The Blanchard area sits in the Idaho Panhandle at approximately 2,300 feet elevation, surrounded by forested foothills and within reach of several lakes and rivers. Camping near Blanchard, Idaho provides access to multiple recreation areas including sites on the Pend Oreille River system and Lake Pend Oreille. Temperatures range from summer highs in the 80s to winter lows well below freezing, with most campgrounds operating seasonally from May through September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Riley Creek Campground offers excellent fishing access with a dedicated fishing dock and boat launch. One visitor reported that "the small beach was fabulous" while another noted the convenience of "Doggie Island (dog friendly area since they aren't allowed on the beach) and the Boat Basin (an inlet where you can dock your small water craft)."
Trail exploration: Round Lake State Park features well-maintained trails that circle the lake and extend into nearby forest areas. A camper mentioned that "a very nice trail runs completely around the lake and nicely maintained" while another enjoyed "morning walks in the trails were peaceful with coffee in hand."
Swimming areas: At Priest River Campground, the swimming beach receives high marks for family-friendly access. A camper noted that "the beach is so kid friendly for the little ones; this was the best part for us. Our 3 year old really gained some water confidence while here."
What campers like
Private sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer good separation between sites. At Pioneer Park, a camper appreciated that "sites are huge and well spaced" while another mentioned "great park with wooded, nicely spaced sites."
Clean facilities: Thousand Trails Little Diamond maintains good bathroom and shower facilities despite seasonal challenges. One visitor noted "Bathroom showers are ok. Laundry is good" while another mentioned "nice lodge/spa and pool open."
Shade coverage: Visitors to Albeni Cove appreciate the tree cover during hot summer months. A camper noted "beautiful area nice camping spot good amount of shade coverage keeps us cool during the summer" and another described it as a "small campsite near Old Town" with "close to several forests you can go hiking in."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience varying levels of noise from nearby roads or trains. At Spokane KOA Journey, a camper warned "it is right next to an active railroad, so bring earplugs if you don't want to be woken up by trains several times."
Reservation timing: Campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. For Gilmore Campground at Farragut State Park, a visitor advised "Book early as this is a very popular place" while another mentioned "If you are going to swim at one of the bays while there get there early. In the peak of summer, the parking lot will fill up by 10 or 11 am."
Seasonal closures: Many facilities shut down during off-season months. At Round Lake State Park, winter camping is limited: "There was only one hookup spot plowed, and its connectivity was not stable" during a December visit.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Sedlmayer's Resort & Campground offers excellent lake access for children. A visitor shared "Peaceful, quiet, and beautiful! Right on the lakefront with your own private beach... Our kids loved playing on the beach and riding their bikes!"
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds feature play equipment. A camper at Riley Creek noted "This is a great place for grandkids. Lots of trails for walking biking. Camp sites are large and private. Volleyball basketball court horseshoe pits."
Nature programs: Educational activities run at select locations. At Priest River, one visitor mentioned "The rangers come give a presentation every third Friday I went and it was on all the different kinds of pines we have in INW."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Bald Knob Campground in Mount Spokane State Park, RV campers should choose carefully. A visitor noted "Sites are small- only one was a pull through. I wouldn't attempt with anything longer than 23 feet."
Hookup variability: Electric and water connections differ between campgrounds. At Thousand Trails Little Diamond, a camper explained "The sites share electric and water, no sewer and are positioned oddly they are on the off side and in front by the road. Some 30 and 50 amp just check the box."
Dump station access: Not all sites provide full hookups. At Riley Creek, a visitor mentioned "No dump in sites, so a little bit of a bummer" while another noted "Partial hook ups (no sewer)" but there are "two dump stations" available.
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