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If you're looking for a great Idaho camping adventure and want to explore the possibilities of boat-in camping, look no further. No need to worry about hauling everything with you: just pull up at your destination, drop anchor and unload the rest. Find the best boat-in campgrounds in Idaho.

Idaho

The Best Boat-In Camping in Idaho

If you're out on the water and looking for a place to camp near Idaho Panhandle National Forests, we've got you covered. These campsites are usually off the beaten path and have access to beautiful lakes, rivers, and streams. Find the best information on boat-in camping in Idaho, including photos, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience.

Idaho Panhandle National Forests

The Best Boat-In Camping Near Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Idaho

## Overview

Springy Point Campground is situated amid firs, cedars and pines overlooking the Pend Oreille River with views of the Cabinet and Selkirk Mountains. The city of Sandpoint is just a short trip across the water and offers a marina, parks, shopping and plenty of sightseeing opportunities. 

## Recreation

Water sports are the most popular activity at Springy Point, and with a boat ramp located on-site, kayaking, canoeing, water skiing, jet skiing and fishing are never far out of reach. A large swimming area provides visitors with comfortable access to the river's clear, clean waters. Visitors may also enjoy biking or hiking across the Long Bridge into the town of Sandpoint for a change of scenery or stroll around town. For the bird watchers or moose watchers, a short trip up to the Pack River Area to watch wildlife provides a great day trip.

## Facilities

Springy Point Campground offers 39 shady campsites near the water. 37 are standard non-electric, with two walk-to sites. Amenities include drinking water, flush toilets and showers. A small picnic shelter (24 person max.) located off of the beach may be reserved by calling 208-437-3133. 

## Natural Features

Lake Pend Oreille is a glacier-carved lake surrounded by scenic mountains in the northern Idaho Panhandle. It is one of the largest and deepest natural lakes in the western United States with depths plunging more than 1,200 ft., in some areas.  
  
The area around the Lake is the traditional home of the Kalispell Indians. French settlers named the area "Pend Oreille," which means "ear pendant," after observing the large shell earrings worn by the Kalispell people. 

## Nearby Attractions

The Albeni Falls Visitor Center features exhibits on the history of the dam and the natural features of the area, with tours of the dam given daily during the summer.

Springy Point

Sam Owen Campground is nestled on the banks of Lake Pend Oreille in a densely wooded forest of pine and cedar. Popular activities include hiking, canoeing, swimming and boating in summer, and skiing in winter. Recreation A sandy beach draws crowds of sunbathers and swimmers. Visitors also like to hike the half-mile, accessible Sam Owen Trail #4. The trail reaches a beautiful vista of Owens Bay, where hikers can rest on benches and take in the astonishing view. Anglers take pleasure in catching kamloops, Dolly Varden, northern pike, trout and catfish. A boat ramp and dock are located on-site. Facilities Amenities include a picnic area, paved overflow parking areas and an amphitheater for educational programs. Campsites do not have electric hookups but a group picnic shelter has electricity and lights. Accessible flush toilets, drinking water and a dump station are provided. Natural Features Sam Owen Campground is situated on a peninsula on the east side of Lake Pend Oreille in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, at an elevation of 2,000 feet. The lake spans 82,088 acres and has 125 miles of shoreline. The well-loved campground shares a peninsula with the Sam Owen Game Preserve, which provides plenty of opportunities to see wildlife up close. Deer are very easy to spot, and watching for unique birds is a rewarding activity. Nearby Attractions The Pend Oreille Scenic Byway is well worth exploring. ADA Access: N

Sam Owen Camnpground

Riley Creek Campground, situated on the banks of the Pend Oreille River, is the largest recreation area for the Albeni Falls Project, but still offers visitors peace and quiet and plenty of space to enjoy the scenic surroundings. Recreation Water sports are the most common activity at the lake, and boat ramps are provided at the campground. Visitors enjoy kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, water skiing and jet skiing. Campers are likely to spot wildlife in the area, with bald eagles, osprey, bears and most commonly, deer. A biking and hiking trail is available, giving campers a chance to enjoy the wildlife and greenery. Fishing piers, horseshoe pits, a beach volleyball court, basketball court and more make this campground an ideal place for family trips or groups of friends. A hiking and biking trail is accessible from the campground. Facilities Riley Creek is the largest campground at Albeni Falls, offering 67 campsites, all with electric and water hookups. Two large reservable picnic shelters are also available. As long as all equipment fits on the site pad, Riley Creek allows for an unlimited amount of tents per site. Natural Features Albeni Falls Dam was built in 1955 for flood control and power production on the Pend Oreille River. Today, the popular lake has the added benefit of providing visitors with countless year-round recreational activities. Lake Pend Oreille is surrounded by scenic mountains and is one of the largest and deepest natural lakes in the western United States, plunging to depths of more than 1,200 ft. in some areas. Behind the dam, the Pend Oreille River stretches 65 miles through a glacial-carved valley that separates three mountain ranges. Nearby Attractions The Albeni Falls Visitor Center features exhibits on the history of the dam and the natural features of the area. Tours of the dam are given daily during the summer. The nearby town of Laclede, Idaho offers gas and grocery services.

Riley Creek Campground

Nestled between two tall mountains of Douglass fir, crystal-clear Mirror Lake is perfect for swimming, boating, hiking, camping, sitting around the fire (when there's not a burn ban), and socializing in rustic community gathering spaces. Mirror Lake is a family-run campground,



Mirror Lake

Green Bay Campground features 11 designated sites with picnic tables and fire rings, vault toilets, and a swimming beach.

Green Bay Campground

Whiskey Rock Bay Campground features 9 camp units with 3 sites on lake. In addition there are 4 picnic sites with fire rings, vault toilets, a dock, and a swimming beach.



Whiskey Rock Bay Campground

Photo of the rock outcropping from which Maiden Rock picnic area gets its' name.Maiden Rock Picnic Ground is accessible by boat only. It features 4 picnic units, fire rings, a vault toilet, and a swimming beach.

Maiden Rock Campground

Round Lake

Bonner County Garfield Bay Campground

Evans Landing

Looking for the best campgrounds near Nampa, ID? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Idaho camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Nampa and user-submitted reviews.

Nampa

The Best Camping Near Nampa, Idaho

Looking for the best campgrounds near Meridian, ID? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Meridian. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Meridian. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Meridian

The Best Camping Near Meridian, Idaho

Pocatello is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Pocatello, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Pocatello

The Best Camping Near Pocatello, Idaho

Searching for the best camping near Idaho Falls, ID? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Idaho camping adventure.

Idaho Falls

The Best Camping Near Idaho Falls, Idaho

Caldwell is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Caldwell campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Caldwell, ID. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Caldwell

The Best Camping Near Caldwell, Idaho

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, has both a lovely lake and a fancy name. Not only that, but you’ll also get access to multiple national forests in your backyard.

The best camping near Coeur d'Alene is in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, closer to Kellogg, ID. If you’re planning to travel towards Missoula, this is a perfect camping spot along the way. Even if you aren’t Missoula-bound, the national forests outside Coeur d’Alene demand your attention. If you’re looking for something a bit more subdued, find a campsite near Lake Coeur d’Alene and enjoy a weekend on the waterfront. There are a handful of established campgrounds by the lake with full amenities and RV access available.

Coeur d'Alene

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Coeur d'Alene. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Coeur d'Alene, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Coeur d'Alene, ID. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

The Best Camping Near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

You’ll find Twin Falls in the southern section of Idaho, roughly 100 miles from Craters of the Moon National Monument. While not always as popular as the northern half of the state, south Idaho also has its share of public lands for hiking and camping.

The best camping near Twin Falls is south of the city, with large areas of BLM and USFS land available for dispersed campgrounds. Beyond that, you’ll find City of Rocks National Reserve, which offers developed tent and RV campsites near Almo, ID. If you plan to venture out that way, know that while it’s beautiful, your best bet is to be as self-sufficient as you can. Since Almo is a small, unincorporated community, you may not be able to count on all the amenities you hoped for.

Twin Falls

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Twin Falls, ID has a lot to offer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Twin Falls, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Twin Falls camping trip.

The Best Camping Near Twin Falls, Idaho

Looking for the best campgrounds near Lewiston, ID? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Lewiston, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Lewiston

The Best Camping Near Lewiston, Idaho

Are you in need of a campground near Post Falls, ID? Post Falls is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Post Falls camping trip.

Post Falls

The Best Camping Near Post Falls, Idaho

Rexburg, ID is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Rexburg is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Rexburg camping trip.

Rexburg

The Best Camping Near Rexburg, Idaho

Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, ID is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests camping trip.

Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

The Best Camping Near Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, Idaho

Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Salmon-Challis National Forest. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Salmon-Challis National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

The Best Camping Near Salmon-Challis National Forest, Idaho

Join the fun near Caribou-Targhee National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Caribou-Targhee National Forest campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Caribou-Targhee National Forest, ID. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Caribou-Targhee National Forest

The Best Camping Near Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Idaho

Payette National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Payette National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Payette National Forest

The Best Camping Near Payette National Forest, Idaho

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Idaho Panhandle National Forests is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

The Best Camping Near Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Idaho

Boise National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Boise National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Idaho camping adventure.

Boise National Forest

The Best Camping Near Boise National Forest, Idaho

Kaniksu National Forest, ID is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Kaniksu National Forest

The Best Camping Near Kaniksu National Forest, Idaho

City of Rocks National Reserve is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of City of Rocks National Reserve. Find the best campgrounds near City of Rocks National Reserve, ID. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

City of Rocks National Reserve

The Best Camping Near City of Rocks National Reserve, Idaho

Searching for the best camping near Clearwater National Forest, ID? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Clearwater National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Clearwater National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

Clearwater National Forest

The Best Camping Near Clearwater National Forest, Idaho

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Craters of the Moon National Monument. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Craters of the Moon National Monument, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Craters of the Moon National Monument and user-submitted reviews.

THE BEST Boat-In CAMPING NEARIdaho Panhandle National Forests, Idaho

Top Idaho Panhandle National Forests Boat-In Campgrounds

Springy Point

Sam Owen Camnpground

Riley Creek Campground

Mirror Lake

Green Bay Campground

Whiskey Rock Bay Campground

Maiden Rock Campground

Round Lake

Bonner County Garfield Bay Campground

Evans Landing

About Idaho Panhandle National Forests Boat-In Camping

Boat-In Campgrounds in Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Idaho

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