If you’re having a hard time deciding where to go for a getaway, if you’ve got that feeling of “been there, done that, bought all the souvenirs,” then why not give Idaho a shot? Even if you have visited the Gem State before, it’s a safe bet that there’s plenty more waiting for you to explore. After all, this is Lewis and Clark country; it was practically designed with exploration in mind! So fuel up and hit the road, because there’s a wide world of vacation fun awaiting your arrival in Idaho.
Starting off this one tank trip in Palisades, you’ll find yourself in a land that’s vast and largely unspoiled. While there’s plenty of metropolitan activity to be found, Idaho’s open landscape is one of the largest in the country, and boasts some of the most beautiful and diverse terrain. The Palisades Reservoir, situated near the upper end of the Snake River, is filled with trout, so why not rent a boat and see if you can catch enough to keep the freezer stocked for the rest of the trip. This area also has several hiking and walking trails, ranging in difficulty from easy to challenging. All of them offer spectacular views, and if you like to bird-watch, this is the place to do it while Idaho camping.
Driving south on the US-26 for 10 miles brings you into Swan Valley, a featured destination for vacationers. Swan Valley is surrounded by no fewer than three mountain ranges, so you’ll be treated to eye-popping vistas no matter what time of year you visit. This is one of the most popular fly-fishing sites in North America, so put on your hip-waders and give your casting arm a workout. Or, take a trip down the Snake River in a raft or kayak by hiring one of the local whitewater river guides. It’s an adrenaline rush you’ll never forget while Idaho camping!
Angle west on the US-26 and after a 40-mile trip through some lush countryside, you’ll come to Idaho Falls. When a city’s motto is “Where Great Adventure Begins,” you know you’re in for something special. And boy, does Idaho Falls deliver. In addition to being surrounded by parks and trails, in Idaho Falls you can rent a Jeep or an ATV for some off-roading adventure. If you’d prefer your mount to be of the equestrian variety, no problem. There are several outfitters in the area that’ll be happy to let you take one of their many fine steeds out for a day of exercise. Pack a picnic lunch – and a few apples and carrots for your faithful four-legged friend – and “ride the high country.” If you want a change of pace, don’t miss out on the Idaho Falls farmers market, which operates every Saturday morning, starting on Memorial Day weekend and running through Labor Day weekend. Idaho Falls is also the home of several museums and art galleries, if you’re looking for something a bit more cultural.
One thing most commonly associated with the state of Idaho is the potato. The state is the home of our national’s potato crop, and the town of Blackfoot is its capitol city. Blackfoot lies 20 miles south of Idaho Falls via the I-15, and is proud of its contribution to our national food supply. You can visit the Idaho Potato Museum, which has many exhibits depicting the history of the Idaho Potato Industry, and while there take home a souvenir at the adjoining gift shop. If the gentleman’s game of golf is one of your passions, Blackfoot has one of the most challenging courses in the state, so take a side trip there and test your skill.
We bring our one tank trip journey to a close in the town of Pocatello, which is 23 miles farther south on the I-15. This is an extremely family-friendly spot, with museums, zoos, an aquatic park, and the Bannock County Fairgrounds. You’ll find it very easy to find a pleasant spot to hook up the rig and make camp. Take a stroll through either of the lush, well-maintained city parks and enjoy a nice dinner at any of the excellent local eateries.
You’ll find that no matter what your taste when it comes to vacation time, Idaho can accommodate you easily. And then some.
See a list of Woodall’s Recommended Idaho RV Campgrounds.
Planning an Idaho camping trip? Don’t miss these other great routes on one tank of fuel:
2009 Idaho One Tank Trip
2008 Idaho One Tank Trip
For a complete list of one tank trips visit Woodalls.com.