Pets off leash mountainous camping in Idaho

Find otherworldy features like those at Craters of the Moon among top-to-bottom mountain ranges in Idaho.

95% (988 reviews)

United States
—
Idaho

95% (988 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Idaho

Community favorites in Idaho

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(3)

Lava Pine Cabins

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Lava Hot Springs, ID

Gorgeous pine forested location with breathtaking views is just 7 miles from Main Street Lava Hot Springs. You get 2 privates cabins that can sleep 6 to 8 people in each cabin. Plenty of tent space to bring lager groups. Amazing fire pit, and a 1/2 mile hike loop around the property. Nice Bathroom, running water and power. So it’s glamping at its finest. Road is smooth enough for compact cars. This is not shared with any other renters. This property is great for large youth groups or Family reunions.

100%

(3)

Lost Fainting Goat Ranch

1 site · Lodging21 acres · Sandpoint, ID

COME AND EXPERIENCE BEAUTIFUL NORTH IDAHO!!! We are located down a dead-end road, approximately 18 miles from downtown Sandpoint, with all it has to offer, yummy restaurants, Cedar Street Public Market, music concerts, the Bonner County Fair and don't miss City Beach no matter the weather, maybe even take a lake tour. We are 12 miles from The Idaho Club and just 22 miles from Schweitzer and some of the most breathtaking views around. There is always something to do and see on the mountain. Trestle Creek Park on the shore of Lake Pend Oreille, is another of our favorite places and it's only a 16-mile drive through some of the most picturesque areas of the NW. After a fun filled day exploring North Idaho come and relax at The Lost Fainting Goat Ranch, an amusing name for a place we call home. There is a separate private driveway, and you will have the whole camp area to yourselves, yet we aren't far away should a need arise. You may occasionally hear us (4 busy kids, 1 fat cat, 2 friendly dogs, 1 noisy rooster and 11 happy hens yet still no fainting goats) but we want you to feel like you are in your own private sanctuary. We are offering a new furnished bell tent in a secluded area of our private property in the beautiful mountains of Sandpoint Idaho. Our camp area is along a quiet creek that is visited by deer, wild turkey, squirls and even the occasional moose. There are also those less desirable critters that live in nature like insects, and we do try and mitigate those troublemakers with screens, traps, Diatomaceous Earth and other natural means. This area of our property is off grid with a wonderful shower house built from wood milled from our own land, complete with hot water and a compost toilet. We even provide Starlink WiFi and a way to charge cell phones thanks to our solar charged batteries. There is a fire pit, comfy chairs, a beautiful picnic table, again, made from wood from our own land, and a screened in area with cooking supplies. Our family enjoys hosting guests and we enjoy meeting new people. The most common phrase we heard when we first moved here was "Welcome to Idaho!" We hope you love it here as much as we do. When you reserve your time with us, please look for messages regarding directions and check-in instructions, we like to meet everyone to show you around and it gets pretty dark out here in the country and the cell coverage is pretty spotty in our area. We truly want you to have a relaxing experience and good communication helps us serve you better. Thank you!

Mountain High

1 site · Lodging62 acres · New Meadows, ID

Wooded forest with spectacular views of Pollock and Granite Mountains and adjacent public land for hiking and exploring. Access to a creek and the Little Salmon River for fishing just 2.7 miles. Less than 30-minute drive to nearby Riggins, New Meadows or McCall for unlimited outdoor activities. Access is through a locked gate via a rough, rocky and steep road. A high clearance vehicle with good tires is required.

Under $50

83%

(9)

Allicins Ranch

2 sites · Tents10 acres · Moyie Springs, ID

We originally bought the land as a parcel off of my Uncle's farm. We are an organic garlic farm and also raise sheep so our land is our place of business and also our home. We have a beautiful getaway for you to come visit with a nice pond, rope swing and zip line. Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent next to the pond, enjoy the rope swing, zip-line, or come help in the organic garden. You may wake up to our sheep munching grass beside your tent. National forest trails about 10 minutes away, lots of lakes, rivers, and other outdoor opportunities to enjoy.

100%

(21)

Clearwater Wildergrounds

1 site · Lodging11 acres · Culdesac, ID

Clearwater Wildergrounds is a very special sanctuary. What Abigail and I have envisioned for this land is to make it into a social gathering spot for all to come and unplug from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We're new, young, ambitious land stewards who want to make this place into a self sustaining homestead abundant in organic food, loving relationships, and laughter than can be heard across the valley. Learn more about this land:Our charming little homestead in training is situated right off the well traveled highway 12. This isn't your traditional campground feel, it's a place to come kick back with us during your travels. You'll find us in between Lewiston and Orofino. We've set up a sweet little campsite tucked up on the hill with magnificent views that will sweep you into full relaxation mode. Site includes a fire pit with complementary firewood, a tent if needed, outhouse with a hot shower, and fresh eggs if you're wanting a full on rustic breakfast over the fire in the morning. Fire is permitted depending on the season.

Upland Wilderness Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent800 acres · Horseshoe Bend, ID

The camp site has scenic river views and is quiet. The setting is unique in that behind you are 1000+ acres of pristine upland sage range land with no humans. The river feels wonderful come hot summer for rafting, floating, kayaking, snorkeling, fishing and relaxing. A short drive along river and you can find class I - class 5 rapids, or perhaps you want to soak in the geothermal hot springs, go paddle board in the nearby reservoir or simply sleep and star gaze! You can book a raft trip or bring your own raft or inner-tubes. You can ride your horses or go fishing. Hike scenic mountains and see herds of deer. Super cool spot!

Thaidaho Victor

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Victor, ID

Thaidaho Victor: glamping in the Tetons for Non-Smokers. Our RESERVATION ONLY private glamping site includes one small dry sleeping cabin with full-sized bed for one or two, a dorm-sized refrigerator, coffee maker, hair dryer, fan and space heater. There is an outdoor flush toilet & hot water shower, with towels & rags provided. The site includes a picnic table, fire pit, propane bbq grill, parking for one car/truck or two QUIET bikes, and unobstructed views of the Big Hole Mountains.

Booked 1 time

Mountainous River Hideout

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Moyie Springs, ID

This is a wild and exposed setting on a steep grass/dirt driveway that best suits Overland and Truck Camper type all terrain vehicles. This is an adventurous site on the Kootenai River with tall pines, and steep rock scrambles to the water where the fish often bite. There are 2-plus spaces present with room for more if your group is larger. The lower space is good for one rig, and the upper space will hold a few rigs if that is needed. All-wheel/four-wheel drive recommended. There is cell service if you need it, but NO other utilities are present on-site. Turn right just after 86 Tall Timber Rd and drive 1000ft down the grass driveway to the landing area and enjoy! See photo’s for more guidance.

12 top mountainous campgrounds in Idaho

100%

(279)

ALMOST TO CANADA - FAR NORTH IDAHO

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Bonners Ferry, ID

Note: We have a Bonners Ferry, ID mailing address but our physical location is approximately 30 miles North of Bonners Ferry and 1 mile South of Eastport, ID. We are a mile South of the Canadian Border just off US 95. Also, please note: Our tent campsite and RV campsite have separate booking sites but share the same shelter and toilet. If you book either site the "other" booking site is blocked during your stay. You are in a forest on land shaped by the last Ice Age, The forest has nurtured generations of of wildlife including majestic birds of prey. It sustained the Kootenai People before borders separated their lands. It saw determined miners pass this way seeking their fortune in gold from British Columbia. This forest supplied timber to build railroads and homes for families in the western migration. Our family is the current steward of this forest and it is our wish to respectfully share its beauty and observe its wildlife with your family and friends! Our Forest is surrounded by Kaniksu National Forest which is managed by the United States Forest Service (USFS) as part of the Idaho Panhandle. National Forest.. The Moyie River ( say Moy-yay) has headwaters at Moyie Lake in British Columbia and feeds into the Kootenai River (say Koo-ten-e) just East of Bonners Ferry. The Moyie River is 95 miles long. The area is private, so there is no view of the neighbors. You’ll have a broken view of the Host’s Cabin. Camp is situated on 15.4 acres of Certified Family Forest. If you hear the rumble of a train at night, it's because the Union Pacific passes along the opposite edge of the property from the campsites. There is no mobile phone service at the campsite . There is WiFi at the campsite shelter. We strongly suggest you activate the “Cell over WiFi “ function on your smartphone BEFORE you arrive/lose cell signal so you can access Emergency 911 Services. There is a fire pit (firewood provided), covered shelter, a USFS-style charcoal grill, (bring charcoal and starter), picnic table, benches, bear-proof food storage box and TEMPORARY trash bin. Please plan to "pack-out" all of your trash and recyclables. There are a lot of deer roaming the property, along with many birds and other wildlife . OUR NIGHTLY CHARGE Includes all the firewood you need and a 10% Hipcamp Service Fee. It does not include 6% Idaho Sales Tax and 2% Idaho Convention and Travel Tax. Be Bear Aware : From April 1 - November 1 all food, beverages and trash must never be left unattended and, all of the same, be stored properly. Our Bear Box is large and can accommodate your supplies and cooler.

97%

(270)

Burke Creekside lisa J's

20 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Wallace, ID

We are excited to host you at our special property! It is The perfect location for RV camping (tent camping allowed if accompanied by an RV). Whether you are just relaxing by the creek with friends and family or ready for an adventure. Burke is the spot for ATVs and Snowmobiling, Fishing, Hunting, Biking (Hiawatha Trail) Hiking, and Sight seeing old Mines. We now have Starlink. We also have a Chalet for rent on our property. This is a gorgeous, serene getaway in the Historic ghost town of Burke Idaho. Built in the early 1900's and newly remodeled with all the comforts of home. Located 7.5 miles northeast from the town of Wallace. Centrally located within minutes of 2 major Ski resorts. Private hot tub, wood stove and many other features. Immediate access to many snowmobile, ATV, or hiking trails from the front door of this home. Home includes an attached garage and lots of parking for trucks with trailers. Year round activities available throughout the area including snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, hiking and biking or just take a stroll along the creek or play in the snow.

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.

Booked 2 times

Camp Coeur d'Alene

100 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents60 acres · Coeur D'alene, ID

Established in 1967 this campground has been a fixture in the area for decades. We are a seasonal family campground to best appreciate the fantastic summer in CDA. Our forested sites up the hill and our waterfront area are beloved by all and so magical. Our camp store is filled with everything you may need and more. We hope you come and stay with us in your RV, your tent or one of our 19 cabins to experience the magic for yourself. Our friendly and accommodating staff are eager to make this your best vacation yet. Come and check us out! We offer a unique easy going camping experience that takes the stress away from forgetting anything. We are a family friendly atmosphere that allows for many fun outdoor experiences with our Private Lake Access. We have a deep loving and understanding of nature and want our guests to feel the joy that camp can offer. We understand that a camping trip is not complete without our furry companions and therefore we have no breed restrictions in place.

100%

(88)

David's Hodge Podge Lodge Camping

1 site · RV, Tent13 acres · Coeur D'alene, ID

This parcel was once part of a larger homestead in the area. It directly borders over 500 acres of land managed by the Idaho Department of Lands. My home is a large A frame that has been added onto in three different directions, hence the name Hodge Podge Lodge. Learn more about this land: Grassy lane to put your camping vehicle on. Shaded table spot right in front of camping area. A more level RV spot is also provided. Close to Coeur d' Alene (8 miles) and Post Falls, Idaho.

100%

(16)

The Knoll, LLC

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Priest Lake, ID

Phenomenal place to relax and rejuvenate from the hectic pace of life or a hard day of outdoor adventuring. Five acres located a short 7 minute drive (3 miles) from Luby Bay on Priest Lake, Idaho. Pine and Cedar trees surround a seasonal stream - peaceful and quiet site to set up a weekend get away. Easy access to all of the multiple outdoor activities in the Priest Lake area.

91%

(74)

Lazy 6-T Ranch

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents101 acres · Montpelier, ID

This is our Family owned cattle ranch. Our cattle love this place and we are sure that you will too! Come enjoy some time in the countryside away from the rat race. Only a short drive from Bear Lake where you can relax on the beach and soak up the sunshine or enjoy all types of water sports with your friends and family.

95%

(20)

Upper Country Paradise

1 site · Lodging35 acres · Midvale, ID

Discover the Ultimate Outdoor Haven: Experience Wilderness Bliss at Our Expansive Campsite in the Heart of Upper Country, Idaho! Nestled on over 30 acres of pristine land, our campsite is perfectly situated next to a serene pond and surrounded by breathtaking mountains. Immerse yourself in nature's embrace while enjoying convenient access to nearby attractions like soothing hot springs, the picturesque Weiser River Trail, and the awe-inspiring wonders of Hells Canyon. Whether you seek thrilling adventures, peaceful relaxation, or a mix of both, our campsite offers it all. Unleash your inner explorer, unwind amidst breathtaking scenery, and create unforgettable memories at our Upper Country Paradise. Description (site overview) Our property is nestled bellow the mountains in the upper country of Idaho close to the small quaint farm towns of Midvale and Cambridge where the nearest stoplight is 30 miles away. Whether you are looking to escape hussell and bussell or have a base camp for your next adventure, you've come to the right place! The campsite is perched up near the large pond about 1000 feet off the main road (which you may see 5 cars a day on or the occasional horseback rider). And not to worry, there is a decent driveway that will bring you within 100 feet of the campsite, a pickup or 4 wheel drive is not required. Spring has Sprung! The trees are blooming along with the wild flowers and the pond is full, an oasis for passing ducks and geese and other wildlife. Once you've established yourself enjoy a nice walk around the pond, cast a line off the pedal boat (catch and release), or enjoy a picnic on the island with the ducks and geese. Peace and quiet is all to be had here (other than the occasional bull frog croaking.) But if adventure is what you seek, adventure you will have! Known as the gateway to Hells Canyon, there are many things to do within 5 minutes to 1 hours drive. Drop into Midvale to hit the Weiser River Trail via hiking, horseback, or mountain bike (electric bikes too). Embark on an off road adventure with your UTV/ATV, or motorcycle up the nearby mountains to Sturgill Peak Lookout where you can see 100 miles in every direction. Schedule and excursion in Hells Canyon (deeper than the grand canyon) or take a dip at the local Mundo hot spring. Fishing and floating can be had at the near by Weiser river or boating at Crane Creek Reservoir. Or maybe you're looking for a base camp for hunting season. Again, the recreational possibilities are endless! Bring your supplies and stay at camp or take a short bike ride/drive into town for some food at the Coffee Cabin or a drink at the local tavern. Maybe you forgot something? the Midvale Market has you covered, and they have adult beverages too, open 7 days a week. Midvale also has a nice little park and a local swimming pool. Site guidelines Respect the locals and they will return the favor. We have a great small town community that looks out for one another. You can ride recreational vehicles on most of the local roads if you choose to bring them, just be respectful of the local laws and courteous to the neighbors who live on dirt roads by keeping the dust down when you pass by. No riding off trails/roads, especially on our property! Please bring life jackets or appropriate floatation devices for children who plan to play or swim in the pond. Explore the property and feel free to pick up wood and branches from the ground for the fire pit, but please do not remove or cut down any trees, and keep fires contained in the fire pit and do not burn when it's windy. Bedding is NOT provided at this time. There is a sheet Please bring sleeping bags or desired bedding for the covered queen bed. We also just built a brand new outhouse! We are slowly adding more amenities and plan to build an outdoor shower next. There is an extra tent under the bed for the kiddos or other guests, also a pop up shad for the warm afternoons, it covers the deck nicely.

88%

(8)

Idaho Getaways on Lake Coeurdalene

2 sites · Lodging, Tents1 acre · Parkline, ID

Are you ready for the ultimate off-grid getaway? Prepare to be allured by natural surroundings, on a secondary site off of lake Coeur d’Alene. Minutes from the sites and scenes of Cda, this is a dream trip! A short drive from the small hallmark town of Harrison, provides a quaint coffee shop and local restaurants and boutiques. It’s the perfect spot to feel like camping, with the luxury of tourism just around the corner. Are you ready to experience Glamping? Book now. Details: We have a lux glamping tent, containing 1 California king bed and one queen bed. There is additional space for at least 2 people to sleep on the floor. The Glamping tent is designed on a wooden deck, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery, soaking in What Glamping is all about. The glamping tent includes a stove, where you can cook food and keep warm at night. (Wood is needed). Both the basic tent site and your Glamping Getaway site have Access to a modern bathhouse with toilet and sink. (This house is mere steps away from both sites). Your site has a panoramic view of theof mountains and cda lake. There are designated areas to park in the dirt driveway. (The parking number will be given to you on booking). There is a fire pit and outdoor picnic eating space, available to all. (Wood for the stove & fire pit , as well as food trays and wine, are available at an extra charge.) We pride ourselves on cleanliness. The glamping tent is deeply cleaned, with new sheets and pillowcases, and duvet cover, after each stay. We also deeply clean the bath house, fire pit and dining/picnic areas.

76%

(21)

Riverfront Base Camp

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Cataldo, ID

Park your RV, overland rig, pitch a tent, or sleep under the stars next to the Coeur D’ Alene River. Be advised this is directly next to State Highway 3. If you are a light sleeper, or road noise bothers you, this is not the campsite for you. At the camp, you can launch your kayaks at the river to go for an adventure down through the Chain Lakes, all eight are accessible by the river adjacent to where you will sleep. The bird and wildlife watching in this area is world class. Ospreys, hawks, turkeys and other animals commonly hang out in these parts. You can go for a swim at one of the sandbars, take your dirt bikes or side by sides down Killarney Lake Road to access an extensive network of trails and dirt roads into remote wilderness. There is no cell service, no water or electrical hookups, or toilet. As beautiful as it is, your experience will not be “glamping” unless you come with all the comforts you personally desire. You can hunt on the forest service land by 4th of July Pass, fish on the river, or on the Chain Lakes (with the proper permits, of course). There is a access into the water from camp but it is quite steep. For easy access to the water, use the docks or boat launch at Killarney Lake or Bull Run. Pets and kids are allowed at your own risk. Be advised the highway and river are hazardous for off-leash animals and rambunctious toddlers. Please send a message if you have any questions. I am happy to help.

99%

(68)

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.

97%

(16)

Rockford Bay Retreat

4 sites · RVs11 acres · Rockford Bay, ID

Amazing lake views Peaceful setting Pontoon Rental link- https://www.boatsetter.com/boats/cghbrhb?utm_source=boatsetter&utm_campaign=sharePDP&utm_medium=product Rockford Bay Marina and Shooters Bar and Grill 2.5 miles Sun Up Bay boat launch 4.4 miles Fightin’ Creek Smoke Shop and Market 4.5 miles Coeur d Alene Casino 11 miles Coeur d Alene 18 miles Spokane International Airport 42 miles The Route of Hiawatha 83 mikes cdacruises.com

Available this weekend

93%

(20)

David C.’s Land

7 sites · Lodging211 acres · Bonners Ferry, ID

Once a farm in the early 20th century. This area then became an outdoor adventure summer camp in the 1980s. It has now expanded to become a 200+ acre year round private campground with direct access to over 1,000,000 acres of public land encompassing the Selkirk Mountains. There is a coin operated laundry room, outdoor basketball and volleyball courts, and a gym available for use.

81%

(54)

Burke Outpost

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Idaho 83873, ID

The Silver Valley is rich with mining history and Burke canyon was the heart of it. You drive past ghost towns and abandoned mine/mill sites to get to the top of the canyon and our little piece of North Idaho. Past our place is the gateway to high mountain lakes and trail systems for days. Close to Wallace and the Center of the Universe.

Sleepy Hammock Canyon Land

1 site · RV, Tent19 acres · Idaho Falls, ID

19 acres, smack dab in the middle of nowhere! It has the beautiful green canyon on its western edge and steveco farms surrounding it. The canyon is steep and wild animals may be present so caution is advised. Cell service is hit and miss which I love this creates forced family fun and gets everyone off of there mobile devices.

100%

(1)

Country Camping

4 sites · RVs2 acres · Idaho Falls, ID

Country camping with a simple dry camp (NO toilet) or RV full hookup. Star gazers delight with wide open area. Close to town, just a short 5 miles away Excellent jumping off point for Grand Teton National Park, West Yellowstone, Craters of the Moon and many other awesome destinations. Washer and dryer available for a small fee.

100%

(1)

Missouri Flat

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Moscow, ID

We are located a 10-minute drive north of downtown Moscow, on beautiful Moscow Mountain. We have 3 acres that includes our house, the studio (your home base), garage, greenhouse, and a couple storage sheds. The studio is most comfortable for just 2 people, but there is an extra foam queen mattress and bedding available. Our property is surrounded by and dotted with trees, with a peek-a-boo view of the Palouse. We have swaths of grassy yard, an orchard, and several raised beds in our garden. We also have a seasonal pond that is home to Mr. and Mrs. Mallard in the spring and summer. Take in the sunrise from the deck with coffee in hand, and sunset off the back patio. Enjoy a quiet, tranquil setting with easy access to town. Popular mountain biking and hiking trails are a 5-minute drive away. People also cross-country ski on the trails. Look for wildlife tracks if you make it high enough away from the well-used trails. You'll see deer, moose, and even cougar or bobcat.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Pets off leash mountainous camping in Idaho guide

Overview

In the eastern reaches of the Pacific Northwest, Idaho offers recreation throughout the year, from whitewater rafting to backcountry exploration. And with fewer people than New York City and over 60% of the state covered in public land, Idaho is the perfect host for your next outdoor adventure. 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. From yurts to Yellowstone, we’ve nailed down some of Idaho’s best spots to pitch your tent or park your RV.

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.

When to go

The weather is an essential factor when it comes to camping. Idaho's climate is generally semi-arid, with hot summers and cold winters. The peak season for camping in Idaho is from June to August, during which campgrounds can be crowded, and reservations may be required. If the campsite is at a high elevation, it may be more suitable to visit during the late spring or summer months when the snow has melted. The best time to go camping in Idaho is during the summer months, preferably in May or September for a more peaceful experience.

Know before you go

Research your camping options: Idaho offers a wide range of camping options, from primitive campsites to RV parks. Research your options ahead of time to find a spot that fits your needs and preferences.
Plan for the weather: Idaho's weather can be unpredictable, so make sure you pack accordingly. Bring warm clothing for chilly nights and rain gear in case of storms.
Prepare for wildlife encounters: Idaho is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears and mountain lions. Make sure you know how to store your food and garbage properly to avoid attracting unwanted visitors.
Follow Leave No Trace principles: When camping in Idaho (or anywhere else), it's important to follow the Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all of your trash, staying on established trails, and leaving natural features undisturbed.
Respect other campers: Finally, be respectful of other campers in the area. Keep noise levels down, and avoid wandering into other campsites uninvited.