Winchester Lake State Park offers several glamping options including cabins and fully-furnished yurts. The area sits at approximately 3,900 feet elevation in a pine forest setting. Most sites feature reasonable spacing with Camas Loop providing larger, separated sites with picnic tables and fire pits throughout a forested setting.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Hells Gate State Park Campground, visitors can fish along the Snake River. "We saw lots of different wild life. The only down side is a out of state fishing license is kind of expensive," notes Shane M. The park provides river access for various fishing experiences.
Hiking trails: Fields Spring State Park Campground offers several hiking options, including a 2+ mile roundtrip hike. "The hiking trail was long and absolutely amazing, and we ended up near a fire cabin used during the winter and summer," shares Kolette S. The park's higher elevation provides sweeping views across three states.
Water recreation: The Snake River at Chief Timothy Park provides multiple water activities. "Chief Timothy is a great campground about 7 Miles outside of Clarkston, WA. Perfect location for swimming, kayaking, and fishing," explains Chellsea W. The park sits on a 282-acre island, offering waterfront access and trails around the entire island.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many glamping options near Lapwai provide adequate separation between accommodations. At Winchester Lake State Park Campground, "Most sites are wooded and private. The staff was very friendly and helpful," according to Brock W. This creates a more secluded experience even when the campground is busy.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in this region maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. "Bathroom were really clean too my wife really like that lol. I can't wait to go back. The tent sites are nice and there is A lot of privacy between tent site," reports Jeffrey A. about Fields Spring State Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Boyer Park & Marina KOA provides numerous options for family activities. "Nice clean park. Grass is immaculate and so is swimming beach. Nice paved trail along river," notes mary F. The park includes a beach area, playground facilities, and paved walking paths suitable for all ages.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter brings different glamping experiences near Lapwai. "We stayed in the campground with hookups.....Camas loop. Generally large, separated sites with picnic tables and firepits. Forest setting throughout," shares Rich J. about Winchester Lake State Park, which remains open year-round with modified winter services.
Reservation requirements: Some parks fill quickly during peak season. "We dreaded dealing with crowds over the 4th of July weekend and back in March, this was one of the few state parks where I could get reservations in this area," explains Lee D. about Fields Spring State Park, which despite being small still had vacant sites even on holiday weekends.
Cell service limitations: Many glamping locations have limited connectivity. At Dworshak State Park, "NO CELL SERVICE. You just have to be present with one another," notes Agnes B. This digital disconnection is common throughout the region, particularly in more remote parks.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many parks offer activities specifically designed for younger visitors. At Chief Timothy Park, "The Kids loved this park, we just spent the day hanging out fishing and playing at the park when we went to Lewiston to Visit our daughter," shares Brenda S. The park features playgrounds and designated swimming areas.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region provides excellent chances to see native animals. At Hells Gate, "This is a large campground for the area and there is plenty to do around the state park. Fishing, hiking, swimming, boating, disc golf, volleyball mountain biking," notes Elizabeth S., highlighting the diverse activities available.
Swimming access: Several parks offer designated swimming areas. Boyer Park features "a nice family beach area. Lots of garbage cans everywhere but no recycling," according to Lorrie K. These swimming areas provide safer water entry points for children compared to the steep riverbanks found elsewhere.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV glamping near Lapwai varies in terms of services offered. At Dworshak State Park, "We originally had a reservation for a view site with no hook ups, but upon arrival they had a hookup site(#104) available, and the temps were nearly 100 degrees, so we took it!" shares Dawn G. Many parks offer electric and water connections but limited full-hookup sites.
Road access considerations: Some roads to glamping locations can be challenging. "Google maps wrecked us- I selected 'quickest route' and had NO warnings that we would be driving up the narrowest gravel road with a 11% incline!" warns Agnes B. about the route to Dworshak. RVers should research driving routes carefully, especially when towing.
Site dimensions: RV sites vary considerably between parks. At Hells Gate State Park, "Our spot was plenty long enough, but not as wide as I would have liked. There are two big trees on passenger side that prevent setting up a comfy patio," notes Kyle G. Checking specific site dimensions before booking helps ensure adequate space for slideouts and outdoor living areas.
