Beach Camping in Idaho
Discover the best beach camping across Idaho. Camp where the land meets the water. Ocean breezes, sandy shores, and stunning sunsets await.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Redfish Inlet Campground
Crystal-clear waters lap against your exclusive shoreline, accessible only by paddle or trail, creating a secluded alpine beach experience surrounded by towering Sawtooth peaks.
Spar Lake Campground
Spar Lake's mirror-calm waters reflect surrounding mountain peaks and towering pines, creating an alpine oasis where osprey hunt and deer gather at dawn.
Navigation Campground
Mirror-calm waters of Upper Priest Lake stretch from your campsite, where morning mist rises off pristine mountain water beneath the dramatic peaks of the Selkirk Crest.
About Beach Camping in Idaho
Beach camping in Idaho offers an unexpected treasure trove of pristine lakefront and riverside experiences across some of the most spectacular wilderness settings in the American West. While Idaho may be known for its rugged mountains and vast forests, the state harbors stunning alpine lakes, crystal-clear rivers, and secluded waterfront campsites that rival any coastal destination.
Best Time
The prime beach camping season in Idaho runs from late June through early September when mountain lakes warm enough for comfortable swimming and all access roads are reliably snow-free. July and August offer the warmest water temperatures and most stable weather, making them ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts, though these peak months also bring the largest crowds at popular destinations like Redfish Lake.
Scenery Highlights
- Oceanfront and lakeside sites
- Sandy beaches and swimming
- Stunning sunrise and sunset views
- Water sports and fishing
Explore Beach Camping in Idaho
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve lakefront sites at popular destinations like Redfish Inlet and Spar Lake well in advance through Recreation.gov, as prime beach-access spots fill up quickly for summer weekends.
- 2For wilderness lake experiences at Navigation or Geisinger campgrounds, plan for boat-in or hike-in access and bring all necessary gear including water filtration systems, as these remote sites lack potable water.
- 3Pack layers and warm sleeping bags even in summer, as mountain lake campgrounds can drop into the 30s at night despite warm daytime temperatures.
- 4Bring water shoes or sandals for rocky lake entries and creek crossings, and always pack life jackets if you're bringing kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards.
Beach Camping in Idaho FAQ
We've ranked 20+ beach campgrounds in Idaho based on water access, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include oceanfront and lakeside sites with sandy beaches and swimming access.
Beach camping in Idaho is generally best from May through September when water temperatures are warmest. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and milder weather.
For beach camping in Idaho, bring sun protection, beach chairs, water toys, and sand-friendly gear. Wind stakes for your tent are essential, and consider a shade structure for daytime comfort.
Popular Idaho Campgrounds Book Fast
The best beach camping in Idaho book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Redfish Inlet Campground
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