Lake Pend Oreille camping options extend far beyond the main shoreline areas, with many secluded spots tucked into forested coves and rocky outcroppings. Northern Idaho's largest lake covers 148 square miles and reaches depths of over 1,150 feet, making it one of the deepest freshwater lakes in the United States. Lake temperatures typically range from 55-70°F during summer camping months, with early morning mist creating distinctive visibility conditions for photographers and anglers.
What to do
Fishing for multiple species: Mirror Lake campground limits watercraft to electric motors only, creating ideal conditions for quiet fishing. One visitor reports, "Fun fishing and wildlife watching, electric motor or no motor boats only." The lake contains trout and crappie, with fishing possible directly from two dedicated docks.
Hiking along waterfront trails: Round Lake State Park offers extensive trail networks around its namesake lake and into the surrounding mountains. "There is a lovely trail around the lake and an extensive set of trails heading up into the mountain behind the lake as well as a trail to a pond with a dam which is quite peaceful," explains one camper. The main loop trail remains accessible year-round and includes interpretive signage about local wildlife.
Summer water recreation: Green Bay Campground provides direct lake access for swimming and kayaking. "We spent the morning soaking up the sun and wading around in the icy, clear water. You can walk all the way out to where you cannot touch and still see the rocks on the bottom," notes a camper. The granite beach area allows for straightforward water entry without mud or excessive plant growth.
What campers like
Clear water visibility: The Whiskey Rock Bay Campground showcases Lake Pend Oreille's remarkable water clarity. As one visitor describes, "The lake itself is stunning—clear, beautiful water. However, be aware that there's a steep drop-off down to the lake, which might make getting to the water a little tricky depending on which campsite you get." Waterfront sites offer unobstructed views across the lake to distant mountain ranges.
Spacious, private sites: Sam Owen Campground provides well-spaced camping areas with natural barriers. "All the sites are nice and private with lovely trees and open grassy space between them," reports a camper. Some lakeside sites include direct water access, while others maintain separation through the forest but remain within short walking distance of swimming areas.
Wildlife encounters: Farragut State Park's Whitetail Campground delivers frequent wildlife sightings. According to one visitor, "A huge park, you will never run out of space to explore here... I remember one day we saw a mother bear and her cubs as we were picnicking in the day area." The park's extensive trail system increases opportunities for wildlife viewing throughout different seasons.
What you should know
Seasonal availability varies: While most Lake Pend Oreille campgrounds operate May through September, Bonner County Fairgrounds remains open year-round. A reviewer notes, "Open till October 31st. Great place to stay. Nice back in sites with picnic table. Electric and water at site. Dump station close. Easy bike ride to Sandpoint with lots of bike paths."
Road conditions require planning: Access to remote campgrounds often involves unpaved forest roads. At Whiskey Rock Bay, "The road in is a typical forest road, no big deal if you're familiar with FS dirt roads. Coming in from Clark Fork you go over Johnson pass which can be blocked with snow during the late fall and winter seasons, 4wd only then."
Insect activity fluctuates: Yellow jackets can be prevalent at certain times. At Green Bay Campground, a visitor reported, "Our only complaint was that there were a lot of yellow jackets—A LOT. But they weren't too aggressive. Despite being frequently swarmed by them, neither of us got stung while we were there."
Reservation requirements change: During peak season, many campgrounds shift to reservation systems. Riley Creek Campground operates a lottery for walk-up sites: "We did not have reservations so had to join a lottery to get one of the walk up sites. Despite arriving early in the morning, we did not know until mid afternoon if we got a site."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Riley Creek Campground offers multiple recreation facilities. "The small beach was fabulous. The horseshoe pits, volleyball & basketball courts, as well as the playgrounds were all extremely inviting," shares one visitor. The day use area features sprinkler-maintained grass fields suitable for various activities.
Educational opportunities: Round Lake State Park includes interactive nature exhibits. "The camp visitor center has a cool place for kids to learn about the wildlife in the area with foot prints in sand, bird calls, samples of the different types of trees and more. They also have boards to rent and games as well," reports a camper.
Swimming area selection: Consider beach terrain when planning with children. At Round Lake, "The swimming area is nice with kind of sandy beach, but there is a bit of seaweed in the swimming area." For clearer water entry, several campgrounds offer designated swimming zones with gradual depth changes.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Gilmore Campground at Farragut State Park provides full hookups but requires early booking. "Gilmore is the only campground with full hook-ups. The campground is very clean and the sites are well spaced. Book early as this is a very popular place," advises a reviewer. Electrical connections include 30-amp service standard at most developed sites.
Winter camping considerations: While some parks remain open year-round, winter hookup reliability varies. A visitor to Round Lake notes, "Swung by here (late Dec) after calling to confirm hookups were still functional. There was only one hookup spot plowed, and its connectivity was not stable."
Site length verification: When booking through reservation systems, confirm actual site dimensions. At Bonner County Fairgrounds, "Reserve America reservations be sure to check site length. There are a few very short ones. We stayed in site 21 and our 34RLSA filled it up."
