Camping spots near Clark Fork, Idaho extend into wooded lakeside areas with elevation ranging from 2,100-3,500 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing with snowpack limiting road access to several campgrounds from November through April. Summer camping requires early reservation or arrival at first-come, first-served sites, particularly at lakeside locations where water temperatures reach 70°F by mid-July.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Sam Owen Campground provides a dedicated swimming area with clear, warm water. "The lake is just a very short walk away (great paddle boarding!) and though there is no cell service within the CG, there is on the far side of the swimming beach," notes camper Sarah. Pend Oreille's water temperatures reach 70°F by mid-July.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail networks offer varied terrain within 15 miles of Clark Fork. "Plenty of bike riding and hiking. A good junior ranger program. A historic museum to visit and some old ruins to explore," mentions Tonya L. about Whitetail Campground. For challenging terrain, Scotchmans Peak provides advanced hiking with elevation gain.
Fishing access: Garfield Bay Campground offers direct lake access for anglers. The campground is "a short walk down to the lake" according to Sophie P., making it convenient for morning fishing. Multiple fishing docks are available at Round Lake State Park where one camper "caught a couple of crappies and trout" during their stay.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common at multiple campgrounds. "Sam Owen is known for its huge friendly deer population!! You will see them everywhere!! Which is fun for out-of-towners! People from the city who don't get much wildlife action," explains Bridget L. Bear sightings occasionally occur at more remote sites.
Lakeside campsites: Whiskey Rock Bay Campground offers secluded waterfront sites. "A few of the campsites are right on the lake while others are more inland," explains Brendan. These sites provide direct water access but limited amenities. "It's a serious drive by car and most of the traffic is by boat. I was once here the week before July 4th and even then, there wasn't a lot of people," adds Celine K.
Shower facilities: Several campgrounds offer shower facilities with varying quality. "Round Lake is beautiful with a lot of recreation. I enjoyed camping here and will be going back! Bathrooms are not typical pit toilets, but had running water and flush toilets," reports Alex W. Some campgrounds charge for showers while others provide them at no additional cost.
What you should know
Access challenges: Roads to remote campgrounds can be difficult. "The road to get there is long and rough, I wouldn't recommend bringing a standard camping trailer, and you probably wouldn't want to take a car," explains Jason S. about Green Bay Campground. Many campers recommend high-clearance vehicles for certain sites.
Cell coverage limitations: Signal strength varies significantly between campgrounds. "There is no cell service within the CG, there is on the far side of the swimming beach, next to the Beyond Hope resort," reports Sarah about Sam Owen Campground. Some campers rely on signal boosters at more remote locations.
Weekend crowding: Weekends see significant increases in camping populations. "We stayed in a tent only spot... We stayed at a nice pull through campsite. All the sites are nice and private with lovely trees and open grassy space between them," reports Jason S. First-come, first-served sites typically fill by Friday morning during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Round Lake State Park Campground offers a family-friendly beach. "The swimming area is nice with kind of sandy beach, but there is a bit of seaweed in the swimming area. There are also two docks perfect for fishing," notes Jason S. The gradual shore entry makes it suitable for younger children.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide nature programs. "The camp visitor center has a cool place for kids to learn about the wildlife in the area with foot prints in sand, bird calls, samples of the different types of trees and more," explains Heather M. about Round Lake State Park.
Site spacing considerations: Some family campers note close quarters at certain campgrounds. "Its very crowded and people feel like they are right on top of each other. Your fire pit area is right next to your neighbors picnic table and/or their fire pit," explains Brett R. Reserving corner sites typically provides more space between neighbors.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring leveling blocks. "We had a huge, level spot (#56) at the end of the campground (not all sites are so level). A little tight to get into with a 40' 5th wheel, but doable," notes Sarah about Sam Owen Campground. Several campers recommend scouting sites before attempting to back in larger rigs.
Electric hookup reliability: Winter camping with hookups requires preparation. "Swung by here yesterday (late Dec) after calling to confirm hookups were still functional. There was only one hookup spot plowed, and it's connectivity was not stable," reports Nic F. Spring flooding can impact hookup availability at several campgrounds through May.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds with RV sites offer dump stations. "Bad Medicine Campground is operated by the US Forest Service and it is hosted from May to Sept. During those months it is $10 a night," explains Francie M. Dump stations may require additional fees at campgrounds that do provide them.
