Title: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Camping Spots in Idaho
What are the best times of year to go camping in Idaho?
The best times of year for camping in Idaho depend on the type of experience you're looking for. Each season offers unique opportunities and challenges:Spring (April-May): Spring is a great time for camping at lower elevations, like along rivers or in the high desert. Temperatures are mild during the day but can still get chilly at night. Wildflowers start to bloom, making for scenic hikes. However, some higher elevation campgrounds may not open until late spring due to snow.Summer (June-August): Summer is peak camping season in Idaho, with warm, sunny days perfect for hiking, boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. All campgrounds are open, but popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. Make reservations well in advance. Higher elevations offer cooler temperatures if the lowlands get too hot.Fall (September-October): Fall brings cooler temperatures and stunning foliage to Idaho's mountains. It's a great time for camping if you don't mind chilly nights. Crowds thin out after Labor Day, so it's easier to find campsites. Hunting season starts in October, so wear bright colors if hiking in hunting areas.Winter (November-March): Winter camping is possible in Idaho for the adventurous. Some campgrounds remain open with limited services. Snow allows for activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Proper gear and preparation are essential, as temperatures often drop below freezing.In general, the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall offer a nice balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and access to most campgrounds. Summer provides the warmest temperatures and easiest access, but with more people. Winter is for hardy campers seeking snowy solitude.Where are the top campgrounds and RV parks located?
Idaho has an abundance of excellent campgrounds and RV parks scattered throughout the state. Here are some of the top spots:Northern Idaho:
- Farragut State Park - Large campground with over 200 sites near Lake Pend Oreille
- Priest Lake State Park - Scenic lakeside camping with opportunities for boating and fishing
- Heyburn State Park - Idaho's oldest state park, located on Lake Coeur d'Alene
Central Idaho:
- Ponderosa State Park - Forested campground on a peninsula in Payette Lake near McCall
- Redfish Lake Campground - Popular spot in the Sawtooth Mountains with stunning lake and mountain views
- Kirkham Hot Springs Campground - Rustic campground along the South Fork Payette River with natural hot springs
Eastern Idaho:
- Henrys Lake State Park - Campground near the west entrance of Yellowstone, known for great trout fishing
- Harriman State Park - Located in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem with miles of trails and wildlife viewing opportunities
Southern Idaho:
- Bruneau Dunes State Park - Unique campground with Idaho's tallest sand dune and a small lake
- Castle Rocks State Park - Campground set among dramatic rock formations, popular with climbers
- Lake Walcott State Park - Campground along the Snake River with boating, fishing, and birding opportunities
RV Parks:
- Mountain View RV Park - Spacious RV park near Craters of the Moon National Monument
- Boise Riverside RV Park - Conveniently located RV park on the Boise River Greenbelt
- Snake River RV Park & Campground - Scenic RV park in Idaho Falls with river access
What national parks and forests in Idaho have great camping?
Idaho is home to a variety of national parks, monuments, and forests that offer excellent camping opportunities. Here are some of the top spots:National Parks and Monuments:
- Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve - This unique landscape features lava flows, cinder cones, and caves. The monument has a 51-site campground open seasonally.
- City of Rocks National Reserve - Known for its dramatic rock formations, this reserve in southern Idaho has a campground with 64 sites and opportunities for climbing, hiking, and biking.
- Nez Perce National Historical Park - While the park itself doesn't have camping, nearby national forest campgrounds provide a base for exploring this park's significant Native American cultural sites.
National Forests:
- Sawtooth National Forest - This central Idaho forest is home to the Sawtooth Mountains and numerous campgrounds, including popular spots like Redfish Lake, Alturas Lake, and Stanley Lake.
- Payette National Forest - Located in west-central Idaho, this forest has over 70 campgrounds, many along the Payette River system. Highlights include Burgdorf Hot Springs and Ponderosa State Park.
- Caribou-Targhee National Forest - Spanning eastern Idaho, this forest offers camping near attractions like Mesa Falls and Cave Falls. Popular campgrounds include Palisades Creek and Teton Canyon.
- Boise National Forest - Just north of Boise, this forest has a variety of campgrounds within easy reach of the city. Favorites include Deadwood Reservoir and Sagehen Creek.
- Panhandle National Forests - The combined Coeur d'Alene and Kaniksu National Forests in northern Idaho offer numerous campgrounds near lakes like Priest Lake and Lake Pend Oreille.
What are some tips for camping in Idaho?
Camping in Idaho can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be prepared. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:- Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Idaho's weather can be variable, especially in the mountains. Be prepared for cold nights even in summer, and bring rain gear just in case.
- Make reservations in advance for popular campgrounds, particularly on summer weekends. Many sites can be booked up to six months ahead of time.
- Bring insect repellent and know how to identify and avoid poison ivy and other irritating plants. Mosquitoes and ticks can be prevalent in some areas.
- Store food properly in bear country. Many of Idaho's forests are home to black bears. Use bear-proof containers or provided food lockers, and never store food in your tent.
- Be fire safe. Check current fire restrictions before building a campfire, and make sure your fire is completely extinguished before leaving the area.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and leave your campsite cleaner than you found it.
- Bring plenty of water or a way to purify water from natural sources. Don't assume potable water will be available at your campsite.
- Be prepared for changing road conditions. Some forest roads may be rough, muddy, or impassable early or late in the season. Check with the local ranger station for current conditions.
- Respect wildlife. Keep a safe distance from all animals, and never feed them. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears or moose.
- Have a backup plan. Wildfires, floods, or other natural events can cause campground closures. Be flexible and have alternative sites in mind.
Is it legal to camp anywhere in Idaho? What are the rules?
While Idaho has millions of acres of public lands open to camping, there are rules and regulations to follow. Here's what you need to know:Developed Campgrounds:
Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds managed by state parks, national forests, BLM, and other agencies. These sites typically have amenities like toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. Camping fees usually apply, and some sites may require reservations.Dispersed Camping:
Dispersed camping, also known as primitive or undeveloped camping, is allowed on most national forest and BLM lands in Idaho. This means you can camp outside of designated campgrounds, as long as you follow certain guidelines:- Camp at least 100-200 feet away from water sources, trails, and roads.
- Use existing campsites if available to minimize impact.
- Pack out all trash and dispose of waste properly. Bury human waste at least 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet from water.
- Don't camp in areas closed to camping, such as trailheads, picnic areas, or sensitive wildlife habitats.
- Dispersed camping is typically limited to 14-16 days in one spot, after which you need to move to a new location.
Private Property:
Camping on private property is only allowed with the permission of the landowner. Don't assume that unmarked land is public - check maps or land ownership records to be sure.City and County Parks:
Camping rules in city and county parks vary. Some may allow overnight camping with a permit, while others prohibit it entirely. Check with the specific park for their regulations.State Parks:
Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds within Idaho state parks. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. Some parks also offer backcountry camping with a permit.Wilderness Areas:
In federally designated wilderness areas, dispersed camping is allowed, but with additional restrictions to preserve the natural environment. Group size may be limited, and camping is not allowed within 100 feet of lakes, streams, and trails.Always check with the local land management agency for specific camping rules and current restrictions before heading out. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a legal and low-impact camping experience in Idaho's beautiful public lands.What does the 14-day camping limit in Idaho mean?
The 14-day camping limit is a common rule on many public lands in Idaho, particularly national forests and BLM lands. Here's what you need to know:- Campers are allowed to stay in a single spot for up to 14 days within a 30-day period. After 14 days, you must move your camp to a new location at least 5 miles away.
- The 14-day limit applies to both developed campgrounds and dispersed camping areas.
- The purpose of this rule is to prevent long-term occupancy and resource damage in popular camping areas. It helps ensure that campsites are available for others to use and minimizes the environmental impact of prolonged stays.
- The 14-day limit is cumulative and applies to the entire national forest or BLM district, not just a single campground. So, for example, you can't spend 14 days in one campground, then immediately move to another campground within the same forest for another 14 days.
- After reaching the 14-day limit, you must leave the national forest or BLM district entirely for at least 16 days before returning to camp again.
- Some areas may have shorter stay limits, such as 7 or 10 days, so always check the specific regulations for your camping location.
- If you need to camp for longer than 14 days, you may be able to obtain an extended stay permit from the local ranger district office. These are typically granted for specific reasons, such as seasonal employment or medical needs.
Is boondocking or dispersed camping allowed in Idaho?
Yes, boondocking and dispersed camping are allowed on many public lands in Idaho, particularly in national forests and on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) lands. Here's what you need to know:Boondocking, also known as dispersed camping, primitive camping, or dry camping, refers to camping outside of developed campgrounds. It typically means camping without amenities like toilets, running water, or picnic tables.In Idaho, dispersed camping is allowed in most national forests and on BLM lands, with a few exceptions. Here are some general guidelines:- Camp at existing dispersed sites if available, to minimize impact on the environment. If no sites exist, choose a spot at least 100-200 feet away from water sources, trails, and roads.
- Use a camp stove or fire pan for cooking. Campf
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Yes, boondocking and dispersed camping are allowed on many public lands in Idaho, particularly in national forests and on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) lands. Here's what you need to know:
Boondocking, also known as dispersed camping, primitive camping, or dry camping, refers to camping outside of developed campgrounds. It typically means camping without amenities like toilets, running water, or picnic tables.In Idaho, dispersed camping is allowed in most national forests and on BLM lands, with a few exceptions. Here are some general guidelines:
- Camp at existing dispersed sites if available, to minimize impact on the environment. If no sites exist, choose a spot at least 100-200 feet away from water sources, trails, and roads.
- Use a camp stove or fire pan for cooking. Campfires may be allowed in existing fire rings, but check current fire restrictions before building a fire.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, dispose of human waste properly (bury it 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water), and minimize your impact on the land.
- Don't camp in areas closed to camping, such as trailheads, picnic areas, or sensitive wildlife habitats.
- Dispersed camping is typically limited to 14-16 days in one spot, after which you need to move to a new location at least 5 miles away.
- Some areas may have additional restrictions or permit requirements for dispersed camping. Always check with the local ranger station or BLM office for specific guidelines.
- Sawtooth National Forest
- Payette National Forest
- Boise National Forest
- Caribou-Targhee National Forest
- Salmon-Challis National Forest
- Idaho Panhandle National Forests
- BLM lands in southern and eastern Idaho
How do I reserve a campsite in Idaho?
Reserving a campsite in Idaho is a good idea, especially if you plan to camp in popular areas or during peak season (June-August). Here's how to reserve a campsite:- Determine where you want to camp. Idaho has campgrounds managed by various agencies, including Idaho State Parks, National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
- Check the reservation system for the specific campground you're interested in. Each agency has its own reservation system:
- Idaho State Parks: Use the Idaho State Parks reservation system at idahostateparks.reserveamerica.com. Reservations can be made up to 9 months in advance.
- National Parks: Use the National Park Service reservation system at recreation.gov. Reservation windows vary by park, but typically open 6-12 months in advance.
- U.S. Forest Service: Most Forest Service campgrounds in Idaho use recreation.gov for reservations. Some campgrounds are first-come, first-served.
- BLM: Some BLM campgrounds in Idaho use recreation.gov for reservations, while others are first-come, first-served.
- Create an account on the appropriate reservation system if you don't already have one. You'll need to provide personal information and payment details.
- Search for available campsites on your desired dates. You can usually filter by campground, site type (tent, RV, etc.), and amenities.
- Select your preferred campsite and add it to your cart. Review the reservation details and campground policies before proceeding.
- Pay the reservation fee and any additional charges, such as park entrance fees or extra vehicle fees. Most reservations require full payment at the time of booking.
- Print or save your reservation confirmation. You may need to present this upon arrival at the campground.
- Make reservations early, especially for holiday weekends or popular campgrounds. Some sites book up months in advance.
- If you can't find availability for your desired dates, check back periodically for cancellations or try a different campground.
- Be aware of cancellation policies. Some campgrounds charge a fee for cancellations or changes, and you may forfeit your payment if you cancel too close to your arrival date.
- If you're unable to make a reservation, some campgrounds offer first-come, first-served sites. Arrive early in the day for the best chance of securing a spot.
What are some of the best camping spots near Boise?
Boise, Idaho's capital city, is surrounded by beautiful natural areas that offer plenty of camping opportunities. Here are some of the best camping spots near Boise:- Lucky Peak State Park (30 minutes from Boise)
- Located on the shores of Lucky Peak Lake, this state park offers camping, boating, fishing, and hiking.
- The park has several campgrounds, including Discovery Park and Spring Shores Marina, with a mix of RV and tent sites.
- Boise National Forest (1-2 hours from Boise)
- The Boise National Forest covers over 2 million acres and has numerous campgrounds, many within easy reach of the city.
- Popular campgrounds include Grayback Gulch, Cottonwood Creek, and Willow Creek.
- The forest also offers dispersed camping opportunities for a more primitive experience.
- Payette National Forest (2-3 hours from Boise)
- The Payette National Forest is known for its scenic beauty, with mountains, rivers, and hot springs.
- Campgrounds like Kirkham Hot Springs and Bull Trout Lake offer a mix of developed sites and dispersed camping.
- The forest is also home to Ponderosa State Park, which has a large campground on the shores of Payette Lake.
- Bruneau Dunes State Park (1 hour from Boise)
- This unique state park features the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America, rising 470 feet above the surrounding desert.
- The park has a campground with RV and tent sites, as well as cabins for rent.
- Activities include hiking, sandboarding, fishing, and stargazing at the on-site observatory.
- Three Island Crossing State Park (1.5 hours from Boise)
- Located along the Snake River, this state park offers camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
- The park has a campground with RV and tent sites, as well as cabins and a group yurt.
- Nearby attractions include the Oregon Trail History Center and the Guffey Railroad Bridge.
- Hells Canyon National Recreation Area (3-4 hours from Boise)
- While a bit further from Boise, Hells Canyon is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- The recreation area has several campgrounds along the Snake River and in the Seven Devils Mountains.
- Activities include hiking, fishing, boating, and scenic driving along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway.
Where can I find remote, uncrowded camping in Idaho?
If you're looking to escape the crowds and find a more remote, secluded camping experience in Idaho, you have plenty of options. Here are some areas to consider:- Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness
- This vast wilderness area in central Idaho covers over 2 million acres and is the largest contiguous wilderness in the Lower 48 states.
- Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the wilderness, offering a true backcountry experience.
- Access is limited and often requires a long drive on rough forest roads or a multi-day backpacking trip.
- Popular areas include the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, the Bighorn Crags, and the Sawtooth Mountains.
- Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness
- Located along the Idaho-Montana border, this wilderness area covers over 1 million acres.
- Dispersed camping is allowed, but access is limited due to the rugged terrain and lack of roads.
- The Selway River and its tributaries offer excellent fishing and remote camping opportunities.
- The area is known for its scenic beauty, with lush forests, alpine lakes, and rugged peaks.
- Owyhee Canyonlands
- This remote area in southwestern Idaho is known for its rugged canyons, desert landscapes, and hot springs.
- Dispersed camping is allowed on BLM lands throughout the area.
- Access can be challenging, often requiring high-clearance 4WD vehicles and navigating rough, unmarked roads.
- Popular areas include the Bruneau-Jarbidge Rivers Wilderness, the Little Jacks Creek Wilderness, and the Owyhee River Wilderness.
- Sawtooth National Recreation Area
- While some parts of the Sawtooth NRA can be crowded, especially around popular lakes like Redfish and Stanley, there are still opportunities for remote camping.
- Backpacking into the Sawtooth Wilderness or White Cloud Mountains offers a chance to escape the crowds and find solitude.
- Dispersed camping is allowed in many parts of the recreation area, but be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and camp at least 100 feet from water sources and trails.
- Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests
- These combined national forests in north-central Idaho offer over 4 million acres of rugged, remote terrain.
- Dispersed camping is allowed throughout much of the forest, but access can be limited due to rough roads and dense vegetation.
- The Selway River, Lochsa River, and Gospel-Hump Wilderness are popular areas for remote camping and fishing.
