Best Campgrounds in Idaho

Towering mountains pierce the azure sky as crystal-clear alpine lakes reflect their majestic silhouettes. Dense forests of lodgepole pine and Douglas fir stretch across valleys carved by ancient glaciers, while wild rivers tumble through dramatic canyons. Welcome to Idaho—a camper’s paradise where the wilderness remains truly wild and outdoor adventures await around every bend.

The Gem State offers some of the most spectacular camping opportunities in the American West. From the jagged Sawtooth Mountains to the deep gorges of Hells Canyon, from bubbling hot springs to expansive meadows blanketed with wildflowers, Idaho’s diverse landscapes provide an extraordinary backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. The state’s relatively uncrowded campgrounds allow visitors to experience pristine natural settings without the crowds found in many other western destinations.

This guide explores Idaho’s most exceptional campgrounds—places where visitors can immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes, witness abundant wildlife, and discover the serenity that comes from connecting with the natural world. Whether seeking family-friendly amenities or remote wilderness solitude, these destinations showcase the best camping experiences the Gem State has to offer.

Redfish Lake – Sawtooth National Recreation Area

Number of Campsites: 120 (across 5 campgrounds)
Reservation Website: Recreation.gov
Address: 5 miles south of Stanley off Highway 75, Stanley, ID 83278

Nestled at the base of the spectacular Sawtooth Mountains, Redfish Lake stands as one of Idaho’s most iconic camping destinations. The crystal-clear alpine lake stretches across nearly 5 miles, its azure waters perfectly reflecting the jagged mountain peaks that rise dramatically from the shoreline. Snow-capped even in summer, these granite sentinels create a backdrop of such stunning beauty that first-time visitors often find themselves momentarily speechless.

The name “Redfish” comes from the brilliant sockeye salmon that once returned from the Pacific Ocean in such numbers they turned the lake red. While salmon populations have declined dramatically, conservation efforts continue, and the lake remains a centerpiece of this magnificent landscape. Five developed campgrounds ring the northern end of the lake, each offering slightly different experiences while sharing access to the spectacular scenery.

Morning at Redfish Lake brings a magical quality to the landscape as the first light illuminates the mountain peaks while mist rises gently from the lake’s surface. Days can be spent exploring hiking trails that range from easy lakeside strolls to challenging backcountry routes, paddling the clear waters by kayak or canoe, or simply relaxing on the small sandy beach. As evening approaches, the setting sun casts an alpenglow on the Sawtooth peaks—a pink-orange light that transforms the entire landscape into something otherworldly.

City of Rocks National Reserve

Number of Campsites: 64 (38 basic sites at Smoky Mountain Campground; 26 primitive sites throughout the reserve)
Reservation Website: Recreation.gov
Address: 3035 Elba-Almo Road, Almo, ID 83312

In southern Idaho’s high desert country stands a landscape so unusual it appears almost extraterrestrial—a “silent city” of enormous granite spires and monoliths that rise surprisingly from the sagebrush steppe. Some formations reach heights of 600 feet, their weathered surfaces telling geological stories spanning 2.5 billion years. This surreal rocky landscape attracted pioneers traveling the California Trail in the 1840s and 1850s, many of whom left signatures in axle grease that remain visible today.

The camping experience at City of Rocks immerses visitors in this extraordinary geological wonderland. Sites are tucked among the rock formations, often with massive granite walls providing natural shelter and privacy. At night, the vast Idaho sky reveals a dazzling display of stars, their brilliance magnified by the elevation and distance from urban light pollution.

Beyond its geological significance, City of Rocks has become an internationally renowned rock climbing destination, with over 700 routes ranging from beginner to expert levels. For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, miles of hiking trails wind through the formations, leading to hidden groves of aspen trees, seasonal streams, and panoramic viewpoints. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with chances to spot mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and golden eagles soaring above the rocky pinnacles.

Priest Lake State Park

Number of Campsites: 151 (combined between Indian Creek and Lionhead units)
Reservation Website: Idaho Parks and Recreation
Address: 314 Indian Creek Park Road, Coolin, ID 83821

In Idaho’s northern panhandle, surrounded by the Selkirk Mountains and lush forests of cedar, fir, and tamarack, lies a 19-mile-long lake of such extraordinary clarity that it’s often called “the crown jewel” of Idaho’s lake system. Priest Lake’s pristine waters reach depths of over 300 feet and display remarkable transparency—on calm days, objects can be visible many feet below the surface.

The state park encompasses two separate units along the eastern shoreline. Indian Creek, the larger unit, offers a more developed camping experience with amenities including a marina and beach area. Lionhead Unit provides a somewhat more secluded atmosphere while still maintaining excellent facilities. Both areas share the spectacular setting that makes Priest Lake special—dense forests extending right to the shoreline, mountain views across crystal waters, and a sense of serene isolation despite the developed campgrounds.

Summer days at Priest Lake bring warm temperatures perfect for swimming in the clean, clear waters or paddling along the shoreline. Hiking trails wind through old-growth forests where thousand-year-old cedars create cathedral-like spaces filled with filtered green light. Wildlife sightings are common, with possibilities including white-tailed deer, moose, black bears, and numerous bird species. As autumn approaches, the surrounding forests burst into brilliant colors, with the yellow glow of tamarack trees creating particularly striking reflections on the lake’s surface.

Sawtooth Lake – Sawtooth Wilderness

Number of Campsites: Unlimited (dispersed wilderness camping)
Reservation Website: Recreation.gov (wilderness permit required)
Address: Trailhead at Iron Creek Campground, 6 miles west of Stanley on Forest Road 619

For those willing to hike 5 miles with elevation gain, Sawtooth Lake offers one of Idaho’s most rewarding backcountry camping experiences. Situated at 8,435 feet elevation and spanning over 190 acres, this alpine jewel sits in a granite basin carved by ancient glaciers, directly beneath the imposing summit of Mount Regan which rises another 1,500 feet above the lakeshore.

Unlike developed campgrounds, Sawtooth Lake offers dispersed wilderness camping where visitors can select their own site following Leave No Trace principles and wilderness regulations. The result is an immersive experience in high alpine solitude—a chance to connect with one of America’s most spectacular mountain landscapes without the infrastructure of established campgrounds.

The journey to the lake follows the Iron Creek Trail through forests of subalpine fir and whitebark pine before opening to spectacular views of the Sawtooth Range. At Alpine Lake (the halfway point), many hikers pause to appreciate the preview of what’s to come. Upon reaching Sawtooth Lake, the landscape opens dramatically to reveal towering peaks reflected in crystal-clear waters. Mornings bring absolute stillness to the lake’s surface, creating mirror-like reflections of the surrounding mountains. Evenings often deliver alpenglow on the peaks and spectacular star-viewing opportunities in the clean mountain air.

Bruneau Dunes State Park

Number of Campsites: 98 (82 standard sites with electricity; 16 basic sites)
Reservation Website: Idaho Parks and Recreation
Address: 27608 Sand Dunes Road, Mountain Home, ID 83647

Rising unexpectedly from the Snake River Plain in southwestern Idaho, North America’s tallest single-structured sand dune reaches a height of 470 feet—a golden mountain of fine sand that seems transported from another continent. The dunes at Bruneau formed over thousands of years as prevailing winds deposited sand from the Snake River in a basin where unique wind patterns prevent the dunes from migrating, creating a stable dune system unlike most others in North America.

The campground sits near the base of these impressive formations, with sites arranged in two loops that offer varying degrees of shade from juniper and cottonwood trees. The contrast between the developed camping area and the otherworldly dune landscape creates a unique experience—modern amenities alongside a landscape that evokes the Sahara rather than Idaho.

Days at Bruneau offer numerous recreational possibilities. Many visitors hike to the summit of the tallest dune for sweeping views of the Snake River Plain and the distant Owyhee Mountains. Others bring sand boards or sleds to experience the thrill of sliding down the steep sandy slopes. The park also features a small observatory with Idaho’s largest public telescope, offering remarkable stargazing opportunities in the dark desert skies. Two small lakes at the base of the dunes provide fishing opportunities and attract numerous bird species, creating unexpected wildlife viewing in this desert environment.

Farragut State Park

Number of Campsites: 217 (across 7 distinct camping areas)
Reservation Website: Idaho Parks and Recreation
Address: 13550 E. Highway 54, Athol, ID 83801

On the southern shores of magnificent Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho’s deepest and largest lake, lies a 4,000-acre state park with a fascinating history. During World War II, this property served as the second-largest naval training station in the world, preparing over 293,000 sailors for war. Today, Farragut State Park combines this historical significance with outstanding natural beauty and recreational opportunities, creating one of northern Idaho’s premier camping destinations.

The park’s seven distinct camping areas offer experiences ranging from secluded tent sites to full-hookup RV facilities. Most campgrounds feature the park’s signature Ponderosa pines, which provide welcome shade during summer months and fill the air with their distinctive vanilla scent when warmed by the sun. The park’s massive size means that despite having over 200 campsites, areas rarely feel crowded, and quiet spots can always be found.

Lake Pend Oreille serves as the centerpiece attraction, with beaches and boat launches providing access to its stunning blue waters. The lake plunges to depths of over 1,150 feet and stretches across 43 miles, creating a playground for boating, fishing, swimming, and paddling. Beyond the lakeshore, the park contains over 40 miles of hiking and biking trails through diverse landscapes, from deep forests to open meadows. The Brig Museum preserves the area’s naval history, while an 18-basket disc golf course, volleyball courts, and playground areas provide additional recreation options.

Henrys Lake State Park

Number of Campsites: 83 (44 serviced sites; 39 standard sites)
Reservation Website: Idaho Parks and Recreation
Address: 3917 E. 5100 N., Island Park, ID 83429

At 6,500 feet elevation in eastern Idaho’s high country, Henrys Lake sits like a sapphire among mountains. This alpine lake spans 6,000 acres and is surrounded by the peaks of the Centennial Mountains and the Continental Divide, creating one of the most picturesque camping settings in the state. The lake and surrounding meadows form an ecological transition zone where forest meets prairie, creating diverse habitats that support abundant wildlife.

The campground stretches along the lake’s eastern shore, offering spectacular sunset views as the day’s last light illuminates the mountains. Most sites provide at least partial shade from stands of aspen and lodgepole pine. The high elevation creates a climate of cool evenings even in summer, with nighttime temperatures often dropping into the 40s—perfect for campfires and stargazing in the clear mountain air.

Henrys Lake has rightfully earned its reputation as a world-class fishery, particularly for cutthroat trout, brook trout, and rainbow-cutthroat hybrids known as “cut-bows.” Anglers come from around the world to test their skills against these fish, which can reach impressive sizes in the lake’s fertile waters. Beyond fishing, the park offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities—moose frequently wade in marshy areas along the shoreline, while sandhill cranes nest in nearby meadows. The park’s location just 15 miles from West Yellowstone makes it an excellent base for day trips into Yellowstone National Park.

Salmon River Canyons

Number of Campsites: Numerous beach campsites (accessible by multi-day river trip only)
Reservation Website: Recreation.gov (river permits required)
Address: Various launch points including Corn Creek Campground, Salmon, ID 83467

Few camping experiences can match the majesty of spending nights on sandy beaches deep within the River of No Return Wilderness along Idaho’s legendary Salmon River. This multi-day river journey takes adventurers through the second-deepest canyon in North America, where walls rise up to 6,000 feet from the riverbanks. The Main Salmon River corridor offers a perfect combination of exciting whitewater, spectacular scenery, fascinating history, and wilderness camping at its finest.

Unlike traditional campgrounds, river camping along the Salmon requires participation in a guided trip or securing a highly competitive private permit. The reward is access to pristine beaches that serve as riverside campsites, each offering unique features—some with hiking trails leading to elevated viewpoints, others with side creeks creating natural swimming pools, and many with sandy shores perfect for relaxation after a day on the water.

Days on the river blend excitement and tranquility as rafts or kayaks navigate rapids with names like Black Creek, Big Mallard, and Dried Meat, interspersed with peaceful stretches where ospreys and eagles soar overhead and bighorn sheep can be spotted on steep canyon walls. Nights bring a special magic to the canyon as the rushing water provides a constant soundtrack, canyon walls frame a narrow ribbon of star-filled sky, and campfires illuminate faces of fellow travelers sharing stories of the day’s adventures.

Ponderosa State Park

Number of Campsites: 163 (113 standard sites; 50 full-service sites)
Reservation Website: Idaho Parks and Recreation
Address: 1920 N. Davis Ave, McCall, ID 83638

On a forested peninsula extending into the crystal-clear waters of Payette Lake, Ponderosa State Park combines spectacular natural beauty with excellent facilities and convenient access to the charming mountain town of McCall. The park covers nearly 1,000 acres of the peninsula, with the developed camping areas situated on the wider southern portion, allowing easy access to both lakeshores.

The peninsula’s signature feature is its magnificent stand of 150-foot-tall ponderosa pines, some over 300 years old. These massive trees create a cathedral-like atmosphere throughout the campground, their reddish-orange bark glowing warmly in the sunlight and their high canopies providing dappled shade. Most campsites are nestled among these giants, creating natural privacy screens between neighboring sites.

Water activities naturally dominate recreation options, with two swimming beaches providing access to Payette Lake’s clean, clear waters. Kayaking and canoeing along the protected shoreline reveal hidden coves and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for osprey, bald eagles, and numerous waterfowl species. The park features over 1,000 acres of hiking trails, including a popular route to Osprey Point that offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Winter transforms the park into a wonderland for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, making this one of Idaho’s few true four-season camping destinations.

Craters of the Moon National Monument

Number of Campsites: 51 (first-come, first-served only)
Reservation Website: No reservations – first-come, first-served only
Address: 1266 Craters Loop Road, Arco, ID 83213

In central Idaho’s Snake River Plain lies a landscape so bizarre and otherworldly that Apollo astronauts once trained here to prepare for lunar missions. Vast fields of jagged black lava, cinder cones rising from the basalt plain, and lava tubes tunneling beneath the surface create a dramatic landscape that showcases the raw power of geological forces. Craters of the Moon National Monument preserves this volcanic wonderland and offers a camping experience unlike any other in Idaho.

The relatively small campground nestles against a backdrop of cinder cones, with sites arranged along a single loop road. Stands of limber pine—remarkable survivors in this harsh environment—provide welcome shade for many sites. The campground’s high elevation (5,900 feet) creates cool evenings even during summer months, a welcome relief after days exploring the sun-baked lava fields.

Days at Craters of the Moon can be spent exploring the monument’s fascinating features. The 7-mile loop drive provides access to major attractions, including opportunities to climb to the top of Inferno Cone for panoramic views, descend into lava tube caves, and walk among remarkably resilient wildflowers that somehow thrive in this seemingly inhospitable environment. As night falls, the monument’s remote location and minimal light pollution create exceptional stargazing opportunities—a fitting end to days spent in a landscape that resembles another world.

Final Thoughts About Camping in Idaho

Idaho’s diverse landscapes offer camping experiences to satisfy every outdoor enthusiast—from the rugged alpine grandeur of the Sawtooths to the otherworldly volcanic terrain of Craters of the Moon, from the pristine lakes of the northern panhandle to the deep river canyons of central Idaho. These campgrounds provide windows into the state’s remarkable natural heritage and opportunities to connect with landscapes that remain wild and relatively undiscovered.

What unites these varied camping destinations is their ability to immerse visitors in the authentic Idaho experience—a place where wilderness still dominates, where night skies remain dark enough to showcase the Milky Way, and where the rhythms of nature dictate the pace of life. Whether seeking the adventure of backcountry solitude or the comfort of developed facilities, Idaho’s campgrounds offer perfect basecamps for exploration and discovery.

As development pressures increase throughout the American West, these protected landscapes become increasingly precious. Each camping trip becomes not just a vacation but an opportunity to foster connection with the natural world and create memories that will last far longer than any digital entertainment. So gather your camping gear, secure your reservations, and prepare to discover why Idaho remains one of America’s premier destinations for those who seek authentic outdoor experiences.