Winchester Lake State Park offers camping near Craigmont, Idaho with sites positioned around a reservoir in a dense pine forest at 3,900 feet elevation. Located approximately 18 miles from Craigmont, the park maintains a relatively cool climate even during summer months, with daytime temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding areas due to the forest canopy. The regional camping season extends from May through October with limited winter accessibility at some locations.
What to Do
Fishing access points: Winchester Lake State Park provides diverse fishing opportunities with multiple species available. "We caught: blue gill, trout, bass, crappie, perch, cat fish and had a small Tiger Muskie on the line but lost it," reports Jennifer R. about her Winchester Lake State Park experience.
Non-motorized boating: The lakes and rivers around Craigmont allow for peaceful water exploration without engine noise. "The lake is perfect for kayaking and fishing," notes Brock W. who visited Winchester Lake State Park. "No motorized watercraft are allowed on the lake which makes it a wonderful place to kayak and SUP."
Hiking trails: Fields Spring State Park offers trails with panoramic views spanning three states. "The 2+ mile roundtrip hike to the Puffer Butte is a must as the three state view (WA, ID, OR) is sweeping and gorgeous," explains Lee D., who visited during July.
Wildlife viewing: The waterways and forests support diverse animal populations. "We saw lots of different wild life," shares Shane M. about his stay at Hells Gate State Park. "If you are lucky you may see a black bear feeding on blackberries, deer are numerous, elk frequent the lake," adds Cody B. from his experiences at Dworshak State Park.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Many glamping options near Craigmont offer separated camping areas. "Generally large, separated sites with picnic tables and firepits. Forest setting throughout," writes Rich J. about his Winchester Lake State Park stay.
Waterfront locations: Several campgrounds provide direct water access. "Camping right on the Snake River with Lewis & Clark Discovery Center. Lots of sites, water restrooms, showers, and fire pits," notes Jaime B. about Hells Gate State Park.
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower buildings receive regular maintenance. "The facilities are clean. Lots of trails, picnic areas, and boat docks," observes Rich J. "The bathrooms are pit but are kept very clean!" adds Marian J. about Winchester Lake.
Multiple accommodation options: Beyond standard camping, luxury glamping accommodations are available. "Great camping spot. No RV hookups, but fresh water, restrooms, and showers. Next to river but lots of shrubs," explains Jaime B. about Hells Gate State Park.
What You Should Know
Limited services: Some areas have restricted utilities or seasonal availability. "We were there for two weeks and they did have electricity and water hookups just no dump so we showered and used the bathroom facilities which were very well kept," explains Jennifer R. about Winchester Lake State Park.
Steep access roads: Certain campgrounds require careful driving. "Even though we loved the location, we won't be returning simply because of the road to get there... I selected 'quickest route' and had NO warnings that we would be driving up the narrowest gravel road with a 11% incline," cautions Agnes B. about her Freeman Creek experience.
Weather variations: Temperatures can change rapidly between seasons. "I will definitely be back soon, even frozen it was very enjoyable," reports Megan S. about her winter visit to Winchester Lake State Park.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between locations. "NO CELL SERVICE. You just have to be present with one another," notes Agnes B. from Freeman Creek. "2 bars AT&T LTE," reports Nancy C. from Winchester Lake State Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "The park's glamping accommodations include a large day use area that has a covered pavilion, playground and boat launch/pier," shares Nancy C. about Fields Spring State Park.
Kid-friendly water areas: Sites with designated swimming sections provide safer water recreation. "The lake is perfect for kayaking and fishing," notes Brock W. about Winchester Lake. "They have a designated swimming area and a boat launch if you have a boat," adds Kristine R. regarding Chief Timothy Park.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer learning activities. "The rangers were amazing and full of info that my boys just soaked right up," reports Amber T. about her Fields Spring State Park experience with her nephews.
Group camping options: Family reunions or large gatherings have dedicated spaces. "We book a group camp site every year and have a camping reunion! The kids love it and the grown up worry less at such a family appropriate park," explains Ashley C. about her Dworshak State Park experiences.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Premier RV Resort at Granite Lake offers complete amenities. "Full hookups with lots of pull through spaces if needed. We fully utilized the bike path along the river each day for nice long rides into Idaho and back to Washington," notes Brad, who gave the resort five stars.
Length considerations: Some sites accommodate larger vehicles better than others. "We pulled our 40ft RV up here and had a great time! Not full hookups but lots of fishing," reports Jennifer R. about Winchester Lake State Park.
Pull-through access: Certain campgrounds offer easier parking for large rigs. "Pull thru sites for rvs makes it easy to come and go as you please," explains Kristine R. about Chief Timothy Park.
Dump station locations: Know where to empty tanks if onsite services aren't available. "There is a dump station just in town at the gas station," reports Jennifer R. about facilities near Winchester Lake State Park.