The Kellogg area sits at an elevation of approximately 2,300 feet in the Silver Valley region of northern Idaho, nestled within the Bitterroot Mountains. Summer camping season typically runs May through September, with July and August providing the most reliable weather conditions. The area's mining history creates unique camping experiences with several options located near historic mining sites and access points.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Elsie Campground offers excellent fishing for brook and rainbow trout. "We always catch lots of brooke and rainbow trout and wild life is everywhere! There is a outhouse bathroom but you are on you're own otherwise!" mentions Jessica C., who regularly visits this alpine lake destination.
Historical explorations: Visit the Crystal Gold Mine for both camping and educational experiences. "Where else can you camp, visit a mine and pan for gold. Such rich (pun) history. The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is right across the road. The Trail of the Hiawatha is very close," notes Nancy C. about this unique camping spot that combines recreation with mining history.
Kayaking and paddling: Many campgrounds provide direct water access for various watercraft. "The camp is close to the freeway and on the edge of the lake. They have kayaks/peddleboats to rent," explains Phil G. about Camp Coeur D Alene, which offers additional amenities like hiking trails and a well-stocked camp store.
ATV and trail riding: Several camping areas provide access to extensive trail systems. "There is a beautiful alpine lake, which is obviously cold spring water. There is really good fishing and ATV trails for MILES through the wilderness! Seriously, one of the most fun places to camp," says Saphrenne R. about the Lake Elsie area.
What campers like
Riverside camping: The North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River offers free dispersed camping with direct river access. "The water is honestly my favorite part about this spot! You're not camping right on it as there are some bushes and an incline, but every spot has a tiny little 1 minute walk down to the water which is awesome," shares Maddie F. about the North Fork area.
Proximity to downtown areas: Some campgrounds offer easy access to historic towns. "We didn't have reservations but found this small RV Park blocks from Historic Old Town Wallace. It was fairly expensive but it's selling point was the proximity of downtown and the shops and bars," notes Andrew A. about the Wallace RV Park.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. "Wow! So friendly and such a great site. We backed right above the creek. With the windows open I could hear it babbling all night. Pure bliss. Super clean bathrooms and showers," says Jennifer H. about Wallace RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Convenient lake to get to by car, 30 minutes off the highway. Great fishing spot and is beautiful. Also, multiple bears went through the campground in the evening and came back at around 3am. Be careful with your food and be smart," warns Natalie J. about Lake Elsie.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require high clearance vehicles. "The road up is rough, potholes, it does get better about halfway up. Expect at least 30 minutes to get up after you hit the gravel, and that's pushing it pretty hard," advises Samuel H. about reaching Lake Elsie Campground.
Peak season crowding: Popular sites fill quickly during summer months. "This is a official dispersed camping campground. Through the evening we saw many vehicles drive through looking for sites. I think that camping in this valley is very popular and most sites occupied during the summer, especially weekends," reports Tom U. about Bumblebee Campground.
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "Road next the RV Park is very busy! It does slow down after dark but be prepared for road noise during daylight hours," notes Shonni N. about Wallace RV Park. Similarly, Crystal Gold Mine campers mention interstate noise.
Water pressure concerns: Some RV parks have utility limitations. "Was told to make sure to use pressure regulator, always do anyways but when we got here pressure was so bad we just filled our fresh water tank and used the rvs pump," shares Anthony F. about CDA River RV Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Best lake spots: Lake Elsie offers family-friendly fishing and swimming opportunities. "This is one of the most spectacular campsites I have ever been to. It's off I-90, down a long (8ish mile) dirt road. ROAD IS NARROW, WINDY, AND STEEP. not at all trailer or big rig friendly," advises lili G. about planning your visit.
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with learning experiences. "The 40 minutes tour of the mine is awesome!! And, it comes with an opportunity to pan for gold and gems. Don't count on striking it rich with gold but you will certainly leave entertained and with a great bit of mining education!" recommends Jill T. from Crystal Gold Mine.
Campground amenities: Look for camps with added features for children. "This site provides everything you'll need. It can support both tent and RV camping. The sight also provides showers for long stays. The site is right next to town as well, so you can walk there to spend your time," notes Sterling C. about Wallace RV Park.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children appropriate wildlife safety. "Be aware there is a moose that frequents the area so keep your trash in your car to avoid feeding the moose," cautions Diadra G. about camping at Lake Elsie.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate large rigs. "Alright campground, quite a few spots for a small town. Full hookups $45, bit expensive however this includes showers and toilets free. Very peaceful next to the river," mentions Joel L. about Albert's Landing, which offers 63 sites with water and electric hookups.
Hookup reliability: Electric and water access varies significantly. "Nice camp spot on the river. Clean campground with nice flat spots. No Verizon. Wi fi works at entrance to campground. River is beautiful!" advises Eric P. about CDA River RV Campground.
Seasonal availability: Some RV parks operate year-round while others have limited seasons. "We showed up May 1st, the first day they opened! The campground has beautiful treed sites with lots of amenities. They are redoing the pool, and the bathrooms are very clean," shares Julie M. about Camp Coeur D Alene.
Downtown proximity: Consider small RV parks near town centers. "A beautiful small privately owned campground in the heart of Wallace Idaho. Right next to the city limits brew pub. All very level sites! The staff is incredible and the sound of the river is wonderful!" reports kelly N. about Wallace RV Park.
