Tent campsites near Kaniksu National Forest range from high-elevation sites along rocky mountain trails to boat-in lakeside spots across north Idaho. The forest spans elevation ranges from 2,100 to over 7,600 feet, creating distinct camping seasons across the region. Road access varies significantly by location, with many access roads becoming impassable during spring runoff when snowmelt creates muddy conditions.
What to do
Kayaking to island campsites: Priest Lake offers unique boat-in camping opportunities at Kalispell Island Boat-in Campground where tent campers can escape road access limitations. "A group of us stocked up our kayak and we trekked out to Kalispell Island! Storms all around us but the views were beautiful," reports one camper who combined water sports with camping.
Mountain lake swimming: The granite beaches at Green Bay Campground provide water access for swimming despite cold water temperatures. "We spent the morning soaking up the sun and wading around in the icy, clear water. You can walk all the way out to where you cannot touch and still see the rocks on the bottom," notes one visitor who camped there after Labor Day.
Hiking to alpine lakes: From the Roman Nose trailhead campground, hikers can access three mountain lakes with increasingly difficult trails. "The first lake is a short, easy walk. The 2nd (Lower) and 3rd (Upper) lakes are a moderate hike and have a couple sites you can overnight at from the trailhead parking lot," explains one hiker.
What campers like
Midweek solitude: Tent campers report significantly different experiences based on timing their visits. "Our stay at the Green Bay campground was perfect. We arrived on a Wednesday and had the place nearly to our selves. Make sure to arrive early in the week if you want a camp site. Spots filled quickly in the days following," advises one camper.
Waterfront privacy: Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground provides tent sites with exceptional water access and seclusion. "Large and private, nice beach, good wind block. Will definitely be back," reports one group camper about the Sunrise Group site on the island.
Night sky viewing: The remote location of many Kaniksu camping areas creates optimal stargazing conditions. "The waters are a little cold but crystal clear and on a clear night, you'll see the bulk on the Milky Way," notes a Bartoo Island camper, highlighting astronomical viewing opportunities not available in more populated areas.
What you should know
Washboard roads: Access to many remote tent sites requires navigating rough forest roads. "The road is long and VERY washboarded, but you have lots of great options if you plan on doing some hiking in the area. If you're not looking to hike, I'm not sure beating up your vehicle for a solid hour on a washboarded dirt road is worth it," cautions a Roman Nose visitor.
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas have minimal amenities. At Pack River Dispersed Site, campers should prepare for true primitive camping: "A few sites available along this road. Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites. On the river and very peaceful. Remember to leave not trace and pack out your trash!"
Weekend crowds: Popular locations can transform from peaceful to packed within hours. "Midday Thursday, several car loads of families started filtering in. Someone pitched a tent 3 feet from ours. They parked right on top of us, despite having ample other parking room, making it difficult to get in and out of our vehicle," reports one Green Bay camper who had initially enjoyed solitude.
Tips for camping with families
Bring insect protection: Yellow jackets and other stinging insects can be abundant at many tent sites during summer months. "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," reports one Green Bay camper.
Consider site location: When camping with children, choose sites carefully for accessibility and safety. "In the future, I'd choose a site on one of the far ends versus the middle. We were virtually trampled once it filled up," advises a camper who experienced unexpected crowds with multiple families.
Plan for temperature changes: Scotchmans Peak and other high-elevation camping areas experience significant temperature drops after sunset. "Be sure to read trail reports and weather reports before heading out. North Idaho weather can be pretty finicky, especially at high elevations," warns an experienced hiker familiar with the region's mountain terrain.
Tips from RVers
Boat-in alternatives: While most tent camping areas near Kaniksu have limited RV access, Bull River Pavilion offers both drive-in and boat-in camping options with RV hookups. "The camp area is pretty full even in the off season, because it is absolutely beautiful. Located not far from Thompson Falls, and lot of water ways," notes a recent visitor.
Consider site reservations: First-come sites fill quickly during peak season, especially at accessible locations. "First come, first serve sites are your best bet for getting a campsite on Priest Lake during peak season. I was able to snag one of the 10ish first come sites last minute for a weekend," shares one boater who camped on Bartoo Island.
