Back to School Bucket List

As we are all wondering how summer flew by so quickly and school is right around the corner, make the most of these last few weeks of summer with our Back to School Bucket List!   Go to the Western Idaho Fair: Photo credit to Unsplash. The Western Idaho Fair, a beloved tradition since 1897, is back this year from August 16th to 25th. Immerse yourself in an exciting showcase of agriculture, ranching, and fun activities at this classic summertime event. This family-friendly fair offers something for everyone with thrilling rides, delicious fair food, live concerts, and captivating exhibitions. Tickets are on sale now and can be found here.   Float the river: Photo credit to LBRE. One of Boise’s signature attractions is the Boise River, a 102-mile-long tributary of the Snake River that is a beloved spot to float down, enjoy the scenery, and relax during the warmer months of the year. Before the summer season is officially over, make sure to squeeze in one more refreshing float down the Boise! The put-in for the Boise River float starts at Barber Park, located in SE Boise off Eckert Road (about 6 miles from downtown). For more information on floating the Boise River, check out this blog.   Go to the Farmers Market: Photo credit to Unsplash. Heading to a farmers market, whether the Boise Farmers Market or the Capital City Public Market, is the perfect Saturday morning activity. From shopping for local and fresh produce, baked goods, jams, and other food items, to grabbing breakfast and a coffee, the farmers market is an awesome place to wander around and support local businesses. The Capital City Public Market is at the Grove Plaza on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and the Boise Farmers Market is at 1500 Shoreline Drive, Boise ID on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.   Venture out on a camping trip: Photo credit to Unsplash. One of the best things about summer is the warm nights perfect for camping. A last-minute camping trip doesn’t need to be a challenging endeavor, all it takes is packing your car with the essentials (tent, sleeping bag, food, etc.) and choosing a campsite near Boise. You can even make it a backyard camping trip for a fun and easy experience at home!   Enjoy a pool day: Photo credit to Unsplash. Stay cool in the last days of the summer and go swimming before pools close up and it gets too cold! Head down to a public pool (take a look at this blog to see all the public pools in Boise), or have a “beach” day at Quinn’s Pond to enjoy the last of outdoor swimming this summer.

View more

Campgrounds Within 3 Hours of Boise

Photo credit: Visit Idaho Want to escape into nature without venturing too far from home? Boise is a gateway to some of the most stunning and unique camping experiences in the area, all within a three-hour drive. Whether you're seeking serene hot springs, campgrounds with amenities, or exciting water activities, the region surrounding Boise has something for every camper. Check out our top picks of camping spots near Boise that are sure to lead to adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.   Hot Springs Nearby: Photo credit: Visit Idaho Pine Flats. Set within the beautiful Boise National Forest, Pine Flats Campground offers walking access to the nearby Pine Flats hot springs. Campers can enjoy amenities like picnic tables and fire pits, then unwind in the steaming natural hot pools that dot the hillside along the Payette River. Bonneville Hot Springs. Bonneville Campground provides a perfect home base for exploring Bonneville Hot Springs. Campers can set up in a wooded area with basic facilities, and then take a short hike to soak in the relaxing geothermal springs. Baumgartner. Baumgartner Campground, nestled along the South Fork of the Boise River, features spacious sites with picnic areas and nearby access to Baumgartner Hot Springs.   Best Amenities: Photo credit: RV Life Campgrounds Ponderosa State Park. Ponderosa State Park's campground is equipped with modern amenities including electrical hookups, showers, and restrooms. Located on the scenic Payette Lake, this campsite is only miles from the town of McCall, water activities, and hiking trails. Red Fish. The campgrounds around Redfish Lake are known for their extensive amenities, including potable water, restrooms, and nearby convenience stores. Visitors can enjoy stunning lake and Sawtooth mountain views and take advantage of activities like swimming, fishing, and boating. Redfish Lodge is within walking distance of campsites, with an outdoor grill, indoor restaurant, and cozy cabin-themed rooms.   Best for Water Activities: Photo credit: Wikipedia Redfish/Stanley. Campgrounds in the Redfish Lake and Stanley area are perfect for water sports enthusiasts. Campsites are often near boat launches and rental facilities, providing easy access to kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. The crystal blue waters and surrounding mountains create the perfect backdrop for water adventures. Warm Lake. Warm Lake Campground is near the eastern shore of Warm Lake, at an elevation of 5,300 feet. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and viewing local wildlife. There is a swim beach under a mile away, at Warm Lake Lodge.   Best for Shoulder Season: Photo credit: Visit Idaho Bruneau Sand Dunes. Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park's campground is the perfect place to camp during the shoulder seasons when temperatures are cooler. The park offers standard and equestrian camping sites, and access to hiking trails and the observatory. Spring and fall are great times to explore the sand dunes without the stifling summer heat. City of Rocks National Reserve. Camping at City of Rocks National Reserve is perfect in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. The cooler weather is ideal for rock climbing, hiking, and exploring the scenic granite formations, and temperatures are typically more temperate in these seasons, hovering around 50 to 60 degrees.   Tips on securing a campsite: Book 6 months in advance on sites like recreation.gov. Check close to camping dates for last-minute cancellations. Go up during the week for better first-come-first-serve availability. For advanced/off-the-grid camping, buy an atlas and explore forest service roads.

View more