3 Local Favorite Campgrounds Near Cascade Idaho

Idaho, aka the Gem State, has a plethora of beautiful camping “gems” to offer. From secluded spots to commune with nature to fancy camping resorts with all the amenities, this western state truly has it all.

Having grown up in Idaho I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy its beauty regularly. In my expert opinion Idaho is one of the most under appreciated camping destinations and should be added to any outdoorsman’s bucket list.

Lakes, hunting, and mountains galore, you’d be surprised at all Idaho has to offer. That being said, let’s focus on the best no-frills campgrounds near my hometown of Cascade, Idaho (just under 2 hours north from Boise).

This campground is located on West Mountain on the west side of Lake Cascade. It’s about 25 minutes from town and offers the feeling of being out in the wilderness, while staying close to city comforts.

Equipped with picnic tables, tent squares, fire pits, and a vault toilet, the sites at French Creek Campground offer all the classic camping conveniences. Plus, spectacular views and plenty of entertainment thanks to the water access.

Speaking of water access, the best part about this campground is its proximity to the lake. If fishing is your thing you’ll be thrilled at the possibility of catching trout, perch, or smallmouth bass. If you’re not into fishing there are endless swimming, boating, and paddle boarding possibilities for the whole family.

Just 45 minutes from town, and near and dear to my heart, this campground has no cellphone service or fancy amenities. What it does have is the peaceful sound of the river and the possibility of seeing salmon in plain sight.

The drive out to the site will have you in awe as the winding (paved) road presents you with beautiful mountain views. Once you arrive there is plenty of space for moderately sized RVs, as well as vans and tents at South Fork Salmon River Campground. However, other than a vault toilet the only other amenities are the sounds of nature and a feeling of pure serenity.

With a fish hatchery and natural hot springs nearby, you’ll be able to find entertainment beyond your campsite. You can also take the short drive over to Warm Lake Lodge and Resort for a beverage ore a swim.

If you’re in the mood for a truly remote destination you’ll want to check out Penn Basin Campground. About a 60-minute drive from town, this campground is situated next to Johnson Creek.

While you can easily pull RVs into this campground you’ll have to endure a bit of a bumpy ride to get into the campground. Despite that with plenty of places to set up a hammock and a creek deep enough for swimming, the journey is well worth it.

Campgrounds like this are what my childhood memories are made of. I hope this snapshot into what Idaho has to offer leads you to make your own unique memories in this Gem of a state.

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