Winchester Lake State Park Campground offers glamping accommodations in yurts set among tall pines at 3,900 feet elevation. Located 30 miles southeast of Moscow, Idaho, the park features a 100-acre lake surrounded by forest terrain. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Winchester Lake State Park Campground has diverse fishing with multiple species available. "Wonderful fishing, trout, bass, catfish, and even tiger musky. This isn't a great lake for swimming, as it's loaded with thick algae. It is great for boating a small boat or getting lost in the thick pines around it," explains Nicholas G.
Hiking trails: Fields Spring State Park Campground provides hiking trails with panoramic views. "The 2+ mile roundtrip hike to the Puffer Butte is a must as the three state view (WA, ID, OR) is sweeping and gorgeous," notes Lee D. The park sits near the borders of three states, creating unique vantage points.
Water activities: Chief Timothy Park offers water-based recreation on the Snake River. "Chief Timothy Park sits on a 282-acre island on Lower Granite Lake in the Snake River. The Park is known as the gateway to Hells Canyon Recreation Area, the deepest river gorge in North America and an area of striking scenery, abundant cultural history and outdoor adventure," shares Craig S.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Dworshak State Park attracts visitors with its diverse wildlife. "A lot of wildlife viewing too! If you are lucky you may see a black bear feeding on blackberries, deer are numerous, elk frequent the lake, and one of my favorites is to watch Osprey dive in the lake for fish," notes Cody B.
Peaceful atmosphere: Fields Spring State Park Campground offers a quiet retreat. "Extremely quiet. Very clean restrooms," states Ch C. The park's remote location contributes to minimal noise pollution and dark night skies for stargazing.
Fishing variety: Winchester Lake State Park Campground provides year-round fishing options. "Blue gill, trout, bass, crappie, perch, cat fish and had a small Tiger Muskie on the line but lost it," reports Jennifer R. The lake maintains consistent fish populations throughout different seasons.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Dworshak State Park requires careful driving. "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!!!! We have a diesel F350 but towing a big 5th wheel made it horrifying," warns Agnes B.
Limited cell service: Many glamping sites near Moscow, Idaho lack reliable connectivity. "NO CELL SERVICE. You just have to be present with one another," states Agnes B. about Dworshak State Park. Visitors should download maps and information before arrival.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations occur even in summer. "When we went in June, there were next to no mosquitos! My poor teenager usually gets eaten alive anywhere we go and he left unscathed!" shares Agnes B. about Dworshak State Park. Evenings can be significantly cooler than daytime temperatures.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Boyer Park & Marina KOA includes facilities for children. "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. Was perfect because it's on the Washington side so my husbands fishing license was valid," says Brenda S.
Wildlife education: Rangers at glamping sites provide educational opportunities. "Took my nephews here. The rangers were amazing and full of info that my boys just soaked right up!" shares Amber T. about Fields Spring State Park Campground.
Swimming areas: Designated swimming zones offer safer water access. "But the play area was pleasant. I heard that this year (2021) is was a bit more run down than usual so maybe next year it'll improve??? We still enjoyed the water and had a ton of fun finding tadpoles," notes Agnes B. about Dworshak State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Premier RV Resort at Granite Lake provides RV-specific amenities. "Enjoyed the quiet of the park as it is tucked away behind Costco with no busy roads around it. Beautiful riverfront spots. Great biking trails and was able to easily bike to and from work," reports Jennifer R.
Campsite privacy: Winchester Lake State Park Campground offers varied site configurations. "Generally large, separated sites with picnic tables and firepits. Forest setting throughout. There are a few sites that aren't great, but the longer length ones are best," advises Rich J.
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections are available at select sites. "There are 46 water and electric sites and 22 standard sites. Most sites are wooded and private. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The lake is perfect for kayaking and fishing," notes Brock W. about Winchester Lake State Park Campground.
