Camper Van Rentals Idaho

Camper Van Rentals in Idaho: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide

Welcome to the ultimate road trip adventure in Idaho! At altCamp, we understand the allure of exploring the open road, and Idaho offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures in the United States. With a campervan rental, you'll have the freedom to discover hidden gems and iconic destinations at your own pace. Let's dive into the must-visit road trip destinations, top RV parks, the benefits of renting a campervan, and how you can start your Idaho adventure with altCamp.

Top 5 Idaho Road Trip Destinations

Shoshone Falls

Often referred to as the "Niagara of the West," Shoshone Falls is a must-see on your Idaho road trip. Located near Twin Falls, these magnificent falls are higher than Niagara Falls and provide stunning views year-round. The park surrounding the falls offers picnic areas, hiking trails, and a scenic overlook, making it an ideal stop for nature lovers and photographers.

Craters of the Moon National Monument

Experience the otherworldly landscapes of Craters of the Moon National Monument. This vast area of volcanic formations, lava fields, and cinder cones is perfect for hiking, exploring caves, and stargazing. The unique terrain provides a surreal backdrop for your road trip, offering a glimpse into Idaho's volcanic past.

Sawtooth National Recreation Area

For those seeking alpine beauty, the Sawtooth National Recreation Area is a paradise of jagged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests. With over 700 miles of trails, it's a hiker's dream. Enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The scenic byways and campgrounds make it a perfect destination for campervan travelers.

Hells Canyon

Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America, offers spectacular views and a wealth of outdoor activities. Whether you're into whitewater rafting, fishing, or simply enjoying the dramatic scenery, Hells Canyon is a highlight of any Idaho road trip. The area is rich in history and offers several trails for hiking enthusiasts.

Bruneau Dunes State Park

Home to the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America, Bruneau Dunes State Park is a unique destination for adventure seekers. Visitors can hike the dunes, go sandboarding, and explore the park's observatory for some of the best stargazing in the region. The park also features a small lake for fishing and boating.

Top 5 Idaho RV Park Recommendations

Lost Moose RV

The Lost Moose Campground in North Idaho is an ideal basecamp for various outdoor adventures, offering access to hiking, biking, ATV trails, fishing, and more. The campground features RV and tent sites, along with unique accommodations like the "Shed with a Bed," Miner's Cabin, and Trapper's Cabin, each providing a rustic experience. Guests can enjoy activities such as river play, horseshoes, and campfires on-site, while nearby attractions include kayaking, huckleberry picking, and visiting local parks. Campsites include picnic tables and fire pits.

Snake River RV Park

Snake River RV Park & Campground in Idaho Falls, Idaho, is a full-service, year-round RV park with spacious pull-through sites up to 85 feet, grassy tent areas, and cozy tiny cabins. The campground offers 50 & 30 amp electric hook-ups, a propane fill station, dump station, laundry facilities, free WIFI, a swimming pool, horseshoes, basketball, and a playground. Additional amenities include big rig sites, pet areas, hot showers, fire pits, a gift shop, and a grocery store. Nearby attractions include the Snake River, the River Walk Greenbelt Trail, waterfalls, and the Snake River Ferry.

Valley View RV Park

Valley View RV Park Campground, located just 15 miles west of Yellowstone National Park. The campground features full hookups for RV’s (and big rigs!), an on-site gas station, a laundromat, and a large rec room with games and activities. Guests can enjoy outdoor amenities like a playground, disc golf, and easy access to ATV trails, as well as dining options from a local food truck. With accommodations for RVs, tents, and a cozy A-frame cabin, Valley View provides a comfortable and convenient basecamp for exploring Yellowstone, Harriman State Park, and the surrounding areas.

Craters of the Moon/Arco KOA

Craters of the Moon / Arco KOA Journey, located near the Lost River Range and Mount Borah in Idaho, offers a peaceful and scenic camping experience. The campground is just 19 miles from Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve, providing easy access to explore volcanic landscapes, mountain lakes, and hot springs. Amenities include spacious pull-thru RV sites, cozy cabins, free Wi-Fi, a heated outdoor pool, a dog park, and a children's playground. Guests can enjoy daily ice cream socials, bike rentals, and various recreational activities, making it an ideal base for off-road adventures and relaxing evenings.

Stanley RV + Camp

Stanley RV + Campground, located at 12655 ID-21 in Stanley, Idaho, offers 23 full hookup RV sites with amenities like water, electric, sewer, picnic tables, and access to a group fire pit, as well as 2 truck camper sites near restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. Situated 5 miles west of downtown Stanley along Highway 21, the campground provides a pet-friendly environment with a camp store, Wi-Fi (though limited), and clean restrooms with hot showers. The surrounding Sawtooth National Recreation Area offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and white water rafting, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Notable nearby hiking trails include Fishhook Creek Trail, Sawtooth Lake, and Bench Lakes.

What to Pack for a Road Trip in a Campervan

Now that you’ve planned your ultimate Idaho road trip, it’s time to pack for your adventure! Packing smart is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Make sure to cross-check the comprehensive list below with what your host provides to avoid overpacking. Be advised that some of these items may not apply to you depending on your itinerary. 

Essential Documents and Navigation

• Permits and Licenses: Ensure you have all necessary permits and licenses for camping and activities.

• Identification: Driver’s license, insurance, and registration.

• Compass and Map of Area: Reliable navigation tools, especially in remote areas.

• Travel Itinerary: Including reservations and contact information.

General Safety and First Aid

• First Aid Kit: A well-stocked kit for minor injuries and emergencies.

• Emergency Contact Information: Important phone numbers and addresses.

• Bear Spray: Important for safety in bear country.

• Flashlight and Extra Batteries: Essential for nighttime visibility.

• Fire Extinguisher: Safety first for your campervan.

Comfort and Convenience

• Sleeping Bags and Blankets: Ensure a cozy night’s sleep.

• Pillows: For added comfort.

• Camping Chairs: Comfortable seating around the campfire.

• Quick-Dry Towel: Handy for drying off after water activities or showers.

• Venture Wipes: Convenient for freshening up on the go.

• Refillable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your trip.

Clothing and Personal Items

• Weather and Activity-Appropriate Clothing: Layers, wool socks, dri-fit clothes, and swimming attire for all conditions.

• Hat with a Brim: Protect yourself from the sun.

• Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from glare.

• Lip Balm: Prevent chapped lips, especially in dry or windy conditions.

• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

• Bug Spray: Keep insects at bay.

• Personal Hygiene Items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and hand sanitizer.

Kitchen and Food Supplies

• Portable Cooler: Keep your food and drinks fresh.

• Cooking Utensils and Equipment: Pans, pots, spatula, and cutlery.

• Reusable Plates and Cups: Eco-friendly dining options.

• Camping Stove and Fuel: For cooking delicious meals outside your rig.

• Portable Grill: Perfect for BBQ nights under the stars.

• Trash Bags: Keep your campsite clean and pack out what you pack in.

• Quick and Filling Healthy Snacks: Keep energy levels up with nutritious snacks.

• Condiments and Spices: For flavoring your meals.

• Water Cleaning Method: A portable water filter or purification tablets.

• Firewood and Fire Starters: For warmth and cooking (check local regulations).

Recreational Gear

• High Quality Backpack: A sturdy pack for hiking and day trips.

• Hiking Boots: Durable and comfortable footwear for trail adventures.

• Hiking Sticks: Provide support and stability on uneven terrain.

• Binoculars: For bird watching and enjoying distant views.

• Kayak/Canoe/SUP/Surf Board: Depending on your water activity preferences.

• Rock Climbing Gear: For those looking to scale some rocks.

• Fishing Gear: Enjoy some angling in Idaho’s pristine waters.

• Motorized Toys: ATVs or dirt bikes for off-road excitement.

• Life Jackets: Necessary for water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.

• Helmets: Essential for biking, climbing, and other adventurous activities.

• Books or Games: Entertainment for downtime.

• Camera: Capture memories of your amazing road trip.

Technology and Connectivity

• Solar Charger: Keep your devices powered up using the sun.

• Portable Power Bank: Backup power for your electronics.

• Mobile Hotspot: Stay connected in remote areas.

• GPS Device: In case your phone loses signal.

Miscellaneous

• Swiss Army Knife: A versatile tool for various tasks.

• Notebook and Pen: For journaling or note-taking.

• Repair Kit: Basic tools and supplies for minor fixes.

• Dry Bags: Keep your belongings dry during water activities.

Note: When packing your food, we highly recommend packing dry goods to save space for items that need to be chilled. Most campervan rentals will have a built-in refrigerator, but space will be limited. Great dry-good examples include cereal, oatmeal, protein bars, trail mix, bread, pasta, chips, and canned goods. For an additional fee, your host may even be willing to accept 

Benefits of Renting a Campervan vs Traditional RV

Ease of Parking

Campervans are more compact than traditional RVs, making them easier to park in tight spots and smaller campgrounds. This allows you to explore more remote areas without worrying about finding a large parking space.

Overall Maneuverability

The smaller size of campervans means they are more maneuverable on winding roads and narrow trails. This is particularly beneficial when navigating the scenic byways and mountain passes of Idaho.

Fuel Efficiency

Campervans typically offer better fuel efficiency compared to larger motorhomes and travel trailers. This means you can travel further on a single tank of gas, saving money and reducing your environmental footprint.

Versatility

Campervans provide a versatile travel experience, combining the comfort of a home on wheels with the agility of a smaller vehicle. They are perfect for both short weekend getaways and extended road trips, offering a cozy and convenient base for all your adventures.

Campervan Rentals Near Me

Ready to start your Idaho adventure? altCamp offers campervan rentals in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, and most surrounding cities. We have a variety of rental options to suit your needs, including one-way campervan rentals, campervan delivery, pet-friendly RV’s, festival-friendly RV’s, campervans with unlimited mileage, and luxury and budget campervans.

Explore the stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique attractions of Idaho in the comfort and convenience of a campervan. Book your campervan today with altCamp and get ready to embark on the ultimate road trip adventure!

With altCamp, your Idaho road trip dreams are just a reservation away. Happy travels!

Also read: How to Choose the Right Campervan Rental for Your Adventure