Camping

Unlock the wonders of camping in Idaho, where 4.8 million acres of public lands offer an abundance of natural splendor. Whether you’re embracing the elegance of a glamping getaway, roughing it in the backcountry or reveling in the unbelievable panoramic views of a fire lookout, finding a great place to go camping in Idaho is as easy as toasting a marshmallow.

Choose Your Base Camp

Pitch your tent in a scenic state park or unplug in Idaho’s lush forests. Find a campsite that’s just right for your style of adventure.

Inspo Incoming

Get a little taste of what camping in Idaho has in store with beginner’s guides, firsthand narratives, detailed itineraries and more.

Show Me More Travel Tips

mom sitting outside glamping tent with baby

A Kid-Friendly Glamping Road Trip Through Idaho

woman standing outside deck of fire lookout

10 Amazing Idaho Fire Lookouts You Can Rent for the Night

Camping in City of the Rocks State Park.

Curious About Camping in Idaho’s State Parks? Here Are Some Ideas to Get You Started.

A Beginner’s Guide to Camping in Idaho

Sleep Beneath the Stars

Add a little sparkle to your experience camping in Idaho by exploring the stellar stargazing opportunities at one of the state’s International Dark Sky Places.

Where to Go

A view of the Milky Way and tree silhouettes at the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve.

An Idaho Star-Studded Summer Adventure

A green tent under night sky in Stanley, Idaho.

Why Idaho’s Night Skies Are the Gold Standard for Stargazing

A camping van with a tent on the roof with the Milky Way seen in the starry night sky.

Idaho’s New Dark Sky Park: A Must-See for Stargazers and Adventure Seekers

The Milky Way and stars over the snow covered Boulder Mountains in Central Idaho.

Starry-Eyed Adventures: Discover Idaho’s Dark Skies

Travel With Care

During your camping trip, stay safe, be welcoming and do your part to keep Idaho’s landscapes clean and pristine with these tips.

Care for Idaho

“Leave it better than you found it” is the motto! Pack out what you pack in and leave space in your vehicle to haul away your trash. Always use designated fire rings or grills when you’re cooking, and drown out those campfires after you finish roasting your marshmallows.

Care for Yourself

Before you head out, make sure you’re dressed appropriately for the weather and have plenty of food and water. Plan ahead, bring a camping buddy and know your limits.

Care for Others

Patience and kindness can go a long way! Be friendly to your camping neighbors, be respectful of private property and say a quick “hello” to those passing you on a trail.

Learn More About Traveling With Care

Know Before You Go

Gear Up for a Getaway

Checklist

Water, food
Wireless cellphone charger
Sun hat with brim
Bandana or neck gaiter
Sunglasses
Sunscreen, insect repellent, bear spray, bear canister
Extra layers of clothing: short-sleeved synthetic T-shirts, sun sleeves, nylon or polyester long-sleeved shirts, convertible nylon pants, wind jacket

Activities

A man wearing a red backpack hikes to Elephants Perch during fall in the Sawtooth Mountains near Stanley.

Featured Travel Tips

Stay at This Boat-In Campground on an Idaho Island

Try These 14 Idaho Campgrounds Near Yellowstone National Park

Exploring Fire Lookouts and Natural Wonders in Northern Idaho

Find More Summer Camping Travel Tips

Bundle Up for a Winter Escape

Checklist

Water, food
Wireless cellphone charger
Gloves, blankets
Sunscreen, lip balm
Ice scraper, snow brush
Extra layers of clothing: midweight polyester long underwear, polyester or fleece jackets and pants, waterproof/breathable jacket with hood
Tire chains, shovel