The Kingston area offers a variety of camping options along Idaho's Coeur d'Alene River corridor, situated at approximately 2,200 feet elevation in the panhandle region. The camping season typically runs from May through September, though some locations remain accessible through October depending on weather conditions. Most campgrounds in this area experience temperature drops into the 40s overnight even during summer months.
What to do
Kayak rentals and river access: At Camp Coeur D Alene, visitors can take advantage of paddle boats and kayaks available for rent. "We took the paddle boat our for a sunset cruise and it was a very memorable experience!" reports Angela F., while Reagan M. notes, "Great spot to stay for a bit. They have cabins and rv spots and car/tent spots with direct lake access and kayaks/peddleboats to rent."
Mine tours and gold panning: The historic mining heritage near Kingston provides unique activities not far from camping areas. One camper at the Crystal Gold Mine shared that "We did the mine tour two years ago and we're happy to do it again... The kids did some gem panning and found some gold specks. A neat insight into the mining that was so prevalent in these parts."
Wildlife observation opportunities: Many campers report wildlife sightings, especially moose, throughout the area. At Albert's Landing, Eric P. experienced "a baby moose eating leaves off of a tree right in front of us. Very cool." Julie M. mentioned that Camp Coeur D'Alene has "nearby wildlife, including a resident moose. We didn't get to see her but enjoyed looking."
What campers like
Island camping options: Some camping spots near Kingston, Idaho offer unique island sites that provide exceptional privacy. "We were lucky enough to land the island campground which made the whole experience amazing!" shares Jared from Camp Coeur D Alene. "This place has great amenities (free canoes, hot showers, flush toilets, free firewood) which made it the nicest campground I had been to for awhile."
Riverfront access: Many campers specifically praise the direct water access at various sites. "We really enjoyed our one night stay on the river. It's a beautiful campground and very clean," writes Eric P. about Albert's Landing. "The river is beautiful and very relaxing to be near."
Sense of security: Several reviews highlight the feeling of safety at certain campgrounds. Sienna V. reports that "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."
What you should know
Varying water pressure: Some campgrounds experience inconsistent water pressure. Anthony F. noted at one RV park: "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."
Potential for dust: Campgrounds in the area can get dusty, especially in designated dry camping areas. According to one camper at CDA River RV, Riverfront Campground, "The area they put dry campers is VERY dusty! Just walking around you are kicking up dust which is a problem unless you want to run your generator so you can keep your camper closed up."
Seasonal insect activity: Wasps and mosquitoes are frequently mentioned in reviews from July and August. A camper at Beauty Creek Campground mentioned "a bit of a wasp problem there (we were there in August), so not the best place to go if you're afraid of or allergic to bees and wasps." Another camper at Bull Run Access noted, "Pretty spot close to the lake, but the mosquitoes are abundant! I had my door opened for just a few minutes and had to kill like 20 before I could sleep."
Tips for camping with families
Scout for level sites: Finding flat terrain can be challenging at some camping areas. April C. from Rose Lake reported: "I struggled with this place, it would be really great if the two lot areas were level. There isn't a level spot anywhere."
Budget for firewood delivery: Some locations offer convenient firewood service directly to your site. According to Debbie S., "If you purchase wood they deliver to your site" at Camp Coeur D Alene, saving families the hassle of transporting firewood themselves.
Consider forest service campgrounds: For families seeking more structure than dispersed camping but more nature than RV parks, Francie M. recommends Bumblebee Campground: "The campground is managed by the US Forest Service with a camp host and has 23 campsites and a large group campsite that would accommodate up to 100 people. The amenities include paved/chip sealed roads and campsite parking, vault toilets and potable water spigots."
Tips from RVers
Highway noise considerations: Multiple RV sites near Interstate 90 experience road noise. BoGwen J. noted at By the Way Campground: "Your right next to freeway very noisy. The AC couldn't drown out the traffic noise. Wore earplugs."
Varying hookup availability: Full hookups are available at selected campgrounds, but not all offer consistent services. At Albert's Landing, jeremy B. notes that "The campground offers 60+ sites with water & 30/50 amp service, level gravel pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. There is nearly 1000' of river frontage, a camp store, and a river float shuttle. However, the campground does not currently have a septic dump, trash facilities, or showers."
Site spacing considerations: Reviews frequently mention proximity between campsites. Jared notes that at Camp Coeur D Alene, "Like I mentioned before, we got the island spot which was far away from every other campsite. If we were camping on the mainland the sites are a little too close one might say."
