Medimont, Idaho tent camping offers primitive experiences with basic amenities and variable site conditions. The area sits at approximately 2,200 feet elevation in the panhandle region, surrounded by the Coeur d'Alene River system and national forest land. Winter camping isn't practical due to heavy snowfall, while summer brings temperatures averaging 75-85°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Elsie Campground provides excellent trout fishing with species including brook and rainbow. A camper reported, "We always catch lots of brooke and rainbow trout and wild life is everywhere!"
Water recreation: Mica Bay Boater Park offers swimming and water activities on a spacious bay. One visitor mentioned, "Big bay for tubing or swimming, close enough to downtown for gas and dinner, plus ice cream. Bald eagles and Osprey fighting for fish."
Trail riding: Several campgrounds provide access to extensive trail networks for dirt bikes and ATVs. At Lake Elsie Campground, a visitor noted, "Tons of riding trails and a quiet campground," while another added, "Good place if you like to ride your toys."
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas surrounding campsites host diverse wildlife. According to a Lake Elsie visitor, "There is a moose that frequents the area so keep your trash in your car to avoid feeding the moose."
What campers like
Remote locations: The area offers genuinely isolated camping experiences away from crowds. A camper at Extraordinary Camping noted, "It is a very nice place to camp, since there probably won't be any people outside your own group. The owner was very responsive to texts and was helpful with all of my questions."
Multi-use recreation: Many sites serve as bases for varied activities. A Mica Bay Boater Park camper shared, "Great camping spot for families or anyone! Swing sets and slide for youngsters, horseshoe pit (when camp host is present), for older kids, large grass field for frisbee or football, big long docks for fishing or sunbathing."
Alpine lake settings: Some sites feature mountain lakes with clear water. According to a Lake Elsie Campground visitor, "There is a beautiful alpine lake, which is obviously cold spring water. But, you can get away with taking a dip in the summer season!"
No-cost options: Free camping appeals to budget-conscious visitors. A camper at Breakwater noted, "It's just a place to pitch a tent and have a fire. And it cost nothing."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires navigating challenging roads. A Lake Elsie visitor warned, "ROAD IS NARROW, WINDY, AND STEEP. Not at all trailer or big rig friendly." Another added, "Roughly 11 miles from where the asphalt ends is this little hidden gem."
Self-sufficiency required: Most sites lack amenities. At Breakwater Campground, campers should expect "0 amenities. It's just a place to pitch a tent and have a fire."
Seasonal access limitations: High elevation sites have restricted seasons. One Lake Elsie camper cautioned, "The road sometimes still has a good foot of snow until about Mid-June, so beware."
Cell service gaps: Communication is limited throughout the region. A Breakwater visitor noted, "Be prepared for no cell service," while another reported, "No reception! We didn't find it since there is no reception anywhere nearby."
Wildlife awareness: Bears are present at some campgrounds. A camper at Lake Elsie reported, "Multiple bears went through the campground in the evening and came back at around 3am. Be careful with your food and be smart."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly facilities. A visitor to Mica Bay Boater Park shared, "Great camping spot for families or anyone! Swing sets and slide for youngsters, horseshoe pit (when camp host is present), for older kids, large grass field for frisbee or football."
Consider noise levels: Engine noise can impact some sites. A Lake Elsie visitor cautioned, "If you are not into ATV and dirt bike riding, I would not recommend. Other campers were riding their bikes all day and night making it very loud, especially with the echos off the lake."
Water activities for kids: Lakes provide recreational opportunities. At Killarney Lake Picnic Site, a visitor noted, "It's close to the water which our dog loved. There's a boat launch area just before the Picnic area we used but the lake is fairly small so it's only ideal for certain types of boats."
Visit during weekdays: Campsites can become crowded during peak periods. One Lake Elsie camper advised, "It might get a bit crowded on summer weekends but multiple sites were vacant when we arrived on a Thursday afternoon in July."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most sites aren't suitable for larger RVs. At Tingley Spring, a camper noted that as backcountry site, it requires specific preparation: "Bring all your camping supplies, as there are not services like water, which is just how we like them!"
Road clearance concerns: Access roads to the best tent camping near Medimont require appropriate vehicles. A Lake Elsie visitor warned, "You'll want to bring good cars because the road gets pretty primitive."
Limited hookups: No developed RV amenities exist at most sites. For those visiting Killarney Lake Picnic Site, you'll find "restroom access" but should be prepared for "gravel roads" that "would not be nice to travel here in the snow."
Site surfaces: Ground conditions vary seasonally. Lake Elsie sites may have issues with debris as one camper reported, "There was broken glass EVERYWHERE. We cleaned up so much trash in our site and off the road."
