Equestrian camping near Kaniksu National Forest offers diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 2,110 to 7,705 feet. The forest spans over 1.6 million acres across northern Idaho, northwestern Montana, and northeastern Washington. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during daytime hours, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 40-50°F even in summer months.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Several trail systems throughout Kaniksu National Forest accommodate riders of all skill levels. At Liberty Lake Regional Park, "there are many hiking trails, including an equestrian trail, waterfall, fishing and lots of wildlife. There were deer in the campground every day, we saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks" according to Joel R.
Explore historic structures: Visit the Bull River Guard Station, a historic cabin dating back to 1908. Evelyn M. notes it's "in the perfect location. Easy to drive to and close to miles and miles of trails in the Kootenai National Forest. Plenty of beds for a full family - four upstairs and one downstairs. History galore in the building and surrounding areas."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple waterways provide excellent fishing access. "The Pack River dispersed camping area provides beautiful remote sites along the river, making it ideal for horses needing water access," while at Lionhead Campground, "Priest lake has amazing fishing for rainbow trout, Mackinaw (lake trout), smallmouth bass, and Pike minnow (as the main species)," according to Jeff W.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Round Lake State Park, "All sites are very large, covered in shade, and plenty of flat ground for a tent if that's your jam," notes Cody H. This contrasts with some more crowded camping areas in the region.
Clean facilities: Many campsites maintain excellent standards for their amenities. Heather M. appreciates that at Round Lake State Park, "All of the bathrooms and showers are cleaned daily. 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."
Winter camping options: Some campgrounds remain open year-round, though services may be limited. Nic F. reports that Round Lake is "Open in winter but flaky hookups. Swung by here yesterday (late Dec) after calling to confirm hookups were still functional. There was only one hookup spot plowed, and it's connectivity was not stable."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular horse camping sites fill quickly. For Priest Lake State Park, "Reservations are 9 months in advance and it is a phone call of luck that will get you this prime area. The group camp has its own private dock and beach," says Yuki B.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings are common. At Liberty Lake Regional Park, even summer nights can get chilly, requiring adequate clothing layers and sleeping gear rated for temperatures as low as 40°F.
Cost considerations: Non-resident fees have increased significantly at some state parks. Buck reports, "All the state (not Federal) parks at both Priest and Lake Pend Oreille (Farragut) have become prohibitively expensive for out of staters. A basic campsite (no utilities) can now cost upwards of $70 per night" for non-residents.
Road conditions: Many horse-friendly dispersed camping areas have challenging access. Emma T. notes about Pack River Dispersed Site, "A few sites available along this road. Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature-focused learning. At Round Lake, "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. They also have boards to rent and games as well."
Water activities: Lakes provide summer recreation options. Cody H. shares that at Round Lake, "Spending the hot afternoon floating and fishing the lake was perfect. Morning walks in the trails were peaceful with coffee in hand!"
Theme park proximity: For equestrian campers wanting variety, Danielle P. points out that Round Lake is "only 20 mins from Silverwood theme park," making it possible to combine horse camping with family-friendly attractions.
Site selection: For tent campers, Alex W. advises at Round Lake, "We stayed in a tent only spot - spot 17 I think. The spot was somewhat small. I'd say the largest tent it would accommodate is an 8 person cabin tent. Also the end of the site (where we put our tent) is slightly slanted."
Tips from RVers
Fairground camping options: For horse owners with RVs, Bonner County Fairgrounds provides convenient facilities. Always C. notes, "33 paved sites, water and electric at each site. Some sites offer shade as the google earth pic suggests. Sites are a little close but are decent size."
Site length verification: When booking online, "Reserve America reservations be sure to check site length. There are a few very short ones. We stayed in site 21 and our 34RLSA filled it up," advises Always C.
Hookup limitations: At several sites near Kaniksu, electrical connections may be inconsistent, especially in off-season periods. "We had a code on our electric and no way to report it as the host is not here and the phone numbers had full messages so are apparently not checked," reports Carol at Bonner County Fairgrounds.
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