Dispersed camping near Hope, Idaho offers a mix of established and primitive sites with lake and mountain views along the northern shores of Lake Pend Oreille. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with some locations remaining accessible year-round weather permitting. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day while dropping to 50-60°F at night.
What to do
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds provide access to hiking trails around the lake and into surrounding mountains. At Round Lake State Park Campground, visitors enjoy a peaceful morning routine. "Morning walks in the trails were peaceful with coffee in hand!" notes Cody H. The park offers a complete trail around the lake and additional trails into the mountains.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes and rivers offer various fishing spots with multiple fish species. At Mirror Lake, visitors can rent boats for fishing excursions. Neil T. shares, "I wish we were staying longer and we would have rented one of their boats and done some fishing." The lake is limited to electric motors or no motors, making it peaceful for anglers.
Swimming areas: Most lakefront campgrounds have designated swimming areas with varying beach conditions. Green Bay Campground offers crystal clear water for swimming. "You can walk all the way out to where you cannot touch and still see the rocks on the bottom," notes Melissa G. The granite rock beach provides a distinctive swimming experience compared to other area beaches.
Boat launches: Several campgrounds provide boat launch facilities for various watercraft. At Riley Creek Campground, boaters can access the water via dedicated launches. Phillip C. mentions, "River was peaceful, large grass area, large playground for kids." The campground also features a boat basin where small watercraft can be docked.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campgrounds vary significantly in how much separation exists between sites. Sam Owen Campground offers sites with good separation. Jason S. notes, "All the sites are nice and private with lovely trees and open grassy space between them." This contrasts with more densely packed campgrounds in the area.
Campsite size: Sites range from small tent spots to large RV pull-throughs. At Riley Creek Campground, Roger L. comments, "The sites are large, with plenty of shade. Partial hook ups (no sewer). Some sites can be dark under the canopies of fir, cedar and pine trees."
Natural features: Many campers highlight the natural elements that make their camping experience memorable. Green Bay Campground offers unique geological features. Michelle B. shared, "Sweet spot for cliff jumping! Our spot has prime access to it, it seemed." The site also provides excellent rock skipping opportunities according to other visitors.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds are known for wildlife sightings. While Sam Owen Campground is known for its deer population, other parks offer bird watching opportunities. Mike E. notes that at Clark Fork Drift Yard, "The log jam is a good spot for bird watching."
What you should know
Reservation systems: Campgrounds have varying reservation policies that change seasonally. At Springy Point, Kris S. notes it's "a first come first serve campground." Others require advance booking, especially during peak summer months.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads, trains, or day-use areas. The Bonner County Fairgrounds campground has occasional train noise. Dan S. mentions, "Only drawback would be there are train tracks and siding within hearing distance."
Cell service coverage: Coverage varies significantly throughout the region. Neil T. reports about Mirror Lake, "Good cell service even though it's tucked away from the main road." At Sam Owen, Quinn Z. notes, "Since I've been lucky enough to be able to work remotely, I just needed to find a campsite that had cell reception so I could tether my laptop, and this one does (at least on Verizon)."
Water conditions: Lake levels and conditions change throughout the season. At Green Bay Campground, visitors should note the water access. Melissa G. cautions, "Bring your own way to dispose of trash, and have a way to lock it up, or animals WILL get into it."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. Riley Creek Campground has extensive facilities for children. Nanette C. explains, "The horseshoe pits, volleyball & basketball courts, as well as the playgrounds were all extremely inviting."
Swimming beaches: Look for campgrounds with safe, gradual-entry swimming areas. Riley Creek Campground features dedicated swimming areas. Roger L. notes, "Great swim area for families. And a boat launch. There is also a pet area, and you can take your dogs for a swim."
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer nature programs or interpretive displays. Round Lake State Park has educational facilities. Heather M. explains, "The camp visitor center has a cool place for kids to learn about the wildlife in the area with foot prints in sand, bird calls, samples of the different types of trees and more."
Off-season timing: For families wanting more space, consider timing your visit. William N. advises about Green Bay Campground, "Our stay was perfect. We arrived on a Wednesday and had the place nearly to ourselves. This was a perfect place to camp with a family or with friends. Make sure to arrive early in the week if you want a camp site."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many RVers note the importance of checking site leveling. At Sam Owen Campground, Sarah reports, "We had a huge, level spot (#56) at the end of the campground (not all sites are so level). A little tight to get into with a 40' 5th wheel, but doable."
Hookup placement: The position of water and electrical hookups varies by site. At Bonner County Fairgrounds, Tige P. warns, "Shared water needs a long hose." This campground offers paved sites with water and electric connections.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds with RV sites offer dump stations, though locations and fees vary. Riley Creek Campground provides a dump station, and campers report it's well-maintained. Nanette C. recommends using this feature as part of the campground's comprehensive amenities for RVers.
Low clearance roads: Some campground access roads present challenges. Melissa G. notes about Green Bay Campground, "Much of the road to the campground is unpacked and bumpy. Would not recommend for a low profile car." This advice applies to RVs as well, particularly those with lower clearance.
