The Calder area sits at the junction of the St. Joe and St. Maries Rivers in Idaho's northern panhandle, with elevations ranging from 2,200 to 2,800 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during peak camping season from June through September, with evening temperatures dropping to 45-55°F. Most rv campgrounds near Calder, Idaho operate seasonally due to heavy winter snowfall that makes access challenging from November through April.
What to do
River access activities: Wallace RV Park provides direct access to creek activities for cooling off during summer visits. "A beautiful small privately owned campground in the heart of Wallace Idaho. Right next to the city limits brew pub... and the sound of the river is wonderful!" notes Kelly N. The campground's proximity to water makes it ideal for those wanting quick water access without extensive travel.
Hiking options: Trails near CDA River RV, Riverfront Campground connect campers to the longer Coeur d'Alene pathway system. "Right off the long Cour d'Alene Trail... so quite the gem," says Bjorn S. This connectivity allows campers to experience longer-distance hiking without needing to drive to trailheads.
Historical exploration: Within walking distance of Wallace RV Park, visitors can explore the town's preserved buildings. "We didn't have reservations but found this small RV Park blocks from Historic Old Town Wallace. It was fairly expensive but it's selling point was the proximity of downtown and the shops and bars," shares Andrew A. Wallace's mining history provides educational opportunities through self-guided walking tours of the historic district.
What campers like
Waterfront settings: Riverfront sites remain popular among campers seeking nature connection without isolation. "Throw a rock and hit river from campsite. Bring kayak and put in the river right at the campground. Cement pads, New pavement, good hosts, nice spot," mentions Randy V. about CDA River RV Campground. These water-adjacent sites typically book fastest during summer months.
Brewery proximity: Several campgrounds feature convenient walking access to local breweries and restaurants. "The campground is overall a great bang for your buck. The price is great if you're on a budget. They do not have sewer hookups but they have very nice bathroom facilities with showers," notes Darryl H. about Big Creek RV Park in Osburn, highlighting budget-friendly options with amenities.
Shade availability: Tree cover varies significantly between campgrounds in the region. "Nice little Rv park. Only complaint is that the sites are close together. The asphalt pads themselves are nice sized and ours is pretty level. Tons of mature trees providing shade," writes Corey about Tamarack RV Park in Coeur d'Alene. During July and August when temperatures reach 85-90°F, shaded sites provide necessary relief.
What you should know
Varying water pressure: Water systems at some campgrounds can be inconsistent, requiring campers to plan accordingly. "Stayed in our way back home from West Coast, nice park had last minute availability. Was told to make sure to use pressure regulator, always do anyways but when we got here pressure was so bad we just filled our fresh water tank and used the rvs pump," reports Anthony F. about CDA River RV.
Noise considerations: Road noise affects many campgrounds in the region due to their proximity to highways and logging routes. "Clean park with beautiful creekside camping. Friendly employees and a convenient Brew Pub within walking distance. Grassy areas at sites and very pet friendly. Road next the RV Park is very busy! It does slow down after dark but be prepared for road noise during daylight hours," warns Shonni N.
Variable WiFi strength: Internet connectivity remains inconsistent throughout the region, with most campgrounds offering limited service. "No Verizon. Wi fi works at entrance to campground. River is beautiful!" mentions Eric P. about his August stay at CDA River RV. Campers requiring reliable internet should prepare alternative connectivity solutions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pines RV Park offers dedicated children's play facilities for family campers. "There was a playground on site but other than that it's nothing special. The park manager was very social. I don't mind but if you want privacy you may want to stay at a different location," shares Megan K. Families should consider sites further from common areas if noise is a concern.
Beach alternatives: During peak summer heat, campgrounds with water access provide natural swimming opportunities. "Very nice small campground in Wallace. It is next to a creek with a clean bathroom. I stayed one night [tent} for $23," reports GilDSun. These natural water features offer cooling alternatives when temperatures exceed 85°F.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds provide more supervised environments suitable for families with young children. "I cannot say enough good things about this place! It was very beautiful and clean! It was also very quiet! You are right next to a highway, but you can barely hear it. Robin and Dennis are extremely nice! They will go out of their way to make sure you are happy and safe!" remarks Angie A. about Pines RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking at Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park, choose sites away from service roads for reduced noise. "Our number 1 site was over 60 feet long and large for our 34 foot long 5th wheel and our Chevy truck. Most of the sites are full hookup with 30 and 50 amp electric. Water and sewer dump. Our site was just along the road and it was pretty noisy but it did calm down at night," advises Joseph.
Access route planning: Large RVs should avoid certain highway exits when approaching popular campgrounds. "If you are coming off of interstate 90, don't use exit 13. The round about is way to small to handle big rig or any camper. The best route is exit 12 big rig friendly," recommends Rick Shannon P. about accessing Kootenai County Fairgrounds.
Leveling preparation: Many sites require additional leveling equipment for comfort. "The asphalt pads themselves are nice sized and ours is pretty level," notes Corey about Tamarack RV Park, though experiences vary by site number and campground. Carrying leveling blocks remains essential when visiting multiple campgrounds in the region.
