Kingston offers RV and tent camping across multiple sites nestled in the Idaho panhandle at elevations around 2,000-2,200 feet. The area connects to Wolf Lodge Bay on the eastern side of Coeur d'Alene Lake and provides access to mountain recreation in the Coeur d'Alene National Forest. Seasonal availability varies with most campgrounds operating from May through September, though several offer limited winter options for cold-weather camping.
What to do
Hiking local trails: Several paths wind through the forests near Kingston, including options at Camp Coeur D Alene where campers can experience streamside walking routes. One visitor noted, "Hiked the trail on the backside of the campground, which followed along a stream. There's nearby wildlife, including a resident moose."
Paddle sports: Explore Wolf Lodge Bay with complimentary watercraft at several campgrounds. At Wolf Lodge Campground, guests can "kayak down the creek at the campground" where they "saw wildlife" according to a reviewer named Jenn.
Gold mine tours: For a unique activity, visit Crystal Gold Mine where the 40-minute underground tour includes gold panning opportunities. A camper shared, "Don't count on striking it rich with gold but you will certainly leave entertained and with a great bit of mining education!"
Biking the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes: This paved rail-trail passes near Kingston and connects to several campgrounds. A visitor at Chatcolet Campground noted, "We picked this campground for its access to the Trail of the Coeur D'Alenes. The campground is small and peaceful, at least mid week."
What campers like
Free watercraft access: Many guests appreciate the complimentary watercraft provided at Camp Coeur D Alene. Jared mentioned, "We were lucky enough to land the island campground which made the whole experience amazing! This place has great amenities (free canoes, hot showers, flush toilets, free firewood)."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the maintenance standards at Kingston area campgrounds. A Sienna V. shared about Camp Coeur D Alene: "This campground was super cozy and safe. They had firewood for sale, a pool, and clean showers and bathrooms. We were able to connect to the wifi at our tent site."
Yurt camping options: Several sites near Kingston offer yurt accommodations as alternatives to traditional tent camping. At Farragut State Park, yurt campers enjoy the combination of structure and nature. Barry S. called the park "gorgeous, well run and maintained. Large lake, lots of trails, could easily make an extended stay here."
Wildlife viewing: The Kingston area provides opportunities to observe local animals. One visitor to By The Way Campground was "warned a Moose family likes to walk through" while another noted actually seeing moose during their stay.
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds near Interstate 90 experience traffic sounds. At Wolf Lodge Campground, one visitor mentioned "Interstate noise is not too bad" while another noted running their "AC/fan at night and it blocked out the noise."
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites fill quickly during summer months. At Liberty Lake Regional Park, Beth M. shares: "We pulled in to the public park and the attendant told us to check with the camp host even tho the sign said full. We had our choice of two tent sites for our conversion van."
Site spacing varies: Campgrounds range from spacious to compact. One camper at Camp Coeur D Alene stated: "We had planned on staying 1 night but loved the atmosphere, so we stayed 2 nights!"
Water access considerations: Not all waterfront campgrounds have swimming beaches. A reviewer at Wolf Lodge Campground mentioned they "loved kayaking down the creek at the campground and saw wildlife," suggesting creek access rather than lake swimming.
Tips for camping with families
Find shaded sites: Summer temperatures can reach the 90s in July and August. At Silverwood RV Park, a camper noted the "hot campground, tiny trees that provide no shade" making proper site selection important.
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Many Kingston area campgrounds cater to children. One visitor at Wolf Lodge mentioned "lots of free or low priced activities for the kids" which enhanced their stay.
Consider cabin options: For families wanting comfort without full RVs, cabins provide good alternatives to yurt camping near Kingston. Idaho. Phil G. noted that Camp Coeur D Alene "offers tent camping, full service RV camping, and cabins for rent. There are hiking trails adjacent, a well stocked camp store and laundry facilities."
Check for playground access: Some campgrounds feature play structures for children. Jennifer H. mentioned that at Silverwood RV Park "kids loved the playground too" making it easier to keep children entertained.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. A visitor at Alpine Country Store & RV Park mentioned "the site we stayed in was perfectly level from the time we pulled in" while Adam B. warned about Liberty Lake: "Bring your blocks... Nice cozy camp site."
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. Joel R. shared about Liberty Lake Regional Park: "The road in is a little narrow, but once in, it's a great little campground. Most of the sites are fairly level."
Train noise warnings: The rail line through the area affects some campgrounds. Alex G. warned about Alpine Country Store & RV Park: "The train is just on the other side of the highway and for whatever reason they enjoy blowing the horn and I will warn you this could happen at any hour of the day/night."
Dump station locations: Not all full-hookup sites have convenient dump stations. As Joel R. noted about Liberty Lake Regional Park: "The dump station is quite a drive, back out, up the hill."
