Lake Cascade State Park area offers glamping options near Donnelly, Idaho, at elevations between 4,700 and 5,200 feet, creating a high mountain lake environment. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during days with cool 45-55°F nights. Winter snowfall makes this region popular for cold-weather activities when many campgrounds close for the season.
What to do
Lakefront access: Rainbow Point Campground provides direct water access for swimming and fishing. "The beach at the lake is lovely. Site #7 backs up to a large beach area," notes Heidi C., who added the campground is "convenient to Donnelly and McCall, and quite close to Tamarack Resort (7 minutes)."
Water sports: Eastside Campground offers group camping with lake views and water recreation. Jessica O. writes: "View of the water is beautiful and there are many trees to provide shade for the entire campground." The campground's proximity to the water makes it ideal for paddling and swimming.
Fishing opportunities: Hazard Lake provides high-elevation fishing in a remote setting. "Great brook trout fishing and plenty of wildlife to enjoy," mentions Jamie H. Christopher R. adds it's perfect for "high elevation lakes for fishing" while Gene S. notes "This is a great canoe lake."
What campers like
Spacious sites: At Rainbow Point Campground, campers appreciate the layout. "The sites are spaced far apart and very spacious," writes Heidi C. Joshua D. adds: "The lake is beautiful, but expect noise from boats. The vault toilets were clean."
Riverside locations: Campers at River Side enjoy waterfront camping spots. Randy I. shared: "We had great waterfront access, there is no real beach and the slope into the water is steep." Another camper noted it's "far enough to get some peace and quiet, yet it is also close enough to where you can be in the mountains with a short drive."
Wooded surroundings: Many campers value the forested settings around Donnelly glamping spots. While reviewing a campground, Tim M. noted, "Great sites has a restroom and drinkable water. Close to hiking and the lake," highlighting the mix of amenities and natural features available at glamping locations near Donnelly.
What you should know
Weather variations: The Donnelly area experiences significant temperature changes. Will P. from Rainbow Point observed it was "very chilly at the end of the season. Glad to have toilets and water."
Off-grid considerations: Many glamping sites near Donnelly have limited services. Jamie H. at Hazard Lake warns: "No cell service. The campground did not have a camp host... the water pump was out of order due to the test for purity was not processed yet. Bring extra rolls of toilet paper because the outhouses were not resupplied over the weekend."
Site availability: Popular glamping spots fill quickly during peak season. Callie B. notes about Hazard Lake: "I got in at 4pm on a Friday and there were only 2 spots left." For Northwest Passage Campground, another reviewer mentioned: "It's first come first serve and usually very busy. The best time to get a spot is Sunday afternoon or Monday and Tuesday."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Arrowhead RV Park offers dedicated family facilities. Isabel noted: "Fun REC for kids, playground, and party fire pit area. Individual spots were extremely tight." The organized activities provide entertainment for children.
Beach access: Select sites with easy water entry for children. At Rainbow Point, Erin M. mentions: "Nice grassy sites, water right there, vault toilets, fire rings and picnic tables, tent camping or RVs. Not a lot of shade but cools down nice at night."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can spot various animals around glamping sites in Donnelly. While not specifically reviewing glamping, Callie B. mentioned her camping experience included "Lots of fishing" with "many campers kayak or paddle board" on the lake, activities suitable for families.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: At Waters Edge RV Resort, RVers find accommodating spaces. Phillip C. shares: "Sites are pretty level. Campground within walking distance to town, good river front area. Fairly quiet, we will come again!"
Full hookup availability: RV glamping options near Donnelly often include complete services. "Campfiresandcoffee94" from Waters Edge mentioned: "With all the fall colors in full display, brisk evening air perfect for a fall fire to warm yourself... Great walking paths to view all kinds of wildlife along the river."
Weather planning: RVers should prepare for rapid temperature changes. One Waters Edge reviewer cautioned: "Though it was chilly at night, and our pipes froze the last night, it was the best October birthday week we have had in a long time." This indicates the need for cold-weather preparation even during fall glamping near Donnelly.
