Las Vegas to Boise Road Trip Guide

Introduction

Distance: ~550 miles | Drive Time: 8-10 hours

This scenic 550-mile desert-to-mountains adventure from Las Vegas to Boise offers stunning landscapes, natural hot springs, and dramatic waterfalls across Nevada and Idaho. The best time to travel is April through October when highway conditions favor RV travel and camping weather is most comfortable. Key highlights include Red Rock Canyon, Shoshone Falls, and Twin Falls, making this journey perfect for couples seeking a quick weekend getaway or first-time RV renters wanting clear, manageable stops with highway-friendly routing.

Ready to escape the Strip? Start your journey with Las Vegas RV rentals and discover why this route is becoming a favorite among weekend road trippers.

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Details

60'
Max RV length
60'
Max trailer Length
Road trip length: 2-3 days
Recommend rig: any
audience: couple

RV Rentals in Las Vegas, NV

Point of Interest

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

America's largest reservoir offers water recreation and dramatic landscapes just 30 miles from Vegas. Multiple marinas provide boat rentals, while hiking trails reveal hidden coves and geological wonders. The area includes several RV-friendly campgrounds with hookups and stunning lake views.

Swimming, fishing, and boating are popular activities year-round. The historic Railroad Tunnel Trail provides easy RV parking and spectacular views of Hoover Dam. Don't miss sunset views from Northshore Road—absolutely magical for couples.


Metropolis Ghost Town

While heading north past Wells, Nevada, visit the Metropolis Ghost Town, just 15 miles north of town. This Ghost Town is unique in that it is not an abandoned mining town, like so many other ghost towns, but was a planned community based on local agricultural activities. Due to the lack of reliable water supply for farming, the endeavor was not successful, and no one currently resides in the town, but left behind are the remnants of many interesting structures.

The remains of the Lincoln School, dating back to 1919, is the most prominent structure and is visible for miles in the desert landscape. Today the arch at the former entrance is a distinct and unlikely feature for an abandoned ghost town. Use caution when exploring the ruins; the school basement is accessible from a set of concrete stairs, but be aware that much of the ground floor is in a state of collapse, with holes that people can easily fall through.

Just east of the school is the remnants of the Hotel Metropolis, once a three-story building, though all that remains today is the foundation. There is also a cemetery southwest of town behind the cattle-gate; this area is accessible on foot, or with high clearance vehicles. There are some ranches in the surrounding area, and the sound of cattle lowing can be heard in the distance, adding to the eerie feel of this interesting site.


Twin Falls and Shoshone Falls

Idaho's "Niagara of the West" thunders 212 feet into the Snake River Canyon, offering one of the most spectacular waterfall experiences in the American West. The easily accessible viewpoint provides perfect RV parking and multiple viewing angles. Spring snowmelt (April-June) creates the most dramatic flow.

The Twin Falls area offers excellent dining and shopping opportunities for restocking supplies. Consider staying at local RV parks to fully explore the Snake River Canyon rim trail system. This stop perfectly breaks up the drive and provides that Instagram-worthy moment every road trip needs. If you're planning a longer West Coast adventure, the Los Angeles to Boise road trip also features this spectacular waterfall as a highlight.


Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Start strong just 20 minutes west of The Strip with this stunning desert landscape of towering red sandstone peaks and ancient petroglyphs. The 13-mile scenic drive is perfect for RVs and offers multiple pullouts for photography and short hikes. Visit the Red Rock Canyon Campground for an overnight stay among the dramatic rock formations—it's one of Nevada's most photogenic camping spots.

Early morning visits provide the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures for hiking. The visitor center offers educational exhibits about desert ecology and Native American history. Allow 2-3 hours minimum to fully appreciate this natural wonder.


Craters of the Moon National Monument

This otherworldly landscape of ancient lava flows and volcanic formations creates a fascinating geological detour. The visitor center provides excellent educational exhibits, while the scenic drive reveals multiple lava formations accessible by short walks from paved parking areas.

RV Note: The monument's scenic drive accommodates RVs up to 55 feet. Some hiking trails require sturdy footwear due to sharp volcanic rock. The stark beauty provides a complete contrast to Nevada's desert landscapes—like visiting an alien planet.


Summary

Arriving at your destination in Boise, Idaho, you can camp near town at the Boise/Meridian KOA, or at the vast Sawtooth National Forest where several excellent campgrounds accommodating RVs are located. RVers will also find a nearby campground at the Lucky Peak Lake where they can stay at Macks Creek Campground. Boise has beautiful parks to enjoy, and the Boise River Greenbelt where you can take a wonderful stroll down the river though the lush greenery.

Visitors will find no shortage of attractions in Boise. During your stay, take in the Aquarium of Boise, Boise Art Museum, Zoo Boise, World Center for Birds of Prey and a unique Whitewater Park for “green water” surfing. There are also local markets, shops, restaurants, and art galleries in the downtown area of the city, which provides great shopping opportunities.

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