Kaniksu National Forest spans over 1.6 million acres across northern Idaho and northwestern Montana, with elevations ranging from 2,200 to 7,700 feet. The forest contains more than 800 miles of streams and rivers, making it a prime destination for water recreation. Winter camping near Kaniksu National Forest requires preparation for temperatures that frequently drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Cocolalla, accessible from Cozy RV Park, offers excellent fishing for local species. "Very nice stay. Brian and his wife are amazing people. Right across from Cocolalla lake, fishing, swimming," notes camper Jason M.L.
Theme park access: Families looking for entertainment beyond camping can visit Silverwood Theme Park from Silverwood RV Park. "5 minute walk to theme parks under the highway. Site 74 backed up to a fence. Had no neighbors. But was furthest from the parks," shares Jason S. The campground provides direct access via a pedestrian tunnel.
Water activities: Many rv sites near Kaniksu National Forest offer water access. At Blue Lake RV Resort, "The presence of a lake near the campsite was undoubtedly a highlight. The lake provided a pleasant and picturesque setting, offering campers the opportunity to enjoy various water activities," explains Anil C. Paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards and a floating trampoline are available.
What campers like
Proximity to town: Urban conveniences near rv campsites around Kaniksu National Forest rank high among campers. "Location is awesome very convenient," notes Matt J. about City Beach RV Park. Similarly, at Tamarack RV Park, the "campground is located right in town on a fairly busy street, it was convenient to walk to the grocery store, cafe, gas station, department store etc."
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathrooms and showers receive praise at multiple RV parks. At Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park, "Bathrooms are very clean! Sights are small but the hookups make up for it!" reports Anthony T. The fairgrounds park also features "complimentary showers" and "fast, reliable wifi."
Water access: Many campgrounds near Kaniksu National Forest feature water access points. At Blackwell Island RV Park, Lauren C. notes, "The best part, right on the water. We took our paddle boards out and it was great!" The park maintains "a clean beach along the Spokane River with plenty of high quality beach chairs to relax in and watch the parade of boats."
What you should know
Train noise impacts: Several campgrounds experience significant train noise. At Blue Lake RV Resort, "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."
Road noise: Highway proximity affects some camping areas. At Two Rivers RV Park & Campground, "There's a lot of road and train noise here, much like the rest of the campgrounds on this road," reports Meghan B. Similarly, for Blackwell Island, "Road noise affects some parks, particularly if on the perimeter along the fence."
Wildlife presence: Be aware of potential wildlife encounters. Two Rivers RV Park warns about "a mountain lion in the area and a bear that's been visiting the campground the last 4 years," according to recent visitor reports.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several rv parks near Kaniksu National Forest include dedicated play areas for children. Jennifer H. notes that at Silverwood RV Park, "Kids loved the playground too," making it "a slamdunk if you're going to silverwood."
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas suitable for families. Blue Lake RV Resort includes "a small pond for fishing, swimming, yard games, fire pit, and very dog friendly with a fenced dog park," according to Ann W., who adds it has "Super clean bathrooms with hot shower."
Theme park convenience: For families planning to visit attractions, location matters. "We stayed here in July. It's next to Silverwood theme park, so you can camp the night before, hit the theme park early, and then crash after a fun filled day," explains Christon C.
Tips from RVers
Level parking: When choosing rv sites around Kaniksu National Forest, check for level surfaces. Travel America RV Park offers "Very nice lots. Lots of grass and trees, nice convenience store," according to Jason M.L. The park maintains "spacious pull-through RV pads that accommodate larger rigs."
Big rig access: Larger motorhomes require specific sites. Rick Shannon P. recommends Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park: "This place is big rig friendly. I stayed in a 45 class A motorhome with a tow vehicle. I had no problem with the access to the rv park. If you are coming off of interstate 90, don't use exit 13. The round about is way to small to handle big rig or any camper. The best route is exit 12."
Riverside options: RVers seeking water views have several options. At Blackwell Island RV Park, "unless you splurge for a riverfront site, the rest of the sites are a big gravel parking lot. So, if you stay here go for the riverfront sites," advises Laura K. Premium riverfront sites offer better views but typically cost more.
