Cabin rentals near the Idaho Panhandle National Forests range from rustic to comfortable. Located in the northern part of Idaho where elevations vary from 2,200 to 7,700 feet, cabin accommodations provide shelter during temperature fluctuations that can occur even in summer months. Most cabin accommodations require advance reservations, with availability most limited during peak season from late June through early September.
What to do
Fishing at lakefront cabins: Mirror Lake: Bigfoot Campout offers cabin accommodations with access to excellent fishing opportunities. "The views of Mirror Lake are just phenomenal. Clean campground with all the amenities. The dock is fantastic and the fishing is top notch," reports Nathaniel.
Swimming access: Liberty Lake Regional Park provides cabin rentals with access to a beach area for swimming. "The campground is close to the water and lots of picnic areas. The RV spots are pretty close, but is surrounded by nature and trails," according to Theresa G.
Free boat rentals: Some cabin sites include complimentary water recreation equipment. At Camp Coeur D Alene, cabins provide access to lake activities with "free canoes, hot showers, flush toilets, free firewood," making it "the nicest campground I had been to for awhile," notes Jared.
Hiking from your cabin: Several Idaho Panhandle cabin options offer direct trail access. One visitor to Lunch Peak Lookout mentioned, "There's a lovely hiking trail from the parking area as well which leads to even more spectacular views."
What campers like
Private beach access: Sedlmayer's Resort & Campground offers lakefront cabins with their own beach areas. According to Mackenzie M., "Amazing campground! Peaceful, quiet, and beautiful! Right on the lakefront with your own private beach. There's a cute little restaurant with a bar and you can get to go drinks."
Cabin privacy levels: Some cabin sites provide more separation than others. At Mirror Lake: Bigfoot Campout, a guest noted, "The campground is just far enough away to feel secluded but not too far that it's hard to get to."
Delivery services: Several campgrounds offer conveniences like firewood delivery to cabin sites. "If you purchase wood they deliver to your site," reports Debbie S. about Camp Coeur D Alene.
Scenic views: Cabin options range from lakefront to forest settings with varied views. At Blue Lake RV Resort, one visitor appreciated that "The presence of a lake near the campsite was undoubtedly a highlight. The lake provided a pleasant and picturesque setting."
What you should know
Cabin availability: Most cabin rentals require advance booking, especially during summer months. At Thousand Trails Little Diamond, availability runs from "April 13 to October 1" with limited off-season options.
Noise considerations: Some cabin locations experience noise from nearby roads or railways. At Blue Lake RV Resort, a reviewer noted "One of the major downsides was the campsite's unfortunate location between two railway lines. The constant sound of freight trains passing by throughout the day was quite disruptive."
Amenity variations: Cabin facilities differ significantly between locations. A visitor to Waldron Campground observed, "Each campground only has one main bathroom, so you'll be wise to bring something to ride to get to the restrooms because some sites are 1/3 of a mile away."
Seasonal limitations: Many cabins have restricted operating seasons. At Camp Coeur D Alene, the season runs "May 20 to Sep 15," while other locations may close earlier or open later depending on weather conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Spokane KOA Journey cabins provide family-oriented amenities. "All in all, the KOA itself is well-maintained, has the amenities you want, and a convenient spot if you need something near the city," notes Meghan B.
Family-oriented cabin options: Several locations offer specialized family accommodations. At Blue Lake RV Resort, "They have paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards and a floating trampoline. The little lake is full of catfish and turtles that you can feed," according to Don R., making it particularly suitable for children.
Cabin proximity to playgrounds: When selecting a cabin for family stays, consider recreation options. Liberty Lake Regional Park has "play structure and small beach" near cabin sites, as noted by Angel A., providing entertainment for children.
Cabin activities during weather changes: Idaho Panhandle weather can be unpredictable. Cabins with covered areas provide shelter during sudden rain. At Spokane KOA, "The tent sites had a nice triangular metal and wood canopy for shelter from rain and also for shade," reports Kristen M.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives for RV maintenance: Cabins can serve as temporary accommodations during RV issues. At Spokane KOA Journey, Crystal B. found "The wind had torn part of our roof and we had to find a place to stay a few nights, quickly and tarp before rain came. They accommodated our stay and even lent us a ladder to use while repairing the damage."
Site leveling requirements: Many cabin sites require adjustments for comfort. Adam B. at Liberty Lake Regional Park advises to "Bring your blocks" as leveling may be needed at some locations.
Seasonal road conditions: Access roads to some cabin sites can be challenging, particularly in shoulder seasons. At Liberty Lake Regional Park, a visitor noted "The road in was kinda sketchy if you are pulling a large RV. It is surrounded by a heavily wooded area that is very beautiful and well kept up."
