Our Favorite Campgrounds in Idaho

Idaho’s bounty of outdoor beauty is one of its biggest draws. With hundreds of established campgrounds to choose from, it can be overwhelming to select the perfect place to set up camp and enjoy nature’s beauty. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite campgrounds in Idaho, and tips to make the most of your outdoor adventures.

Not every campsite in Idaho requires a reservation, but many do. You can book up to 9 months in advance in any Idaho State Park. Don't delay, some campsites fill up as early as January and February.

Make your Reservations Here

See more camping tips at the bottom of this list!

#1 Stanley Lake Campground

This scenic campground offers a picturesque lakefront setting with a backdrop of iconic McGowan Peak. It is a smaller campground, offering only a handful of sites with one double-site, so reservations and patience are required to snag a little slice of this mountainous haven. The campground provides trailhead access to the Sawtooth Wilderness, where miles of trails connect throughout the majestic Sawtooth Mountain Range. 

Best for: Scenery, waterfront, water sports, beach use, hiking, photography

Best Time to Visit: After the snow melt in mid-June to late August 

Reservations Required: Yes, with only a handful of first-come, first-serve sites available

Distance: 3 hour drive from Boise

#2 Pine Flats Campground

Nestled along the Payette River, this densely wooded campground is close enough to Boise for a quick weekend getaway, yet far enough to enjoy the splendors of the mountains. Best known for the hot springs nearby, the campground has various sites for RVs and tent camping. Visitors will need to hike into the Pine Flats Hot Springs, where a stunning hot spring waterfall descends into the river below. 

Best for: Hot springs, water sports, RV and trailers

Best Time to Visit: May - September

Reservations Required: No, but recommended

Distance: 1 hour 45 minute drive from Boise

#3 City of Rocks National Reserve

Like camping on another planet, the City of Rocks National Reserve is a natural wonder of rock formations in southeastern Idaho. This geological wonderland is ideal for climbers and hiking, with massive rocks jutting from the desert. A great option for Spring or Fall camping, and less crowded than the mountain campgrounds. 

Best for: Rock climbing, photography, hiking, tent camping

Best Time to Visit: May - September

Reservations Required: No, but recommended

Distance: 3 hour 20 minute drive from Boise

#4 Farragut State Park

Located on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille in the Coeur d’Alene Mountains of northern Idaho, Farragut State Park offers unique scenery, history and an abundance of recreational opportunities. The 4,000 acre park is conveniently located near the town of Athol, where families can enjoy time at the Silverwood Theme Park.

Best for: Historical attractions, World War II history, water sports, hiking, summer activities

Best Time to Visit: May - September

Reservations Required: No, but recommended

Distance: 7 hour 20 minute drive from Boise

#5 Swan Falls Dam

This historic dam was built in 1901 to provide power to nearby mines, and is the oldest hydroelectric source along the Snake River. Many [free] campsites are poised along the river, offering outstanding canyon views and rugged beauty of southern Idaho. Be sure to bring your fishing pole, bass can be found in the calmer waters along the banks of the river. Popular for OHV traffic, the surrounding area has miles of old Jeep trails to explore. The area is also known for its exceptional viewing of birds of prey who nest along the river.

Best for: Fishing, OHV recreation, bird watching

Best Time to Visit: Year round

Reservations Required: No, all sites are first-come, first-serve and free

Distance: Less than 1 hour drive from Boise

Tips for making the most out of your outdoor adventures in Idaho:

1. Plan your visit well in advance. Camping is quite popular throughout the State, and many established campgrounds require reservations to secure a campsite. Most campgrounds will fill up in the warmer months, so it is recommended to reserve campsites in early January when reservations open. Areas that reserve quickly include: Sawtooth Wilderness (Redfish Lake), Ponderosa State Park, and Cascade State Park
2. Be flexible with your travel dates. Weekends are always much busier than the middle of the week for camping. Consider planning your trip during the week for better campsite options and less crowds. If planning to secure a first-come, first-serve spot, arrive between 10am-1pm as campers are departing.
3. Explore the forest service roads. If you’re more on the adventurous side, taking a well-equipped AWD or 4x4 vehicle to the dirt forest service roads may lead to a rewarding experience of camping in solitude. Tent or car camping is best for these types of adventures as roads can become extremely challenging for larger vehicles and trailers. Be sure to bring a reliable map to navigate the winding roads and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the area.
   • Locals tip: For a quick weekend trip, head up early on Thursday towards Idaho City. The forest service roads along the north and middle forks of the Boise River have dozens of campsites and small primitive campgrounds with stunning river views. 
4. Leave no trace. We are so fortunate to live in a state that provides outdoor recreation so close by. In order to maintain the splendors of the outdoors, visitors are reminded to practice Leave No Trace principles, including pack it in, pack it out, completely drown out campfires, respect wildlife, and leave your campsite better than you found it.

We love sharing our beautiful state, and hope you find these recommendations and tips helpful. Please be kind and respectful to fellow campers and enjoy the rich offerings Idaho has to offer.

Do you have a favorite campground not listed above? Share in comments, we’d love to hear about your experiences!