Top Idaho Campsites by the Water: Your Ultimate Guide to Lakeside Camping

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Redfish Lake
• Priest Lake
• Henry’s Lake State Park
• Lake Cascade State Park
• Bear Lake State Park
• Ponderosa State Park
• Final Thoughts
• FAQs
• Meta Title, Meta Keywords, Meta Description

Introduction

If you're an outdoor enthusiast, few things are better than camping by a pristine lake, with the gentle sounds of water lapping at the shore. Idaho, known for its stunning natural beauty, offers plenty of waterfront campsites that promise peace, adventure, and breathtaking views. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top Idaho campsites by the water, perfect for anyone looking to reconnect with nature.

Redfish Lake

Located in central Idaho near Stanley, Redfish Lake is one of the most popular camping destinations in the state. With the Sawtooth Mountains as a backdrop, this glacial lake offers stunning views and a variety of activities. You can enjoy swimming, fishing, and kayaking, or simply relax on the sandy shores.

Why Camp Here?

• Crystal-clear waters ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding.
• Plenty of hiking trails nearby, including the famous Sawtooth Wilderness trails.
• Multiple campgrounds around the lake, including Glacier View Campground and Outlet Campground, offering both tent and RV sites.

Pro Tip: This is a popular spot, so make reservations early!

Priest Lake

Tucked away in the northern panhandle of Idaho, Priest Lake is often referred to as “Idaho’s Crown Jewel.” The lake spans 23 miles, offering plenty of space for watersports and fishing. The surrounding forests add to the secluded feel, making it ideal for campers looking to escape the crowds.

Why Camp Here?

• Access to Upper Priest Lake, a protected area with no motorboats, perfect for a quiet day of canoeing.
• Campgrounds like Indian Creek and Lionhead are family-friendly and provide easy lake access.
• Nearby trails for biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Pro Tip: For a true wilderness experience, consider Upper Priest Lake campsites, which are only accessible by boat or a long hike.

Henry’s Lake State Park

Situated in southeastern Idaho, close to the Montana border, Henry’s Lake State Park offers campers a chance to enjoy one of the top trout fishing lakes in the state. This park sits at the base of the Yellowstone Plateau, and its high-altitude waters are perfect for anglers.

Why Camp Here?

• Renowned for excellent trout fishing.
• Breathtaking views of surrounding mountains and peaceful lake waters.
• Campgrounds offer both RV and tent sites with modern amenities, including showers and electricity.

Pro Tip: Henry's Lake is a great base camp if you're planning to visit Yellowstone National Park, located just 15 miles away.

Lake Cascade State Park

Just a couple of hours from Boise, Lake Cascade State Park is a favorite for families looking to camp by the water. The large reservoir offers opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing, with stunning views of the West Mountain Range.

Why Camp Here?

• Multiple campgrounds around the lake, such as Blue Heron and Huckleberry Campgrounds.
• Offers year-round activities, including ice fishing in the winter months.
• Many campsites are right on the water, allowing for convenient boat launches and fishing.

Pro Tip: Lake Cascade is excellent for sailing and windsurfing, thanks to its breezy conditions.

Bear Lake State Park

Straddling the Idaho-Utah border, Bear Lake is famous for its vibrant turquoise-blue waters. It’s often called the “Caribbean of the Rockies” for its stunning color. This large lake provides plenty of space for all sorts of water activities, from jet skiing to kayaking.

Why Camp Here?

• Sandy beaches perfect for lounging and swimming.
• Great for boating, jet skiing, and fishing for native Bonneville cisco.
• The North Beach Campground offers tent and RV camping with easy access to the water.

Pro Tip: The color of Bear Lake changes depending on the light, so make sure to catch a sunrise or sunset for the best views.

Ponderosa State Park

Located on a peninsula in Payette Lake, Ponderosa State Park offers campers an idyllic setting for a lakeside getaway. With a mix of forests, meadows, and scenic lake views, it’s a fantastic destination for families and nature lovers alike.

Why Camp Here?

• Campgrounds offer direct lake access, perfect for a day of swimming, canoeing, or paddleboarding.
• Plenty of hiking and biking trails within the park, offering gorgeous panoramic views of the lake.
• The park has both tent and RV sites, as well as cozy cabins available for rent.

Pro Tip: Visit during the fall for stunning autumn colors as the foliage transforms around the lake.</