Tent camping opportunities near Dover, Idaho range from remote backcountry sites to accessible shoreline camping. Most locations sit between 2,000-4,800 feet elevation in the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains, with summer temperatures typically ranging 45-85°F. Rain can occur throughout summer months, with thunderstorms common in July and August, making sheltered camping locations valuable during inclement weather.
What to do
Waterfront activities: At Green Bay Campground, walk-in tent sites provide direct lake access with crystal-clear water. "You can walk all the way out to where you cannot touch and still see the rocks on the bottom," notes Melissa G. The swimming areas feature granite rock beaches, ideal for wading and relaxation.
Fishing opportunities: Kalispell Island Boat-in Campground offers tent campers access to Priest Lake fishing. While fish aren't always plentiful, the location provides excellent kayaking opportunities. "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," suggests Callie B.
Backcountry hiking: For more adventurous campers, tent sites near hiking trails provide rewarding experiences. "This is a very very difficult hike, which makes camping here even more rewarding," writes Shariah T. about Scotchmans Peak. Most backcountry hiking routes near Dover require substantial elevation gain between 1,500-3,000 feet.
What campers like
Solitude: Many tent camping areas become increasingly secluded the further you travel from main roads. "When we arrived on the first Wednesday after Labor Day there were several other cars in the lot, but everyone was spread out. People were friendly in passing but kept to themselves, and it felt like we had the entire lake to ourselves that first night," reports one Green Bay Campground visitor.
Wildlife viewing: The forested mountains provide habitat for diverse wildlife. "Be sure to read trail reports and weather reports before heading out. North Idaho weather can be pretty finicky, especially at high elevations. Make sure to be aware of wildlife as well! Scotchman's is known for mountain goat sightings," advises Celine K.
Lake clarity: Beehive Lake Dispersed camping requires a significant hike but rewards campers with exceptional water clarity. "The alpine lake at the end of the trail is stunning—clear, pristine water surrounded by rugged mountain scenery. It's the kind of place that feels untouched and pure," writes Jason S. Water visibility often extends beyond 20 feet during calm conditions.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many camping areas requires navigation of unpaved forest roads. "The road is long and VERY washboarded, but you have lots of great options if you plan on doing some hiking in the area. If you're not looking to hike, I'm not sure beating up your vehicle for a solid hour on a washboarded dirt road is worth it just for camping here," notes Meghan B. about Roman Nose campground.
Cell service limitations: Expect minimal to no cellular reception at most tent camping locations. "I have Verizon and there was no phone service once you get a short ways down slagle rd," reports a Green Bay Campground visitor. Plan accordingly by downloading offline maps and sharing your itinerary before departure.
Wildlife precautions: Food storage is essential for safety. "Bring your own way to dispose of trash, and have a way to lock it up, or animals WILL get into it," advises one camper. Hard-sided containers or bear-resistant storage is recommended at all tent sites.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility considerations: For families with young children, boat-in camping offers a good balance of adventure and convenience. "Large and private, nice beach, good wind block," notes Stacy A L. about Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground. Most boat-in campsites require 1-2 mile water crossings.
Campsite spacing: Some areas provide better separation between sites, important for families. At Skookum Creek Campground, "each site has a nice fire ring, large picnic table, and loads of elbow room," notes Henry H. Sites typically offer 50-100 feet between neighboring campers.
Water safety: Lake temperatures remain cool even during summer months. "The water is ice cold, so swimming wasn't really an option," notes Jason S. about Roman Nose lakes. Supervised water activities and proper flotation devices are essential for children.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: The best tent camping near Dover, Idaho generally doesn't accommodate large RVs. "Gravel road, ideal for tent camping," notes Dominic C. about Skookum Creek Campground. Most forest roads leading to prime tent sites have narrow sections, overhanging branches, and limited turnaround areas.
Supply planning: With limited services near remote camping areas, thorough preparation is crucial. "Bring a shovel and make sure your watercraft has an Invasive Species sticker," advises Saraj B. about Bartoo Island camping. Most campsites require visitors to pack in all necessary supplies, including drinking water.
Seasonal considerations: Spring access can be restricted by snow and wet conditions. "Be wary of the afternoon as the waves get high from power boats but settle in the evening and morning," notes a Kalispell Island visitor, highlighting how weather patterns affect water-based camping access.
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