Discover the best beach campgrounds in Idaho with campfires

United States
—
Idaho

97% (629 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Idaho

Star Hosts in Idaho

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(2)

Bear Lake Camping - Top Meadow

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fish Haven, ID

Secluded meadow located in beautiful Fish Haven, ID. This meadow offers tent and RV camping. This campsite offers the perfect balance of peace and tranquility, while still being close to all the outdoor activities that Bear Lake has to offer. This property is just up from the shorelines of Bear Lake, which is within a short walking distance. Spend your days swimming, fishing, boating, or hiking in the surrounding mountains. With crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife, Bear Lake is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. After a long day of exploring, relax around the campfire and enjoy the star-filled night sky. Our campsite is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories. Amenities include: Secluded meadow setting Direct access to Bear Lake Fire pit Picnic table

Waterfront RV camping brownlee

5 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Huntington, OR

Learn more about this land: We have 125 acre farm ranch that is waterfront on brownlee reservoir. We have multiple camping spots along the water. There are 4 rv or camp trailer camp spots available. All 4 spots are dry camping. No power or water currently. we have a spot to launch boats which is right between sight 3 and 4. Good fishing. Very little boat traffic. Very private. In the fall big horn sheep frequently rut on the property. We usually have fresh eggs on hand. Dry climate. Sage brush and juniper trees here. We have a easy to access spot to fill up water to your camp trailers or rvs. The water is from a spring and Water tastes really good. This area has a lot of history. Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe often stayed in this area and on the property. In fact this was where his tribe met to discuss and decide to try to go to escape to Canada. This is where that journey started. You can still find arrow heads on the shoreline every so often. I’m ruffly 15 miles north of Huntington oregon. 13 miles of which is dirt road. The property sits at the base of lookout mountain. Really good cell service here with Verizon Full bars. If you decide to come camp make sure your directions take you through Huntington. Google sometimes likes to try to get people to drive over the mountain. Or if your coming from the north it sometimes wants you to go through Richland and then on 34 miles of dirt road. Going Through Huntington onto snake river rd is the easy way to go.

Cagle Cove

5 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Greenleaf, ID

Learn more about this land: Pick your camping spot around a secluded private fish filled pond. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching. Fire rings and picnic tables at each spot. Located near snake river/Sunnyslope wine country, and golf course. 30 to 45 minutes from Boise but feels like you are away from civilization. Pet friendly area and no nearby neighbors. Amazing opportunity to s t a r g a z e. Although there is room for multiple campers, we have limited the reservations to 4 spots. Drug free!

Parkside Mountain Ranch

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents450 acres · Plummer, ID

Private Exclusive Campsites is what we will provide for you while staying with us! Parkside Mountain Ranch provides private camping on a 450 acre mountain with trails for any type of adventure. PMR has a variety of camping experiences you can pick from to accommodate while camping with us. Have a family get together, a business retreat, trail ride your horse with your barn buddies, send us a message and let us know what you would like and we will make your camping just the way you want it to be. Heyburn State Park Rocky Point is less than a mile away. Hipcampers can enjoy the Lake Chatcolet which offers a beach, marina, and a boat launch. Heyburn State Park South Side entrance is located on the same road as PMR. PMR will have sites with over night horse stalls too. Sooo bring your horse camping with you! We want to provide you with beautiful views and private rustic camping!

Booked 1 time

Bear Lake Camping- Lakefront

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fish Haven, ID

Secluded lake-front meadow camping, located in beautiful Fish Haven, ID. This meadow offers tent and RV camping. This campsite offers stunning views of Bear Lake and the surrounding mountains. This site is the perfect balance of peace and tranquility, while still being close to all the outdoor activities that Bear Lake has to offer. Spend your days swimming, fishing, boating, or hiking in the surrounding mountains. With crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife, Bear Lake is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. After a long day of exploring, relax around the campfire and enjoy the star-filled night sky. Our campsite is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories. Amenities include: * Secluded meadow setting * Direct lake access to Bear Lake * Fire pit * Picnic table

12 top beach campgrounds in Idaho with campfires

98%

(129)

The Meadow

5 sites · Lodging3 acres · Carmen, ID

Welcome to the Weaver's Meadow. We have lived on this property for the past 31 years and it is the very spot where a blind date led to an engagement which let to a beautiful love story and 3 wonderful children. Now, we hope you too can come and enjoy the utterly breathtaking beauty of our secluded, creekside paradise. Nestled among the aspen trees you will find a one room cabin complete with bed, table and chairs, wood cookstove and all the amenities you will need to truly relax with the comfort of a cozy cabin to forget the outside world.

Cagle Cove

5 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Greenleaf, ID

Learn more about this land: Pick your camping spot around a secluded private fish filled pond. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching. Fire rings and picnic tables at each spot. Located near snake river/Sunnyslope wine country, and golf course. 30 to 45 minutes from Boise but feels like you are away from civilization. Pet friendly area and no nearby neighbors. Amazing opportunity to s t a r g a z e. Although there is room for multiple campers, we have limited the reservations to 4 spots. Drug free!

Waterfront RV camping brownlee

5 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Huntington, OR

Learn more about this land: We have 125 acre farm ranch that is waterfront on brownlee reservoir. We have multiple camping spots along the water. There are 4 rv or camp trailer camp spots available. All 4 spots are dry camping. No power or water currently. we have a spot to launch boats which is right between sight 3 and 4. Good fishing. Very little boat traffic. Very private. In the fall big horn sheep frequently rut on the property. We usually have fresh eggs on hand. Dry climate. Sage brush and juniper trees here. We have a easy to access spot to fill up water to your camp trailers or rvs. The water is from a spring and Water tastes really good. This area has a lot of history. Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe often stayed in this area and on the property. In fact this was where his tribe met to discuss and decide to try to go to escape to Canada. This is where that journey started. You can still find arrow heads on the shoreline every so often. I’m ruffly 15 miles north of Huntington oregon. 13 miles of which is dirt road. The property sits at the base of lookout mountain. Really good cell service here with Verizon Full bars. If you decide to come camp make sure your directions take you through Huntington. Google sometimes likes to try to get people to drive over the mountain. Or if your coming from the north it sometimes wants you to go through Richland and then on 34 miles of dirt road. Going Through Huntington onto snake river rd is the easy way to go.

Parkside Mountain Ranch

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents450 acres · Plummer, ID

Private Exclusive Campsites is what we will provide for you while staying with us! Parkside Mountain Ranch provides private camping on a 450 acre mountain with trails for any type of adventure. PMR has a variety of camping experiences you can pick from to accommodate while camping with us. Have a family get together, a business retreat, trail ride your horse with your barn buddies, send us a message and let us know what you would like and we will make your camping just the way you want it to be. Heyburn State Park Rocky Point is less than a mile away. Hipcampers can enjoy the Lake Chatcolet which offers a beach, marina, and a boat launch. Heyburn State Park South Side entrance is located on the same road as PMR. PMR will have sites with over night horse stalls too. Sooo bring your horse camping with you! We want to provide you with beautiful views and private rustic camping!

Bear Lake Camping - Top Meadow

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fish Haven, ID

Secluded meadow located in beautiful Fish Haven, ID. This meadow offers tent and RV camping. This campsite offers the perfect balance of peace and tranquility, while still being close to all the outdoor activities that Bear Lake has to offer. This property is just up from the shorelines of Bear Lake, which is within a short walking distance. Spend your days swimming, fishing, boating, or hiking in the surrounding mountains. With crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife, Bear Lake is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. After a long day of exploring, relax around the campfire and enjoy the star-filled night sky. Our campsite is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories. Amenities include: Secluded meadow setting Direct access to Bear Lake Fire pit Picnic table

Bear Lake Camping- Lakefront

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fish Haven, ID

Secluded lake-front meadow camping, located in beautiful Fish Haven, ID. This meadow offers tent and RV camping. This campsite offers stunning views of Bear Lake and the surrounding mountains. This site is the perfect balance of peace and tranquility, while still being close to all the outdoor activities that Bear Lake has to offer. Spend your days swimming, fishing, boating, or hiking in the surrounding mountains. With crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife, Bear Lake is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. After a long day of exploring, relax around the campfire and enjoy the star-filled night sky. Our campsite is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories. Amenities include: * Secluded meadow setting * Direct lake access to Bear Lake * Fire pit * Picnic table

Triple M

11 sites · Lodging15 acres · Rathdrum, ID

Triple M Camp is an 15-acre camp property located on Upper Twin Lake, ID. There are 6 cabins, situated conveniently between the cabins is the restroom with 6 showers, sinks and toilets, 3 per gender. The Pavilion, a large covered concrete area, is a short walk from the restrooms. We are not directly on the lake, but above for stunning views of it and the surrounding mountains. On the Lower Twin Lakes is the Twin Lakes Village Golf Course. Also nearby is the popular tourist town Coeur d’ Alene, ID. Silverwood Theme Park is about 20 minutes away. Not to mention several other lakes within 30 minutes.

99%

(101)

Teton Corners River Preserve

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Rexburg, ID

Teton Corners has been a favorite fishing and stayover spot for generations, and we felt we should step up and adopt it since we didn't want to see it developed, ripped apart or closed off. Know that by staying here, you are helping preserve this small piece of natural beauty in Idaho. It may not be the biggest preserve, but you have to start somewhere. Come stay a night! Learn more about this land: Come to our riverside getaway at Teton Corners. This 3 acre peninsula into the Teton River provides amazing trout fishing right from your tent door (licenses issued just 1 mile down the road). This gorgeous nature area is minutes from town, with easy access to HWY20 and HWY33. Deer, moose, bald eagles and osprey frequent the area year round, as well as beaver, waterfowl and night owls. RV dumps right down the road, as well as a 27 hole golf course, if that's your thing. Or just relax, dip your feet in the Teton River and listen to the water pass by. Note: River levels fluctuate over the season. We've tried to take pictures of all water seasons for reference.

97%

(138)

Home on the Range Campsite

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Clark Fork, ID

This area is a fabulous collision of cultures that gives a Rustic-Mountain-Beach-relaxed-adventure vibe! (say that 3 times fast!) This is evident even on our property, as historically, it has been a hippy gathering site, a logging area, and a cattle range! We bought it as our 'forever home' and are working to create a forested ranch retreat. The property is off grid and offers all the serenity and remote feeling of a National Forest, but has quick access to daytime fun relaxation at the beach. For those who love both land and water, it couldn't be a better combination!Learn more about this land:RUSTIC MOUNTAIN BEACH DREAM! Camp in mountain solitude with the lake and beach only a short drive away. Enjoy Scotchman's peak and mountain views, sightings of wildlife and horses, stargazing, forest trailheads just down the quiet road; all in a relaxed beachy atmosphere. Shopping, tourist attractions, and all that comes with an eclectic town are just an hour away in Sandpoint. However, a few excellent restaurants can be found in Clark Fork and Hope. Campsites are private and out of view of our off-grid home but just a quick walk away. And you just might enjoy adventure tales from us about riding our horses across America, or make memories when we take you in to pet our horses, collect chicken eggs...or share in whatever farm excitement is happening! A note for booking your best stay: Campsite 1 has the best views, but is best for tent camping or very short trailers. Campsite 2 is flatter and the better option for trailers, oversize tents, and larger groups.

100%

(3)

Lemhi River Natural Area Camping

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Salmon, ID

Welcome to our serene retreat along the picturesque Lemhi River. Situated on five acres downstream from a magnificent river restoration project, our property offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Cast your line into the pristine waters of the Lemhi River and enjoy the thrill of fishing in one of nature's finest playgrounds. As night falls, marvel at the brilliance of the star-studded sky and listen to the soothing sounds of the surrounding wilderness. With direct access to BLM land, adventure awaits just beyond our doorstep. Lace-up your hiking boots or hop on your mountain bike to explore the scenic trails that wind through the rugged terrain. For a relaxing escape, take a short drive to Sharkey Hot Springs and immerse yourself in the rejuvenating waters. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or seeking adventure in the great outdoors, our unique property along the Lemhi River offers the perfect retreat for your next getaway.

100%

(3)

Yurt Camping on Arcadia Reservoir

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Ashton, ID

Learn more about this land:Four-season yurt that can sleep up to 6 adults and up to 10 total. Access by vehicle (summer) or snowmobile (winter). Separate indoor kitchen/eating areas vs sleeping area (inside sturdy vinyl Army tent). Wood stove inside the tent will keep you warm all night. Bring your own sleeping bags, food, and water. Primitive outhouse near the yurt. So much to do - so much to see (moose and deer are commonplace).SUMMER: Access to private lake: swimming and fishing and boating (no gas engines allowed). Private sand dune area for ATVs, with access to hundreds of miles of public land trails. St Anthony Sand Dunes, Civil Defense Caves, Ice Caves and Island Park Reservoir are all accessible on an ATV day trip. Yellowstone National Park is an 80 minute drive, though accessing the property requires a 6.5 mile drive on a dirt road, a total of 25 minutes from Ashton. Two campfire rings on the property to choose from for your evening gatherings.

99%

(46)

Waterfront Adventures

6 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Dover, ID

Beautiful far reaching southern views, shallow warm water, boat into Sandpoint. Week days are discounted 10% Paddleboards and kayaks are available for use in the bay. Hiking and biking, stargazing, kite flying, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Ski/snowboard at Schweitzer only 45 min drive to the mountain. Boat launch 2 miles away. A couple of mooring balls available, ask on availability. Shallow, soft, clay bottom. 17' water bouncer, slide for fun times playing in the water during the summer months. Two sandy beaches shared with Hipcampers and family.

Under $50

97%

(133)

Waterfront RV camping brownlee

5 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Huntington, OR

Learn more about this land: We have 125 acre farm ranch that is waterfront on brownlee reservoir. We have multiple camping spots along the water. There are 4 rv or camp trailer camp spots available. All 4 spots are dry camping. No power or water currently. we have a spot to launch boats which is right between sight 3 and 4. Good fishing. Very little boat traffic. Very private. In the fall big horn sheep frequently rut on the property. We usually have fresh eggs on hand. Dry climate. Sage brush and juniper trees here. We have a easy to access spot to fill up water to your camp trailers or rvs. The water is from a spring and Water tastes really good. This area has a lot of history. Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe often stayed in this area and on the property. In fact this was where his tribe met to discuss and decide to try to go to escape to Canada. This is where that journey started. You can still find arrow heads on the shoreline every so often. I’m ruffly 15 miles north of Huntington oregon. 13 miles of which is dirt road. The property sits at the base of lookout mountain. Really good cell service here with Verizon Full bars. If you decide to come camp make sure your directions take you through Huntington. Google sometimes likes to try to get people to drive over the mountain. Or if your coming from the north it sometimes wants you to go through Richland and then on 34 miles of dirt road. Going Through Huntington onto snake river rd is the easy way to go.

Home on the Range Campsite

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Clark Fork, ID

This area is a fabulous collision of cultures that gives a Rustic-Mountain-Beach-relaxed-adventure vibe! (say that 3 times fast!) This is evident even on our property, as historically, it has been a hippy gathering site, a logging area, and a cattle range! We bought it as our 'forever home' and are working to create a forested ranch retreat. The property is off grid and offers all the serenity and remote feeling of a National Forest, but has quick access to daytime fun relaxation at the beach. For those who love both land and water, it couldn't be a better combination!Learn more about this land:RUSTIC MOUNTAIN BEACH DREAM! Camp in mountain solitude with the lake and beach only a short drive away. Enjoy Scotchman's peak and mountain views, sightings of wildlife and horses, stargazing, forest trailheads just down the quiet road; all in a relaxed beachy atmosphere. Shopping, tourist attractions, and all that comes with an eclectic town are just an hour away in Sandpoint. However, a few excellent restaurants can be found in Clark Fork and Hope. Campsites are private and out of view of our off-grid home but just a quick walk away. And you just might enjoy adventure tales from us about riding our horses across America, or make memories when we take you in to pet our horses, collect chicken eggs...or share in whatever farm excitement is happening! A note for booking your best stay: Campsite 1 has the best views, but is best for tent camping or very short trailers. Campsite 2 is flatter and the better option for trailers, oversize tents, and larger groups.

Lemhi River Natural Area Camping

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Salmon, ID

Welcome to our serene retreat along the picturesque Lemhi River. Situated on five acres downstream from a magnificent river restoration project, our property offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Cast your line into the pristine waters of the Lemhi River and enjoy the thrill of fishing in one of nature's finest playgrounds. As night falls, marvel at the brilliance of the star-studded sky and listen to the soothing sounds of the surrounding wilderness. With direct access to BLM land, adventure awaits just beyond our doorstep. Lace-up your hiking boots or hop on your mountain bike to explore the scenic trails that wind through the rugged terrain. For a relaxing escape, take a short drive to Sharkey Hot Springs and immerse yourself in the rejuvenating waters. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or seeking adventure in the great outdoors, our unique property along the Lemhi River offers the perfect retreat for your next getaway.

Teton Corners River Preserve

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Rexburg, ID

Teton Corners has been a favorite fishing and stayover spot for generations, and we felt we should step up and adopt it since we didn't want to see it developed, ripped apart or closed off. Know that by staying here, you are helping preserve this small piece of natural beauty in Idaho. It may not be the biggest preserve, but you have to start somewhere. Come stay a night! Learn more about this land: Come to our riverside getaway at Teton Corners. This 3 acre peninsula into the Teton River provides amazing trout fishing right from your tent door (licenses issued just 1 mile down the road). This gorgeous nature area is minutes from town, with easy access to HWY20 and HWY33. Deer, moose, bald eagles and osprey frequent the area year round, as well as beaver, waterfowl and night owls. RV dumps right down the road, as well as a 27 hole golf course, if that's your thing. Or just relax, dip your feet in the Teton River and listen to the water pass by. Note: River levels fluctuate over the season. We've tried to take pictures of all water seasons for reference.

Cagle Cove

5 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Greenleaf, ID

Learn more about this land: Pick your camping spot around a secluded private fish filled pond. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching. Fire rings and picnic tables at each spot. Located near snake river/Sunnyslope wine country, and golf course. 30 to 45 minutes from Boise but feels like you are away from civilization. Pet friendly area and no nearby neighbors. Amazing opportunity to s t a r g a z e. Although there is room for multiple campers, we have limited the reservations to 4 spots. Drug free!

Available this weekend

97%

(88)

Triple M

11 sites · Lodging15 acres · Rathdrum, ID

Triple M Camp is an 15-acre camp property located on Upper Twin Lake, ID. There are 6 cabins, situated conveniently between the cabins is the restroom with 6 showers, sinks and toilets, 3 per gender. The Pavilion, a large covered concrete area, is a short walk from the restrooms. We are not directly on the lake, but above for stunning views of it and the surrounding mountains. On the Lower Twin Lakes is the Twin Lakes Village Golf Course. Also nearby is the popular tourist town Coeur d’ Alene, ID. Silverwood Theme Park is about 20 minutes away. Not to mention several other lakes within 30 minutes.

Waterfront RV camping brownlee

5 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Huntington, OR

Learn more about this land: We have 125 acre farm ranch that is waterfront on brownlee reservoir. We have multiple camping spots along the water. There are 4 rv or camp trailer camp spots available. All 4 spots are dry camping. No power or water currently. we have a spot to launch boats which is right between sight 3 and 4. Good fishing. Very little boat traffic. Very private. In the fall big horn sheep frequently rut on the property. We usually have fresh eggs on hand. Dry climate. Sage brush and juniper trees here. We have a easy to access spot to fill up water to your camp trailers or rvs. The water is from a spring and Water tastes really good. This area has a lot of history. Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe often stayed in this area and on the property. In fact this was where his tribe met to discuss and decide to try to go to escape to Canada. This is where that journey started. You can still find arrow heads on the shoreline every so often. I’m ruffly 15 miles north of Huntington oregon. 13 miles of which is dirt road. The property sits at the base of lookout mountain. Really good cell service here with Verizon Full bars. If you decide to come camp make sure your directions take you through Huntington. Google sometimes likes to try to get people to drive over the mountain. Or if your coming from the north it sometimes wants you to go through Richland and then on 34 miles of dirt road. Going Through Huntington onto snake river rd is the easy way to go.

Cagle Cove

5 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Greenleaf, ID

Learn more about this land: Pick your camping spot around a secluded private fish filled pond. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching. Fire rings and picnic tables at each spot. Located near snake river/Sunnyslope wine country, and golf course. 30 to 45 minutes from Boise but feels like you are away from civilization. Pet friendly area and no nearby neighbors. Amazing opportunity to s t a r g a z e. Although there is room for multiple campers, we have limited the reservations to 4 spots. Drug free!

Parkside Mountain Ranch

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents450 acres · Plummer, ID

Private Exclusive Campsites is what we will provide for you while staying with us! Parkside Mountain Ranch provides private camping on a 450 acre mountain with trails for any type of adventure. PMR has a variety of camping experiences you can pick from to accommodate while camping with us. Have a family get together, a business retreat, trail ride your horse with your barn buddies, send us a message and let us know what you would like and we will make your camping just the way you want it to be. Heyburn State Park Rocky Point is less than a mile away. Hipcampers can enjoy the Lake Chatcolet which offers a beach, marina, and a boat launch. Heyburn State Park South Side entrance is located on the same road as PMR. PMR will have sites with over night horse stalls too. Sooo bring your horse camping with you! We want to provide you with beautiful views and private rustic camping!

Home on the Range Campsite

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Clark Fork, ID

This area is a fabulous collision of cultures that gives a Rustic-Mountain-Beach-relaxed-adventure vibe! (say that 3 times fast!) This is evident even on our property, as historically, it has been a hippy gathering site, a logging area, and a cattle range! We bought it as our 'forever home' and are working to create a forested ranch retreat. The property is off grid and offers all the serenity and remote feeling of a National Forest, but has quick access to daytime fun relaxation at the beach. For those who love both land and water, it couldn't be a better combination!Learn more about this land:RUSTIC MOUNTAIN BEACH DREAM! Camp in mountain solitude with the lake and beach only a short drive away. Enjoy Scotchman's peak and mountain views, sightings of wildlife and horses, stargazing, forest trailheads just down the quiet road; all in a relaxed beachy atmosphere. Shopping, tourist attractions, and all that comes with an eclectic town are just an hour away in Sandpoint. However, a few excellent restaurants can be found in Clark Fork and Hope. Campsites are private and out of view of our off-grid home but just a quick walk away. And you just might enjoy adventure tales from us about riding our horses across America, or make memories when we take you in to pet our horses, collect chicken eggs...or share in whatever farm excitement is happening! A note for booking your best stay: Campsite 1 has the best views, but is best for tent camping or very short trailers. Campsite 2 is flatter and the better option for trailers, oversize tents, and larger groups.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Beach camping in Idaho with campfires guide

Overview

In the eastern reaches of the Pacific Northwest, Idaho offers recreation throughout the year, from whitewater rafting to backcountry exploration. Winter sports are big, with ski resorts all over the state. If you're planning on camping, summer is the best time to visit, particularly if you want to see Idaho's many hiking trails, hot springs, waterfalls, or lakes. Hipcamps are your best private camping option, while Idaho State Parks manages many of the public campgrounds in the state, most coming well equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. Some also have yurts, and many offer RV sites with full hookups.

Where to go

The Idaho Panhandle

Between Washington and Montana and stretching up to Canada’s border, this forested region is ideal for winter skiing and snowboarding, plus hiking, biking, and kayaking in warmer months. Highlights include Nez Perce National Historic Park and Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, where the Pandhandle rivers are particularly beloved by whitewater rafters. Popular camping areas include Priest Lake State Park, Heyburn State Park, and Farragut State Park, and you can also find campgrounds on the Banks of Lake Pend Oreille and Lake Coeur d'Alene.

Southwest Idaho

On the border of Oregon, southwestern Idaho features lots of outdoor and cultural attractions, plus plenty of wineries and breweries. Boise, the state’s capital, is here and despite its small size, the fast-growing city has great museums and restaurants. Popular getaways from the city include Payette National Forest, Boise National Forest, Ponderosa State Park, Lake Cascade State Park, and Bruneau Dunes State Park.

Central Idaho

Characterized by alpine landscapes and crystalline lakes, central Idaho is as known for its summertime hiking as it is for its ski resorts, including the world-famous Sun Valley. Some of the best camping spots in the region include Redfish Lake in Sawtooth National Forest, Craters of the Moon National Monument, and the City of Rocks National Reserve.

Eastern Idaho

The gateway to Yellowstone National Park, eastern Idaho is chock-full of outdoor fun, from fishing on the Snake River's South Fork to cruising down the country's longest Main Street in Island Park. Summer is great for hiking and biking, while winter brings opportunities to ski and snowmobile against the backdrop of the Tetons. The region is also home to a handful of hot springs, the most famous of which is the odorless Lava Hot Springs.