Historical buildings, unique geological formations, lakes, waterfalls, and more — there are all kinds of amazing Idaho landmarks to explore. Whether you’re in search of outdoor adventure, high-flying theme park fun, or a taste of history, you’re sure to find something you love in this gorgeous state.
Top Landmarks in Idaho
Idaho Landmarks
Oregon Trail
Yes, it may be named after a different state… but the Oregon Trail did travel through Idaho (about 500 miles of Idaho, to be exact!). Today, you can visit and even walk in those pioneers’ footprints just southeast of the city of Boise.
Several trail markers and interpretive centers are available along the way to help orient and educate visitors about this unique historical phenomenon. Of course, you’ll also enjoy some incredible and unmistakably Idaho views along the way.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
In need of a little bit of modern civilization after the simulated pioneer experience? Head to Boise for all manner of restaurants, shopping opportunities and museums to explore. We recommend
Camping can be found near Boise-area interpretive sites at Boise Riverside RV Park.
Old Idaho Penitentiary Site
A functional prison between 1872 and 1973, the Old Idaho Penetentiary Site gives visitors a unique look into the history of prison and what prison life was like in the 19th and 20th centuries here in America. Along with the regular cell block, guests can take a peek into solitary confinement and even see the old gallows. Special exhibits offer the opportunity to see artifacts and also learn more in-depth historical information, and events such as cemetery tours and paranormal investigations are also held.
This is truly a landmark building worth putting onto your Idaho itinerary, fascinating both inside and out.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Located on the outskirts of Boise, it’s only a short drive from the Old Idaho Penitentiary Site to beautiful wilderness destinations like Lucky Peak State Park and the Sawtooth National Forest.
Set up camp at Boise RV Travel Park.
Zoo Boise
Home to a wide variety of animals both common and endangered, Zoo Boise is a unique option for those looking to get wild without ever leaving the city. Get up, close and personal with giraffes, tigers, and red pandas, just to name a few. You should also consider participating in one of the zoo’s many yearly events or educational programs.
The zoo even hosts international travel programs that can allow you to see what these animals’ lives are like in their native environments. For instance, recent excursions have gone as far afield as Mozambique, Africa!
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Located right in the heart of Boise itself, Zoo Boise is close by to other attractions like the Idaho Black History Museum and the Idaho State Capitol Building.
Some of the best RV camping in the city is found at Boise/Meridian KOA Journey.
Bogus Basin
Idaho may not be as well-known as, say, Colorado as a skiing destination… but make no mistake about it, there is some incredible skiing to be done here. Bogus Basin, located just outside of Boise, is one of the most popular ski bowls in the area. It offers 2,600 skiable acres of freshly groomed powder dotted with beautiful pine trees.
Even if you’re not about to take to the slopes on skis, there are plenty of activities you can check out and participate in, such as snowshoeing or winter tubing when the snow is falling, or scenic chairlift rides, hiking, and horseback riding in the summer. Lessons and rental equipment are also offered for those looking to get themselves going for the first time.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Only 40 minutes outside of Boise, Bogus Basin is eminently accessible, while also tucked into the beautiful outdoor oasis that stands just outside of the city. Head a couple of hours further north to check out Lake Cascade State Park.
As far as camping goes, we recommend Mountain View RV Park.
Shoshone Falls Park
A stunning waterfall located along the Snake River, Shoshone Falls is a must-see for anyone who finds themselves within an hour or two of the area. These landmark cascades stand 212 feet high and crash over a rim nearly 1,000 feet wide, meaning they’ve certainly earned their reputation as the Niagara of the West.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Located just outside of Twin Falls, Shoshone Falls State Park is close to all manner of restaurants, museums and other city attractions, as well as some great outdoor spaces. Niagara Springs State Park is one nearby option not to miss.
Camping can be found nearby at Anderson Camp.
City of Rocks National Preserve
Only a short way off from the Utah border, City of Rocks National Preserve is a one-of-a-kind landscape characterized by towering granite rock formations. This makes it a very popular destination for rock climbers. However, even those with a fear of heights should put this landmark landscape onto their list, as the area is also prime for hiking, horseback riding, bird-watching, and other outdoor activities.
Additionally, the area holds a rich human history. It was originally inhabited by Shoshone and Paiute peoples before European settlers moved in and took the land. On top of that, it was part of the Applegate Trail, which travelers in covered wagons used on their way west to Oregon.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Located in the expanses approximately an hour and a half southeast of Twin Falls, this national preserve is also close to Idaho’s Castle Rocks State Park.
Campsites can be found at Castle Rocks State Park and it is a lovely place to call home for a few days.
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
We’ll be frank: yes, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is kind of in the middle of nowhere. But once you arrive, you’ll feel as though you’ve traveled much further. A surreal and alien landscape carved by ancient lava flows and marked by cinder cones and sage brush, this unique attraction can truly make a visitor feel as though they’ve shuttled off into space.
A variety of above-ground hiking trails make for a great daytime adventure, and there are also cave tours available for those brave enough to venture underground into the network of lava tubes. In the winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular, which means it’s never a bad time to visit!
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Located in the wilderness approximately equidistant from Twin Falls and Idaho Falls, this national monument is remote without being out of reach. Lake Walcott and Massacre Rocks State Parks aren’t far off if you’re looking for something else to do.
Camping is available at the national monument, and straying in the middle of the action is definitely the way to go.
Redfish Lake
A lake of almost 4.5 miles in length nestled into the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Redfish Lake is an alpine body of water that exists at an elevation of about 6,500 feet.
Popular among boaters and anglers as well as folks simply hoping to camp, dine, or even get married along its scenic shore, this lake is certainly an Idaho landmark and a great choice for those in search of a summer getaway. Plus, if you get sick of being wet, there are some incredible hiking trails criss-crossing the surrounding forest areas!
Attractions and Camping Nearby
The nearest town to the lake is a small one called Stanley, which is full of lodging options, eateries and more. If you’re looking for a bigger city, Boise is about three hours southwest, and Lake Cascade State Park is also nearby and worth checking out.
Wondering where to stay? We recommend Sockeye Campground.
Borah Peak
The tallest mountain in the state of Idaho, Borah Peak is tucked into the broad expanse of the Salmon National Forest and stands 12,667 feet above sea level with more than 5,000 feet of prominence. (This actually makes it the most prominent mountain in all of the contiguous U.S.!)
While this landmark peak is stunning to look at from ground level, many adventurers find themselves inexorably drawn to the promise of “standing on the roof of Idaho”. That said, doing so is no minor feat. Accomplished by a trail that climbs more than 5,000 feet in just about four miles of distance — and which also necessitates ice axes and mountaineering skills, depending on the season — only the most experienced people should attempt this lofty summit.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Located just about two hours outside of Idaho Falls, Borah Peak is close to other central Idaho wilderness attractions including Land of Yankee State Park, Ponderosa State Park, and others.
Some of the best camping in the area can be found at Joe T. Fallini Campground.
Silverwood Theme Park
Considered the largest theme park in the Pacific Northwest, Silverwood Theme Park offers more than 70 rides and attractions. These range from family-friendly options like the steam engine train to more high-intensity features like the Aftershock roller coaster. This coaster features high-speed loops, inversions, and vertical drops, the longest of which is a full 177 feet. There are also waterslides and attractions including a toddler splashing zone, as well as plenty of fun fair food and shopping opportunities.
Season passes are available for those who want to keep the fun going all year long.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Tucked into the Idaho panhandle just north of Coeur d’Alene, Silverwood Theme Park is close to Heyburn State Park as well as Mount Spokane State Park just over the border in Washington.
You’ll find lovely campsites at Silverwood RV Park.
Planning an RV Trip to Idaho
Traveling by RV through Idaho is a great way to experience all the amazing Idaho landmarks out there! Looking for more to see and do? Here are our suggestions for the best RV trips to take in Idaho. You’ll also want to see the best state parks in Idaho as well as many of its major cities. Oh, and the best campgrounds in the state, too.
