Hayden sits at 2,300 feet elevation in northern Idaho's Kootenai County, where summer temperatures regularly reach the 90s with limited rainfall between June and September. Campers find multiple overnight options within a 25-mile radius of Hayden, ranging from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV parks with amenities. Winter camping opportunities remain limited, as most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Coeur d'Alene: Camp Coeur D Alene provides direct lake access with kayak and paddleboat rentals. "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," explains Reagan M.
Hiking nearby trails: Beauty Creek Campground offers easy access to hiking trails in the surrounding forest. "Great little spot with close access to lake beaches and hiking trails. I stayed for 2 nights with my dog and it was very enjoyable," notes Annika W., who appreciated the pet-friendly camping near Hayden.
Visiting downtown attractions: Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park provides convenient access to Coeur d'Alene's urban amenities. "Centrally located with Costco just a few blocks away," mentions Rob N., making this location practical for campers needing supplies or seeking entertainment between outdoor activities.
Biking regional paths: Liberty Lake Regional Park connects to cycling trails throughout the region. "Nice hiking and cycling trails. Lake looks pretty but didn't go in," reports Adam B., highlighting the accessibility of multi-use paths from this campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Camp Coeur D Alene maintains well-kept shower and bathroom buildings. "This campground was super cozy and safe. They had firewood for sale, a pool, and clean showers and bathrooms," writes Sienna V., who appreciated these amenities during her stay.
Private campsites: While many area campgrounds feature closely-spaced sites, some offer more privacy. "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)," shares Jared, describing a more secluded option.
Pet exercise areas: Wolf Lodge Campground includes dedicated pet areas. "Standard RV park with full hookups, bathrooms, showers, basic store, and dog park," says Austin C., noting an amenity important for pet-friendly camping near the Hayden area.
Natural surroundings: Beauty Creek Campground offers a more rustic setting with wildlife viewing opportunities. "Each site has a table and fire ring. Some have a shelter as well over the table... We also saw lots of chipmunks and rabbits," explains Elizabeth N.
What you should know
Varying noise levels: Blackwell Island RV Park sits near major roadways, affecting some campsites. "Logging trucks start early and run all day every day, so loud. Heavy traffic Hwy 95," warns Jolene L., highlighting a common consideration for campgrounds in this region.
Limited availability: Most campgrounds require advance planning during peak season. "Book early as this is a very popular place," advises Ronald about Gilmore Campground at Farragut State Park, noting a common challenge for all camping in the Hayden area.
Site spacing considerations: Tamarack RV Park (Shady Acres) has limited space between campsites. "Spaces are close together. Wish there was space to sit outside at the picnic table but spaces are too tight - we would be on top of our neighbor's sewer," reports Dan L.
Weather planning: Summer heat requires preparation as many campgrounds have limited shade. "No shade, good for solar. Good cell and internet connection," notes Stacey G. about Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park, emphasizing the importance of sun protection.
Tips for camping with families
Family entertainment: Gilmore Campground — Farragut State Park offers numerous recreational options. "This park has a lot of options. You can swim, boat, SUP, mountain bike, and hike," explains Todd B., highlighting why this destination works well for families with varied interests.
Kid-friendly activities: Camp Coeur D Alene provides organized activities and equipment rentals. "The camp offers tent camping, full service RV camping, and cabins for rent. There are hiking trails adjacent, a well stocked camp store and laundry facilities," describes Phil G.
Safety considerations: When camping with children near water, select campgrounds with designated swimming areas. "We took a walk on the nature trail and when we got to Lake Pend Oreille guess what?!! .... IT WAS AMAZING!! If you want a hike along the lake with easy to moderate difficulty 70 along Idlewilde Bay is excellent," shares Shelly S.
Budget options: Cabela's Post Falls offers free overnight parking for RVs with children. "Great place to rest after a long drive. Check in at customer service stay up to 2 days," advises Dave B., highlighting a no-cost option for families traveling through the area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Blackwell Island RV Park offers various site options based on size and preference. "Spent one night in site #51, a premium riverfront site. The site was reasonably level, not very private (most if not all spaces are out in the open)," explains Laura K., suggesting specific locations within the park.
Short-term convenience: Cabela's provides free overnight stays limited to 48 hours. "Spaces were flat and could accommodate rather long truck/trailer or RV. There was a small horse corral and a dog kennel. Sign said 48hr limit," notes Jonathan H., describing this economical option.
Level sites: Liberty Lake Regional Park offers campsites suitable for various RV sizes. "We spent 3 weeks at Liberty Lake Regional Park while visiting our son and grandkids in Spokane. Most of the sites are fairly level. We stayed at 2 different sites over 3 weeks, and both were level," shares Joel R.
Utilities and hookups: Wolf Lodge Campground provides full hookups but limited fire options. "It was perfect for our quick stop over. Only downside was no fire rings," mentions Erin A., providing practical information for RVers planning their stay.
