Camping in Idaho

Idaho can be argued to have the most number of national forests and protected wilderness areas than Alaska. Nicknamed the “Gem State,” Idaho has countless adventure and relaxation options for those who dare try camping destinations away from the typical Rocky Mountain itineraries. As stated by Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter, “Idaho’s state parks represent the great variety and beauty of the state.” Here, we present the state parks that should be top on your list of must-sees when you go camping in Idaho.

1.) City of Rocks National Reserve
Granite spires and monoliths almost 60 stories high and more than 2.5 billion years old are the major attractions of this national reserve. A maximum of 8 persons and two camping tents can be accommodated in a single camping site. The park has great hiking and climbing areas, so for convenience, consider using dome tents since these are the free-standing kinds.

2.) Eagle Island State Park
A scenic 545-acre day-use park, Eagle Island offers an idyllic picnic area, a swimming beach, a waterslide, and over five miles of trails for hiking, jogging, and horseback riding, among other activities. The park also welcomes pets, so you can bring along your beloved pooch and get some exercise along the trails. Should you decide to bring your pets with you while camping, there’s no need to share your camping tents with them. There are tents specifically for your pooch, so check them out so your animal companion can rough it up in style as well.

3.) Heyburn State Park
As the oldest park in the Pacific Northwest, the natural and cultural history in Heyburn is enough to draw thousands of visitors. The park has three lakes: Chatcolet, Benewah, and Hidden Lakes, on the edges of which marsh areas are home to various wildflowers and plants. Some areas offer cottages and cabins, so for those who prefer communing with nature while still enjoying modern amenities, rather than roughing it up in dome tents, then there is no need to worry.

4.) Old Mission State Park
History certainly is not amiss in this state park, where the oldest standing building in all of Idaho stands, the Mission of the Sacred Heart. Also known as the Sacred Heart Mission, this structure was built from 1850 to1853 by members of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe and Catholic missionaries. The 72-mile Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes in Cataldo provides convenient access to walkers, runners, bikers, and rollerbladers.

Camping rates in Idaho State Parks vary depending on your camping style and budget. Primitive, no-frills tent sites where camping tents, such as cabin tents or dome tents are more ubiquitous than the RVs start at just $9, while full-service campgrounds equipped with RV hookups can be accessed for just $22. To avoid the hassle of having to search for a campground, make reservations online or over the phone (888-922-6743 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              888-922-6743      end_of_the_skype_highlighting).

Money from campers and visitors in any one of the 30 state parks managed by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation aids in the development and maintenance of hiking trails, camping facilities, and various outdoor programs in the state parks. For more information about Idaho State Parks, visit www.idahoparks.org.

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