Idaho is one of the largest states in the country and boasts some of the most beautiful camping spots around. As always, before heading out to any of these sites, make sure you have the proper licenses and permits, available on the official Idaho State Park website. From parks situated in beautiful Yellowstone to lakeside retreats, no matter the weather, you’ll enjoy every moment at these great winter camping spots in Idaho.
Lake Cascade State Park in Cascade, Idaho, is a well-known and much-beloved winter camping destination. It’s fantastic for the summer, too, don’t get us wrong, but with plenty of yurts and access to ice fishing, it shines in the winter.
The Harriman State Park is part of Yellowstone, and is “known for its beautiful scenery and wildlife…offers 22 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails.” Rent a yurt or at the Ranch Manager’s House, depending on your comfort with snow. According to their website, “winter activities include over 24-miles of groomed Nordic skiing trails, snowshoeing, and fat biking.”
Bear Lake State Park in St. Charles, Idaho, offers access to the Minnetonka Cave, National Oregon Trail Center, and Cache National Forest, as well as skiing and snowmobiling. The park is open year-round and boasts 50 different camping options.
If you don’t mind camping next to icebergs, then Woodhead Park by the Brownlee Reservoir might be the perfect spot for you. Luckily, the various campsites are within short distance to working hot showers, so you won’t have to freeze for too long.
Redfish is one of Idaho’s most popular summer spots, but winter campers might have a little more luck booking a campground. This Stanley, Idaho, lake is carved by a glacier and allows visitors to turn their backs “on the grind of the civilized world,” as Robert Limbert, one of Idaho’s most famous citizens, observed.
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Castle Rocks State Park is known for its birdwatching, hunting, and varied camping options. This park is open year-round and offers cabins, houses, shelters, and yurts.
Farragut State Park is conveniently located to Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, Idaho, and offers year-round camping. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding.
