Hiking Campgrounds in Idaho
Discover the best hiking campgrounds across Idaho. Experience the best of both worlds with camping that puts you right at the heart of incredible hiking opportunities. Direct trail access and stunning mountain vistas.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
About Hiking Campgrounds in Idaho
Hiking camping in Idaho offers unparalleled access to some of the most diverse and spectacular wilderness terrain in the American West. From the jagged granite spires of the Sawtooth Mountains to the ancient forests of the Idaho Panhandle, the state's campgrounds serve as gateways to thousands of miles of hiking trails traversing alpine lakes, river canyons, and mountain meadows.
Best Time
The prime hiking camping season in Idaho runs from late June through September, with July and August offering the most reliable weather and full trail access as snowpack melts from higher elevations. Early season visitors in June will find fewer crowds and spectacular wildflower displays in mountain meadows, though some high-elevation trails may still have snow patches requiring microspikes or trekking poles.
Activity Highlights
- Direct trail access
- Mountain and forest settings
- Backpacking base camps
- Scenic wilderness views
Explore Hiking Campgrounds in Idaho
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve popular campgrounds like Redfish Lake and Palisades Creek well in advance through Recreation.gov, as they fill quickly for summer weekends.
- 2For wilderness hiking from campgrounds like Johnson Creek Guard Station, obtain required permits from the appropriate ranger district, and note that some areas have quotas during peak season.
- 3Pack layers for dramatic temperature swings—mountain mornings can start in the 30s even in July, climbing to 70s or 80s by afternoon.
- 4Bear canisters or bear bags are essential in most Idaho backcountry; black bears are common, and grizzlies inhabit the Panhandle and areas near Yellowstone.
Hiking Campgrounds in Idaho FAQ
We've ranked 20+ hiking campgrounds in Idaho based on trail access, hiking variety, scenery, and user reviews. Top options are near national forests, state parks, and wilderness areas.
Permit requirements vary by location in Idaho. Many wilderness areas and popular trails require day-use or backcountry permits. Check with the managing agency (National Forest, National Park, or State Park) before your trip.
Late Spring through Fall (May-October) is generally best for hiking camping in Idaho. High-elevation trails may have shorter seasons due to snow. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.
Popular Idaho Campgrounds Book Fast
The best hiking campgrounds in Idaho book up quickly, especially during peak season. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Palisades Creek Campground
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Find Your Perfect Idaho Campground
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- Search 20+ hiking campgrounds in Idaho
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