Idaho Panhandle National Forests campsites provide access to the 2.5 million acre forest region spanning northern Idaho. Elevations range from 2,100 feet at Lake Pend Oreille to over 7,000 feet in the high country, creating diverse camping microclimates. Despite high summer visitation, many primitive camping areas remain uncrowded even during peak season, with weekday arrivals increasing chances for lakeside spots.
What to do
Hiking to viewpoints: Mirror Lake offers an elevation climb that rewards hikers with panoramic vistas. "The nice hike to the summit to view both lakes was worth going up," notes Paul F., highlighting the accessibility of high-country perspectives near water-based campsites.
Fishing from docks: Riley Creek Campground provides designated fishing areas with easy shoreline access. "Clean, semi-private, beautiful," reports Ariel, adding that despite being "surrounded by water, mosquitoes weren't terrible," making it comfortable for extended fishing sessions.
Mountain biking nearby: While staying at Bonner County Fairgrounds, campers can access numerous trails. "Easy bike ride to Sandpoint with lots of bike paths," notes Carol J., making it convenient for cyclists wanting to explore both urban and wilderness routes without relocating camp.
Wildlife observation: Sam Owen Campground supports wildlife watching opportunities within camp boundaries. "It is known for its huge friendly deer population!! You will see them everywhere!!" explains Bridget L., creating educational opportunities for families without requiring special equipment.
What campers like
Secluded swimming areas: Round Lake State Park Campground offers designated swimming zones with gradual entry. "The swimming area is nice with kind of sandy beach, but there is a bit of seaweed in the swimming area. There are also two docks perfect for fishing," according to Jason S., who enjoyed both activities from the same location.
Lake activities: While camping at Sam Owen Campground, water access remains the highlight. "Pend Oreille is a beautiful lake and is a great place for boats, kayaks, and paddle boards!" according to Celine K., who appreciated the variety of water recreation options.
Clean facilities: Gilmore Campground maintains high standards for campground infrastructure. "The campground has vault toilets and a few flush toilets as well as private showers with hot water," Sarah shared, noting these amenities enhance comfort during extended stays.
Private, spacious sites: Whitetail Campground at Farragut State Park offers well-designed campsites. "All sites are very large, covered in shade, and plenty of flat ground for a tent if that's your jam," reports Cody H., highlighting the versatility for different camping styles.
What you should know
Road challenges: Whiskey Rock Bay Campground requires vehicles suited for rough terrain. "The road to get there is long and rough, I wouldn't recommend bringing a standard camping trailer, and you probably wouldn't want to take a car," warns Jason S., suggesting high-clearance vehicles for access.
Seasonal accessibility: Winter camping limitations affect most sites. "Swung by here yesterday (late Dec) after calling to confirm hookups were still functional. There was only one hookup spot plowed, and its connectivity was not stable," reported Nic F. at Round Lake, documenting wintertime electricity reliability issues.
Reservation systems: Riley Creek Campground operates different booking methods based on site type. "Only some of their sites are reservable, others are walk up. We did not have reservations so had to join a lottery to get one of the walk up sites," explains Chelsea K., noting the uncertainty of securing a spot without advance planning.
Wildlife encounters: Yellow jackets and insects can affect camping comfort. "Our only complaint was that there were a lot of yellow jackets- A LOT. But they weren't too aggressive. Despite being frequently swarmed by them, neither of us got stung while we were there," notes Melissa G., describing the tradeoff between beautiful settings and seasonal insect activity.
Tips for camping with families
Junior ranger programs: Farragut State Park offers educational activities for children. "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," explains Heather M., highlighting the educational resources.
Playground access: Springy Point provides facilities designed for children. "Riley Creek has a "large grass area, large playground for kids. Fairly full of couples and families surprisingly quiet," according to Phillip C., creating a family-friendly atmosphere.
Shoreline activities: Round Lake State Park offers gentle water access ideal for younger swimmers. "Spending the hot afternoon floating and fishing the lake was perfect," reports Cody H., who found the combination suitable for multi-generational enjoyment.
Kid-friendly trails: Mirror Lake maintains paths appropriate for family hikes. "Great place for grandkids. Lots of trails for walking biking," notes Dennis R., emphasizing the variety of difficulty levels available from a single campground location.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Gilmore Campground provides full services for extended stays. "Gilmore is the only campground with full hook-ups. The campground is very clean and the sites are well spaced," advises Ronald, noting the premium amenities available.
Site selection: Round Lake accommodates varying RV needs with different site configurations. "We stayed in our tent. The spaces are close together but many were empty during the week," reports Gordie H., highlighting weekday availability even during busy seasons.
Dump station locations: Many campgrounds offer dump facilities even when sites lack sewer hookups. "No dump in sites, so a little bit of a bummer," mentions Tige P. about Riley Creek, while noting that shared dump stations serve the campground.
Winter RVing limitations: Most Idaho Panhandle National Forests campsites restrict winter access. "There was only one hookup spot plowed, and it's connectivity was not stable. We decided not to stay as our Tesla kept reporting electrical risk every 10 minutes," warns Nic F., documenting specific winter camping challenges for electric vehicles.
