Cabin camping near Calder, Idaho offers a mix of rustic and more developed options in the St. Joe River corridor at approximately 2,500 feet elevation. The region experiences warm summers with daytime temperatures in the 80s and cool evenings in the 50s. Winter access to cabin accommodations becomes limited due to snowfall, with some facilities closing completely from October through April.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Liberty Lake Regional Park provides multiple trail options within walking distance from cabin sites. "There is a clean shower/bathroom building and a beach within walking distance of the campground. Several hiking trails, including an equestrian trail, waterfall, fishing and lots of wildlife. There were deer in the campground every day, we saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks," notes one visitor.
Water recreation options: Camp Coeur D Alene offers direct lake access for cabin guests. "They have cabins and rv spots and car/tent spots with direct lake access and kayaks/peddleboats to rent," a camper explains. Another adds, "We took the paddle boat our for a sunset cruise and it was a very memorable experience!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple locations offer chances to spot local wildlife. "The campground has beautiful treed sites with lots of amenities. Hiked the trail on the backside of the campground, which followed along a stream. There's nearby wildlife, including a resident moose," reports a camper at Camp Coeur D Alene.
What campers like
Communal amenities: Wolf Lodge Campground provides shared facilities that complement their cabin rentals. "The atmosphere was festive. They had a band playing behind the office as entertainment! This looks to be a very family friendly park. There was a trampoline, playground, and other games," one visitor reports.
Trail connectivity: Hawleys Landing Campground receives praise for its location. "We picked this campground for its access to the Trail of the Coeur D'Alenes. The campground is small and peaceful, at least mid week. Lovely views of the lake through the trees," notes a camper. Another adds, "We biked on the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, saw lots of wildlife, and enjoyed the beach at Rocky Point."
Seasonal activities: Winter cabin stays differ significantly from summer options. "Our favorite campground🏕, We visit every year! 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, and finish your day with ice cream at Harrison."
What you should know
Access limitations: High-clearance vehicles may be required for some properties. Arid Peak Lookout and similar remote cabins have challenging access roads.
Variable amenities: Comfort levels range dramatically between properties. "Only giving 4 stars because it runs between 35 to 75 a night to stay there ranging from camping to full RV hookup. However, it is very close to Spokane and has beautiful hiking trails, a beach where you can swim and kayak and canoe and fish," reports one visitor at Liberty Lake.
Advance planning required: Reservations for cabins should be made well ahead. "We showed up May 1st, the first day they opened! The campground has beautiful treed sites with lots of amenities. They are redoing the pool, and the bathrooms are very clean. Very friendly staff," notes a camper who planned early at Camp Coeur D Alene.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Chatcolet Campground provides kid-friendly environments. "Campground is super clean, flushable toilets, metal picnic tables, fire rings all in good shape. Spots are fairly close so you can see your neighbors but there are trees and brush which helps. Frequented by young families so don't be annoyed by kids having a good time on their bikes or playing."
Safety considerations: Look for properties with controlled environments. "Cute campground with plenty to do and lots of amenities. Canoe and float rentals, live music on weekends. Full hook ups, clean showers and laundry too," notes a camper at Wolf Lodge Campground.
Year-round possibilities: Some cabins remain accessible during non-peak seasons. "Heyburn State Park area in general. There are other campgrounds nearby not listed on this app which are also nice. If you just go to this area you will find many tranquil moments between walking trails, docks, or just sitting by the campfire."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose cabin locations based on noise tolerance. "This campground is next to the interstate. I called last minute as we were driving through and was offered a tent site next to 'the creek'—turns out the creek is the ditch between the highway and campsite. It's loud, and bright with lights from the highway."
Space considerations: Review cabin dimensions before booking. "The cons, the sites are close together and it felt like a tight squeeze to get in, but there were some rigs bigger than ours in here so it is doable. The park has a rustic feel with the log buildings and gravel roads and sites."
Utility availability: Confirm what hookups are available at cabin sites. "The sewer connection is smaller than we are used to. I'm not sure if we have an adapter for it. But, only being here one night and having empty tanks to begin with, we will not need to dump the tanks anyway."
