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Idaho’s spring and summer seasons give the gift of blue skies, warm sunshine and a plenty of destinations to explore. This year, why not start planning your adventures before the season is in full swing? Kick start your camping daydreams with these out of the ordinary overnight adventures.

Willow Glamping Yurt at Castle Rocks State Park | Almo

woman sitting on bed in yurt
Get comfortable while glamping in this yurt. Photo Credit: Idaho Parks and Recreation.

New to the park in late 2017, Willow Glamping Yurt is a stylish abode that can accommodate up to four people. The yurt is fully equipped with some extra amenities including electric heat, wireless internet, a king-size bed with linens and a pull-out futon for additional guests. Outside, adventurers can enjoy the surrounding views from the yurt’s deck,  build a fire in the provided fire pit, or spend the day hiking, biking and exploring the surrounding acres of amazing terrain. Castle Rocks Lodge and shared facilities are located nearby for guest use.

Dream Above the Trees in a Fire Lookout | Throughout Idaho

9 Unique Idaho Camping Experiences
The Deadwood Recreation Cabin is located in the Boise National Forest. Photo Credit: Recreation.gov.

You’ve likely camped beneath the trees; this summer, camp above them. Idaho has nearly a dozen fire lookouts operated by the U.S. Forest Service that can be reserved for a unique camping experience. Lookouts are generally a single room offering 360-degree views of the surrounding forests and distant peaks. Each lookout is typically is outfitted with two twin beds and a propane stove. Campers must pack in all other supplies, including drinking water. Lookouts are available to rent July through September at www.recreation.gov.

Glamping Cabins at Moose Creek Ranch | Victor

tent cabin in the wildernes
Find your wild side. Photo Credit: MooseCreekRanch.com

For those seeking an outdoor escape with a touch of rustic luxury, book a Glamping Cabin at Moose Creek Ranch. Five wood-sided tents are set up along the banks of Moose Creek, each equipped with a queen-size log bed and wood stove. Each cabin has its own fire pit and shaded porch complete with reading chairs – the perfect setup for a relaxing afternoon or an evening under the stars.

Stay in a Treehouse on Lake Pend Oreille | Sandpoint

9 Unique Idaho Camping Experiences
Enjoy an Idaho vacation in a whimsical stay in a treehouse. Photo Credit: Airbnb.com.

Make your childhood dreams come true with a treehouse sleepover. This three-story home located just outside Sandpoint has splendid views overlooking Lake Pend Oreille. Guests have a private dock and seating area to sit back, relax and take in the views. The whimsical treehouse has one king bed, a small kitchenette, and a small bathroom, and is best suited for two guests. Be advised that this adventure is not suitable for young children or those that are physically unable to climb steep stairs.

Huckleberry Tent & Breakfast | Clark Fork

Huckleberry Tent & Breakfast
Cozy up at Huckleberry Tent & Breakfast. Photo Credit: Huckleberry Tent & Breakfast.

This wilderness getaway is where the fun of camping meets the luxuries of a bed & breakfast. Huckleberry Tent & Breakfast offers three secluded campsites, each outfitted with a canvas-walled tent, a private, screened camp kitchen with a propane stove and water pump, an airy, comfortable outhouse, an outdoor heated shower and a private fire pit that is furnished with camp furniture and citronella candles to keep the bugs away. Each morning, guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast made with ingredients straight from the homestead farm. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience!

River Dance Lodge | Kooskia

River Dance _ credit Kevin Kieran
Soak up the outdoors. Photo Credit: Kevin Kieran

In addition to easy access to some of the best outdoor activities in the area, River Dance Lodge offers luxury glamping tents for guests seeking a unique stay. Each canvas tent has a king bed that can be separated into two twin beds, a seating area and a small wood stove. A small deck extends behind each tent where guests can take a steamy soak in an antique claw foot tub. There is a shared area with fire pits and picnic tables right outside the tents for guest use. Pack the s’mores supplies and get ready for a weekend under the stars.

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Linn Canyon Ranch | Teton Valley

camping ten
Photo Credit: LinnCanyonRanch.com.

Nestled in the western foothills of the Teton Mountains, Linn Canyon Ranch is known for providing a western adventure with superb hospitality. In addition to the main lodge, the ranch offers several luxury tents that “combine the best of luxurious accommodations with nature’s simple pleasures.” Comfortable beds, soft linens, and breathtaking views make for a wild yet elegant experience. Guests can use the bathroom and shower facilities, dining room and lounge area in the main lodge.

Teepee Camping at Wagonhammer | North Fork

inside of a camping tepee.
Enjoy a new way to sleep in a teepee at Wagonhammer. Photo Credit: Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground/Facebook.

Idaho’s Salmon River is known for some of the best steelhead fishing and whitewater rafting around and a stay at Wagonhammer gives you a front row seat to the action. Located on the banks of the Salmon River, several teepees are situated under shady trees where guests can kick back and relax. The teepees are not furnished, so be sure to pack a sleeping bag and pad.

Stay in a Dome at Miracle Hot Springs | Buhl

domes for camping
Get cozy camping in a dome. Photo Credit: Miracle & Banbury Hot Springs/Facebook.

Why limit a hot springs adventure to a day trip when you could stay for the weekend! The Domes at Miracle Hot Springs offer several overnight options, including the Queen and King Domes which are fully-furnished with a bed, dresser and seating, and the Camping Dome, a canvas-covered, geodesic structure that is furnished with six sleeping pads (bedding not provided). The floor of each dome is heated with geothermal water, making for a cozy stay all year round. Domes are reserved by the night, so be sure to make a reservation ahead of time.

For a look at other places to stay in Idaho, click here.

Feature image credited to Kevin Kieran.

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Published on April 10, 2018