The 26 Best Campgrounds in Idaho: Top-Rated & Hidden Gems
Courtnie Erickson
Author
There is nothing like spending time outdoors in Idaho. Whether in the mountains, a state park, next to a lake, or even on a hiking trail, there are some remarkable places in nature throughout the Gem State. While you can always spend a full day outdoors, there is nothing quite like spending the night under the stars. Throughout Idaho, you will find some of the best places to go camping in the United States. Whether you choose a campsite high up in the mountains or even a luxury glampground, you can never go wrong. To help you choose the best campgrounds in Idaho, below are more than two dozen options that are sure to inspire your next camping trip. Come with us as we take a look at some of the best places to camp in Idaho.
Best State Park Campgrounds in Idaho
We love our state parks in Idaho and we particularly love the campgrounds found at many of these parks. Day trips are always ideal in Idaho state parks, but it’s always a good idea to stay a little longer, and when you do, you should stay at some of the best campsites in Idaho. Below are just a few of the best campgrounds found in Idaho’s state parks, including information such as popularity and price to help you make the best decision.
1. Castle Rocks State Park
- Location: Almo, Idaho
- Popularity: Busy on the weekends
- Park Info: This campground is open year-round. The roads are paved and an RV dump station is located at the entrance. The visitor center and limited town services are approximately two miles away in the small town of Almo.
- Price: $35+
Castle Rocks State Park Campground may be one of our favorite campgrounds in Idaho. Here, the campsites are all tucked away next to the forest and you are just a short distance from the most incredible rock formations in the state. There are also several glamping options at this park including a yurt, bunkhouse, and lodge.
2. Lava Flow Campground, Craters of the Moon National Monument
- Location: Arco, Idaho
- Popularity: Very popular
- Park Info: This campground is seasonal and typically open from April to November. There is little shade and the campground can become quite hot during the summer.
- Price: $15
Lava Flow Campground features 42 campsites in Craters of the Moon National Monument. The landscape at this campground is unique and one of a kind here in Idaho. The campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. No hookups are available. Make sure you stay up late during your visit as this campground is located in an International Dark Sky Park.
3. Winchester Lake State Park
- Location: Winchester, Idaho
- Popularity: Very popular
- Park Info: There are several camping options at this state park — campsites for tents or trailers and yurts. This is a popular state park for fishermen.
- Price: $7 Vehicle entry fee - Camping $17+
The campground at Winchester Lake State Park has something for everyone from beautiful tent campsites to 45-foot pull-through campsites for trailers. The campsites are surrounded by trees, providing ample shade and making you feel tucked away from the crowds. There are also four yurts you can reserve throughout the year. You may just find this is one of the best campgrounds in Idaho.
Best State Park Camping in Idaho: Honorable Mentions
- 4. Ponderosa State Park: Ponderosa State Park is another destination in the Gem State that has a camping spot for every type of camper. Tents, trailers, and cabin options are available and many campsites are surrounded by trees and offer gorgeous views of Payette Lake. In fact, you may quickly consider this one of the best campgrounds in Idaho.
- 5. Farragut State Park: Farragut State Park may be one of the busiest state parks in Idaho but it is also one of our favorites when it comes to camping. There are plenty of camping opportunities here as you’ll find more than 220 individual campsites around the park, 10 cabins, and seven group camps.
- 6. Priest Lake State Park: Approximately 30 miles south of the Canadian border you will find Priest Lake State Park. In total, this state park offers up to 150 campsites and five cabins. There are even group shelters, campsites with cabins, and a private beach — it’s the perfect getaway.
Best Beach Camping in Idaho
Idaho may not be along the coast, but that doesn’t mean you can’t spend the night right by the water. Next to some of Idaho’s most beautiful lakes and rivers are campgrounds that have something for everyone. In fact, these areas are home to some of the best campsites in Idaho.
7. Buffalo campground
- Location: Island Park, Idaho
- Popularity: Very busy, especially during July and August
- Park Info: This is a seasonal campground that is open from May to September. This campground has a mix of campsites that can be reserved and those that are on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Price: $25+
Buffalo Campground is one of my favorite camping spots in Idaho. This campground is not only just a short drive from Yellowstone National Park and multiple Idaho state parks, but it sits at 6,200 feet in elevation and is located right along the banks of the Buffalo River. This is a large campground but it fills up very quickly.
8. Stanley Lake Campground
- Location: Stanley Lake, Idaho
- Popularity: Busy on the weekends
- Park Info: Stanley Lake Campground is open from May to September each year. Drinking water is provided and you cannot stay longer than 10 days in a 30-day period.
- Price: $22+
Stanley Lake Campground is located on the hill just above the beautiful Stanley Lake and offers the most stunning views of the water and McGowan Peak. This isn’t a large campground and it fills up quickly so we recommend making a reservation in advance. During a stay at one of the best campgrounds in Idaho, spend some time on the lake boating, fishing, or just enjoying the views — it’s beautiful here.
9. Upper Payette Lake Campground
- Location: Near McCall, Idaho
- Popularity: Busy on the weekends
- Park Info: This is a seasonal campground that is typically open from June to September. This campground has no hookups and you must pack out your trash.
- Price: $10+
Stay right along the shores of the stunning Payette Lake at Upper Payette Lake Campground. This is a smaller lakefront campground with only 20 campsites. This may be one of the most beautiful camping spots in Idaho as the campsites feature many trees and most have water views. Some of the campsites are based on reservation and others are on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Best Beach Camping In Idaho: Honorable Mentions
- 10. Macks Creek Park: Macks Creek Park is located along the Boise River Arm of Lucky Peak Lake and is home to several beautiful primitive camping spots. Spend some time on the beach during the day and enjoy the stars at night — it’s a mesmerizing place to spend some time outdoors.
- 11. Sam Owen Campground, Lake Pend Oreille: Sam Owen Campground not only sits along the eastern banks of Lake Pend Oreille but it is also in a forest that provides beauty and shade. This is a seasonal campground that can become quite busy and reservations are strongly encouraged. During your visit, lace up your hiking shoes and tackle the 0.5-mile Sam Owen Trail #4.
- 12. Wagonhammer RV Park and Campground, North Fork: The Wagonhammer RV Park and Campground is located right along the beautiful Salmon River in North Fork. Whether you bring a large RV, small camper, or even a tent, there are sites for you. Plus, this riverfront campground has tons of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay including free Wi-Fi, picnic areas, boat launch, and so much more.
Top Glamping In Idaho
The best place to camp in Idaho doesn’t have to be in a tent. If you don’t want to spend the night lying on a tent floor we have you covered. There are some incredible glampgrounds throughout the Gem State perfect for a night under the stars. Yet, you will still enjoy many of the comforts of home.
13. Moose Creek Ranch
- Location: Victor, Idaho
- Popularity: Popular
- Park Info: This glampground is approximately 20 minutes from Jackson Hole and just a short drive from both Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park.
- Price: $149+
Located just a short distance from the Idaho and Wyoming state line is Moose Creek Ranch. This destination takes glamping to the next level. You can stay in a cabin, glamping tent, or airstream. You can also bring your RV if you desire. Not only are there cozy accommodation options but there is a long list of amenities to ensure your stay is memorable including horseback riding activities and e-bike rentals. This is easily one of the best campgrounds in Idaho.
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14. Lava Campground
- Location: Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
- Popularity: Very popular
- Park Info: This glampground offers everything from glamping accommodations to traditional tent campsites. Summer is very busy and you will want to plan ahead.
- Price: $90
At Lava Campground, you are not only surrounded by breathtaking views, but you are also near one of the best hot spring resorts in Idaho — Lava Hot Springs. This destination offers both RV and tent sites, but the stars of the show are the retro campers that feature either a king, queen, or full-size bed, temperature controls, electricity, and more.
15. Teton River Resort
- Location: Victor, Idaho
- Popularity: Popular
- Park Info: While this glampground is located near both Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park, make sure you give yourself time to enjoy the many amenities at the park. You won’t want to spend all of your time away.
- Price: $74+
Teton Valley Resort is a charming place to stay for the entire family. This glampground offers several accommodation options including various cabins that sleep two to eight guests. Plus, there are RV sites, tipis, and glamping tents to choose from as well. During your stay, spend time at the heated pool and hot tub, play a game of pickleball, and head into the Mess Hall where you can purchase coffee and souvenirs.
Top Glamping In Idaho: Honorable Mentions
- 16. Downata Hot Springs, Downata Hot Springs: Downata Hot Springs is truly the ultimate glampground with numerous accommodation options. Stay in a yurt, cabin, bunk house, or our personal favorite, a Conestoga wagon. When you aren’t at your campsite, spend time soaking in the Downata Hot Springs or enjoying some food at the Poolside Restaurant and Snack Bar.
- 17. Valley Village RV Park and Tiny Homes, Irwin: This glampground in Irwin is a delightful place to set up basecamp for an outdoor adventure. Choose from an RV site, glamping tent, or tiny home. Plus, there is ample grass and plenty of trees to keep you comfortable throughout your entire stay.
Best RV Camping Sites In Idaho
One of the best ways to explore the Gem State is in an RV and scattered around the state are some of the best RV sites around. From those next to the water or tucked away in the mountains, there are so many incredible places to explore. And if you don’t own an RV, that’s not a problem! Learn how you can rent an RV and begin your own unforgettable adventure.
18. Swiftwater RV Park
- Location: White Bird, Idaho
- Popularity: Can become quite busy during the summer months
- Park Info: This RV park is pet friendly and perfect for outdoor enthusiasts as it is near many outdoor activities including hiking, jet boating, whitewater rafting, huckleberry picking, and more.
- Price: $39+
Swiftwater RV Park is absolutely beautiful and is a family-owned RV Park you’ll find yourself visiting over and over again. You will enjoy a stay right along the Salmon River and each campsite has everything you need for a delightful getaway including electric hookups, water, Wi-Fi, and showers.
19. Blackwell Island RV Resort
- Location: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
- Popularity: Very popular
- Park Info: This RV park features 182 campsites, but you’ll want to reserve your spot early as it does fill up. Open from April 1 to October 15.
- Price: $65+
It is hard to beat Blackwell Island RV Resort in CDA. This gorgeous RV park in Idaho is not only near downtown CDA but it sits right on the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene and has a private beach for you to enjoy during your stay. Plus, this park offers all types of amenities including laundry, showers, and a store. There is also a large Rally Room, which is equipped to handle large gatherings.
Best RV Camping Sites In Idaho: Honorable Mentions
- 20. Heise Hot Springs, Ririe: Heise Hot Springs is technically a resort campground with tent campsites, cabins, and RV campsites, and it is considered one of the best campgrounds in Idaho. However, you won’t want to spend much of your time at the actual campsite as there is so much to do from swimming, soaking in the hot springs, playing golf, eating pizza, and more.
- 21. Ravenwood RV Resort, Athol: Located in Athol, just a short distance from Silverwood Theme Park, is this charming RV park. Not only will you enjoy spacious sites and lots of trees, but this RV park is packed with amenities and services including a fenced dog park, playground, swimming pool, and shuttle services to and from Silverwood Theme Park.
Best Primitive Tent Camping In Idaho
When you want to disconnect from reality and connect with nature, sometimes the best option is a secluded campsite in Idaho. Fortunately, there are incredible primitive campsites all around the Gem State that offer beauty, peace, quiet, and lots of fresh air. You may even consider them the best campgrounds in Idaho.
22. Wildhorse Lake Campground
- Location: Near Elk City, Idaho
- Popularity: Not very busy
- Park Info: This campground is open year-long but may be inaccessible due to heavy snow in the winter. Drinking water is not provided and there are no garbage services.
- Price: Free
Wildhorse Lake Campground is the perfect place to get away — like really get away. This seasonal campground sits on the edge of the Gospel Hump Wilderness and can be a journey to reach but once you arrive, you’ll be glad you made the trek. The campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
23. Warm River Campground
- Location: Near Ashton, Idaho
- Popularity: Can become busy on the weekends
- Park Info: There are a handful of single and double-family campsites and group campsites.
- Price: $25+
This secluded campground in Idaho sits right along the beautiful Warm River and is surrounded by the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. There are only a handful of campsites available but you can make reservations if desired. Bring a tube and a fishing pole as this campground is an excellent place to float the river and to fish during the summer.
24. Blue Lake
- Location: Blue Lake near Cascade, Idaho
- Popularity: Not very well known
- Park Info: This isn’t technically a campground but all around Blue Lake are places where you can have a primitive camping experience.
- Price: Free
Blue Lake is one of our favorite lakes to visit during the summer months but be prepared for a hike to reach the water. Many individuals backpack to the lake and enjoy a night of fresh air, quiet, and beauty. There are no bathroom facilities and you must pack out everything you pack in.
Best Primitive Tent Camping in Idaho: Honorable Mentions
- 25. Bear Valley Campground, near Stanley: Located near Stanley and tucked up against Bear Valley Creek is the Bear Valley Campground. This destination doesn’t have much but it does offer outhouses and picnic tables. Keep a lookout for all types of wildlife during your stay at this primitive camping spot in Idaho.
- 26. Windy Saddle Trailhead, near Riggins: You’ll be mesmerized by the Seven Devils Mountains when you stay at Windy Saddle Trailhead. This is a tents-only campground and there are only four campsites with tent pads available. You’ll also find fire rings and a vault toilet. This is a great place to set up basecamp if you want to get up and explore.
There’s nothing better than time outdoors at your favorite camping spot. We know that not every campground in Idaho could make our list (dozens of Idaho camping spots could easily be featured), so take a look at our camping hub for even more options and places to camp in Idaho. Plus, take some time checking out our ultimate hiking list, featuring 75 must-have hiking accessories. I personally love a camping trip with a great hike involved!
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More to Explore
Best campgrounds in Idaho
What are the most popular state parks in Idaho?
With so many incredible state parks in Idaho, there are plenty of options available. However, there are a few that tend to draw more of a crowd than others. Some of the most popular state parks in Idaho include:
- Lake Cascade
- Farragut State Park
- Ponderosa State Park
- Eagle Island State Park
- Bear Lake State Park
- City of Rocks National Reserve
What time of year is best for camping in Idaho?
Summer is the best time of year for camping in Idaho. During this time, you have a plethora of campground options to choose from including destinations tucked up in the mountains and next to gorgeous lakes. Unfortunately, due to Idaho’s cold and harsh winter, camping is much more limited during the winter months but it doesn’t mean it isn’t available. There are a handful of year-round campgrounds in the state including those in southern Idaho and those in the panhandle.
Where can I find secluded campgrounds in Idaho?
For a little peace and quiet in nature, a secluded campground is ideal. Some of the best secluded campgrounds in Idaho include: