Camping opportunities near Moyie Springs, Idaho span across the northern panhandle region at elevations between 1,800-4,000 feet. The area's forests contain western red cedar, western hemlock, and grand fir with heavy snowfall from November through March affecting access to remote sites. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with cooler nights in the 40-50°F range.
What to do
Fishing spots: Yaak River Campground offers excellent fly fishing opportunities along the river. According to a camper, "awesome place to stay and popular place for fly fishing." The campground is situated where the Yaak meets the Kootenai River, providing multiple fishing access points.
Swimming areas: Natural swimming holes are available at Yaak Falls Campground where visitors enjoy the clear water. A visitor noted, "In late July 2020 I arrived about noon and quickly rinsed off in the surprisingly clear bottom of the falls." The horizontal rock falls create a unique swimming experience about 30 miles from Moyie Springs.
Wildlife watching: Bring binoculars to spot local wildlife including squirrels, birds, and potentially bears. At Meadow Creek Campground, "There are bear warnings of course, and although we didn't see any, we heard from a few different people that grizzlies and other wildlife were common in the area." Sites throughout the region require proper food storage due to bear activity.
What campers like
River proximity: Riverside sites allow campers to fall asleep to flowing water sounds. At Yaak River Campground, one camper shared, "Pulled into this campground in our RV in late September and only encountered one other party in the campground. Loved the remote setting. We were able to snag a spot close to the river, so we slept to the sound of rushing water."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. A visitor to North Haven Campground commented, "Their showers are emaculant and luxurious. Wife refused to use ours." This newer facility provides modern amenities uncommon in forest service sites.
Lake access: Several of the best places to camp near Moyie Springs include lake access. Solomon Lake Campsite offers lakefront sites with basic amenities. A visitor reported, "There were only 2 developed sites with table, fire pit, flat tent area and level parking on the loop that are set just a few steps from the lake."
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks run through the region with frequent trains. At Boundary County Fairgrounds, a camper warned, "a train engine was going back and forth on the tracks at 1:00 am, then idling with air pressure releases for about an hour waiting for another train to pass. It was so loud it vibrated the trailer."
Limited cell service: Connectivity decreases in more remote locations. At Solomon Lake Campsite, a reviewer noted there was "No Verizon cell service, very remote, with lots of Grizzly warnings, so proper food storage is required!" Plan accordingly by downloading maps and information before arrival.
Road conditions: Access to backcountry camping requires navigating unpaved routes. According to a visitor, Solomon Lake "is quite the drive in, the roads were decent at the time, all gravel, narrow at some points, through some private property, with limited signage." High-clearance vehicles are recommended for some forest roads, particularly after rain.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Blue Lake RV Resort offers family-friendly water recreation. A visitor shared, "They have paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards and a floating trampoline. The little lake is full of catfish and turtles that you can feed." The resort provides equipment rentals on-site for all ages.
Campground activities: Some sites offer additional recreation beyond hiking and swimming. At Blue Lake RV Resort, a camper noted, "Families can enjoy fishing, swimming, yard games, fire pit, and very dog friendly with a fenced dog park." Many campgrounds feature open areas for games and group activities.
Kid-friendly hiking: Several trails near Moyie Springs accommodate young hikers. A camper at Meadow Creek Campground recommended, "Buck Mountain Trail #176 is a great hike or bike in the area. If you scramble to the top of the mountain, there is an incredible view of the Cabinets and the Selkirks." Many trails offer shorter options with natural features that interest children.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many forest service campgrounds have tight turns and limited space. At Yaak River Campground, a camper advised, "I would not recommend anything over 25 ft but that's me. Our 34RLSA 5er couldn't get in. Deep woods feel with all the trees and shade. Solar would be a challenge." Most primitive sites accommodate smaller RVs and trailers.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from May through September. Meadow Creek Campground runs from "May 22 to September 12" according to its official season dates, with many other campgrounds in the area following similar schedules due to winter conditions.
Hookup availability: Options range from primitive to full-service. The Hemlocks RV and Lodging offers "Nice RV campsites with water & electric hookups yr round. WiFi & free laundry, bathroom, & showers via coded entry." This provides a reliable option when forest service campgrounds are closed or full.
