Dispersed camping options and RV sites surround Bonners Ferry, Idaho, situated in the Kootenai River valley at 1,900 feet elevation. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Cell service remains strongest in Bonners Ferry proper, with connectivity declining in more remote camping areas north of town.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Blue Lake RV Resort offers access to a small lake where campers can fish for catfish and turtles. "The little lake is full of catfish and turtles that you can feed," notes a visitor at Blue Lake RV Resort.
Water activities: Paddle sports are popular at several campgrounds in the region. "They have paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards and a floating trampoline," reports one camper about Blue Lake RV Resort's amenities. At Beyond Hope Resort, visitors enjoy "good swimming beach area" with "a few different beaches along the area" though one reviewer advises bringing "swimming shoes or wear flip flops to get in the water" due to rocky shorelines.
Hiking in Kootenai National Forest: Campgrounds near Libby, Montana provide access to mountain trails. A camper at Woodland RV Park mentioned being "close to town and 10 miles away from a great hiking trail." The park also features "a great stream running next it kids were able to play in it could float down it also."
What campers like
Budget-friendly alternatives: Some campgrounds offer free parking options. "Per the website, you're allowed to camp there for three days," reports a visitor about Schweitzer Mountain Fire Station, adding "Didn't appear to be any check-in process or anything, you can just pull up and park."
Proximity to towns: Several campgrounds provide easy access to nearby communities. City of Sandpoint's RV park gets high marks for location: "This best part of this campground is that it is located inside the Sandpoint City Beach Park which is within a short walk to the very cute downtown of Sandpoint. There is a bikepath that follows the river."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. "Super clean bathrooms, nice showers, dish washing station too," writes one visitor about Blue Lake. Another camper at The Hemlocks RV and Lodging appreciated the "WiFi & free laundry, bathroom, &showers via coded entry."
What you should know
Train noise: Railway lines near many campgrounds can create noise disturbances. "The negatives are that it is close to Hwy 2, so road noise came be aggravating for some," notes a visitor to Two Bit Outfit. At Sandpoint's City Beach RV Park, a camper warned, "being right next to the train tracks is a bummer."
Limited tent sites: While RV accommodations are plentiful, dedicated tent camping areas can be sparse. One visitor to Blue Lake RV Resort observed they are "tent campers and had a nice spot on lake. only a few tent sites."
Site levelness varies: Gravel pads at many parks require adjustment for some RVs. A Woodland RV Park visitor noted, "Our spot #40 had an incline we had to lower the front end of out trailer to its lowest point to get it level."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Seek campgrounds with swimming areas during summer months. "I got to do yoga by the lake at sunrise, not too buggy and I saw lots of turtles," shares one Blue Lake RV Resort visitor, highlighting the calm morning water conditions.
Beach selection: At Travel America RV Park, families appreciate the "very nice lots. Lots of grass and trees" that provide play space for children. The park also offers a "nice convenience store" for last-minute supplies.
Seasonal considerations: Summer weekends fill quickly at popular family-friendly campgrounds. Beyond Hope Resort notes a short operating season "May 19 to October 1," making advance bookings essential during peak times.
Tips from RVers
Water and sewer connections: Most RV campgrounds Bonners Ferry, Idaho and surrounding areas offer full hookups. The Hemlocks RV and Lodging provides "water & electric hookups yr round," making it suitable for extended stays.
Dump station availability: Some parks offer dump stations while others don't. Verify before arrival. Blue Lake RV Resort's sanitary dump station offers convenience for those staying at parks without this service.
Spacing between sites: Site dimensions vary considerably between parks. One reviewer described Travel America RV Park as having "nice open spaces," while at Trestle Creek RV Park, a camper complained that "the spots are super duper close next to each other. Like within two feet... no privacy."
