camping spots suitable for RVs? 

Many Idaho camping spots accommodate RVs, but size restrictions vary by location. Popular state parks like Bear Lake and Ponderosa typically offer sites suitable for larger RVs with hookups. Remote or high-elevation campgrounds may have size restrictions or lack hookups. Check specific campground details before traveling with an RV.

What wildlife should I expect when camping in Idaho? 

Idaho camping spots host diverse wildlife, including black bears, elk, deer, moose, and mountain lions. Proper food storage is essential in all locations. Bear spray is recommended for backcountry camping. Most encounters involve smaller animals like chipmunks, squirrels, and various bird species. Following Leave No Trace principles helps protect both wildlife and campers.