Most Idahoans are familiar with the sudden urge to pack a bag and a tent and head out somewhere in the wilderness far, far away from it all. However, this may leave you questioning where exactly you can set up camp that doesn’t require a month’s advance reservation. There are actually plenty of Idaho campgrounds that have first-come, first-served campsites. These campgrounds are perfect for those spontaneous weekend getaways. Let’s be honest, those spur-of-the-moment family camping trips always turn out to be the best.

1. Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir

Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir, Idaho, USA
Diamond Haney/Google Reviews
If you're searching for "no-reservation camping near me," you can find it at this reservoir in Idaho. Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir is located near Twin Falls, Idaho, and is a haven for fishermen. There are plenty of fishing options and a number of different fish species are spotted here.

2. Stanley Lake Campground

Idaho Fish and Game/Flickr
Stanley Lake Campground, Stanley, ID 83278, USA
Sarah Fitzpatrick/Google Reviews
This is one of the best places to go camping in Idaho for free. This campground is perfectly situated along Stanley Lake and within the Sawtooth Mountains. There is plenty to do at this site including hiking and water activities along with plenty of wildlife to see.

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3. Heyburn and Sockeye Campground at Redfish Lake

Redfish Lake Road, Redfish Lake Rd, Idaho, USA
Benjamin/Flickr
Redfish Lake is an incredibly popular camping destination as most Idahoans know. Most of the campgrounds situated around the lake require a reservation but these two do not. This is a beautiful campground for first-come, first-served camping is located near Stanley, Idaho.

4. Ponderosa State Park

Ponderosa State Park, 1920 Davis Ave, McCall, ID 83638, USA
Russ Kurkov/Google Reviews
Ponderosa State Park is located on the incredible Payette Lake near McCall, Idaho. As the name implies, you will be surrounded by stunning 150-foot-tall Ponderosa pine trees. If you love camping in Idaho, this destination must be on your bucket list.

5. Round Lake State Park

Round Lake State Park, 1880 Dufort Rd, Sagle, ID 83860, USA
Idaho Fish and Game/Flickr
Round Lake is a state park in Bonner County, 10 miles south of Sandpoint. There is plenty of scenic beauty to observe here.

6. Lionhead Campground

Lionhead Campground, E Shore Rd, Coolin, ID 83821, USA
Lee Stone/Flickr
Lionhead Campground is located in Priest Lake State Park. This campground has everything, whether you're into swimming, hiking, or huckleberry picking! State park camping never fails and it truly doesn't get much better than this. Plus, did you know that Priest Lake is one of the best spots in Idaho to view the northern lights?

These no-reservation campgrounds in Idaho are the perfect way to have some spontaneous fun with your family! Have you visited any of these Idaho campgrounds? What’s your favorite no-reservation site? Let us know!

If you’re in the market for new camping gear like tents and sleeping bags, check out the selection from our friends at REI!

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Campgrounds in Idaho

Emerson | July 16, 2019

What are some of the best campgrounds in Idaho?

There are so many campgrounds in Idaho to choose from, that it's best to think of what region of the state you'd like to explore during your adventures. If you're looking to camp in Southern Idaho then the top choices are the following:

  • Bruneau Dunes State Park
  • Lava Flow Campground
  • Swan Falls Campground
  • City of Rocks Campground
  • Bonneville Campground.

Northern Idaho has many options, too:

  • Farragut State Park
  • Wolf Lodge Campground
  • Camp Coeur d'Alene
  • Heyburn State Park

Just keep in mind that some of these campgrounds do require reservations.

Are you allowed to camp in state parks?

Yes, most of Idaho's state parks feature year-round camping with limited amenities and features during the winter months. Some state parks are more primitive than others, with just simple and rustic tent sites to choose from, whereas other parks feature cabin rentals, RV hookups, yurt camping, and so much more. It just depends on which park you have your eye on! Check out a complete list of Idaho state parks along with their camping features, fees, and reservation requirements by visiting the Idaho Parks and Recreation website.

What are some of the things I need to take on a camping trip?

No matter what type of camping you're doing, the essentials will always be necessary. Here are a few necessities:

  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Proper camping attire
  • Medical supplies
  • A pocket knife
  • Food
  • Water.

If you're tent camping, you'll want to be sure to bring everything you could possibly need to make your trip comfortable, safe, and fun. If you're staying in a cabin, some of these things may be provided for you. In this case, you'll want to be sure to double-check what items are going to be provided and what items you need to bring.

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