Tent camping in the Cabinet Mountain region offers access to Idaho's northwestern wilderness areas, with multiple primitive sites situated near alpine lakes and rivers. Elevation in this area ranges from 2,000 to 4,500 feet, creating varied ecosystems from dense cedar forests to open meadows. Winter snowpack typically lingers at higher elevations until late May, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Trail exploration: Scotchmans Peak provides challenging hiking with significant elevation gain for experienced hikers. "This is a very very difficult hike, which makes camping here even more rewarding. Plenty of wildlife. I have only been one time and not seen mountain goats," explains camper Shariah T. about the Scotchmans Peak trail.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Creek Campground provides access to quality fishing spots with local knowledge readily available. "Lake creek is close enough to Hwy 2, but near enough the nearby towns to make beer treks a bit easier. Fishing is great as well and lots of local residents who are happy to show you about," notes Sunshine S. about the Lake Creek Campground.
Water activities: Several tent sites around Lake Pend Oreille provide clear water for swimming and kayaking during summer months. "We brought our kayaks into the water in the sunny part of the day, other camping spots available by boat if you can get there!" shares Michelle B. about recreational options at Green Bay.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: The best tent camping near Clark Fork, Idaho often involves less developed areas away from crowds. "Pretty removed from everything, decent gravel road to get in, super quiet and lovely, the creek runs behind the left side of the loop," describes Alex P. about their experience at Lake Creek.
Crystal clear water: The clarity of Lake Pend Oreille draws many campers seeking swimming opportunities. "You can walk all the way out to where you cannot touch and still see the rocks on the bottom," notes one camper about their experience at Green Bay Campground.
Riverside camping: Multiple spots along Pack River offer peaceful tent camping with natural sounds. "A few sites available along this road. Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites. On the river and very peaceful," explains Emma T. about Pack River Dispersed Site.
What you should know
Primitive conditions: Most tent camping near Clark Fork requires self-sufficiency with limited facilities. "Great tent camping. Also, it's a great starting point to some really good dirt bike trails. Be prepared for no cell service. 0 amenities. It's just a place to pitch a tent and have a fire. And it cost nothing," cautions a camper about Breakwater Campground.
Wildlife precautions: Bear boxes are available at some established sites but not all camping areas. "There are 4 developed sites and a few dispersed ones as well. 3 of the 4 sites had bear boxes, it was only site 2 that appeared to not have one," notes Alex P. about Lake Creek Campground facilities.
Road conditions: Many access roads require higher clearance vehicles, particularly after spring thaw. "Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites," warns Emma T. about Pack River access, emphasizing the need for appropriate vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Weekday arrival: For the best tent camping experience near Clark Fork with families, arrive mid-week to secure preferred spots. "Our stay at the Green Bay campground was perfect. We arrived on a Wednesday and had the place nearly to ourselves. This was a perfect place to camp with a family or with friends. Make sure to arrive early in the week if you want a camp site. Spots filled quickly in the days following," advises William N.
Yellow jacket awareness: Summer months bring increased insect activity in some areas. "Our only complaint was that there were a lot of yellow jackets- A LOT. But they weren't too aggressive. Despite being frequently swarmed by them, neither of us got stung while we were there," reports a camper about their Green Bay experience.
Rock activities: Lake Pend Oreille shorelines provide natural entertainment for children. "Best skipping rocks you'll ever find! I love staying here with friends. Has a beautiful view of the lake and has tons of activities available for fun things to do on your camping trip," shares Maddie L. about Green Bay Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping areas near Clark Fork accommodate tent camping primarily, with few RV-friendly sites. "The camp area is pretty full even in the off season, because it is absolutely beautiful. Located not far from Thompson Falls, and lot of water ways. Fish are not as abundant as other areas, and there are no walking trails within walking distance," notes Kyle M. about Bull River Pavilion.
Boat-in alternatives: For RVers with boat access, waterfront camping provides alternatives to road access limitations. "Boat and hike in only access. No pump for water source, only lake or creek. Multiple sites. 3 bouy-tethers for boats," explains Libby N. about Maiden Rock Campground options.
Fire restrictions: Check current fire regulations before planning RV camping with campfires. "There was a bunch of cut wood already at a couple of the sites and some fallen trees in late August that were good for firewood," notes Alex P. about Lake Creek Campground, though fire restrictions can change seasonally.
