Camping near Deary, Idaho is located in the Moscow Mountain foothills at approximately 2,800 feet elevation, offering a transition zone between agricultural lands and dense forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with cool evenings, while spring and fall can bring unexpected frost and precipitation. The region features a mix of state park facilities and primitive camping options along waterways and forested areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Laird Park Campground provides access to multiple fishing spots along the Palouse River. "There is a lot of nearby places to access the Palouse river. There is good fishing areas nearby," notes camper Megan K.
Water recreation: At Winchester Lake State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy non-motorized water activities on the 104-acre lake. "The lake is perfect for kayaking and fishing," reports Brock W. Electric motor boating is also permitted according to camper John M., who adds, "Good hiking and fishing. Electric motor boating allowed."
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds feature trails ranging from easy lakeside paths to more challenging forest routes. "Sweet little nature trails were pretty and easy for smaller children to walk through," describes Agnes B. at Freeman Creek Campground. The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes can be accessed from some northern campgrounds, with one camper noting, "We picked this campground for its access to the Trail of the Coeur D'Alenes."
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: The wooded campsites provide privacy and natural shade. "The sites are very spacious and vault restrooms are located all through the grounds," says Shelly H. about Laird Park. Another camper describes Winchester Lake as "a deeply forested reservoir... great for getting lost in the thick pines around it."
Wildlife viewing: Chief Timothy Park sits on a 282-acre island offering unique wildlife observation. "Chief Timothy Park sits on a 282-acre island on Lower Granite Lake in the Snake River. The Park is known as the gateway to Hells Canyon Recreation Area," explains Craig S.
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers mention the quiet environment as a major draw. "Upon arrival, we immediately felt the peacefulness. Our site was tucked into the pines creating a canopy of coolness in the midst of the oppressing heat," writes Nancy C. about Winchester Lake State Park.
What you should know
Site variations: Campgrounds often feature different loop sections with varying amenities and settings. "There are two loops at Laird Park campground, which I found to be very different. If you head left to the East loop, there are some nice, shaded and wooded spots... If you head right to the west loop, the spots are much more exposed, close together, and sunny," explains Leslie H.
Seasonal considerations: Boyer Park & Marina KOA operates seasonally from March through early November. "The winds come through quite a bit which helps with the heat but make sure everything is secured down," advises Lorrie K.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically throughout the region. "I do not have phone service here," notes one Laird Park visitor. At Boyer Park, "WIFI is really weak and there is no cell service," reports another camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "There is a playground on site but other than that it's nothing special," mentions Megan K. about Pines RV Park. Laird Park has "water and a playground at the end of the west loop," according to Leslie H.
Swimming options: Chatcolet Campground and other lakeside sites offer designated swimming areas, though water quality varies. "This seasonal campground has areas to swim. It does have restrooms and a playground for kids," notes Megan K. about Laird Park, though Winchester Lake is described as "not a great lake for swimming, as it's loaded with thick algae."
Kid-friendly activities: Beyond water recreation, several campgrounds offer additional activities. "Frequented by young families so don't be annoyed by kids having a good time on their bikes or playing," advises Kathy B. about Chatcolet Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Winchester Lake State Park, site choice matters for larger vehicles. "The sites are somewhat level. Easily adjusted to make them work," explains Nancy C. She continues, "We originally had a reservation for a view site with no hook ups, but upon arrival they had a hookup site(#104) available."
Utility limitations: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups but lack full services. "Not full hookups but lots of fishing... 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.
Access challenges: Some glamping options near Deary require careful driving. "It is not the easiest to get to, and the road is a test for your engine and brakes, but once you arrive it is a quiet peaceful park with great water access," warns Dawn G. about Freeman Creek Campground.
