Desert camping in Idaho with campfires

Find otherworldy features like Craters of the Moon National Monument among top-to-bottom mountain ranges throughout Idaho.

99% (405 reviews)

United States
—
Idaho

99% (405 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Idaho

Star Hosts in Idaho

Sweet Pepper Ranch's Glamping Tent

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Nampa, ID

Sweet Pepper Ranch is a horse ranch nestled between a town and country. We raise mustangs and Quarter Horses and teach the Western discipline of ranch riding. We manage our land in an eco-friendly horse manner--composting/manure management, non-toxic pest control, pasture management with rotational grazing, drought-tolerant native landscaping, mud and dust control, wildlife enhancement, equine enrichment--and more! We also offer farm tours, RV/LQ parking, and horse motel accommodations. Guests are invited to enjoy our solar heated pool, outdoor patios, wireless internet, evening bon fires (weather and time-permitting), horse farm tours (by appointment only, separate fee) and our friendly ranch atmosphere. Coffee and fresh, local bakery pastry included for breakfast, brought warm to your tent at about 7am. Learn more about this land: Sweet Pepper Ranch is a small-scale horse ranch in the high desert of southwestern Idaho. We are nestled in a rural agricultural setting yet close to stores and conveniences. We raise and train horses and work all day to exercise and train our horses as well as run the day-to-day aspects of running a large horse property. Our equestrian facilities include individual paddocks with attached runs (12’ x 52’), automatic waterers, feeders, rubber stall mats, a 200' x 300' outdoor sand arena, a 72’ x 120’ indoor arena, two round pens (one large), numerous trail obstacles, large-scale permanent outdoor obstacles, an outdoor washrack, as well as parking, port-a-potty, arena bleachers, and picnic table areas. Nearby activities abound from visiting rodeos and wineries to trail riding at sunset near waterfalls or hiking painted desert canyons. There are wildlife refuges to visit, hot springs to relax in, wilderness mountains to explore, scenic rivers to raft, railways to travel along--and North America’s largest concentration of breeding raptors to dazzle you. Learn more and see photos at the Sweet Pepper Ranch website or like us on Facebook at Sweet Pepper Ranch. See you down the road!

Pasture Oasis, Tent & RV Camping 🏔

10 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Shoshone, ID

Learn more about this land:Welcome to our pasture oasis! Our property is 4 miles down the road from BLM, where you are able to do any outdoor activities you desire. Personally, I love to ride horses and hike there. You may be greeted by horses or dogs on our property, and it's quite possible that you will hear coyotes at night (light sleepers take this into account). If you are a horse or dog lover, you are able to interact with our animals on the property! I am on the property, as well, for any questions/issues/concerns. There is a runoff river that runs through the property but rarely has water. We like to use it for campfires instead! Please reach out with questions and we look forward to your visit!

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.

Idaho's Best Kept Secret!

3 sites · RVs2 acres · Mackay, ID

One of Idaho's most iconic peaks, often compared to the Matterhorn, will transfix you in a picture-perfect view from this campsite. On a clear night, its rosy glow is the only thing you will see just before darkness. As the night darkens further you'll be dazzled by the brightest stars against the darkest of dark skies you will ever experience. Then you'll fall asleep to the peaceful sounds of the Lost River gliding by. In the early morning be on the lookout for the resident moose and her calf (Watch, but don't approach!!) or any of the many deer that ramble by. Then drop a fishing line into the river, just a few steps away, and catch yourself a trout or two for your breakfast. After breakfast, get out your binoculars, cameras, and maps (you did bring them, didn't you?) and choose your day's adventure, whether it be a challenging hike up a mountain trail, a leisurely stroll to a delightful waterfall, a 20-mile trip to world-famous Sun Valley via the stunning Trail Creek Summit, or exploring the largest designated wilderness in the lower 48 states. which is, literally, just on the other side of the fence! The road you enter the property from will also get you 20 miles deep into that wilderness along a broad river valley where you may see elk, moose, wolves, coyotes, foxes, beavers, deer, antelope, mountain goats, big horn sheep, black bears, and much more all thriving in natural abundance. Mountain lions are absent in this area, fortunately, but can be found in narrow, steep-sided canyons in other drainages nearby, if you dare.

Kraay's Market & Garden

4 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Bellevue, ID

The property has so much history. Larry purchased the 16 acres in 1978 as nothing but a field. His dream was to raise Arabian Horses, so that is what the property was set up to do and he did just that, very successfully. We did convert a few acres into a Market Garden a few years ago and started Kraay's Market Garden, you can find us online. We would love to share our place with you!

Dog-friendly getaways

A Little Bit Wilder

2 sites · RVs, Tents24 acres · Wilder, ID

25 acres in the agricultural region of canyon county. Our space has easy access for large RVs, and we can accommodate dogs and horses and ATVs. We are close to wine country, hiking, shopping, fishing, and general enjoyment of our beautiful state. we have horses of our own and hey our field three times a year. We also live next-door to happy Valley orchards, which is a very fun walk to take around the cherry trees and enjoy the sunsets.

Sweet Pepper Ranch's Glamping Tent

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Nampa, ID

Sweet Pepper Ranch is a horse ranch nestled between a town and country. We raise mustangs and Quarter Horses and teach the Western discipline of ranch riding. We manage our land in an eco-friendly horse manner--composting/manure management, non-toxic pest control, pasture management with rotational grazing, drought-tolerant native landscaping, mud and dust control, wildlife enhancement, equine enrichment--and more! We also offer farm tours, RV/LQ parking, and horse motel accommodations. Guests are invited to enjoy our solar heated pool, outdoor patios, wireless internet, evening bon fires (weather and time-permitting), horse farm tours (by appointment only, separate fee) and our friendly ranch atmosphere. Coffee and fresh, local bakery pastry included for breakfast, brought warm to your tent at about 7am. Learn more about this land: Sweet Pepper Ranch is a small-scale horse ranch in the high desert of southwestern Idaho. We are nestled in a rural agricultural setting yet close to stores and conveniences. We raise and train horses and work all day to exercise and train our horses as well as run the day-to-day aspects of running a large horse property. Our equestrian facilities include individual paddocks with attached runs (12’ x 52’), automatic waterers, feeders, rubber stall mats, a 200' x 300' outdoor sand arena, a 72’ x 120’ indoor arena, two round pens (one large), numerous trail obstacles, large-scale permanent outdoor obstacles, an outdoor washrack, as well as parking, port-a-potty, arena bleachers, and picnic table areas. Nearby activities abound from visiting rodeos and wineries to trail riding at sunset near waterfalls or hiking painted desert canyons. There are wildlife refuges to visit, hot springs to relax in, wilderness mountains to explore, scenic rivers to raft, railways to travel along--and North America’s largest concentration of breeding raptors to dazzle you. Learn more and see photos at the Sweet Pepper Ranch website or like us on Facebook at Sweet Pepper Ranch. See you down the road!

Pasture Oasis, Tent & RV Camping 🏔

10 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Shoshone, ID

Learn more about this land:Welcome to our pasture oasis! Our property is 4 miles down the road from BLM, where you are able to do any outdoor activities you desire. Personally, I love to ride horses and hike there. You may be greeted by horses or dogs on our property, and it's quite possible that you will hear coyotes at night (light sleepers take this into account). If you are a horse or dog lover, you are able to interact with our animals on the property! I am on the property, as well, for any questions/issues/concerns. There is a runoff river that runs through the property but rarely has water. We like to use it for campfires instead! Please reach out with questions and we look forward to your visit!

Kraay's Market & Garden

4 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Bellevue, ID

The property has so much history. Larry purchased the 16 acres in 1978 as nothing but a field. His dream was to raise Arabian Horses, so that is what the property was set up to do and he did just that, very successfully. We did convert a few acres into a Market Garden a few years ago and started Kraay's Market Garden, you can find us online. We would love to share our place with you!

Idaho's Best Kept Secret!

3 sites · RVs2 acres · Mackay, ID

One of Idaho's most iconic peaks, often compared to the Matterhorn, will transfix you in a picture-perfect view from this campsite. On a clear night, its rosy glow is the only thing you will see just before darkness. As the night darkens further you'll be dazzled by the brightest stars against the darkest of dark skies you will ever experience. Then you'll fall asleep to the peaceful sounds of the Lost River gliding by. In the early morning be on the lookout for the resident moose and her calf (Watch, but don't approach!!) or any of the many deer that ramble by. Then drop a fishing line into the river, just a few steps away, and catch yourself a trout or two for your breakfast. After breakfast, get out your binoculars, cameras, and maps (you did bring them, didn't you?) and choose your day's adventure, whether it be a challenging hike up a mountain trail, a leisurely stroll to a delightful waterfall, a 20-mile trip to world-famous Sun Valley via the stunning Trail Creek Summit, or exploring the largest designated wilderness in the lower 48 states. which is, literally, just on the other side of the fence! The road you enter the property from will also get you 20 miles deep into that wilderness along a broad river valley where you may see elk, moose, wolves, coyotes, foxes, beavers, deer, antelope, mountain goats, big horn sheep, black bears, and much more all thriving in natural abundance. Mountain lions are absent in this area, fortunately, but can be found in narrow, steep-sided canyons in other drainages nearby, if you dare.

8 top desert campgrounds in Idaho with campfires

Kraay's Market & Garden

4 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Bellevue, ID

The property has so much history. Larry purchased the 16 acres in 1978 as nothing but a field. His dream was to raise Arabian Horses, so that is what the property was set up to do and he did just that, very successfully. We did convert a few acres into a Market Garden a few years ago and started Kraay's Market Garden, you can find us online. We would love to share our place with you!

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.

Idaho's Best Kept Secret!

3 sites · RVs2 acres · Mackay, ID

One of Idaho's most iconic peaks, often compared to the Matterhorn, will transfix you in a picture-perfect view from this campsite. On a clear night, its rosy glow is the only thing you will see just before darkness. As the night darkens further you'll be dazzled by the brightest stars against the darkest of dark skies you will ever experience. Then you'll fall asleep to the peaceful sounds of the Lost River gliding by. In the early morning be on the lookout for the resident moose and her calf (Watch, but don't approach!!) or any of the many deer that ramble by. Then drop a fishing line into the river, just a few steps away, and catch yourself a trout or two for your breakfast. After breakfast, get out your binoculars, cameras, and maps (you did bring them, didn't you?) and choose your day's adventure, whether it be a challenging hike up a mountain trail, a leisurely stroll to a delightful waterfall, a 20-mile trip to world-famous Sun Valley via the stunning Trail Creek Summit, or exploring the largest designated wilderness in the lower 48 states. which is, literally, just on the other side of the fence! The road you enter the property from will also get you 20 miles deep into that wilderness along a broad river valley where you may see elk, moose, wolves, coyotes, foxes, beavers, deer, antelope, mountain goats, big horn sheep, black bears, and much more all thriving in natural abundance. Mountain lions are absent in this area, fortunately, but can be found in narrow, steep-sided canyons in other drainages nearby, if you dare.

Pasture Oasis, Tent & RV Camping 🏔

10 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Shoshone, ID

Learn more about this land:Welcome to our pasture oasis! Our property is 4 miles down the road from BLM, where you are able to do any outdoor activities you desire. Personally, I love to ride horses and hike there. You may be greeted by horses or dogs on our property, and it's quite possible that you will hear coyotes at night (light sleepers take this into account). If you are a horse or dog lover, you are able to interact with our animals on the property! I am on the property, as well, for any questions/issues/concerns. There is a runoff river that runs through the property but rarely has water. We like to use it for campfires instead! Please reach out with questions and we look forward to your visit!

A Little Bit Wilder

2 sites · RVs, Tents24 acres · Wilder, ID

25 acres in the agricultural region of canyon county. Our space has easy access for large RVs, and we can accommodate dogs and horses and ATVs. We are close to wine country, hiking, shopping, fishing, and general enjoyment of our beautiful state. we have horses of our own and hey our field three times a year. We also live next-door to happy Valley orchards, which is a very fun walk to take around the cherry trees and enjoy the sunsets.

Sweet Pepper Ranch's Glamping Tent

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Nampa, ID

Sweet Pepper Ranch is a horse ranch nestled between a town and country. We raise mustangs and Quarter Horses and teach the Western discipline of ranch riding. We manage our land in an eco-friendly horse manner--composting/manure management, non-toxic pest control, pasture management with rotational grazing, drought-tolerant native landscaping, mud and dust control, wildlife enhancement, equine enrichment--and more! We also offer farm tours, RV/LQ parking, and horse motel accommodations. Guests are invited to enjoy our solar heated pool, outdoor patios, wireless internet, evening bon fires (weather and time-permitting), horse farm tours (by appointment only, separate fee) and our friendly ranch atmosphere. Coffee and fresh, local bakery pastry included for breakfast, brought warm to your tent at about 7am. Learn more about this land: Sweet Pepper Ranch is a small-scale horse ranch in the high desert of southwestern Idaho. We are nestled in a rural agricultural setting yet close to stores and conveniences. We raise and train horses and work all day to exercise and train our horses as well as run the day-to-day aspects of running a large horse property. Our equestrian facilities include individual paddocks with attached runs (12’ x 52’), automatic waterers, feeders, rubber stall mats, a 200' x 300' outdoor sand arena, a 72’ x 120’ indoor arena, two round pens (one large), numerous trail obstacles, large-scale permanent outdoor obstacles, an outdoor washrack, as well as parking, port-a-potty, arena bleachers, and picnic table areas. Nearby activities abound from visiting rodeos and wineries to trail riding at sunset near waterfalls or hiking painted desert canyons. There are wildlife refuges to visit, hot springs to relax in, wilderness mountains to explore, scenic rivers to raft, railways to travel along--and North America’s largest concentration of breeding raptors to dazzle you. Learn more and see photos at the Sweet Pepper Ranch website or like us on Facebook at Sweet Pepper Ranch. See you down the road!

Bristol Park Historic Cabins

4 sites · Lodging36 acres · Lava Hot Springs, ID

Bristol is bordered by the Portneuf River to the North and Mt Moh to the South, offering river access and a host of trails. Fishing in the river is great, boasting rainbow, cut throat, brook and brown trout. There's also a few great swimming holes right below the property, including a 15 ft. waterfall. Guests may hike trails to the old mines, or be directed to a plethora of trails for biking nearby. The setting at Bristol is uniquely peaceful for the busy tourist town of Lava Hot Springs. Although still technically within city limits, the place offers an atmosphere of it's own, seemingly outside of time. Once a miners camp and stage coach stop along the Oregon Trail, we have worked hard to maintain the buildings and grounds. With an abundance of trees, (bonus if you can name all varieties) the main compound is well shaded through the hot summer months. Our single room, quaint cabins have a shared bathroom with showers and towels available. We are a minutes walk from the hot springs and downtown, so no need to fight for a parking spot!

208 Ranch

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Murphy, ID

Located near the base of the Owyhee Mountain Range, our land is a perfect fit for adventure seekers who love outdoors in a rustic way. There is plenty of hiking near by, a reservoir and river where you can enjoy those sunny days. We also have horse friendly reservations that can be accommodated. Please know that this is a working micro-ranch stocked with cattle, horses, occasional goats and some curious wildlife critters. Very ATV/OTV friendly area, plenty of gravel roads and trails for those seeking adventure. Places to mountain bike, hike, we have snowshoes for rent as well as kayaks. Enjoy a stay in a traditional Man Camp. We are very flexible on how you would like your stay to be, we just appreciate communication before hand so that we can offer you the best stay. We have a large parking area that will fit long trucks and trailers and easy turnarounds.

Available this weekend

Kraay's Market & Garden

4 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Bellevue, ID

The property has so much history. Larry purchased the 16 acres in 1978 as nothing but a field. His dream was to raise Arabian Horses, so that is what the property was set up to do and he did just that, very successfully. We did convert a few acres into a Market Garden a few years ago and started Kraay's Market Garden, you can find us online. We would love to share our place with you!

Idaho's Best Kept Secret!

3 sites · RVs2 acres · Mackay, ID

One of Idaho's most iconic peaks, often compared to the Matterhorn, will transfix you in a picture-perfect view from this campsite. On a clear night, its rosy glow is the only thing you will see just before darkness. As the night darkens further you'll be dazzled by the brightest stars against the darkest of dark skies you will ever experience. Then you'll fall asleep to the peaceful sounds of the Lost River gliding by. In the early morning be on the lookout for the resident moose and her calf (Watch, but don't approach!!) or any of the many deer that ramble by. Then drop a fishing line into the river, just a few steps away, and catch yourself a trout or two for your breakfast. After breakfast, get out your binoculars, cameras, and maps (you did bring them, didn't you?) and choose your day's adventure, whether it be a challenging hike up a mountain trail, a leisurely stroll to a delightful waterfall, a 20-mile trip to world-famous Sun Valley via the stunning Trail Creek Summit, or exploring the largest designated wilderness in the lower 48 states. which is, literally, just on the other side of the fence! The road you enter the property from will also get you 20 miles deep into that wilderness along a broad river valley where you may see elk, moose, wolves, coyotes, foxes, beavers, deer, antelope, mountain goats, big horn sheep, black bears, and much more all thriving in natural abundance. Mountain lions are absent in this area, fortunately, but can be found in narrow, steep-sided canyons in other drainages nearby, if you dare.

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.

A Little Bit Wilder

2 sites · RVs, Tents24 acres · Wilder, ID

25 acres in the agricultural region of canyon county. Our space has easy access for large RVs, and we can accommodate dogs and horses and ATVs. We are close to wine country, hiking, shopping, fishing, and general enjoyment of our beautiful state. we have horses of our own and hey our field three times a year. We also live next-door to happy Valley orchards, which is a very fun walk to take around the cherry trees and enjoy the sunsets.

Pasture Oasis, Tent & RV Camping 🏔

10 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Shoshone, ID

Learn more about this land:Welcome to our pasture oasis! Our property is 4 miles down the road from BLM, where you are able to do any outdoor activities you desire. Personally, I love to ride horses and hike there. You may be greeted by horses or dogs on our property, and it's quite possible that you will hear coyotes at night (light sleepers take this into account). If you are a horse or dog lover, you are able to interact with our animals on the property! I am on the property, as well, for any questions/issues/concerns. There is a runoff river that runs through the property but rarely has water. We like to use it for campfires instead! Please reach out with questions and we look forward to your visit!

Under $50

Pasture Oasis, Tent & RV Camping 🏔

10 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Shoshone, ID

Learn more about this land:Welcome to our pasture oasis! Our property is 4 miles down the road from BLM, where you are able to do any outdoor activities you desire. Personally, I love to ride horses and hike there. You may be greeted by horses or dogs on our property, and it's quite possible that you will hear coyotes at night (light sleepers take this into account). If you are a horse or dog lover, you are able to interact with our animals on the property! I am on the property, as well, for any questions/issues/concerns. There is a runoff river that runs through the property but rarely has water. We like to use it for campfires instead! Please reach out with questions and we look forward to your visit!

A Little Bit Wilder

2 sites · RVs, Tents24 acres · Wilder, ID

25 acres in the agricultural region of canyon county. Our space has easy access for large RVs, and we can accommodate dogs and horses and ATVs. We are close to wine country, hiking, shopping, fishing, and general enjoyment of our beautiful state. we have horses of our own and hey our field three times a year. We also live next-door to happy Valley orchards, which is a very fun walk to take around the cherry trees and enjoy the sunsets.

Kraay's Market & Garden

4 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Bellevue, ID

The property has so much history. Larry purchased the 16 acres in 1978 as nothing but a field. His dream was to raise Arabian Horses, so that is what the property was set up to do and he did just that, very successfully. We did convert a few acres into a Market Garden a few years ago and started Kraay's Market Garden, you can find us online. We would love to share our place with you!

Value Prop

Value Prop

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Desert 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.

Popular Idaho trips

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Hot spring camping

Lakeside camping

Rv parks & camping with electricity hookup and water hookup

Top parks in Idaho

Heyburn State Park

Boise National Forest

Ponderosa State Park

Priest Lake State Park

Bruneau Dunes State Park

Coeur d'Alene Field Office

Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge

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