Cabin camping near Harrison, Idaho offers access to the numerous hiking trails and waterfront activities along Lake Coeur d'Alene. The region sits at approximately 2,200 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season between May and September. Winter cabin options remain available in several locations with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Coeur d'Alene: At Camp Coeur D Alene, visitors can take advantage of complimentary paddle boats for exploring the lake. According to Angela F., "We took the paddle boat our for a sunset cruise and it was a very memorable experience!"
Hiking trails: The area surrounding Wolf Lodge Campground features several scenic routes. One camper noted, "Hiked the trail on the backside of the campground, which followed along a stream. There's nearby wildlife, including a resident moose."
Cycling on the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes: This paved trail runs through Hawleys Landing Campground and connects to Harrison. A visitor shared, "Biking the 7 mile ride to Harrison is a great way to spend the day, you cross the lake over a bridge, watching eagles swoop over the lake as you ride, and finish your day with ice cream at Harrison Creamery and Fudge Factory!"
Bird watching: The wetland areas around Chatcolet Campground offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. One reviewer mentioned it's "a great place to swim, kayak, bike, and go bird watching. There are usually other visitors (especially boats on the water) but it never gets too hectic!"
What campers like
Complimentary amenities: Campers appreciate the extras available at certain cabin locations. A Liberty Lake Regional Park visitor shared, "We spent 3 weeks at Liberty Lake Regional Park while visiting our son and grandkids in Spokane. The road in is a little narrow, but once in, it's a great little campground."
Clean facilities: Cleanliness ranks high in camper satisfaction. According to one guest at Camp Coeur D'Alene, "This campground was super cozy and safe. They had firewood for sale, a pool, and clean showers and bathrooms."
Proximity to water: Cabins with lake access are particularly valued. A Chatcolet Campground guest mentioned, "We picked this campground for its access to the Trail of the Coeur D'Alenes. The campground is small and peaceful, at least mid week. Lovely views of the lake through the trees."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides frequent wildlife encounters. One camper at Liberty Lake Regional Park noted, "Several hiking trails, including an equestrian trail, waterfall, fishing and lots of wildlife. There were deer in the campground every day, we saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many cabin locations fill quickly during summer months. At Riverside State Park, a camper advised, "We did not have reservations beforehand and got the last space available on a Monday. Advise reservations."
Site selection: When booking cabins, consider location carefully. At Chatcolet Campground, one visitor observed, "We got lucky and were in a site that was a bit more level. Noticed a lot of sites are unlevel."
Seasonal operation: Not all cabin facilities operate year-round. Most campgrounds in the area close between October and May, though some like Tamarack RV Park maintain year-round cabins.
Noise considerations: Some locations experience traffic or train noise. A Wolf Lodge camper mentioned, "Interstate noise is not too bad. The people are so very kind and you can tell they love their place."
Tips for camping with families
Youth-friendly amenities: Wolf Lodge Campground caters specifically to families with children. A visitor shared, "Lots of free or low priced activities for the kids. We loved kayaking down the creek at the campground and saw wildlife."
Beach access: Several cabin locations offer swimming areas appropriate for children. One Hawleys Landing camper noted, "Beautiful campgrounds! We biked on the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, saw lots of wildlife, and enjoyed the beach at Rocky Point."
Safety features: Look for cabins with enclosed grounds and supervised water access. Camp Coeur D'Alene received praise from a family: "This CG has everything you can ask for from Kayaks on lake CDA to shower, laundry etc and more than one. Everyone is very friendly and just want you to have a good time!"
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer junior ranger programs or nature walks. A parent at Liberty Lake Regional Park commented, "This is a nice site that is know for its hiking trail. It is also close to play structure and small beach."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: When booking a cabin or RV site, ask about surface conditions. A visitor to Tamarack RV Park reported, "The asphalt pads themselves are nice sized and ours is pretty level. Tons of mature trees providing shade."
Hook-up options: Full-service cabins typically cost more but offer greater convenience. A Riverside State Park camper noted, "Sites one through 18 are on the river and much more spacious and have full utilities."
Space considerations: Site proximity varies significantly between locations. At Tamarack RV Park, a guest observed, "Only complaint is that the sites are close together. Clean on site coin laundry and nice public restrooms."
Access roads: Some cabin locations have challenging approach roads. A Liberty Lake Regional Park visitor warned, "The road in is a little narrow, but once in, it's a great little campground."
