The Palouse region surrounding Deary, Idaho sits at approximately 2,800 feet elevation with rolling hills covered in mixed conifer forests. Camping options in this area range from established county parks to forest service campgrounds with varying degrees of accessibility. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from late spring through early fall, with weather conditions determining exact opening and closing dates.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Spring Valley Reservoir near Troy, anglers can fish from multiple docks positioned around the water. "There are good ammenities (trash collection, picnic table, shelters). Decent bird watching here. I always see a Great Blue Heron and often eagles as well!" notes a visitor to Spring Valley Reservoir.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds feature short hiking paths that circle through forested areas. At Little Boulder Campground, one camper reports, "There is a short trail that encircles the campground with a longer hike across the road from the campground which follows the river."
Swimming access: During summer months, reservoir campgrounds provide water recreation opportunities. Robinson County Park offers "a cute bridge that separates the RV camping from the tent camping with various day use areas" and "a park that's across the field from the RV cites with a playground and bonfire spot."
What campers like
Level camping pads: Many sites feature paved or well-maintained areas for setting up camp. At Moose Creek Reservoir Access, "In the morning there is a beautiful fog that comes off the water. The sites have varying amount of privacy so you can find a spot that suits your preferences."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives positive mentions across reviews. One visitor at Giant White Pine Campground found "clean sites though somewhat close to neighboring sites. Awesome trails nearby for all levels."
Wildlife viewing: The Palouse region offers opportunities to observe various bird species and mammals. A visitor to Dent Acres notes, "The campground is situated on a gradual slope, so all sites have nice visibility toward the reservoir" and "There are pay showers, which were great, and everything was very clean."
What you should know
Gate hours: Several campgrounds restrict late-night entry. A visitor to Little Boulder Campground reports, "They lock the gate to the campground at 10:00 p.m. and don't open it until the morning unless you contact the campground host."
Camping costs: Fees vary significantly between locations, with some basic sites charging under $15 while others with more amenities cost more. At Pines RV Park, one camper notes, "I think the price is high just because it's in touristy location" and warns about additional fees: "They will charge an additional 3 dollars per head and 5 dollars for an additional car."
Seasonal water levels: Reservoir water levels fluctuate substantially, which impacts access and recreation. At Freeman Creek Campground, "Easy lake access is only in the park/play area. The rest of the lake access is a pretty blunt drop off from forest to water (read: no wadding in the sand)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer designated play areas for children. At Dent Acres, a visitor appreciated that "There is a play area with jungle gym equipment for kids."
Hammock-friendly sites: For families who enjoy alternative sleeping arrangements, City of Bovill RV Park gets good reviews: "This is an all season RV Park. There's a nice patch of grass in the center during warm months...You also don't loose the camping feels here. How? Fire rings."
Nature exploration: Children can enjoy tadpole hunting and wildlife observation at several locations. Freeman Creek Campground visitors found that "Sweet little nature trails were pretty and easy for smaller children to walk through" and enjoyed "finding tadpoles."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds have restrictions that affect larger rigs. At Robinson County Park, one RVer reported, "Had to work it to get out 35' Brinkley in the largest spot partly clearance from treas and fence posts limiting back and fill efforts."
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. Regarding the route to Freeman Creek, one RVer warns, "Google maps wrecked us- I selected 'quickest route' and had NO warnings that we would be driving up the narrowest gravel road with a 11% incline!"
Winter options: For year-round camping, City of Bovill RV Park operates throughout all seasons, making it one of the best places to camp near Deary, Idaho during winter months. "This is an all season RV Park," confirms one reviewer who appreciated its year-round availability.
