Dispersed camping near Kellogg offers access to the Idaho Panhandle National Forest where elevations range from 2,200 to 7,600 feet. The region receives approximately 35-45 inches of annual precipitation, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F. Winter access to many camping areas becomes limited after November due to snowfall on forest service roads.
What to do
Fishing access: Lake Elsie Campground provides excellent trout fishing opportunities. "We always catch lots of brooke and rainbow trout and wild life is everywhere!" notes Jessica C., highlighting the productive fishing at this mountain lake.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: The North Fork Coeur D'Alene River area offers calm water recreation. "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," reports Maddie F. about the river access points.
Trail riding: Areas surrounding Wallace RV Park connect to extensive trail systems. "Plenty of room for people to camp. There was one car when we arrived, and more pulled up throughout the night. You can walk down to the lake and sit on the dock to watch the sunset," says April C. about nearby recreation opportunities.
Gold mine tour: Crystal Gold Mine offers a unique educational experience. "The 40 minutes tour of the mine is awesome!! And, it comes with an opportunity to pan for gold and gems," says Jill T., adding that while you shouldn't "count on striking it rich," the tour provides "a great bit of mining education!"
What campers like
Direct river access: Campers at Albert's Landing appreciate the riverside location. "We really enjoyed our one night stay on the river. It's a beautiful campground and very clean. Saw a baby moose eating leaves off of a tree right in front of us," shares Eric P.
Proximity to historic sites: The area offers connections to mining history. "The town of Wallce is definitely worth going as they claim to be the center of the universe. The Pulaski Trail is definitely worth hiking and the story behind it is even more so," recommends Nancy C.
Summer float trips: River activities are popular during warmer months. "Albert is a very kind, chill and accommodating host... The place can be really busy on a hot Saturday and he runs it well shuttling people around," explains Clayton H. about float trip logistics on the river.
Clean facilities: Camp Coeur D Alene maintains well-kept grounds. "This campground was super cozy and safe. They had firewood for sale, a pool, and clean showers and bathrooms. We had a very comfortable stay and were able to connect to the wifi at our tent site," reports Sienna V.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Lake Elsie requires preparation. "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.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity occurs at some campgrounds. "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 Campground.
Traffic noise: Sites near highways experience road sounds. "Your right next to freeway very noisy. The AC couldn't drown out the traffic noise. Wore earplugs," reports BoGwen J. about By the Way Campground, though they noted it was "a clean spot!"
Seasonal considerations: Campground access varies throughout the year. "The road sometimes still has a good foot of snow until about Mid-June, so beware," cautions Saphrenne R. regarding access to higher elevation sites.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly water access: Some riverside locations offer gentle water. "The water looked nice and shallow and slow perfect for small children and for kayakers it gets a little faster on the other side," observes Clayton H. about water safety at Albert's Landing.
Educational opportunities: Consider the area's mining history. "Where else can you camp, visit a mine and pan for gold. Such rich history," notes Nancy C. from Crystal Gold Mine, mentioning that the nearby Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is "right across the road."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Kellogg: Many sites welcome pets but provide varying accommodations. "The camp is close to the freeway and on the edge of the lake. The camp offers tent camping, full service RV camping, and cabins for rent. There are hiking trails adjacent," explains Phil G. about Camp Coeur D Alene, a pet-friendly option.
Primitive camping preparation: Some dog-friendly dispersed sites require self-sufficiency. "You're really close to highway 3 so there's road noise from that. More common actually was the sound of boats going down the Coeur d'Alene river which is even closer," reports PJ M. from Bull Run Access, noting it's a "very beautiful spot."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Consider social preferences when selecting campgrounds. "There seemed to be two large lots (one grass, one gravel) that were camping permissible. We were in the second gravel lot. There appeared to be 5 total groups of campers spread over two spacious lots with plenty room for more," notes Kathleen D. about dispersed options.
Historic town access: Some RV parks provide easy access to local attractions. "Great spot to stay especially if you're visiting Wallace for a festival or stopover. Within walking distance to charming downtown," says Elizabeth S. about Wallace RV Park.
Size considerations: Larger RVs require route planning. "We were able to get our fifth wheel (40ft long, 13 1/2 ft tall) in and out easy! Lots of spaces and places to turn around," reports Kaitlin K. about Bull Run Access, providing specific measurements helpful for other RVers.
Hookup options: Full-service sites are available at several locations. "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," notes Joel L. about Wallace RV Park's amenities.
