Summer conferences

Host your summer conference at U of I

University of Idaho offers the ideal setting for hosting summer camps, workshops and retreats — from athletic training and leadership development to academic enrichment and team-building experiences.

With comfortable on-campus housing, diverse dining options and flexible event spaces, your group can enjoy an immersive experience that fosters connection and growth. Whether you're planning a small retreat or a large-scale camp for up to 1,000 participants, our Conference Services team is here to help every step of the way.

Why host a conference at U of I?

  • All-in-one experience: Lodging, meals and meeting spaces all in one walkable campus.
  • Group-friendly accommodations: Options for groups as small as five and as large as 1,000.
  • Scenic, safe campus: Located in the beautiful Palouse region with easy access to outdoor activities.
  • Flexible dining availability: Enjoy our all-you-care-to-eat dining hall, box lunches and a variety of catering options.
  • Event support: Let our team help with logistics, setup, registration and more.

On-campus housing options for summer conferences

We offer traditional and suite-style living environments for our conference attendees. Linen service is available, as are multiple dining options.

Suite-style rooms

Living and Learning Communities (LLCs) offer suites with two, three and four single-bedrooms suites. Each suite includes a furnished living room and kitchenette (refrigerator, microwave, sink and cupboard space).

Wallace Residence Center suites consist of two (2) double-occupancy bedrooms separated by a shared restroom. Rooms offer two (2) twin-xl bunk beds, two (2) closets/wardrobes, two (2) desks with chairs, a large vanity with sink, a mini-fridge and microwave.

Request summer conference housing.

Contact us to start planning

Hagen Hunsaker
hagenhunsaker@uidaho.edu
208-885-2573

Summer conference FAQs

What is the deposit requirement?

To secure your group’s reservation, Conference Services requires the following within 30 days of receiving your agreement:

  • A signed Facilities Use Agreement (FUA) and/or Service Rider
  • A 25% deposit of total room and board costs (up to $1,000 maximum)

An invoice detailing the deposit amount will be sent along with your agreement. All deposits are non-refundable.

Does my group need insurance?

Yes. All conference participants must be covered by accident insurance before attending any event or program.

Each group is responsible for providing adequate adult supervision for youth attendees. In the event of an accident, your conference coordinator can help arrange emergency assistance. For medical care, local options include:

  • Gritman Medical Center, 700 S. Main Street — 208-882-4511
  • Quickcare Urgent Care, corner of Warbonnet and A Street — 208-882-0540

Note: Injured individuals are financially responsible for their own medical costs. Conference Services must be notified of any incidents, and appropriate documentation will be completed as needed.

Can we reserve meeting spaces and recreational facilities?

Absolutely! Conference Services can help you book:

  • Meeting rooms and classrooms
  • Recreational spaces such as gyms, fields, pools and courts
  • AV and tech equipment, as needed

Some facilities may have usage fees — we’ll walk you through those based on your selections.

Campus recreation access

Passes can include use of:

Contact Campus Rec at 208-885-5000 for current hours and details.

Other recreational rentals include:

  • Guy Wicks Field
  • Sand volleyball courts
  • Tennis courts
  • Shattuck Amphitheater
  • Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center — a local favorite with slides, a lazy river and lap lanes (830 N. Mountain View Rd., 208-882-7665)

Conference Services can help you explore and reserve these options for your group.

What does the check-in process look like?

At check-in, your group will receive:

  • Keys or keycards for housing
  • Meal cards (if applicable)

Responsibility for keys transfers to your group once distributed. If any participants are no-shows, extra keys and cards must be returned to Conference Services within one hour of check-in completion.

Lost or unreturned keys will incur a $75 fee.

Master keys are not provided for any summer groups.

Check-in takes place at the location and time coordinated in advance. We’re happy to work with you on the setup that works best for your group.

What is the process for checking out?

Please complete check-out by 11 a.m. on your departure day. Chaperones or group leaders are responsible for:

Collecting all personal items

Returning all keys to Conference Services

Ensuring refrigerators are emptied and trash is placed in designated bins

Lanyards and cards may be kept as souvenirs.