Camping season is in full swing here in Idaho. If you have yet to get out and sleep under the stars this summer, then you’ve come to the right place. We compiled a list of some of the most beautiful waterfront campgrounds where you can set up camp right beside the lake (or river). These campsites provide everything you could want for an unforgettable stay in the Idaho wilderness. Get ready to dig your tent out from the back of the closet because you’ll definitely want to visit at least one of these stunning campgrounds to go camping in Idaho.

1. Redfish Lake - Stanley

Redfish Lake, Idaho 83637, USA
Anne/Flickr
Redfish Lake is a must for your next adventure and is considered one of the top waterfront camping destinations in the Gem State. You'll find numerous photogenic campgrounds on the shores of the lake, such as Sockeye Campground, Glacier View Campground, or the Redfish Outlet Campground. Some require reservations, whereas others are first come, first served. Whether you're looking for a site packed with amenities or a primitive spot where you can escape from civilization, you'll find what you're looking for here at Redfish Lake. Camping in Idaho is gorgeous here!

2. Wagonhammer Campground - North Fork

Wagonhammer RV Park, 1826 US-93, North Fork, ID 83466, USA
James Lindbloom/ Google Maps
Located right along the edge of the scenic Salmon River, this campground truly couldn't be any closer to the water's edge. They are a notable RV-friendly campground but also provide tent and teepee campsites. Bursting with awesome amenities such as free wi-fi, Wagonhammer is great if you want to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of northeastern Idaho while still holding onto a few comforts of home. It’s one of our favorite campgrounds in Idaho!

3. Sam Owen Campground - Lake Pend Oreille

Sam Owen Campground, Hope Peninsula Rd, Hope, ID 83836, USA
Rick Schoenborn/ Google Maps
Nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Pend Oreille is a scenic campsite that will surely become one of your favorites. Sam Owen Campground gives you an excellent vantage point of one of Idaho's most breathtaking bodies of water. Located nearby is the Sam Owen Game Preserve, which makes for an awesome spot to view wildlife such as deer and unique birds. However, the highlight of this campground is the sandy beach, which makes for the perfect place to stretch out and soak up some sun. It’s easily one of the most beautiful campgrounds in Idaho.

Related Stories

This Secluded Beach Campground In Idaho Is Perfect For A Relaxing Getaway

This Secluded Beach Campground In Idaho Is Perfect For A Relaxing Getaway

 This Idaho Park Has A Yurt Village That's Absolutely To Die For

This Idaho Park Has A Yurt Village That's Absolutely To Die For

 The One-Of-A-Kind Campground In Idaho That You Must Visit Before Summer Ends

The One-Of-A-Kind Campground In Idaho That You Must Visit Before Summer Ends

4. Priest Lake State Park - Coolin

Priest Lake State Park, 314 Indian Creek Park Rd, Coolin, ID 83821, USA
Jerry Field/ Google Maps
Considered "the Crown Jewel of Idaho", Priest Lake is a summer destination that will surely please the whole family. Priest Lake State Park is probably the most popular place for campers looking to enjoy everything the lake offers. However, you'll find plenty of smaller campgrounds situated around the lake such as Osprey Campground and Beaver Creek Campground. Surrounded by the mile-high Selkirk Mountains and plenty of forest, this is a landscape you won't soon forget. If you’re in Coolin and looking for a campground near me, head straight to this fairytale location!

5. Spillway Campground - Anderson Ranch Reservoir

Spillway Campground, Anderson Dam Rd, Mountain Home, ID 83647, USA
Larry Newcomer/ Google Maps
This small campground contains three modest campsites, but the location is absolutely delightful if you're the type of person who likes to keep away from the summer crowds. This camping spot is more suited for those who prefer Idaho's dry desert landscapes. However, Anderson Ranch Reservoir is a great place to fish, boat, water ski, and more. This no-reservation campground requires no fee, but it's as primitive as campsites can get.

6. Wendover Campground - Lolo

Wendover Campground, Clearwater National Forest, US-12, Lolo, ID 59847, USA
R. Scott Belford/GoogleMaps
On a gorgeous stretch of the Wild and Scenic Lochsa River, Wendover Campground boasts 27 utterly serene campsites. A small creek runs right through the middle of the campground, and the Lochsa is ideal for white water rafting, fishing, floating, and more. A beautiful moss-covered pine forest provides a perfectly tranquil location for your next camping adventure. We love camping in Idaho at this stunning location.

7. Swan Falls Reservoir Campground - Murphy

Swan Falls Dam, Murphy, ID 83650, USA
Ron Gross/GoogleMaps
Located just below the historic Swan Falls Dam (which you can take a tour of) are 20 free campsites, all providing breathtaking canyon views. Fish along the Snake River, navigate one of the nearby hiking trails and even spend a few hours scoping out the owls, hawks, osprey, and falcons that make their homes along this section of the river. This will be one of your favorite campgrounds in Idaho!

Aren’t these waterfront campgrounds absolutely stunning? We love to go camping in Idaho. We’re so lucky to live in such a photogenic state! Want more breathtaking campgrounds? Check out our list of remote camping spots in Idaho for more.

Make sure to stock up on any gear you need at REI.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Camping In Idaho

Megan McDonald | December 01, 2023

Is it legal to camp anywhere in Idaho?

No, it is not legal to camp anywhere in Idaho. While Idaho offers many opportunities for camping, including numerous free dispersed camping sites, there are specific regulations and restrictions that govern where you can and cannot camp. The state's camping regulations are specific to the type of land: public lands like those managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the United States Forest Service have designated areas for dispersed camping, but not all sections are open for this purpose. 

In managed recreational areas such as state and national parks, camping is typically restricted to designated campgrounds. Special areas like wilderness areas and wildlife preserves often have strict no-camping policies to protect the environment. Campers should always adhere to Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact and check local regulations for specific rules regarding fires, length of stay, and other camping activities. Researching and planning ahead, including consulting with local ranger stations or official websites, is crucial to ensure a lawful and enjoyable camping experience in Idaho.

Where can I camp for free in Idaho?

Idaho offers a variety of free camping spots, perfect for those who enjoy the great outdoors. These free campsites are often called "dispersed camping," which typically means camping outside designated campgrounds, often on land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Here are some options for free camping in Idaho:

  • Island Park, Bootjack Dispersed Camping: Located in Island Park, this area offers a natural setting for free camping.
  • Ketchum, Lake Creek Road Dispersed Camping: Near Ketchum, this site provides a scenic location for camping without any cost.
  • McCammon, Goodenough Creek Campground: This campground in McCammon is another option for free camping in Idaho​​.
  • Saint Joe River Road, Northwest Passage Scenic Byway: These areas offer dispersed camping opportunities along scenic routes.
  • Lightning Creek Road, North Fork Big Wood River: These locations are ideal for campers in more secluded, natural settings.
  • Deadman Hole Recreation Site, Balanced Rock County Park: These sites offer unique landscapes for camping experiences.
  • McCroskey State Park, Big Bar Camping Area: These parks provide an opportunity to camp amidst Idaho's natural beauty.
  • Indian Creek Road: Another excellent choice for dispersed camping in Idaho

 

It's important to remember that while camping is free at these sites, they are often more primitive, without facilities like restrooms or running water.

Related Articles

Explore Idaho

Featured Addresses
Idaho, USA