Northern Idaho's camping areas near Kootenai sit at elevations ranging from 2,100 to 3,500 feet, creating a temperate summer climate with cool nights even during July and August. The region offers over 50 lakes within an hour's drive, making water recreation a prominent feature for visitors seeking rv sites near Kootenai, Idaho. Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, with only a few RV parks remaining open year-round.
What to do
Paddling on the water: Visitors to rv camping near Kootenai can enjoy diverse water activities at Blue Lake RV Resort in Naples. "We paddle boarded and swam the next day," notes camper Brad C., while another camper highlights that "They have paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards and a floating trampoline. The little lake is full of catfish and turtles that you can feed."
Hiking trails: Within 30 minutes of most Kootenai area campgrounds, multiple trail systems offer day hiking opportunities. A reviewer at Blackwell Island RV Park recommends "The Tubbs Hill lakeside hike is a must do" for those staying in Coeur d'Alene. The trail forms a 2.2-mile loop with multiple lake access points.
Fishing access: Several RV parks offer direct fishing opportunities without leaving the campground. At Blue Lake RV Resort, campers mention "Families can enjoy fishing, swimming, yard games, fire pit, and very dog friendly with a fenced dog park." Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased at local sporting goods stores.
Theme park adventure: For families seeking rides and water slides, Silverwood RV Park provides direct access to Silverwood Theme Park. "The best thing about the campsite is that it is the closet place to stay near Silverwood theme park. You can easily walk from your tent right into the park, which makes it super convenient," writes one camper.
What campers like
Beach areas: Multiple RV parks near Kootenai provide dedicated swimming areas. Blackwell Island RV Park gets praise for its "Beautiful beach area on the river" with "plenty of high quality beach chairs to relax in and watch the parade of boats coming from upriver."
Quiet settings: Despite proximity to highways, many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at certain campgrounds. One visitor to The Hemlocks RV and Lodging notes the cabins are "clean, warm, comfortable. Located central to sights in Idaho as well as Montana."
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards at Kootenai area RV parks receive consistent positive feedback. At City of Sandpoint, City Beach RV Park, despite being "basically a 1 row parking lot with grass," campers appreciate that "The sites do have fullhookups" and the location compensates for basic amenities.
Nature observation: Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region's RV parks. At Blue Lake RV Resort, one camper mentions doing "yoga by the lake at sunrise, not too buggy and I saw lots of turtles," providing a peaceful morning experience.
What you should know
Railroad proximity: Many RV sites near Kootenai, Idaho are situated near active rail lines. One reviewer of Blue Lake RV Resort noted "one of the major downsides was the campsite's unfortunate location between two railway lines. The constant sound of freight trains passing by throughout the day was quite disruptive." Similarly, at City Beach RV Park, "A train does run right beside the park. Bring earplugs."
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds require phone booking rather than online systems. When trying to stay at City Beach RV Park, one camper reported: "I had a tough time finding out who to call for reservations. It is owned by Best Western Edgewater Resort. 208-263-3194."
Seasonal variations: While some parks operate year-round, many have limited seasons. Travel America RV Park in Sagle stays open throughout the year, offering consistent RV sites regardless of season.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds require careful route planning for larger rigs. For Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park, a camper advises "If you are coming off of interstate 90, don't use exit 13. The round about is way to small to handle big rig or any camper. The best route is exit 12 big rig friendly."
Tips for camping with families
Amenity access: When camping with children, choosing sites with appropriate facilities makes a significant difference. Blue Lake RV Resort provides multiple activities: "The bathrooms are kept fantastic, the owners are really friendly and don't treat you as a bother. They have paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards and a floating trampoline."
Swimming options: Several parks offer dedicated swimming areas appropriate for various ages. At Blackwell Island RV Park, one camper noted they had a "beautiful beach for both people and dogs" making it suitable for families with both children and pets.
Theme park proximity: Families specifically visiting for Silverwood Theme Park benefit from staying at Silverwood RV Park where "Kids loved the playground too" and the campground offers "super convenient to silverwood and wonderful amenities."
Tent camping considerations: For families tent camping rather than using RVs, be aware of specific restrictions. At Silverwood RV Park, "you have to place your tent on a hard gravel pad, rather than the green grass" which can affect comfort levels for children.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV travelers report varying site sizes throughout the region. At Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park, site #1 is particularly spacious, with one camper noting it was "over 60 feet long and large for our 34 foot long 5th wheel and our Chevy truck."
Parking surfaces: Surface quality varies between campgrounds, affecting leveling and stability. At Tamarack RV Park, "The asphalt pads themselves are nice sized and ours is pretty level," though the park has sites that are "close together."
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access is inconsistent across RV sites near Kootenai. At Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park, reviewers mention they added "Free WiFi in 2023" and the service is "fast, reliable" which is unusual for campgrounds in the area.
Tree coverage: Shade availability differs dramatically between parks. At Tamarack RV Park, despite close spacing, visitors appreciate the "Tons of mature trees providing shade," while Kootenai County Fairgrounds has "No shade, good for solar" according to recent guests.
