Tent camping near Coolin, Idaho offers extensive access to alpine lake environments within the Selkirk Mountain range at elevations between 2,500-7,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with nighttime lows frequently dropping below 50°F even in July. Campsite availability changes dramatically between weekdays and weekends, with Thursday arrivals recommended for securing the best primitive sites.
What to do
Cliff jumping at Green Bay: Access rocky ledges of varying heights overlooking crystal-clear water where "the view is AMAZING" and "the water is crystal clear, you can walk all the way out to where you cannot touch and still see the rocks on the bottom." Green Bay Campground offers shoreline camping with direct access to popular jumping spots.
Kayak island hopping: Navigate the waters between mainland and island campsites for a unique camping adventure. "The best of both worlds! Who loves kayaking and car camping? Why not both?? A group of us stocked up our kayak and we trekked out to Kalispell Island!" At Kalispell Island Boat-in Campground, remember that "when choosing a site remember sunrise and sunset as I was lucky to have a place on the south side so there was shade during the hottest parts of the day."
Alpine lake hiking: Trek to higher elevation lakes for pristine swimming and fishing. The trail to Beehive Lake Dispersed camping area "is a true alpine treasure, but be prepared to work for it! The hike to get there is pretty strenuous, with some tough climbs along the way." During summer months, "you'll find huckleberries everywhere, which is a sweet bonus after the tough hike in."
What campers like
Solitude during weekdays: Midweek arrivals significantly increase chances of securing prime campsites. At Green Bay Campground, one camper noted "we arrived on a Wednesday and had the place nearly to our selves. Make sure to arrive early in the week if you want a camp site. Spots filled quickly in the days following."
Clear night skies: Minimal light pollution provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground, "on a clear night, you'll see the bulk on the Milky Way" making astronomical viewing a highlight for campers bringing telescopes or photography equipment.
First-come availability: Many campsites operate without reservations, providing last-minute camping options. At Skookum Creek, campers report "it's a free DNR campground. A site doesn't cost a dime. However, each site has a nice fire ring, large picnic table, and loads of elbow room." Similarly, boat-in sites often remain available when mainland sites fill up.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites lack running water and have minimal amenities. At Skookum Creek Campground, "there were primitive bathrooms, and from my memory no running water." Plan accordingly by bringing sufficient water containers and filtration systems.
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds deteriorate significantly after rainfall. Roman Nose campground access requires preparation as "the road is long and VERY washboarded, but you have lots of great options if you plan on doing some hiking in the area."
Yellow jacket activity: Insect presence intensifies during late summer months. One Green Bay camper warned "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."
Tips for camping with families
Island camping for privacy: Boat-accessible sites provide natural boundaries for families with active children. At Kalispell Island Three Pines Campground, sites are "pretty close together but easily accessible from the shore" allowing families to monitor children while maintaining separation from other groups.
Day trips to managed beaches: Utilize developed swimming areas for safer water access. "The nice swim beach along with lots of trails to explore" at Nordman Campground provides structured water access with gradual entry points suitable for children.
Dispersed shoreline options: Riverside tent sites offer easier gear transport than steep trails. At Pack River Dispersed Site, families can find "several sites available along this road" that are "on the river and very peaceful" without requiring long hikes with children and equipment.
Tips from RVers
Island group sites: Large parties with multiple tents should consider island reservations. At Bartoo Island, groups will find sites that are "large and private, nice beach, good wind block" making them ideal for family reunions or multiple family camping trips.
Boat-in alternatives: When mainland RV sites fill up, boat-in tent camping provides overflow options. RVers keeping boats at marinas can access Kalispell Island where "there was shade during the hottest parts of the day and less sun at 5am when you want to sleep" making for better sleeping conditions than sun-exposed RV sites.
High-clearance access: Many tent sites near Coolin require vehicles capable of navigating rough roads. At Pack River Dispersed Site, expect "lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites" requiring trucks or SUVs rather than standard RVs.
