The Hayden Lake area, situated in northern Idaho at approximately 2,300 feet elevation, offers camping opportunities with views of forested hillsides and mountain scenery. RV parks near Hayden Lake maintain water hookups year-round despite winter temperatures that regularly drop below freezing from November through March. The surrounding Coeur d'Alene National Forest provides access to both developed campgrounds and nearby outdoor recreation.
What to do
Paddle sports access: The Spokane River connects to Lake Coeur d'Alene, providing multiple water entry points. Blackwell Island RV Park offers direct water access for kayaking and paddleboarding. "We took our paddle boards out and it was great!" notes Lauren C., who appreciated the waterfront location.
Trail exploration: The 73-mile Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes passes near Wallace, approximately 40 miles east of Hayden Lake. Wallace RV Park provides walking access to this paved rail-trail. "Walking distance to downtown and the Trail of the Coeur d'Alene's," mentions Justin, who found the location convenient for cyclists and hikers.
Theme park visits: Silverwood Theme Park, located 15 miles north of Hayden Lake, combines roller coasters with a water park. The adjacent campground provides direct access through an underground walkway. "You can easily walk from your tent right into the park, which makes it super convenient," explains Brian C., noting this eliminates parking hassles during peak summer days.
What campers like
River frontage: Multiple RV parks feature water views with dedicated riverfront sites. "We backed right above the creek. With the windows open I could hear it babbling all night. Pure bliss," writes Jennifer H. about her stay at Wallace RV Park, where many sites border a small stream.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain varying levels of restroom and shower facilities. Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park receives consistent praise for its newer amenities. "Extremely clean, looks very new, and lots of space between sights," reports Rob N., comparing it favorably to more crowded private parks.
Tree cover: Mature evergreens provide natural shade at select campgrounds. Tamarack RV Park And Vacation Cabins features established trees throughout the property. "Tons of mature trees providing shade. Clean on-site coin laundry and nice public restrooms," notes Corey, highlighting the balance between natural elements and practical amenities.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: RV parks around Hayden Lake range from spacious to very tight. "Sites are very close together, we could nearly reach out and touch our neighbors," reports Shawn W. about Tamarack RV Park, contrasting with Kootenai County Fairgrounds where "sites have more space than other campgrounds."
Highway noise impacts: Many campgrounds sit near major roads, creating ambient noise. "Road next the RV Park is very busy! It does slow down after dark but be prepared for road noise during daylight hours," warns Shonni N. about Wallace RV Park.
Water pressure challenges: Some parks require pressure regulators for RV connections. CDA River RV, Riverfront Campground sometimes experiences inconsistent water supply. "Was told to make sure to use pressure regulator, always do anyways but when we got here pressure was so bad we just filled our fresh water tank and used the rvs pump," shares Anthony F.
Tips for camping with families
Theme park proximity: When visiting Silverwood, consider direct access benefits. "A slamdunk if you're going to silverwood. The amenities are nice - showers, bathrooms, great little store. Spaces feel spaced out. We were in loop F. Highly recommend. Kids loved the playground too," reports Jennifer H. about Silverwood RV Park.
Swimming beaches: Some parks provide water access specifically for swimming. "Nice river access. Swimming beach, great floating," mentions Jolene L. about Blackwell Island RV Park, noting the dedicated areas for water entry suitable for children.
Camp activities: Parks offer varying levels of on-site recreation. "They've added cute touches around the premises. A kids BMX dirt bike area, secret gardens, walking nature paths and a pond with their own resident ducks," describes Love4travel T. regarding Blackwell Island RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Big rig access: Several parks accommodate larger motorhomes, but entry routes matter. "If you are coming off of interstate 90, don't use exit 13. The round about is way to small to handle big rig or any camper. The best route is exit 12 big rig friendly," advises Rick Shannon P. about Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park.
Site levelness: Concrete pads provide stable setup at newer parks. Liberty Lake RV Campground receives positive reviews for its surfaces. "Nice new RV park with level concrete pads and grass," notes Bill S., emphasizing the importance of solid foundations for larger rigs.
WiFi connectivity: Internet access varies substantially between parks. "Wifi is bad. Really bad. That's not a big deal for us, but for some it may be a problem. There is a wifi room for those occasions you must connect," warns Kurtis K. about Blackwell Island RV Park, suggesting travelers bring alternative connectivity options.
