Several campgrounds near Coeur d'Alene sit at elevations between 2,100 and 2,500 feet, with the area experiencing moderate summer temperatures averaging 85°F in July and August. Wolf Creek runs alongside multiple campsites, providing natural water features during spring runoff, though it often dries up by late summer. Proximity to both Lake Coeur d'Alene and the Spokane River creates options for water recreation and wildlife viewing opportunities.
What to do
Hiking at Liberty Lake Regional Park: The park offers multiple hiking trails through wooded areas with opportunities to spot wildlife. One camper noted, "There are several hiking trails, including an equestrian trail, waterfall, fishing and lots of wildlife. There were deer in the campground every day, we saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks" at Liberty Lake Regional Park.
Kayaking and paddleboating: Several campgrounds offer direct water access with equipment rentals. A visitor to Camp Coeur D Alene reported, "We took the paddle boat our for a sunset cruise and it was a very memorable experience!" Another camper shared, "Great spot to stay for a bit. They have cabins and rv spots and car/tent spots with direct lake access and kayaks/peddleboats to rent."
Explore nearby beaches: Swimming areas are available within walking distance of some campgrounds. One reviewer mentioned, "There is a clean shower/bathroom building and a beach within walking distance of the campground" while staying at Liberty Lake Regional Park. Several sites provide quick access to Lake Coeur d'Alene's shoreline where dogs can swim under supervision.
What campers like
Free amenities and activities: Some locations include complimentary recreation equipment. A camper at Camp Coeur D Alene shared, "This campground was very nice, it provided showers, bathrooms, kitchen, free firewood and even paddle boats!" Another visitor appreciated "free canoes, hot showers, flush toilets, free firewood."
Secluded camping options: Several campgrounds offer more private sites if you know where to book. One reviewer at Beauty Creek Campground noted, "Cute, rustic campground with pit toilets and a potable water pump. Not a lot of privacy, but if you need a place to stop and camp for a night, not a bad choice at all. Site #7 is definitely the best site for tent camping." Another camper described, "There are a number of sites around a field and a few more further up in the campground and more secluded."
Clean facilities throughout: Campgrounds consistently maintain sanitation standards in shared areas. One camper at Beauty Creek Campground commented, "Pit toilets were very clean/well maintained," while another noted the facilities "were spotless and well stocked" at Wolf Lodge Campground.
What you should know
Highway noise affects some locations: Several campgrounds are situated near major roadways. One reviewer at Wolf Lodge Campground warned, "This campground is next to the interstate. I called last minute as we were driving through and was offered a tent site next to 'the creek'—turns out the creek is the ditch between the highway and campsite. It's loud, and bright with lights from the highway."
Creek conditions vary seasonally: Water features mentioned in campground descriptions may not be present year-round. A camper at Beauty Creek Campground reported, "Creek doesn't seem to run most of the year but that was alright with me," while another noted, "The creek bed was totally dry when we were here."
Insect activity in summer months: Some locations experience seasonal pest issues. A reviewer at Beauty Creek Campground cautioned, "There was a bit of a wasp problem there (we were there in August), so not the best place to go if you're afraid of or allergic to bees and wasps." Another camper observed, "Yellow jackets are swarming you. Nobody was stung when we were there and I find that amazing."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly camping spots: For those traveling with pets, multiple options exist. A camper at Blackwell Island RV Park shared, "The beaches were very nice for both people and dogs. I appreciated space and trails for my dog," while another noted designated "dog-friendly tent sites, RV spaces, and cabins" are available throughout the area.
Entertainment for children: Some sites provide organized activities and play areas. A visitor reported that Wolf Lodge Campground "looks to be a very family friendly park. There was a trampoline, playground, and other games." Another camper mentioned, "Lots of free or low priced activities for the kids. We loved kayaking down the creek at the campground and saw wildlife."
Cabin options for non-tent campers: Several campgrounds offer cabins as alternatives to tent camping. One visitor to Camp Coeur D Alene reported, "The camp offers tent camping, full service RV camping, and cabins for rent. There are hiking trails adjacent, a well stocked camp store and laundry facilities."
Tips from RVers
Fairgrounds RV accommodations: The Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park provides central locations with full hookups. A camper reported, "The roads and sites are all paved. The price is reasonable for an RV park in the center of a busy resort area." Another noted, "We were very pleased with this RV park! This facility is located very near the general Fairgrounds and next to the horse park."
Site selection for maximum space: Some RV parks offer more spacious sites than others. A reviewer at Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park observed, "Campground is designed well so sites have more space than other campgrounds," while another appreciated "how large the sites and overall area was, so we could back our rig in easily (40ft long x 13.5ft tall)."
Highway access considerations: Different routes provide varying degrees of accessibility. One RVer at Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park advised, "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."
