Round Lake State Park Campground offers year-round camping in the Idaho panhandle, about 15 miles south of Sandpoint. At an elevation of approximately 2,200 feet, the area experiences warm summers and cold winters with significant snowfall. The campground surrounds a small 58-acre natural lake formed by glaciers during the last ice age.
What to do
Hiking trails: Round Lake State Park Campground features multiple trail options including a loop around the lake and mountain paths. "There is a lovely trail around the lake and an extensive set of trails heading up into the mountain behind the lake as well as a trail to a pond with a dam which is quite peaceful," notes Jason S.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line from one of the docks at Round Lake. "I had a great time casting off from them and even caught a couple of crappies and trout which was a nice bonus," shares Jason S. The lake supports multiple fish species.
Theme park access: Silverwood RV Park provides direct access to Silverwood Theme Park through a pedestrian tunnel. "A slamdunk if you're going to silverwood. The amenities are nice - showers, bathrooms, great little store. Spaces feel spaced out. We were in loop F," reports Jennifer H.
What campers like
Water recreation: The swimming area at Round Lake State Park has "kind of sandy beach, but there is a bit of seaweed in the swimming area. There are also two docks perfect for fishing," according to Jason S.
Educational resources: Round Lake State Park Campground offers interpretive programs for children. "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," writes Heather M.
Lake views: For spectacular waterfront views, Garfield Bay Campground provides quick water access. "It's a short walk down to the lake. The camp grounds is okay. It seemed as though the spot I was in was rather big but not spaced apart from surrounding camp sites," reports Sophie P.
What you should know
Winter camping limitations: Winter visitors should note potential electrical issues at Round Lake. "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. We decided not to stay as our Tesla kept reporting electrical risk every 10 minutes," warns Nic F.
Reservation requirements: During peak season, Gilmore Campground at Farragut State Park fills quickly. "Book early as this is a very popular place," advises Ronald.
Site spacing: Some campgrounds have undergone renovations affecting privacy between sites. "They clear cut all the bushes between spots and threw wood chips down so there is no privacy at all. I know they are worried about fires but good grief. Hence the reason it feels like you are right on top of your neighbors," explains Brett R. about Round Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Educational activities: The visitor center at Round Lake offers interactive exhibits for children. "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. They also have boards to rent and games as well," shares Heather M.
Theme park proximity: Camp Coeur D Alene offers family amenities with lake access about 30 minutes from Cocolalla. "This campground was super cozy and safe. They had firewood for sale, a pool, and clean showers and bathrooms. We had a very comfortable stay and were able to connect to the wifi at our tent site," reports Sienna V.
Free water equipment: Some campgrounds provide complimentary equipment rentals. "This place has great amenities (free canoes, hot showers, flush toilets, free firewood) which made it the nicest campground I had been to for awhile," says Jared about Camp Coeur D'Alene.
Tips from RVers
Winter hookup reliability: RVers planning winter glamping near Cocolalla, Idaho should verify utility status. At Round Lake, one visitor noted, "There was only one hookup spot plowed, and it's connectivity was not stable. We decided not to stay as our Tesla kept reporting electrical risk every 10 minutes," during late December.
Site selection for larger units: Ravenwood RV Resort offers spacious sites. "The sites are decent size and we were able to park our 28 foot trailer and park our full-size pick up sideways in the site," reports Gabe L.
Hookup availability: Check for full hookup options when booking. "All sites now have full hook-ups with water, power and sewer and every site has both 30/50amp. No showers but who needs that when you have full hook-ups," notes Marisa S. about Ravenwood RV Resort.
