Best Campgrounds near Bonners Ferry, ID

Campgrounds near Bonners Ferry, Idaho range from developed RV resorts to primitive forest sites, providing varied camping experiences in Idaho's northern panhandle. The area includes established options like North Haven Campground, which offers cabins and RV sites with full hookups, and Blue Lake RV Resort with tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Surrounding public lands in the Colville and Kootenai National Forests complement these developed campgrounds with more rustic options. The region's mixed-use campgrounds typically operate from spring through fall, with most facilities closing during winter months due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.

Access to campgrounds varies significantly by season, with some remote forest sites requiring high-clearance vehicles on rough roads. The Moyie Springs area hosts several mixed-use campgrounds with varying levels of amenities and services. "This is a small campground just a few minutes outside of Bonner's Ferry. Probably 6 spaces, all big enough for a car or van but not suitable for large RVs," noted one camper about Smith Lake Campground. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F, while spring and fall bring cooler conditions and occasional rain. Most developed campgrounds in the region require reservations during peak summer months, especially for holiday weekends, while dispersed camping on nearby national forest land operates under different regulations.

Campers frequently mention the region's abundant water features as highlights of their stay. Several campgrounds provide access to lakes and rivers, including the Moyie and Kootenai Rivers, which offer fishing and paddling opportunities. The area's proximity to wildlife viewing is another common theme in visitor reviews. "The location is fairly close to the town of Bonners Ferry and Sandpoint so you are never too far from civilization," wrote one reviewer about Blue Lake RV Resort. Campground amenities vary widely, from primitive sites with vault toilets to full-service RV parks with modern facilities. The mix of developed campgrounds and more secluded options makes the Bonners Ferry area suitable for various camping styles, from family-friendly sites with amenities to more remote experiences for those seeking solitude.

Best Camping Sites Near Bonners Ferry, Idaho (160)

    1. Blue Lake RV Resort

    9 Reviews
    Naples, ID
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 946-3361

    $20 - $55 / night

    "While there were some positive aspects to the campground, a few drawbacks prevented it from standing out. One of the major downsides was the campsite's unfortunate location between two railway lines."

    "Cute little RV park off the highway. Very quite with a small lake. Families can enjoy fishing, swimming, yard games, fire pit, and very dog friendly with a fenced dog park."

    2. Boundary County Fairgrounds

    7 Reviews
    Bonners Ferry, ID
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (208) 267-7041

    "Not being county Fair time I assumed nobody else, except maybe a stray RVer who found themselves way up here despite the Canadian border being closed, would be there."

    "I did a drive by and was so impressed! The parking is next to a grassy park. The place is well maintained. Several ports potties were clean and available."

    3. Smith Lake Campground

    7 Reviews
    Moyie Springs, WA
    7 miles
    Website

    "Access to the lake is very close, there is a day use area with toilets, benches and fire pits right near the lake and the campsites are just a bit further off the lake."

    "Although the campsites are not lakefront, it's only a short walk to the day use area with a fishing dock, boat launch and dock, and a nice public area."

    4. Meadow Creek Campground

    7 Reviews
    Moyie Springs, ID
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 267-5561

    "The only major problem is that dogs are not on leashes and no one is around to enforce the leash law."

    "Buck Mountain Trail #176 is a great hike or bike in the area. If you scramble to the top of the mountain, there is an incredible view of the Cabinets and the Selkirks."

    5. North Haven Campground

    3 Reviews
    Bonners Ferry, ID
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 603-9212

    $49 - $300 / night

    "A very nice stay on very loud 4th weekend of fireworks at Bonners Ferry(to be expected). Campsite with fire ring, wooded, picnic table was awesome. Bathhouse and facilities were very clean."

    "Close to all the wonders of Idaho's panhandle. They have several back in and pull through sites with more on the way. Choice of full hookups, or water and electric."

    6. Yaak River Campground

    13 Reviews
    Troy, MT
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 295-4693

    $16 - $60 / night

    "Beautiful area. 6 miles east if Idaho border."

    ".

    • bring hand sanitizer since there aren't sinks or soap
    • There's a DG about 20 minutes away in Idaho to grab snack goodies c:"

    7. The Hemlocks RV and Lodging

    2 Reviews
    Moyie Springs, ID
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 267-4363

    $25 - $129 / night

    "Located central to sights in Idaho as well as Montana. We will be back next year. Guided fishing tours available as well as great food."

    8. Twin Rivers Canyon Resort

    1 Review
    Moyie Springs, ID
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 267-5932

    9. Roman Nose

    3 Reviews
    Naples, ID
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 267-5561

    "We stayed the night in the campground near the trailhead and did a day-hike to the 3 lakes the next morning. The actual campground has 4 designated sites and a group tent area."

    "We really enjoyed the hike to the upper lakes as well."

    10. Trout Creek Base Camp

    1 Review
    Bonners Ferry, ID
    10 miles
    +1 (208) 920-3074

    $32 - $42 / night

    "There was paint and brushes, and the kids were invited to paint a rock and plant it on the creek path. We stayed 2 nights and hiked the full day in between."

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Recent Reviews near Bonners Ferry, ID

407 Reviews of 160 Bonners Ferry Campgrounds



Guide to Bonners Ferry

Camping near Bonners Ferry, Idaho, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore the lakes: Lake Pend Oreille is a popular spot for swimming and fishing. One camper mentioned, “We visited in September and enjoyed the beautiful lake with plenty of trees around” at Sam Owen Campground.
  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby. A visitor at Yaak River Campground said, “The campground is quiet and right along the beautiful Yaak River, perfect for a hike.”
  • Wildlife watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Kootenai River Campground shared, “We saw eagles soaring while we enjoyed our lunch by the river.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic views: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. A review for Green Bay Campground highlights, “Incredible views and camp spots right on the water.”
  • Clean facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A visitor at Lionhead Campground noted, “The bathrooms were clean, and the staff was incredibly friendly.”
  • Friendly hosts: Campground hosts often make a big difference. One camper at Blue Lake RV Resort said, “The staff helped us park and were very accommodating.”

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Idaho Springy Point, don’t have showers or electric hookups. A camper mentioned, “Great site if you are in a traditional tent, but no showers available.”
  • Seasonal access: Many campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Sam Owen Campground operates from May 8 to September 20.
  • Road conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A visitor at Green Bay Campground warned, “The road going down is pretty rough, especially in the rain, but doable without 4WD.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. One camper at Luby Bay Campground said, “The beach area is phenomenal! Nice sand and amazing afternoon shade.”
  • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A family at Kootenai River Campground enjoyed, “The kids had a blast riding their bikes on the trails.”
  • Pack snacks: Keep everyone happy with snacks on hand. A camper at Bonner County Fairgrounds mentioned, “The campground is conveniently located near town for quick snack runs.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Blue Lake RV Resort noted, “Some sites are close together, but we found a nicely spaced one among the trees.”
  • Be prepared for noise: Some campgrounds are near highways or railroads. A visitor at Kootenai River Campground said, “There is some road noise, but it’s not overbearing.”
  • Bring cash: Some campgrounds prefer cash payments. A camper at Yaak River Campground advised, “Make sure you have cash for your site and firewood.”

Camping near Bonners Ferry, Idaho, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best season for camping near Bonners Ferry?

The prime camping season around Bonners Ferry runs from late May through September, with July and August offering the most reliable warm weather. Reeder Bay Campground is popular in summer for its sandy beach access, though June can bring unpredictable spring storms. Yaak River Campground offers a deep woods experience with ample shade during hot summer months. Fall camping in September and early October brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, with beautiful autumn colors. Summer weekends tend to be busiest, especially around holidays like the Fourth of July when reservations are essential. Seasonal considerations include potential wildfire smoke in late summer and mosquitoes, which can be particularly intense in early summer.

What amenities are available at Bonners Ferry camping areas?

Camping areas around Bonners Ferry offer varied amenities depending on the campground type. Riley Creek Campground provides well-maintained facilities with helpful staff and lake access. Blue Lake RV Resort offers full hookups for RVs with water, electric, and sewer connections. Most public campgrounds feature basic amenities like vault toilets, potable water from spigots, fire rings, and picnic tables. RV parks typically provide shower facilities, dump stations, and sometimes laundry services. Primitive campgrounds in the area may only have vault toilets without running water. For beach access and waterfront camping, several sites around Priest Lake and nearby reservoirs offer sandy shores with swimming areas.

Where are the best campgrounds in Bonners Ferry, Idaho?

Bonners Ferry offers several excellent camping options. Smith Lake Campground is a small, intimate spot just minutes from town with about 6 spaces suitable for cars or vans, vault toilets, and potable water. For RVers, North Haven Campground provides modern facilities in a beautiful wooded setting with fire rings and picnic tables. Other notable options include Boundary County Fairgrounds which accommodates big rigs and Twin Rivers Canyon Resort near Moyie Springs. The surrounding area also features several Forest Service campgrounds like Meadow Creek that offer more rustic experiences with basic amenities in scenic natural settings.