Idaho is a state filled with breathtaking landscapes, from rugged mountains to serene lakes and winding rivers. For RVers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Gem State, Idaho's state parks offer some of the best camping experiences. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a beginner looking for a memorable road trip, RV camping in Idaho state parks is a fantastic way to experience the state’s outdoor offerings.
In this guide, we’ll explore all the state parks in Idaho, discuss why RV camping is so popular in these parks, and provide tips for those new to RV camping. By the end of this blog, you’ll be ready to plan your own Idaho state parks camping adventure.
Idaho State Parks Camping: A Guide to Outdoor Adventures
Idaho boasts 40 state parks, each offering its own unique attractions, from historic sites to outdoor recreation like boating, fishing, and hiking. The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation manages these parks, overseeing recreational permits and administering park facilities. Here’s a list of the state parks you’ll want to explore during your RV camping journey:
1. Ashton-Tetonian Trail
The Ashton-Tetonia Trail is a 29-mile rail trail that winds through scenic farmlands and mountainous terrain in eastern Idaho. Popular with cyclists and hikers, this trail offers beautiful views of the Teton Mountains and the agricultural valleys below. Along the way, visitors can spot historic railroad trestles and native wildlife, making it a great stop for RVers looking to explore Idaho’s backcountry on foot or by bike. The Idaho State Parks Passport allows for vehicle entry and access to various park activities, making it easier for visitors to enjoy these recreational opportunities.
2. Bear Lake State Park
Located on the Idaho-Utah border, Bear Lake offers stunning turquoise waters. The park is known for its sandy beaches and opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing.
3. Bruneau Dunes State Park
Home to the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America, Bruneau Dunes State Park is perfect for stargazing, sandboarding, and hiking.
4. Castle Rocks State Park
A favorite among rock climbers, Castle Rocks State Park offers hiking, bird watching, and access to historic ranches.
5. Challis Hot Springs
Challis Hot Springs is not officially a state park, but it’s a popular destination for RVers looking to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of natural hot springs. Nestled along the Salmon River in central Idaho, this privately-owned facility offers RV camping with easy access to relaxing hot springs pools. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of exploring the nearby Land of the Yankee Fork State Park or other nearby attractions like the Salmon River Scenic Byway.
6. City of Rocks National Reserve
Adjacent to Castle Rocks, this national reserve is known for its dramatic granite formations, rock climbing opportunities, and scenic hiking trails.
7. Coeur d’Alene Parkway
Located along the shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene, this park is ideal for RVers who love cycling and walking. The Centennial Trail runs through the park, offering stunning lake views.
8. Coeur d’Alene’s Old Mission State Park
Coeur d’Alene’s Old Mission State Park is home to Idaho’s oldest standing building, the Cataldo Mission, built in the 1850s. This park offers a blend of history and scenic beauty, with interpretive exhibits that tell the story of early Idaho settlement and the Native American history of the region. The park also offers hiking trails and picnic areas, making it a great stop for RVers who appreciate history and culture.
9. Dworshak State Park
Nestled along Dworshak Reservoir, this park is perfect for boating and fishing. The park also features shaded RV camping spots, making it a great summer destination.
10. Eagle Island State Park
Situated near Boise, Eagle Island is a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, and disc golf. Its central location makes it an ideal stop for RVers passing through southern Idaho.
11. Elk River Backcountry Byway
The Elk River Backcountry Byway takes visitors on a 57-mile journey through the rugged backcountry of northern Idaho. This scenic route winds through dense forests, past roaring waterfalls, and offers access to remote fishing lakes and hiking trails. RVers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure will appreciate the solitude and natural beauty that this byway offers.
12. Farragut State Park
Once a World War II-era naval training station, Farragut State Park is now a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers miles of trails, lake access, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
13. Harriman State Park
A 16,000-acre wildlife refuge in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, Harriman State Park is known for its scenic views, fly fishing opportunities, and cross-country skiing trails in the winter.
14. Hells Gate State Park
Located at the gateway to Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America, Hells Gate State Park is a popular destination for RVers seeking outdoor adventure and stunning landscapes. Situated along the Snake River near Lewiston, the park offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. RVers can enjoy spacious campsites with easy access to river activities and miles of scenic trails. The park is also a great spot for learning about the Nez Perce Tribe’s history and the region’s role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
15. Henrys Lake State Park
Known for its world-class fishing, Henrys Lake State Park is a paradise for anglers and nature lovers. Located near the Idaho-Montana border, the park offers RV campers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and access to Henrys Lake, one of the best trout-fishing lakes in the West. In addition to fishing, the park provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. RV campsites are well-equipped, making it an ideal base for exploring nearby Yellowstone National Park or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the lake.
16. Heyburn State Park
Established in 1908, Heyburn is Idaho’s oldest state park. Located on the shores of Lake Chatcolet, it offers boating, hiking, and birdwatching, making it an excellent RV camping spot.
17. Lake Cascade State Park
This park is a haven for water enthusiasts. Lake Cascade is perfect for boating, fishing, and windsurfing, with several campsites providing stunning lake views.
18. Lake Walcott State Park
Lake Walcott State Park is a tranquil retreat located in southern Idaho, near the Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge. This park is perfect for RVers seeking a peaceful camping experience with access to boating, fishing, and birdwatching. Lake Walcott’s calm waters are ideal for kayaking and canoeing, while the park’s trails offer opportunities for hiking and exploring the local wildlife. With spacious RV campsites and plenty of shade from large trees, this park provides a great escape from the summer heat.
19. Land of the Yankee Fork State Park
Located in central Idaho, Land of the Yankee Fork State Park offers a fascinating glimpse into Idaho’s rich mining history. The park features historical sites like the ghost towns of Bonanza and Custer, as well as interpretive exhibits on Idaho’s gold rush era. RVers can explore the scenic landscapes of the Salmon River and the surrounding mountains while learning about the region’s past. The park also provides access to nearby recreation areas, including the Salmon River for fishing and rafting, and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area for hiking and wildlife viewing.
20. Lucky Peak State Park
Located just outside of Boise, Lucky Peak is a popular park for water sports, picnics, and swimming. It’s a great stop for RVers exploring southern Idaho.
21. Main Oregon Trail Backcountry Byway
The Main Oregon Trail Backcountry Byway offers RVers a scenic 102-mile journey through southern Idaho, tracing the historic path of the Oregon Trail. Along the way, visitors can explore interpretive signs, preserved wagon ruts, and historical landmarks. Ideal for history buffs and nature lovers, this byway showcases Idaho’s rugged landscapes. While much of the route is RV-accessible, some sections are rugged, so checking road conditions in advance is recommended.
22. Massacre Rocks State Park
Known for its dramatic rock formations and rich history along the Oregon Trail, Massacre Rocks is a great place for history lovers and rock climbers alike.
23. McCroskey State Park
McCroskey State Park spans 5,300 acres in northern Idaho and offers 32 miles of backcountry roads and trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. This park provides a more rustic and remote camping experience, making it ideal for RVers who want to get away from it all and immerse themselves in Idaho’s wilderness. The park offers breathtaking views of the Palouse region and is rich in wildlife.
24. Mesa Falls Scenic Byway
The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway is a 28-mile drive through some of Idaho’s most beautiful natural landscapes, offering stunning views of Upper and Lower Mesa Falls, and two of the last major waterfalls on the Snake River untouched by manmade structures. RVers traveling along this byway can stop and hike, picnic, or simply enjoy the scenic overlooks. It’s a must-see for anyone exploring the eastern part of the state.
25. Northwest Passage Scenic Byway
The Northwest Passage Scenic Byway follows the path of Lewis and Clark’s historic expedition through northern Idaho. This 202-mile route offers a deep dive into the history and culture of the region, passing through the Nez Perce Reservation and along the Clearwater and Lochsa Rivers. The byway provides plenty of opportunities for RVers to pull off and explore historical sites, wildlife habitats, and recreational areas.
26. Oregon Trail-Bear Lake Scenic Byway
This scenic byway traces the historic Oregon Trail through southeastern Idaho, providing stunning views of Bear Lake and the surrounding mountains. For RVers interested in the history of westward expansion, the byway offers stops at important landmarks along the trail, interpretive exhibits, and the chance to follow in the footsteps of pioneers. The breathtaking vistas of Bear Lake make this a visually spectacular route.
27. Owyhee Uplands Backcountry Byway
The Owyhee Uplands Backcountry Byway, also known as the “Oregon Trail Backcountry Byway,” is a rugged 100-mile drive through the remote Owyhee Canyonlands in southwestern Idaho. This byway offers a true off-the-grid experience for RVers seeking solitude and adventure. The route is known for its dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and access to remote camping, hiking, and fishing spots.
28. Payette River Scenic Byway
The Payette River Scenic Byway takes RVers along a picturesque journey following the Payette River from the Boise area to McCall. This 112-mile route is perfect for those seeking riverfront camping, fishing, and whitewater rafting opportunities. With several state parks, including Lake Cascade and Ponderosa, along the way, RVers can enjoy beautiful campsites with access to the river, hiking trails, and scenic vistas.
29. Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway
The Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway offers one of Idaho’s most dramatic drives, connecting the towering Lost River Range, home to Idaho’s highest peak, Borah Peak, to the volcanic landscapes of Craters of the Moon National Monument. RVers traveling this byway will experience diverse landscapes, from high alpine environments to lava fields. It’s a must-drive route for those who want to see the geological wonders of Idaho.
30. Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway
The Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway runs from Boise to Stanley, offering RVers a winding, scenic route through dense pine forests, alongside the Boise River, and past historic mining towns. This 130-mile byway provides access to camping, hiking, and fishing, as well as stunning views of the Sawtooth Mountains. It’s a perfect route for those who want to explore the heart of Idaho’s wilderness.
31. Ponderosa State Park
Situated on a peninsula in Payette Lake, Ponderosa State Park is a favorite among RVers for its scenic views, active wildlife, and access to outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.
32. Priest Lake State Park
Located on the shores of Priest Lake, this park is known for its clear waters and views of the Selkirk Mountains. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to kayak, fish, or simply relax by the water.
33. Round Lake State Park
A smaller, more intimate park, Round Lake offers a peaceful camping experience with opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and hiking.
34. Salmon River Scenic Byway
This byway follows the Salmon River, also known as “The River of No Return,” through some of the most rugged terrain in Idaho. The Salmon River Scenic Byway is 161 miles long, connecting Stanley to the Montana border. RVers will have the opportunity to stop at various historic sites, hiking trails, and natural hot springs along the way. The byway is also famous for its whitewater rafting opportunities.
35. Thousand Springs Scenic Byway
The Thousand Springs Scenic Byway takes travelers through the scenic Snake River Canyon, where they’ll witness the dramatic waterfalls and crystal-clear springs that give the area its name. RVers will have access to several state parks along this route, including Thousand Springs State Park and Ritter Island, where they can hike, picnic, and take in the beauty of southern Idaho’s unique geology.
36. Thousand Springs State Park
Known for its striking waterfalls and crystal-clear springs, Thousand Springs is a must-see for RVers exploring southern Idaho.
37. Three Island Crossing State Park
Another park with rich historical significance, Three Island Crossing was an important crossing point on the Oregon Trail. The park offers interpretive exhibits, hiking trails, and river access.
38. Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes
The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes is a 73-mile paved trail that stretches across northern Idaho, running through scenic forests, wetlands, and alongside rivers. It’s a favorite for RVers who bring bicycles along for their trip, as the trail offers a smooth, well-maintained path for cycling, hiking, and wildlife viewing. With several access points and adjacent campgrounds, this trail is a great addition to an RV adventure.
39. White Pine Scenic Byway
The White Pine Scenic Byway offers a 44-mile drive through the towering white pine forests of northern Idaho. The byway passes through historic mining areas and provides access to several hiking trails and scenic overlooks. RVers who love forested environments and serene landscapes will enjoy the peaceful drive and the opportunities for camping in the surrounding wilderness.
40. Winchester Lake State Park
A quiet retreat in northern Idaho, Winchester Lake is perfect for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the beauty of the region.
Overview of Idaho’s State Parks
Idaho’s state parks are a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, offering something for everyone. With over 30 parks to choose from, visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of landscapes, from the towering sand dunes of Bruneau Dunes State Park to the serene waters of Priest Lake State Park. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a passionate angler, or simply looking to relax in nature, Idaho’s state parks provide the perfect backdrop for your adventures.
These parks are not just popular with locals; they attract visitors from around the globe, drawn by the promise of pristine wilderness and diverse recreational opportunities. From the cascading waterfalls along the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway to the historic sites of Land of the Yankee Fork State Park, Idaho’s state parks offer a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. Each park has its own distinct charm, making it easy to see why Idaho is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Why RV Camping is Popular at Idaho State Parks
Idaho state parks are a magnet for RVers, and it's no surprise why. Here's why RV camping has become so popular in these parks:
1. Diverse Landscapes
Idaho's state parks are destinations for outdoor adventures, offering a wide variety of landscapes, from mountains and lakes to deserts and sand dunes. Whether you’re looking for a quiet lakeside retreat or an adventurous trip to explore offroad, Idaho’s state parks have something for every kind of camper.
2. Accessibility
Many of Idaho’s state parks have RV-friendly campsites, equipped with full hookups for water, electricity, and sewage. With easy access to well-maintained roads and convenient park locations, RVers can explore even the most remote areas with ease.
3. Recreational Opportunities
RV camping in Idaho state parks offers a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor activities managed by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation. You can spend your days hiking, fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying a quiet evening around the campfire. The variety of outdoor activities makes these parks ideal for family trips or solo retreats.
4. Affordable Camping
Compared to other types of accommodation, RV camping at Idaho state parks is an affordable option for those looking to spend extended time in nature. With affordable daily rates and annual passes, you can enjoy the beauty of Idaho without breaking the bank.
Park Amenities and Activities
Idaho’s state parks cater to a wide variety of interests, offering well-maintained picnic areas, playgrounds, and family-friendly amenities, making them ideal for both day trips and extended stays.
Many parks feature museums, visitor centers, and interpretive exhibits that highlight Idaho’s natural and cultural history. Water activities like swimming, fishing, and boating are plentiful at parks such as Henrys Lake and Lake Cascade, while hiking, biking, and wildlife observation are popular on scenic trails.
Accessibility is a priority, with ADA-friendly facilities and trails, ensuring everyone can enjoy the parks. Unique sites like Bruneau Dunes and Heyburn State Park offer distinct landscapes, and educational programs engage visitors with guided tours and special events. Overall, Idaho’s state parks provide years of activities, making them a regular must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Tips for RV Camping in Idaho State Parks
If you're new to RV camping or just need a refresher, here are some tips to ensure your Idaho state parks camping trip goes smoothly:
1. Make Reservations Early
Many of Idaho's state parks are popular destinations, especially during peak season (spring through fall). It’s always a good idea to make your reservations well in advance to secure your ideal campsite. Some parks offer online reservation systems, making it easy to plan your trip.
2. Check the Hookups
Before booking your campsite, make sure the park offers the hookups you need. Some parks also offer cabins, but be aware that certain parks prohibit pets in cabins and yurts. While many Idaho state parks have full hookups for RVs, others may only have water and electric hookups, or none at all. Knowing what’s available ahead of time will help you plan accordingly.
3. Prepare for Changing Weather
Idaho’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in higher elevations. Be prepared for a mix of sun, rain, and even snow depending on the season. Pack layers of clothing and make sure your RV is equipped for a variety of weather conditions.
4. Pack Light but Smart
Space in an RV is limited, so pack wisely. Bring only the essentials but ensure you have what you need for a comfortable stay. This might include outdoor gear, cooking supplies, and entertainment for downtime. Don’t forget essentials like insect repellent, sunscreen, and plenty of water for outdoor adventures.
5. Practice RV Etiquette
When staying in a state park, it’s important to practice good RV etiquette. This includes keeping noise levels down, especially at night, properly disposing of trash, and respecting the natural environment. Leave your campsite as you found it, or better, and be considerate of fellow campers.
6. Stay Safe
Make sure you follow all safety guidelines for the park you’re visiting. It is also important to follow the rules and regulations of visiting an Idaho State Park to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. This includes observing fire restrictions, knowing the local wildlife, and being mindful of trail conditions. Also, ensure your RV is in good working order before heading out, checking everything from the brakes to the tires.
Final Thoughts on Idaho State Parks Camping
Idaho is a hidden gem for RVers, offering some of the most scenic and varied state parks in the country. From breathtaking lakes and rivers to towering dunes and historic landmarks, there’s no shortage of memories waiting for you. With proper planning and a sense of adventure, RV camping in Idaho state parks can become a cherished tradition for you and your family.
Reserve a Cruise America RV rental, hit the road, and start exploring the beauty of Idaho's state parks. Whether you're a seasoned RVer or trying it for the first time, the adventure is yours to create. Safe travels!
