Hunting and RV camping—two of my favorite ways to enjoy the great outdoors. And when you combine them in a state like Idaho, you’re in for a memorable adventure. If you’re like me and prefer to stay out in the wilderness for days, having your RV parked right at the hunting grounds makes all the difference. It’s your basecamp, your cozy refuge after a long day of tracking game, and your ticket to staying close to nature.
But here’s the kicker: while Idaho has plenty of famous hunting spots, there are some hidden gems that are perfect for RV camping—places that offer incredible hunting without the usual crowds. Let me share with you some of the best RV-accessible hunting camps in and near Idaho that you probably haven’t heard of!
Why Idaho?
Idaho is a hunter’s paradise. You’ve got everything from elk and deer to bear and upland game, spread across some of the most scenic and rugged terrain in the country. Whether you’re hunting in the dense forests, the open plains, or up in the mountains, there’s something for every kind of hunter. And trust me, when you have an RV, you can really make the most of your time out there. You’re not rushing back to a hotel or tent; you’ve got a warm bed, a hot meal, and a place to store all your gear, all right there with you.
I still remember my first elk hunt in Idaho. It was late October, temperatures were dropping fast, and after a long day of trekking through the forest, the last thing I wanted was to rough it in a tent. Having my RV parked nearby was a lifesaver. It was like a mini cabin on wheels—warm, dry, and stocked with enough gear to keep me going for days. That’s when I realized how much easier it makes hunting trips.
What Makes a Good RV-Accessible Hunting Camp?
If you’re new to RV hunting or just looking for a better spot, here’s what to look for in an RV-friendly camp:
- Easy Access: You don’t want to struggle down miles of rough, narrow roads that could damage your RV. Look for camps that are accessible with a decent gravel or paved road.
- Proximity to Hunting Grounds: The closer, the better. Some camps are located right next to prime hunting spots, so you can literally walk out of your RV and start hunting.
- Basic Amenities: While I don’t need much more than a campfire and a flat spot, having water, electric hookups, or even a dump station is a bonus, especially for longer stays.
- Variety of Game: Know what you’re hunting. Whether you’re after elk, deer, bear, or smaller game, you want to pick a camp that puts you in the right hunting zone.
Don’t Own an RV? No porblem! Rent from Redline Recreational Toys and make your Now, let’s dive into the best-kept secrets—10 RV-accessible hunting camps that are off the beaten path but perfect for your next trip!
Top 10 RV-Accessible Hunting Camps in and Near Idaho
1. Deadwood Reservoir Campground
Hidden in the Boise National Forest, this spot offers excellent elk and deer hunting. It’s remote, so you won’t be fighting off other hunters for the best spots. The roads are manageable for most RVs, and once you’re set up, you’ve got access to pristine hunting grounds as well as some good fishing. I once spent a week here in the early fall and saw more elk tracks than people, which is always a good sign.
2. Irish Point Campground (Salmon-Challis National Forest)
This campground offers stunning views and top-notch hunting for elk in the Salmon River Mountains. The drive up is an adventure, but the RV access is pretty solid. You can be deep in the mountains without sacrificing comfort. I love that it feels remote, but you’re never too far from the main roads if you need to make a supply run.
3. Sage Hen Creek Campground (Payette National Forest)
If you’re looking for mule deer and elk, this one’s a gem. It’s an easy drive in with an RV, and the nearby hunting areas are vast. The first time I camped here, I wasn’t expecting much—just wanted a quiet spot. I ended up bagging a nice mule deer within a half-day’s hike of the camp.
4. Priest Lake Dispersed Camping
This spot is rugged, to say the least, but if you’re into bear hunting and aren’t afraid to dry camp, this is a fantastic option. There are no amenities, so you’ve got to be self-sufficient. I love it because it gives you that true wilderness feeling, but with your RV as a safe, dry place to return to.
5. Moose Creek Flat Campground (Big Sky, Montana)
Just over the Idaho-Montana border, Moose Creek is a hidden treasure for hunters targeting elk, mule deer, and other big game. It’s a short drive from Idaho, and the RV spots here are large enough to accommodate even bigger rigs. I’ve had some great hunts in this area and the view alone is worth the trip.
6. French Creek Campground (Boise National Forest)
Tucked away in the Boise National Forest, this is a smaller campground perfect for hunters. White-tailed deer and turkey are plentiful in the area. The RV access is straightforward, and there are flat spots for easy parking. I camped here one fall and had the place almost entirely to myself.
7. Indian Creek Campground (Sawtooth National Recreation Area)
This place has it all—elk, deer, bear, and incredible views. You can park your RV right along the river and be out in the hunting fields within minutes. If you like the idea of waking up to mountain views and heading out for big game, this is your spot.
8. Weitas Creek Campground
In Clearwater National Forest, Weitas Creek is a remote site for those looking to hunt black bear or moose. The RV spaces are basic, and the road in can be rough, but once you’re there, you’ve got access to some truly wild country.
9. Heyburn State Park
If you’re after waterfowl or small game, Heyburn is a great option. It’s also got full RV hookups, making it one of the more comfortable options on this list. I brought my family here for a hunting trip, and even the non-hunters enjoyed the beautiful lakeside views and easy hikes.
10. Cottonwood Campground (South Fork of the Boise River)
This camp is perfect for elk and mule deer hunters. The river access is a nice bonus if you like to mix in some fishing. The campground itself is RV-friendly with full hookups, and you’ve got excellent hunting grounds nearby.
How to Prepare for Your RV-Based Hunting Trip in Idaho
Gear Essentials: With an RV, you’ve got room to bring all the essentials. I recommend stocking up on extra gear like coolers for your game, a good meat processing kit, and plenty of layers for those chilly mornings. I learned the hard way that it’s always better to overpack when you’re hunting and camping.
Weather Prep: Idaho’s weather can turn on a dime, especially in the mountains. Make sure your RV is prepped for cold nights—bring along extra propane for the heater and invest in good thermal blankets. A buddy of mine once had his RV pipes freeze during an early November hunt. Not fun.
Food and Supplies: Pack hearty, easy-to-prepare meals. After a day in the field, I’m usually too tired to cook anything fancy, so a good supply of canned soups, stews, and pasta has been my go-to. Don’t forget to bring extra water and firewood!
Safety First: Keep your firearm safely stored when you’re not using it. And be mindful of wildlife—Idaho is home to some large predators, so make sure you’re prepared to handle encounters.
Final Thoughts
Idaho has some of the best RV-friendly hunting camps around, and the beauty is that many of them are still relatively undiscovered. If you’re looking to rent an RV, Redline Recreational Toys is guaranteed to have what you are looking for. Whether you’re an experienced hunter or just getting started, these camps will give you a prime spot to base your adventures. Take the time to explore these hidden gems, and don’t be afraid to try somewhere new. Who knows—you might just discover your next favorite hunting spot.
Happy hunting, and may your RV always have a good spot close to the action!