Bob M.
Scout
ScoutRiver Walk RV Park
Farragut State Park
Numerous well spaced sites with water & electric. Near Lake Pend Oreille. Grab the kayak or boat & enjoy!
Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Lake Pend Oreille
Green Bay Campground offers lakefront camping sites that accommodate pets without restrictions or additional fees. Several tent-only sites with fire pits, picnic tables, and direct water access permit dogs to join their owners for swimming and exploration. Sam Owen and Riley Creek campgrounds both provide designated pet exercise areas where dogs can socialize while remaining leashed throughout the campground. Mirror Lake and Round Lake State Park maintain pet-friendly policies for both tent and RV campers, with accessible shorelines for water-loving dogs. Whiskey Rock Bay Campground attracts pet owners seeking seclusion, with sites situated in a granite rock beach setting where dogs can explore the shoreline. Campgrounds maintain standard leash requirements but do not impose breed restrictions, unlike Beyond Hope Resort which prohibits pit bulls and Rottweilers despite their camp hosts having a Rottweiler themselves.
The lakeside paths at Farragut State Park's Whitetail and Gilmore campgrounds provide excellent walking routes for dogs needing exercise after traveling. Well-maintained trails connect campsites to swimming areas where pets can cool off during summer months. Visitors should prepare for yellow jackets at waterfront sites, particularly at Green Bay Campground where they frequently swarm picnic areas but rarely sting. Pet owners appreciate the secluded nature of several campgrounds where dogs can enjoy swimming without crowds, though weekends see significant increases in visitor numbers. Wildlife encounters require vigilant pet supervision, and campers should secure all pet food alongside human provisions to prevent attracting animals. Veterinary services are available in Sandpoint, approximately 20 minutes from most lakeside campgrounds, providing emergency care if needed.
Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Lake Pend Oreille (136)
1. Green Bay Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED 2024
12 ReviewsKaniksu National Forest, ID2 milesWebsite+1 (208) 263-5111$15 / night
"Lightning cutting across the lake was a real spook. We brought our kayaks into the water in the sunny part of the day, other camping spots available by boat if you can get there!"
"You do have to walk to your site but it’s not far. Views are magical. Water is crystal clear, you feel secluded and safe!"
2. Sam Owen Camnpground
16 ReviewsHope, ID7 milesWebsite+1 (435) 245-6521$30 - $116 / night
"Very nice well kept campground on the east shore of lake Pend Oreille. We visited in 2021 September. A lot of trees have been cut down and cleared out from a giant wind storm last year."
"Also, very amazing views of Lake pend Oreille and the mountains, which surround you. It is down a beautiful peninsula in Hope, Idaho."
3. Round Lake State Park Campground
14 ReviewsCocolalla, ID11 milesWebsite+1 (208) 263-3489$12 - $29 / night
"Pet friendly. Lots of trail hiking and a pretty lake for kayaking, swimming, etc. My only complaint was not enough grassy areas and all campgrounds were just dirt."
"This spot is very close to the main hiking trail, that leads around the lake and to the beach area. Probably about 15 feet away, down a slight hill."
4. Riley Creek Campground
24 ReviewsCocolalla, ID17 milesWebsite+1 (208) 437-3133$35 - $75 / night
"Today I check out a great little campground/recreation area on Lake Pend Oreille( locally pronounced Pond Array")."
"There is also a pet area,and you can take your dogs for a swim. Free shorts and very clean bathrooms. Some highway noise but not too bad."
5. Whiskey Rock Bay Campground
7 ReviewsBayview, ID7 milesWebsite+1 (208) 263-5111"There are quite a few beautiful spots along this bay of Lake Pend Oreille that can be reached only by boat."
"This lakeside campground is a true hidden getaway, perfect for anyone looking to escape the crowds. The lake itself is stunning—clear, beautiful water."
6. Springy Point
10 ReviewsDover, ID10 milesWebsite+1 (208) 437-3133$25 - $50 / night
"Swimming beach and separate dog beach. Friendly hosts."
"Lovely campground, close by Sandpoint, nice hosts, late checkout (2pm), hot showers. Be on time, gate closes between 10pm and 7am"
7. Whitetail Campground — Farragut State Park
15 ReviewsBayview, ID15 milesWebsite+1 (208) 683-2425"The park itself is massive and plenty of fun options from swimming in Lake Pend O’ Reille to disc golf there at the course in the park."
"There is easy access to both Silverwood and Coeur D'Alene Idaho outside the campground. Apparently there is a former U.S. Naval brig turned museum at the park as well."
8. Gilmore Campground — Farragut State Park
16 ReviewsBayview, ID16 milesWebsite+1 (208) 683-2425$31 - $33 / night
"Gilmore Campground Farragut State Park, Idaho Lake Pend Oreille Who Knew?!!
I crossed the Montana / Idaho state line this morning and was pleasantly surprised at the AMAZING scenery ."
"And Lake Pend Oreille is simply breathtaking. We had limited Verizon connectivity — 2 bars at most."
9. Mirror Lake
4 ReviewsIdaho Panhandle National Forests, ID5 miles+1 (509) 710-0889"Pretty lake. Good cell service even though its tucked away from the main road. The owner was very nice and helpful."
"Nice spot close to Sandpoint. Not crowded. Was able to slide right in on the Friday night when Spokane was having wildfires out west."
10. Bonner County Fairgrounds
9 ReviewsPonderay, ID13 milesWebsite+1 (208) 263-8414$39 / night
"We particularly enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the campground, with beautiful views of the surrounding nature. What truly sets this campground apart is its convenient location."
"Pros: nicely forested providing shade to many sites, inexpensive, tons of space to walk dogs, water and electric at sites, dump and water station easy to navigate."
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Lake Pend Oreille
71 Photos of 136 Lake Pend Oreille Campgrounds
Michelle P.
Round Lake State Park Campground
Shelly S.
Bonner County Fairgrounds
Steve A.
Turnipseed Creek Campsites
Shelly S.
Snowberry Campground — Farragut State Park
Paul B.
Whitetail Campground — Farragut State Park
Shelly S.
Gilmore Campground — Farragut State Park
John D.
Riley Creek Campground
Samantha W.
Priest River
Jennifer U.
Blue Lake RV Resort
Don R.
Kootenai River Campground
Kelsey M.
Osprey Campground
Bonnie E.
Kootenai National Forest Yaak River Campground
Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Lake Pend Oreille
809 Reviews of 136 Lake Pend Oreille Campgrounds
Shelly S.
LegendSnowberry Campground — Farragut State Park
Something for Everyone
Farragut State Park, Idaho Lake Pend Oreille
I crossed the Montana / Idaho state line this morning and was pleasantly surprised at the AMAZING scenery . I’m from way over in Kentucky so maybe this is a best kept secret or it’s just not well advertised but NORTHERN IDAHO IS BEAUTIFUL!! I mean, someone says Idaho, I think potatoes/ farmland. So well played Idahoans! I stopped for an overnight at Farragut State Park. The staff was AMAZING! Friendly , informative and took the time to see if there were any cancellations or early departures in the crowded campgrounds. The campgrounds are well laid out in that there are many sites but they are situated in a way that still gives each site space for “stuff”.
Several areas to pick from. Group areas and campgrounds, shade and locality. Sites were very well maintained. Full hook up, Pit toilets and a few shower houses.
The general park map is lacking on the hiking trail venue. If you want to hike and in my opinion you do, see about getting a trail map or take a picture at one of the information stands. Even that map was not great, but useable. We took a stroll down through the woods and when we got to Lake Pend Oreille guess what?!! .... IT WAS AMAZING!! If you want a hike along the lake with easy to moderate difficulty 70 along Idlewilde Bay is excellent, it loops around by the parking lots and the shore. Plenty of spots for the dogs to get in and to swim. Once again there are trails coming and going and the trail markings are sometimes confusing but if you have a good sense of direction you’ll be fine.
There is a model airplane field, bird watching area, and areas to park and unload horses and llamas.
Bayview, ID is nearby with a laundromat , grocery , etc. On site there is a small museum with the history of the area , a Tree to Tree Adventure Park and of course water activities galore.
Mike E.LegendClark Fork Drift Yard
Basic gravel parking lot overnight
This is a parking lot on a gravel road very close to the highway along Lake Pend Oreille's eastern shore. There is a boat launch. It is where the Clark Fork River empties into the Lake. It is managed by the Pend Oreille Wildlife Management Area office - the "Panhandle" office. It is free and first come, first served. Good for an overnight stay or day use, but NOT a full on campground at all.
- Shelly S.Legend
Gilmore Campground — Farragut State Park
AWESOME CAMPGROUND
Gilmore Campground Farragut State Park, Idaho Lake Pend Oreille
Who Knew?!!
I crossed the Montana / Idaho state line this morning and was pleasantly surprised at the AMAZING scenery . I’m from way over in Kentucky so maybe this is a best kept secret or it’s just not well advertised but NORTHERN IDAHO IS BEAUTIFUL!! I mean, someone says Idaho, I think potatoes/ farmland. So well played Idahoans! I stopped for an overnight at Farragut State Park. The staff was AMAZING! Friendly , informative and took the time to see if there were any cancellations or early departures in the crowded campgrounds. The campgrounds are well laid out in that there are many sites but they are situated in a way that still gives each site space for “stuff”. My site didn’t have a lot of shade but the breeze was enough that it was comfortable all day, temps in the 80’s. We may have hit the end of the mowing cycle or maybe they leave the grass rough cut due to it being dry. Our site was otherwise very well maintained. When I drove in the camp hosts were actually across the lane SWEEPING one of the cement pads clear of gravel. Full hook up, Pit toilets and a few shower houses. The shower house is on the other side of Gilmore CG. The sites over there have older trees and more shade. The general park map is lacking on the hiking trail venue. If you want to hike and in my opinion you do, see about getting a trail map or take a picture at one of the information stands. Even that map was not great, but useable. We took a stroll down through the woods and when we got to Lake Pend Oreille guess what?!! .... IT WAS AMAZING!! If you want a hike along the lake with easy to moderate difficulty 70 along Idlewilde Bay is excellent, it loops around by the parking lots and the shore. Plenty of spots for the dogs to get in and to swim. Once again there are trails coming and going and the trail markings are sometimes confusing but if you have a good sense of direction you’ll be fine.
Bayview, ID is nearby with a laundromat , grocery , etc. On site there is a small museum with the history of the area , a model plane field , a Tree to Tree Adventure Park and of course water activities galore.
- Mike E.Legend
Sam Owen Camnpground
Wooded lakeside gem
Very nice well kept campground on the east shore of lake Pend Oreille. We visited in 2021 September. A lot of trees have been cut down and cleared out from a giant wind storm last year. The storm crushed cars and campers. All cleared up and nice now. Most spots are still shaded and very close to the lake. The access roads are narrow and trailers over 30 ft can get in but very carefully in the skipping stone loop. If you want a pull through for easier entry/departure, try the dancing shadows loop. There's a dog beach with plenty of shoreline access. It was very smoky due to all the forest fires at the time.
- SSarah
GuideGilmore Campground — Farragut State Park
Beautiful, intersting, well-managed state park
The Gilmore campground was clean and well-managed and we found the camp hosts super friendly and helpful. The campground has vault toilets and a few flush toilets as well as private showers with hot water. Campsites were well spaced from one another. The campground has a big green for frisbee, horseshoes, etc.
Farragut State Park has abundant hiking, water activities and interesting interpretive exhibits. And Lake Pend Oreille is simply breathtaking.
We had limited Verizon connectivity — 2 bars at most.
The village of Bayview, a few minutes’ drive or vigorous bike ride away, has a well-stocked little mercantile that carries all the necessities.
As out-of-staters, we didn’t mind paying twice the in-state rate for our site. Our state income taxes support our own state’s parks — not Idaho’s.
Zach A.
RangerWhitetail Campground — Farragut State Park
Lots of options
Went here on a complete whim during peak seasons in the summer and still had spots remaining to pitch a tent. The park itself is massive and plenty of fun options from swimming in Lake Pend O’ Reille to disc golf there at the course in the park. Bathrooms were clean, water was abundant and if you wanted to grab food/beer Bayview is only a few minutes away. Stayed at Whitetail campground at $27 a night for no hookups
Jade F.GuideWhiskey Rock Bay Campground
Beautiful Campsites Reached by Boat
There are quite a few beautiful spots along this bay of Lake Pend Oreille that can be reached only by boat. This is a great place to feel secluded and away from the hustle and bustle of the lake, without having to drive the boat too far. We put the boat in at the Farragut State park and drove a mere ten minutes across the lake to this beautiful (free) safe haven. Because of where the bank is situated, the camps receive beautiful early morning light and then are shaded enough throughout the rest of the day. We had enough space at our camp to set up two tents, a kitchen, a fireplace, and our own bathroom. Other campers were along the bay, but we still had ample privacy. We all had a great time, and were even able to set up our hammock in the trees to overlook the lake. I loved this bay and hope to return many times in the future.
Bridget L.
TravelerSam Owen Camnpground
Fun for kids! Tame deer come right up to you!!
This is a nice place to go with the whole fam! It is known for it’s huge friendly deer population!! You will see them everywhere!! Which is fun for out-of-towners! People from the city who don’t get much wildlife action. Also, very amazing views of Lake pend Oreille and the mountains, which surround you. It is down a beautiful peninsula in Hope, Idaho. It has a nice restaurant with a nice outside deck to eat and watch the sunset! People are nice and friendly! Good place to swim! They have burn barrels at the beach by the water that anyone can use to sit and have a nice beachside bonfire! Oh!! And they have firewood you can go and get for free that the staff piles up under a little gazebo thing. .. You can also get a burn barrel and they’ll bring one up to your campsite via golf cart, for free!!! Once a month every few weeks a truck comes around to empty anyone who may wants sewage and water buildup for a fee of $50.00.. They have an excellent shower room, but only two showers for each gender.. So all in all it’s pretty nice!!
Guide to Lake Pend Oreille
Lake Pend Oreille camping offers diverse experiences across its 43-mile length at an elevation of 2,062 feet. The lake reaches depths of 1,150 feet, making it among the deepest in the continental United States. Winter camping options remain available at several locations with temperatures typically ranging from 20-40°F during colder months.
What to do
Hiking mountain trails: Sam Owen Campground connects to extensive trail systems with varying difficulty levels. One camper noted, "There's a nice swimming area a short walk from our campsite, and Pend Oreille lake is beautiful clear, cool water for swimming."
Fishing from designated docks: Round Lake provides structured access points for anglers. According to a camper, "I had a great time casting off from them and even caught a couple of crappies and trout which was a nice bonus."
Winter camping exploration: For those seeking off-season solitude, Mirror Lake remains accessible. One visitor observed, "We were there mid-week in the off-season and pretty much had the place to ourselves."
Mountain biking: Farragut State Park's Whitetail Campground serves as a gateway to multiple biking routes. A reviewer mentioned, "There is a beautiful lake for water sports and plenty of activities to do in the winter. Give yourself a week to enjoy this treasure!"
Boating opportunities: The numerous access points allow for both motorized and non-motorized watercraft. At Riley Creek, a camper shared, "Bring your Boat, Kayak, Canoe, Bike, & Bathing Suit (in summer)."
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Riley Creek Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. One camper noted, "Clean, and well run. Clean bathrooms, and Showers. Dump Station."
Uncrowded winter options: Several campgrounds offer reduced visitor numbers during colder months. At Mirror Lake, a visitor explained, "We were there mid-week in the off-season and pretty much had the place to ourselves."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple locations provide chances to observe local fauna. A camper at Sam Owen mentioned, "It is known for it's huge friendly deer population!! You will see them everywhere!!"
Cell service availability: Important for those needing connectivity while camping. At Round Lake State Park, a visitor confirmed, "Good cell service even though its tucked away from the main road."
Historical attractions: Several campgrounds feature preserved structures or exhibits. A camper at Farragut State Park described, "There is a small museum with the history of the area, a model plane field, a Tree to Tree Adventure Park and of course water activities galore."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most sites fill quickly during peak season. At Sam Owen Campground, a camper advised, "Love it here. There are beautiful lakeside campsites with access to the lake. Unfortunately, those were all reserved when we stayed there. This place can get busy in the summertime, so you reserve early."
Road conditions: Whiskey Rock Bay Campground requires vehicles suited to rougher terrain. A camper warned, "The road to get there is long and rough, I wouldn't recommend bringing a standard camping trailer, and you probably wouldn't want to take a car."
Site size variations: Campgrounds often mix larger and smaller spaces. At Springy Point, a visitor shared, "We enjoyed this campground overall, but would definitely recommend checking sites in person if possible to get one of the larger ones. Our site was very cramped with a small area in which to pitch tents."
Train noise: Some locations experience railroad disruptions. At Bonner County Fairgrounds, a camper mentioned, "Train honks at a crossing. Didn't notice it at night as much as morning and evening."
Water temperature fluctuations: Even in summer, lake waters remain cool. A Round Lake visitor noted, "The swimming area is nice with kind of sandy beach, but there is a bit of seaweed in the swimming area."
Tips for camping with families
Structured activity options: Gilmore Campground offers organized recreation spaces. A visitor noted, "The campground has a big green for frisbee, horseshoes, etc."
Educational opportunities: Multiple sites feature learning experiences. At Round Lake, a camper shared, "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."
Playground proximity: Certain campgrounds include dedicated play areas. At Riley Creek, a camper mentioned, "River was peaceful, large grass area, large playground for kids."
Pet-friendly swimming areas: Despite general leash requirements, dedicated pet swimming zones exist. As noted at Riley Creek, "Dog Island allowed dogs off leash and swimming."
Proximity to attractions: Families appreciate access to nearby entertainment. A camper at Round Lake shared, "Enjoy the lake and it's only 20 mins from Silverwood theme park."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Bonner County Fairgrounds provides well-organized RV spaces. A camper advised, "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."
Power adapter needs: Some locations require specific equipment. At Mirror Lake, an RVer reported, "Owner provided a 120 VAC adapter plug for us to connect to 220 service."
Leveling considerations: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. A Sam Owen visitor shared, "We had a huge, level spot (#56) at the end of the campground (not all sites are so level). A little tight to get into with a 40' 5th wheel, but doable."
Water access logistics: Hose length requirements differ between sites. At Bonner County Fairgrounds, an RVer noted, "Shared water needs a long hose."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer this service. A Riley Creek visitor explained, "No dump in sites, so a little bit of a bummer."
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed at Whiskey Rock Bay Campground on Lake Pend Oreille?
Are dogs allowed at Whiskey Rock Bay Campground on Lake Pend Oreille?
Yes, dogs are allowed at Whiskey Rock Bay Campground on Lake Pend Oreille. This beautiful bay offers secluded spots accessible by boat where you can camp with your pets. Standard pet rules apply - keep dogs leashed when outside your camping area and clean up after them. Since this campground is more remote and boat-accessible, it provides an excellent opportunity for pet owners to enjoy Lake Pend Oreille's beauty with their four-legged companions in a less crowded setting.
What are the pet regulations for camping at Lake Pend Oreille?
What are the pet regulations for camping at Lake Pend Oreille?
At Lake Pend Oreille campgrounds, pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times when outside your vehicle or RV. Farragut State Park campgrounds require pets to be under physical control and never left unattended. Riley Creek Campground follows standard pet policies including cleaning up waste immediately. Most sites limit pets to 2 per campsite, though some may allow more with advance permission. Pets are generally prohibited from beaches, buildings, and certain trails. During extreme heat, rangers may check on pets left at campsites to ensure their safety.
What pet-friendly amenities are available at Lake Pend Oreille campgrounds?
What pet-friendly amenities are available at Lake Pend Oreille campgrounds?
Lake Pend Oreille campgrounds offer several pet-friendly amenities. Sam Owen Campground features spacious sites where pets can enjoy shade from the numerous trees, plus access to shoreline areas for supervised water play. River Walk RV Park provides well-spaced sites with water and electric hookups that make longer stays with pets comfortable, along with proximity to water access for dog-friendly activities. Many campgrounds around the lake offer designated pet waste stations, nearby hiking trails suitable for leashed dogs, and grassy areas for pet exercise. However, most restrict pets from swimming beaches and indoor facilities.
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