The Sawtooth Valley adds alpine lakes and a small mountain town; Craters of the Moon offers a completely different landscape.
RV appeal★★★★☆4/5Sightseeing★★★★☆4/5
For natureRedfish Lake & Craters of the Moon
For a town dayStanley
Suggested time5–10 days
RV base strategy: Use one base for Stanley/Redfish Lake and another short stop near Arco for the lava fields.
Worth knowing: Mountain campgrounds are seasonal. At Craters, arrange RV tank filling elsewhere and check the exact site length.
Why these scores · sourcesHow we assess these stops
Research-based editorial scores, not visitor review averages or measured popularity. RV appeal considers suitable bases, services, practical access and variety of day trips. Sightseeing considers scenery, distinctive experiences and nearby towns. 5 = a standout chapter, 4 = well worth a stop, 3 = worthwhile for a particular interest, 2 = less practical for that travel style, 1 = a weak fit.
Scores describe the suggested regional trip, not every campsite or attraction. They do not confirm that a particular rig will fit. Researched 23 September 2026; check current access and 2028 booking arrangements before reserving.
A priority nature stop for this chapter of your trip.
RV advice & rating source
Choose a suitable base nearby and explore by pickup. Check the exact route, site dimensions and seasonal access before booking.
Editorial assessment for a nature-and-town RV trip, not a guest-review average. 5 = standout, 4 = worthwhile, 3 = interest-dependent, 2 = limited fit, 1 = unsuitable for this travel style. RV practicality includes nearby bases and access; it does not certify vehicle clearance.
A priority nature stop for this chapter of your trip.
RV advice & rating source
Choose a suitable base nearby and explore by pickup. Check the exact route, site dimensions and seasonal access before booking.
Editorial assessment for a nature-and-town RV trip, not a guest-review average. 5 = standout, 4 = worthwhile, 3 = interest-dependent, 2 = limited fit, 1 = unsuitable for this travel style. RV practicality includes nearby bases and access; it does not certify vehicle clearance.
A priority nature stop for this chapter of your trip.
RV advice & rating source
Choose a suitable base nearby and explore by pickup. Check the exact route, site dimensions and seasonal access before booking.
Editorial assessment for a nature-and-town RV trip, not a guest-review average. 5 = standout, 4 = worthwhile, 3 = interest-dependent, 2 = limited fit, 1 = unsuitable for this travel style. RV practicality includes nearby bases and access; it does not certify vehicle clearance.
Coeur d'Alene is one of the most beautiful cities in the northwest of the USA and is often referred to as the gateway to Idaho. The city lies directly on the lake of the same name and connects a lively downtown with a spectacular natural setting. Crystal clear water, wooded hills and numerous leisure opportunities make Coeur d'Alene a perfect first stop on a round trip through Idaho.
Sandpoint is just an hour's drive north of Coeur d'Alene, a charming small town on the shores of the impressive Lake Pend Oreille. Although it is far less known than many national parks in the west of the United States, it is one of the most beautiful natural areas in Idaho.
Hidden between the wooded mountains of the Bitterroot Range, Wallace is one of Idaho's most charming small towns. Today, this former silver mine town is one of the best preserved historical places in the American West and looks like a journey into the time of gold and silver rush.
Between Wallace and Coeur d'Alene, the Silver Valley is a region that has been shaped by silver mining for more than a century. Today, it combines impressive mountain landscapes, historic mining sites and varied outdoor activities to become one of Northidaho's most exciting destinations.
In the south of Idaho, along the deep Snake River Canyon, lies Twin Falls – a city known for being one of the most impressive natural wonders in the state: Shoshone Falls. With an altitude of about 65 meters, it is even higher than the famous Niagara Falls and is therefore often referred to as "Niagara of the West".
In the extreme south of Idaho, near the Utah border, lies one of the most fascinating natural areas in the American West: the City of Rocks National Reserve. Huge granite rocks rise like skyscrapers from the vast prairie and give the landscape its striking name.
Boise, the capital of Idaho, surprises many visitors. Instead of a hectic big city, a modern, relaxed metropolis with lots of greenery, a lively city center and an impressive proximity to nature awaits you. The Boise River runs like a green band through the city, while the foothills of the Rocky Mountains begin just minutes away.
Idaho is far more than the famous places like Boise, the Sawtooth Mountains or Shoshone Falls. Just off the classic routes, numerous natural wonders, small western towns and lonely landscapes await to be discovered. Those who travel by camper or Fifth Wheel and take their time here experience an Idaho that many US travelers never meet.
Apart from the famous sights, Idaho hides numerous places that even many locals hardly know. Hidden thermal springs, lonely mountain valleys, spectacular viewpoints and unusual natural wonders reward all those who are ready to leave the main roads. Especially these places give a trip their very special character and often provide the most unforgettable memories.
Idaho is one of the most underrated destinations in the West. While many travelers only cross the state on their way to Yellowstone or Glacier National Park, Idaho offers an impressive variety of deep canyons, crystal clear mountain lakes, wild rivers, volcanic landscapes and charming small towns. This combination of spectacular nature and comparatively few visitors makes the state's special appeal.
Idaho is one of the biggest surprises in the West. While many travelers only cross the state on their way between Montana, Washington, Oregon or Utah, those who take time discover an exceptionally varied landscape: crystal clear mountain lakes, deep gorges, imposing waterfalls, pristine forests, wide plateaus and some of the most beautiful mountain panoramas of the Rocky Mountains.
Not every attraction needs its own chapter – and yet many of them would be too bad to pass over. Idaho is full of impressive natural wonders, picturesque panoramic streets and special places that can be perfectly integrated into your itinerary as a stopover or small detour.
This proposal combines comfortable supply nights with simple campgrounds and free overnight stays. After two to three self-sufficient nights at the latest, a place with fresh water and disposal is deliberately followed again. Where Boondocking with a large Fifth Wheel does not make sense, the plan remains with an official campground.
