RV parks near Lake Pend Oreille offer access to Idaho's largest lake, spanning 43 miles in length with 111 miles of shoreline. The lake reaches depths of 1,158 feet, making it the fifth deepest lake in the United States. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F, while winter months often see freezing temperatures with nearby mountains receiving significant snowfall.
What to Do
Fishing access: At Blue Lake RV Resort in Naples, guests can enjoy fishing in their small lake. "The little lake is full of catfish and turtles that you can feed," notes a camper, who also appreciated the "paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards and a floating trampoline" available for recreation.
BMX biking: Blackwell Island RV Park offers a kids BMX dirt bike area on the premises. One visitor mentioned, "They've added cute touches around the premises. A kids BMX dirt bike area, secret gardens, walking nature paths and a pond with their own resident ducks."
Theme park access: Families visiting Silverwood RV Park in Athol enjoy direct access to Silverwood Theme Park. "5 minute walk to theme parks under the highway," explains a reviewer, while another notes it's "next to Silverwood theme park, so you can camp the night before, hit the theme park early, and then crash after a fun filled day."
What Campers Like
Downtown convenience: The City Beach RV Park in Sandpoint earns praise for its central location. A guest commented it's "located inside the Sandpoint City Beach Park which is within a short walk to the very cute downtown of Sandpoint," with amenities including "fishing, playground, pool, tennis courts a Statue of Liberty standing in the lake."
Small town atmosphere: Visitors to Two Bit Outfit in nearby Libby, Montana appreciate the walkable community. "The town itself is great. Walkable. Very nice brewery. Riverfront park is nice. Libby dam area is worth a drive up. Make sure to visit Kootenai Falls. Amazing!!"
Lake swimming: Campers value water access at numerous RV parks. At Blackwell Island RV Park, "They had a clean beach along the Spokane River with plenty of high quality beach chairs to relax in and watch the parade of boats coming from upriver."
What You Should Know
Train noise: Multiple RV parks along Lake Pend Oreille experience railroad disruptions. At Blue Lake RV Resort, a camper noted "the campsite's unfortunate location between two railway lines. The constant sound of freight trains passing by throughout the day was quite disruptive."
Limited tent options: Many Lake Pend Oreille RV parks cater primarily to motorhomes. Silverwood RV Park requires tents be placed on gravel pads rather than grass. "You have to place your tent on a hard gravel pad, rather than the green grass," explains one camper, adding "If you have an RV, life is a lot easier at this park."
Cell service: Connectivity varies across the region. Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park provides reliable coverage with one visitor noting "Great service for Verizon" and "fast, reliable wifi."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities: Blue Lake RV Resort offers multiple water recreation options. "They have paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards and a floating trampoline. The little lake is full of catfish and turtles that you can feed," writes one reviewer, adding "My boys are ready to return and so am I."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. One visitor to Silverwood RV Park mentioned "Kids loved the playground too" in addition to the theme park access, making it ideal for families with varied interests.
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds around Lake Pend Oreille offer opportunities to observe local fauna. A visitor to Blue Lake RV Resort mentioned "I got to do yoga by the lake at sunrise, not too buggy and I saw lots of turtles."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For optimal privacy, request specific sites when available. At Blackwell Island RV Park, a camper recommended: "I would have given this place five stars because our site was very nice. Great view. HOWEVER, unless you splurge for a riverfront site, the rest of the sites are a big gravel parking lot."
Big rig access: Travel America RV Park in Sagle accommodates larger motorhomes. "Very nice lots. Lots of grass and trees, nice convenience store," notes a visitor, while another mentions the "open spaces" available.
Shoulder season availability: RV park access diminishes during colder months. Blue Lake RV Resort operates from March to December, while many campgrounds like Blackwell Island RV Park (April 1-October 15) and Two Bit Outfit (April 1-November 1) close during winter, limiting off-season options.
