Glamping options near Harvard, Idaho provide comfortable accommodations within a forested setting at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 3,000 feet. The area experiences warm summers with average temperatures between 75-85°F and cold winters with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Local campgrounds typically operate seasonally from May through October, with a few remaining open year-round for winter recreation opportunities.
What to do
Hiking trails: Winchester Lake State Park Campground offers several family-friendly trails around the perimeter of the lake. "There are a few trails around the lake. Nothing hard. There are tons of thimbleberries bushes along the road to the boat launch and were just about ripe. They are so delicious!" notes Nancy C.
Non-motorized boating: The small lakes in this region provide excellent calm-water experiences. At Camp Coeur D Alene, campers enjoy complimentary watercraft: "Great spot to stay for a bit. They have cabins and rv spots and car/tent spots with direct lake access and kayaks/peddleboats to rent," shares Reagan M.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Harvard support diverse wildlife populations. "A lot of wildlife viewing too! If you are lucky you may see a black bear feeding on blackberries, deer are numerous, elk frequent the lake, and one of my favorites is to watch Osprey dive in the lake for fish," writes Cody B. about Freeman Creek Campground.
What campers like
Riverside accommodations: Hells Gate State Park Campground provides access to water activities. "Great camping spot. No RV hookups, but fresh water, restrooms, and showers. Next to river but lots of shrubs. Can walk down trail to access river bank," says Jaime B.
Well-maintained facilities: Glamping sites frequently receive praise for their upkeep. "Clean, well-run RV place in a small city. It's highly manicured and very clean. Staff members are on top of every little thing, friendly and respectful," comments Sarah about Premier RV Resort at Granite Lake.
Year-round access options: Some glamping locations remain open during winter. "I will definitely be back soon, even frozen it was very enjoyable," mentions Megan S. about Winchester Lake State Park Campground, highlighting its four-season appeal.
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly between glamping sites. At Boyer Park & Marina, "Only downside is no Verizon coverage and free wifi is junk. But for $3/day you can get decent wifi," reports Mary F.
Site selection matters: At Chatcolet Campground in Heyburn State Park, "Spots are fairly close so you can see your neighbors but there are trees and brush which helps. Frequented by young families so don't be annoyed by kids having a good time on their bikes or playing," advises Kathy B.
Reservation requirements: Many popular glamping locations fill quickly. "We were lucky enough to land the island campground which made the whole experience amazing! This place has great amenities (free canoes, hot showers, flush toilets, free firewood) which made it the nicest campground I had been to for awhile," writes Jared about Camp Coeur D'Alene.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Chief Timothy Park features playgrounds and swimming areas. "The Kids loved this park, we just spent the day hanging out fishing and playing at the park. Was perfect mix of shade trees and open space. We really loved it," shares Brenda S.
Spacing between sites: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "Generally large, separated sites with picnic tables and firepits. Forest setting throughout. There are a few sites that aren't great, but the longer length ones are best," writes Rich J. about Winchester Lake State Park.
Seasonal activities: Different glamping locations offer varying activities throughout the year. At Laird Park Campground, "This seasonal campground has areas to swim. It does have restrooms and a playground for kids. It costs 12 dollars a night. There is a grocery store not too far away in potlatch," notes Megan K.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary between sites. "We pulled our 40ft RV up here and had a great time! Not full hookups but lots of fishing. We were there for two weeks and they did have electricity and water hookups just no dump so we showered and used the bathroom facilities which were very well kept!" reports Jennifer R. about Winchester Lake.
Site leveling considerations: Boyer Park & Marina KOA offers well-maintained sites. "Nice clean park. Owners went the extra mile to accommodate our granddaughters graduation party when the wind and rain came blowing in," mentions Bill S.
Road access challenges: Some glamping locations require careful navigation. "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," cautions Dawn G. about Freeman Creek Campground.
