Renting an RV in Idaho

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Idaho? Potatoes? Well, it turns out that Idaho is far more than the country’s cherished spud capital. Idaho can be a great place to rent an RV and get away.

Idaho is known as the “Gem State” for its impressive geological makeup. Gorgeous mountains and river-rich forests cover the northern and eastern portions of the state. In fact, its eastern border lies right up against Yellowstone National Park. With so much to see and do in Idaho, consider renting an RV to get the most out of your trip.  

Why Renting an RV in Idaho Is the Way to Go

Idaho is quite spread out, geographically, and having superior independence and mobility is key to a great trip. There aren’t many large towns around the state parks and forests, so camping is a primary means of lodging when exploring the state.
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Instead of struggling with setting up a tent, consider renting an RV for the most comfortable camping trip you could imagine. Enjoy air conditioning, electricity, comfy furniture, running water, a fully functional kitchen, and a mattress to sleep on, all while parked on the most beautiful land in the country. Sounds pretty great, right? Book a rental RV for your trip today and make your Idaho excursion unforgettable.

10 Iconic Places to See in Idaho in Your Rental RV

Idaho is a beautifully forested state with bountiful mountain landscapes. The mighty Snake River is also a key waterway for the state and its many canyons and crossings are hubs for outdoor activities. We’ve compiled a list of 10 must-see attractions during your RV adventure in the Gem State.

Craters of the Moon National Monument

This aptly named monument does indeed look like you are on the surface of the moon. Formed by ancient lava flows, walking among the eerie rock formations provides an awe-inspiring connection to the land’s volcanic past. You can also visit the wildflower patches that are an incredible, colorful contrast to the dark, volcanic rock. No camping is allowed directly within the monument, but three RV parks are within less than 30 miles and offer full hookup access. The Arco Park even offers a pool.
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Learn more about the Craters of the Moon National Monument.

Shoshone Falls

Often referred to as the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls is over 900 feet wide and 212 feet tall (actually taller than Niagara). The falls are a feature of the Snake River and were frequently visited by travelers on the historic Oregon Trail. Due to water flow management systems upstream, the falls are not always “on,” so be sure to research whether they are actively flowing before you visit. There are five pull-through parking spots for RVs but no camping at the falls, themselves. The falls are a major attraction though, and there are quite a few parks within 5-10 miles, so finding a campground won’t be difficult.
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Learn more about Shoshone Falls.

Payette Lake

Within Ponderosa State Park, you can find Payette Lake, a pristine glacial lake with unparalleled views. At a massive 5,330 acres, the lake is nestled 5,000 feet up into the mountains and reaches depths plunging to nearly 400 feet. Enjoy sandy beaches and world-class boating and fishing. Anglers can cast a line for multiple species of trout and the colorful kokanee. Within Ponderosa State Park, there are over 160 campsites with hookups available. Many of the campsites have easy access to the docks on Payette Lake for all of your watersport adventures. McCall Golf Club is also very close by if you’re wanting to ‘tee it up.'
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Learn more about Payette Lake.

Minnetonka Cave

Below the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Minnetonka Cave is a subterranean spectacle worth visiting. The drapery and flowstone rock formations are something you won’t be able to see anywhere else. The cave is only 40 degrees year-round, so bring a jacket. Tours are available every half hour (cash only), and only 30 people are allowed for each tour, so at peak times, there may be a bit of a wait. There are a number of great RV parks seated on nearby, beautiful Bear Lake. All of the parks offer fantastic scenery as a ‘home base’ for your cave adventures.
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Learn more about Minnetonka Cave.

Morley Nelson Birds of Prey National Conservation Area

The powerful Snake River has carved out a canyon in western Idaho that is home to the largest concentration of predatory bird species in North America. All around the 700-foot cliffs, you can see hawks, owls, eagles, and falcons soaring and searching for a tasty meal. Bring your binoculars on one of the rugged trails to see if you can spot all of these majestic birds. The Cove Recreation Site is the closest RV campground to visit the conservation area. Prices are very reasonable ($12/night), although you will essentially be dry camping. Potable water and dump stations are available, but no hookup access is provided. One great benefit of camping here is the direct access to excellent fishing on the reservoir.
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Learn more about the Morley Nelson Birds of Prey National Conservation Area.

Bruneau Dunes State Park

Home to the tallest sand dune in North America at over 470 feet, Bruneau Dunes State Park has plenty of impressive natural beauty to explore. You should definitely rent a sandboard (kind of like a surfboard) and surf your way down one of the tall dunes. There are also a number of small lakes near the base of the dunes that offer excellent fishing. RV camping is allowed within the park, however, only electric hookups are available. Also, be sure to double-check your shoes before you put them on; scorpions are one of the more dangerous denizens of the dunes.
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Learn more about Bruneau Dunes State Park.

Sawtooth Recreational Area

Over 750,000 acres of pristine mountain wilderness comprise the Sawtooth Recreational Area. More than 700 miles of trails and 40 mountain peaks over 10,000 feet high offer serious hikers unparalleled quality and trail diversity. A permit for access is required and can be easily obtained at each trailhead at no cost. Within the designated wilderness areas, no motor vehicles are allowed. The Redfish Lake Recreation Complex allows RV camping; however, no hookups are available, so be prepared.
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Learn more about the Sawtooth Recreational Area.

Mesa Falls

Shaped by a colossal volcanic eruption and lava flow over a million years ago, Mesa Falls flows through a much more temperate modern-day forest landscape. These falls are also part of the Snake River, and the upper portion of the falls is over 100 feet tall. A hike along the Mesa Falls Nature Trail is also a worthwhile experience. Mesa Falls are also in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, so a visit is a perfect pairing with Minnetonka Cave and an RV stay somewhere on Bear Lake. 
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Learn more about Mesa Falls.

Lava Hot Springs

After all that hiking, a day playing in natural geothermal hot springs sounds pretty great. Ranging from 102-112 degrees, soak your sore feet in these natural hot tubs. There’s also a modern water park available for the kiddos.

The springs are a tourism hotspot (insert cheesy rimshot here), so there are more than enough RV campsites in the town (the actual name is “Lava Hot Springs”). Given the strong tourist draw, the town also has a decent selection of food and shops. Learn more about Lava Hot Springs.

Redfish Lake

The largest lake within the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Redfish Lake, offers premium watersport activities, excellent fishing, and direct access to the Sawtooth Wilderness Area. The lake was historically a natural salmon run (giving the lake its “Redfish” name), and a local hatchery routinely stocks the waters with beautiful sockeye salmon. This lake provides fishing opportunities you won’t want to pass up. You’ll want to park your RV right at the Redfish Lake Recreation Complex. Remember, you’re going to be dry camping here, so get your RV fully stocked before you visit. 
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Learn more about Redfish Lake.

Campgrounds and RV Parks in Idaho

Outdoor tourism is one of Idaho’s largest economic drivers, so the state caters to your RV needs. Most national and state parks offer RV parking onsite. If you’d like to stay nearer to one of Idaho’s quaint mountain towns, take a look at Good Sam campgrounds.

Bears are quite prevalent in the Idaho mountain wilderness, so take great care properly disposing of trash and properly storing food as directed by your campground. These animals are really fun to observe, but not when they are 10 feet from your door and hungry.

Things to Know About Renting an RV in Idaho

Things to Note About Camping in Idaho

Idaho winters are no joke. If you are a novice RVer, don’t try to fight the ice and snow. Enjoy Idaho during its most accessible months, April-early October.

Because mountainous forests of Idaho are home to bears and mountain lions (or pumas/cougars), consider wearing bells on your backpack to alert wildlife to your presence when you’re out hiking (this will keep you from spooking them, which can be dangerous). You may also consider packing a can of bear spray (essentially supercharged pepper spray) or even a handgun if you are trained/permitted for protection. There are many Good Sam campgrounds in the area to park your RV.

Dry Camping or Boondocking in Idaho

If you are looking to get ‘away from it all,' dry camping, or “boondocking,” is your best RV option to isolate yourself. Boondocking means that there are no hookups available (e.g. sewer, electrical, water), and your RV unit is operating independently.

A great place to do this is on public land identified by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Idaho currently has four BLM sites suitable for dry camping in your RV. Check out Celebration Park on the Snake River, Discovery Hill in the Salmon National Forest, the Smokey Cubs Recreation Site in the Beaverhead Mountains, or the Kilpatrick Day Use Area off of state highway 93.

In addition, many campgrounds (of which there are plenty throughout the state) will let you dry camp if all of their hookup spots are taken, and they have additional space.