The Calder, Idaho area sits at approximately 2,700 feet elevation in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Camping near Calder combines river access with mountain terrain, creating options for both tent and RV campers throughout the warmer months. Forest service roads provide access to both established campgrounds and dispersed sites, with seasonal closures common during winter snowfall.
What to do
Fishing at Big Creek: Big Creek and surrounding waterways offer excellent fishing opportunities near Calder. Big Creek, Calder, Idaho provides secluded spots for anglers. "There are secluded dispersed campsites on Big Creek between the campgrounds on Big Creek RD. If you're set up for off grid its definitely worth spending a few days fly fishing or hiking the area. Very serene!" notes Jarae P.
Explore mountain caves: The St. Maries region contains interesting geological features. Marble Creek Campground sits near an unusual man-made feature. "Just miles from the camp, there is an old man-built cave that makes its way through the entire mountain. You can drop family members off, let them walk through the exciting damp, dark cave, and pick them up on the other side," explains Jade F.
Biking the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes: This paved trail connects multiple camping areas and towns. "The Trail of the Coeur D'Alene runs through this campground. Biking the 7 mile ride to Harrison is a great way to spend the day, you cross the lake over a bridge, watching eagles swoop over the lake as you ride," shares Samantha W. about Hawleys Landing.
What campers like
Lake access for paddle sports: Several lakes within driving distance of Calder offer non-motorized boating options. "Awesome lake for kayaking and paddle boarding," explains Nathan M. about Lake Elsie Campground, a mountain lake about an hour's drive from Calder.
Riverside camping: Many sites feature creek or river frontage for direct water access. "This campground is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out area close to the swiftly flowing Marble Creek. There is one vault toilet and two fire rings with grills, but also a couple more spots with just rock rings," mentions Gordie H. about Donkey Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The forests surrounding Calder host diverse wildlife. "We had a very comfortable stay and were able to connect to the wifi at our tent site. Would be the first campground we would reserve when we return to the area," notes Sienna V. about Camp Coeur D Alene, where moose sightings are possible according to other reviews.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Forest roads range from well-maintained to challenging. "The road up to the lake is really rough and narrow but manageable with a proper vehicle," warns Diadra G. about Lake Elsie. Similarly, Samuel H. notes, "The road up is rough, potholes, it does get better about halfway up. Expect at least 30 minutes to get up after you hit the gravel, and that's pushing it pretty hard."
Bear activity requires precautions: Bears frequent many camping areas around Calder. "Also, multiple bears went through the campground in the evening and came back at around 3am. Be careful with your food and be smart," advises Natalie J. at Lake Elsie Campground.
Limited services: Most campgrounds have minimal facilities. Big Creek Campground in Calder has basic amenities. "This is not a free spot, and closes earlier in the fall season. It costs extra for extra spaces. Dirt roads leading up to the sites... There's no trash areas so you need to pack out everything you pack in," explains Megan K.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with river access: Families appreciate water features for recreation. "There was even a pedestrian access to the river by our site where we could step right into the water!" mentions a visitor about river access near camping areas.
Consider town proximity: Wallace RV Park offers both nature and town amenities. "Great spot to stay especially if you're visiting Wallace for a festival or stopover. Within walking distance to charming downtown. Very friendly staff. Some spots border a small river. Pet friendly," notes Elizabeth S. The park is within reasonable driving distance of Calder for families wanting occasional town amenities.
Check for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer additional features for children. "We biked on the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, saw lots of wildlife, and enjoyed the beach at Rocky Point," shares Melissa M. about Hawleys Landing in Heyburn State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many forest camping areas have uneven terrain. "We got lucky and were in a site that was a bit more level. Noticed a lot of sites are unlevel," reports Olivia J. about Chatcolet campground.
Limited hookup availability: Most camping near Calder is primitive or partial hookup only. "We parked next to the river. No trouble with red noise in the spot, but on the other side is closer to the road. The park was clean and appears well managed. Vault toilets spaced appropriately throughout the small campground," explains Wanda K. about Shadowy St. Joe Campground, adding it "Has Electric and drinking water at a nominal price."
Road width restrictions: Forest roads often challenge larger rigs. "ROAD IS NARROW, WINDY, AND STEEP. not at all trailer or big rig friendly," warns lili G. about Lake Elsie Campground, which is typical of many forest roads in the region.
