5 Styles of Camping

Living Outside the Box

Southeast Idaho is a camper’s dream! Starry nights, scenic mountain ranges, a plethora of wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities will entice any outdoor lover to get into nature. When night falls, set up camp in one of the many public campsites for tents and RVs. For a not so rugged camping experience, reserve a cabin or check out some of our “quirky” camping alternatives. No matter your camping style, Southeast Idaho will quickly become your go-to getaway!

Create-A-Campsite

For a camping trip to remember, try dispersed camping. Dispersed camping refers to camping on public lands away from developed recreational facilities. With many locations situated far into Southeast Idaho backcountry, a quiet, isolated camp spot is easy to come by. Backpacking is one method of dispersed camping. If possible, make sure to use campsites that have already been used. These campsites are recognized by flat ground, signifying that campers have already been there. Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of beautiful Southeast Idaho via dispersed camping!

Along the Snake River

Outdoor Living

If dispersed camping seems too daunting, Southeast Idaho also offers a myriad of established campgrounds ready to be reserved. Campgrounds cater to either tents and/ or RVs, depending on your style of camping and location. They may include facilities such as restrooms, electrical hookups, potable water, picnic areas, garbage cans, tent pads, and group shelters. However, many campgrounds may only offer a picnic table and fire ring. Campgrounds can be private locations or publicly owned and maintained by BLM services, with the fees going to help maintain campsites. Private camping locations can even be found on Airbnb!

Home Away From Home

Get out into nature without missing the coziness of your home! A ranger guard station is a good mix between traditional camping and overnighting in a cabin. Guard stations are available to the public and are one-room spaces. Nature lovers appreciate these stations because of their remote locations and availability—many are available during winter and summer months. Make sure to bring sleeping gear and cooking/eating essentials. If a ranger guard station doesn’t sound relaxing enough, Southeast Idaho also has plenty of bigger cabins with all the amenities that make them a home away from home. Host family get togethers, business retreats, or just enjoy nature with a loved one in a fully furnished cabin.

Downata Hot Springs Conestoga Wagon

Quirky Campouts

Plan a camping vacation you will never forget! Head to Downata where you can relax in a Conestoga covered wagon. The wagons come with a king-size bed, one bunk bed, A/C, heating, a small table, refrigerator, and microwave. Tipi camping is another unique camping method that you’ll want to check out. They are modern, canvas dwellings to protect users from Idaho’s elements. Tipis function just like a tent so bring your own sleeping gear and other equipment. Tipi in Downata or along the river in Lava. Like tipis, yurts are a fun way to immerse yourself in the countryside with a group of campers. They have domed ceiling, wooded or cement floors, and often come furnished with a fire stove. The Portneuf Range Yurt System has four yurts: Inman, Catamount, Jackson Creek, and Skyline. Yurts can also be rented at Downata. Get out into the wild frontier with several quirky camping styles!

Lava Campground

Glamp It Up

Glamping is a fun and unique camping style that combines a glamorous environment with outdoorsy, camp living. For your glamping trip, try one of Lava Campground’s five completely remodeled retro campers. Every camper has air conditioning and heating, retro flashlights, water bottles, a picnic table, fire pit, two marshmallow roasters, and extra electrical hook ups. These cute campers are named to match their 1950’s personality. Rent “Mabel” or “Ruby” for your first glamping experience!

Maple Grove Hot Springs

After being cooped up for too long, retreating to nature will be a breath of fresh air. Southeast Idaho has a variety of wildlife and activities, so you’ll never run out of things to do on your trip. Get away from it all and discover your ideal camping style!

Campground Resources

Southeast Idaho Public Lands, RV Parks & Campgrounds visit idahohighcountry.org National Forest Service campground and ranger guard station information, reservations, and availability visit recreation.gov BLM dispersed camping visit blm. gov/programs/recreation/camping