RV parks near Clarkia, Idaho offer varying levels of amenities for campers exploring this forested region of the Panhandle. The area sits at elevations ranging from 2,800 to 3,500 feet, nestled between the St. Joe and Clearwater National Forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Trail access: Several campgrounds provide access to local hiking trails and scenic areas. At Wallace RV Park, one camper notes it's "Within walking distance to charming downtown. Very friendly staff. Some spots border a small river. Pet friendly." Another visitor appreciated the location's proximity to outdoor recreation: "Walking distance to downtown and the Trail of the Coeur d'Alene's."
Water activities: The Clearwater and St. Joe Rivers offer opportunities for fishing, kayaking and swimming. CDA River RV, Riverfront Campground provides direct river access where you can "Bring kayak and put in the river right at the campground." A reviewer highlighted the convenience: "Nice river spot, right by the river and just off I-90. Far enough off you don't get blasted by highway noise!"
Local festivals: Summer events bring additional activities to the region. One reviewer at Soaring Hawk RV Resort described their July experience: "Great new campground right outside of Plummer. There's been some sort of entertainment each night we've been here, fire dancers Friday and Saturday, a 4th of july bbq, 2 bands and fireworks at midnight tonight."
What campers like
Riverfront sites: Many campers appreciate waterfront camping options. A visitor to CDA River RV noted, "Great one night spot on the river. Clean campground with nice flat spots. River is beautiful!" Another camper described Wallace RV Park's setting: "We backed right above the creek. With the windows open I could hear it babbling all night. Pure bliss."
Small-town access: Proximity to local towns adds convenience for supplies and dining. A camper at Pines RV Park commented, "This RV park is right in town near all the local amenities. Lots to do here, hiking, boating, swimming. There are nice shade trees and nice space between campsites."
Pet amenities: Several parks accommodate travelers with animals. Soaring Hawk RV Resort gets praise for its "two large dog parks" while a Wallace RV Park reviewer noted it's "very pet friendly" with "grassy areas at sites."
What you should know
Winter conditions: While many parks remain open year-round, winter access requires planning. City of Bovill RV Park operates in all seasons, with one visitor noting, "This is an all season RV Park. There's a nice patch of grass in the center during warm months."
Site spacing: Campground density varies significantly throughout the region. Latah County Fairgrounds received this assessment: "The RV sites are very close together but they do come with electric hookups and water on each site."
Noise considerations: Road and rail proximity affects some campgrounds. One visitor to Clearwater Crossing RV Park stated bluntly: "Well, if you like to camp between the railroad tracks and highway, this is the spot for you!" At Wallace RV Park, a reviewer cautioned: "Road next the RV Park is very busy! It does slow down after dark but be prepared for road noise during daylight hours."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks offer play areas for children. Pines RV Park includes a playground among its amenities, though one reviewer noted: "There was a playground on site but other than that it's nothing special."
Entertainment options: Campgrounds hosting activities provide additional recreation. One Soaring Hawk visitor wrote: "There's been some sort of entertainment each night we've been here, fire dancers Friday and Saturday, a 4th of july bbq, 2 bands and fireworks at midnight."
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies between locations. Big Creek RV Park received this feedback: "They do not have sewer hookups but they have very nice bathroom facilities with showers. There's also a laundry facility. The bathrooms and laundry have always been kept clean and maintained."
Tips from RVers
Water pressure concerns: Some parks have utility issues to be aware of. A CDA River RV camper advised: "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."
Site surfaces: Different campgrounds offer varying pad materials. Wallace RV Park features "level gravel sites" while CDA River RV provides "cement pads, new pavement." At Soaring Hawk RV Resort, a visitor noted: "Park is gravel and you may need to do a little leveling, but it isn't bad at all."
Parking configuration: Site layouts affect larger rigs and towed vehicles. A Soaring Hawk RV Resort camper shared: "Had enough room to park my 44' rig and my truck right next to it." At Latah County Fairgrounds, "Depending what site you have, if you are towing a trailer you may have to drop it off and park at another location."
