Pack River Dispersed Site offers several camping areas suitable for equestrians along Pack River near Moyie Springs. The dispersed sites provide good terrain for horses with ample space for trailer parking. Campers access the area via a road with washboard and rutted sections that can be challenging for horse trailers, particularly on steep sections leading to certain campsites. The riverside location provides water access for horses, though campers should note there are no developed horse facilities such as corrals or pens. The sites accommodate tent camping with horses, and the remote setting ensures sufficient space between camping areas. Several dispersed sites spread along the river create solitude for equestrians seeking a quiet backcountry experience.
The surrounding area provides natural riding opportunities without designated bridle trails. Horse owners should bring portable containment systems as no permanent horse facilities exist at these primitive sites. The remote location requires equestrians to be self-sufficient, bringing all necessary water, feed, and waste management supplies. Trail access from the camping area connects riders to the surrounding forest land. No reservation system exists for these dispersed sites, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. When camping with horses in this area, leave-no-trace principles are particularly important—pack out all trash and properly manage horse waste to maintain the pristine natural setting. The remote riverside location offers peaceful camping where horses can be accommodated in a primitive, undeveloped setting.
"Wonderful camping sites, along with sites that accommodate RV campers, pull behind campers, and they even have small cabins to rent!"
"Ended our tour of Northern Idaho at spot #140. Tons of flat area to put down a tent, mosquito shade (they are pretty bad), and enjoy the amazing view!"
$39 / night
"Bonus, there was a Fjord Horse show while we were here. Cool to see the horses."
"We particularly enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the campground, with beautiful views of the surrounding nature. What truly sets this campground apart is its convenient location."
$12 - $29 / night
"This spot is very close to the main hiking trail, that leads around the lake and to the beach area. Probably about 15 feet away, down a slight hill."
"Super clean, great back-in spots for RVs, awesome walking trails around the lake."
"The only problem was people walking thru your site to the house next to the campground. Couldn’t figure that out and thinking it was random."
"Outlet Campground is a fine place to spend a weekend, but if you’re familiar with Priest Lake, you’ll notice it’s not quite as spacious or scenic as some of the other campgrounds in the area."
$75 / night
"This old Guard Station is in the perfect location. Easy to drive to and close to miles and miles of trails in the Kootenai National Forest."
ScoutWould have said 5 but we had a code on our electric and no way to report it as the host is not here and the phone numbers had full messages so are apparently not checked. Clean restrooms and showers, dump station, nice and quiet. Bonus, there was a Fjord Horse show while we were here. Cool to see the horses.
ScoutEver since I can remember I've been standing on the beach every 4th of July! The place is breathtaking and refreshing! Wonderful camping sites, along with sites that accommodate RV campers, pull behind campers, and they even have small cabins to rent! The swimming area and beach are unlike any other I've seen ....soft warm sand between your toes and the water .....ooohhh the water is so clean and cool perfect for summer ⛱️ days!! We always venture outside the campground and pick huckleberries . Pancakes with fresh huckleberries is the best especially from North Idaho! The rangers are super friendly and welcoming always! There's so many trails for hiking and the creek that runs into priest lake is super special!! I can't wait to see it again this year!! See you there everyone!!
GuideThere are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude.
GuideEnded our tour of Northern Idaho at spot #140. Tons of flat area to put down a tent, mosquito shade (they are pretty bad), and enjoy the amazing view!
Bathrooms with vault toilets, water pump, and grey water dump all just a short walk away
ScoutWe used to camp here in the 80s and it was always peaceful and beautiful. And we liked it because its got free showers and the bathrooms are very clean for camping. However,! There used to only about 34ish spots and now there are 51 spots. Its very crowded and people feel like they are right on top of each other. Your fire pit area is right next to your neighbors picnic table and/or their fire pit. They also clear cut all the bushes between spots and threw wood chips down so there is no privacy at all. I know they are worried about fires but good grief. Hence the reason it feels like you are right on top of your neighbors. The day use area is still pretty much the same as it's always been and the lake is just as beautiful but not the camping part. Thanks a lot Idaho fish and game! :( UGH!!!
GuideMy recent stay at the campground at Bonner County Fairground in Pondray, ID was absolutely phenomenal!
We had such a wonderful experience from start to finish and we can't recommend this campground enough. First and foremost, the campground is incredibly well-maintained and clean. The facilities are top-notch and it's evident that the staff takes great pride in keeping everything in excellent condition.
The campground itself is spacious and well-designed, offering plenty of room for RVs and other camping setups. They do not allow tents at this park. The campsites were level and provided ample space for my RV, as well as a picnic table. We particularly enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the campground, with beautiful views of the surrounding nature. What truly sets this campground apart is its convenient location. Being situated at the Bonner County Fairground, we had the opportunity to explore the fairgrounds and attend any events or activities that happened to be taking place during our stay.
Moreover, the campground is ideally situated to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Pondray and the surrounding area. I took full advantage of the numerous hiking and biking trails nearby, immersing myself in the stunning landscapes and fresh mountain air. The picturesque scenery and abundant wildlife made every outdoor adventure truly unforgettable.
Another aspect that impressed me was the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff.
They were always available to answer any questions, provide recommendations for local attractions and dining options, and ensure that my stay was as enjoyable as possible. In terms of amenities, the campground had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The electrical hookups were reliable, and the availability of potable water and dump stations made it easy to manage my RV's needs.
Lastly, I must mention the incredible local attractions in the Pondray area. From the nearby Lake Pend Oreille, perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming, to the charming town with its unique shops and restaurants, there was always something exciting to explore. We also had the opportunity to visit nearby national forests and parks, immersing myself in nature and taking in the breathtaking vistas.
TravelerThis old Guard Station is in the perfect location. Easy to drive to and close to miles and miles of trails in the Kootenai National Forest. Plenty of beds for a full family - four upstairs and one downstairs. History galore in the building and surrounding areas. Some complaints of mice - but that’s to be expected from a building from 1908.
ScoutWe stayed in a tent only spot - spot 17 I think. The spot was somewhat small. I’d say the largest tent it would accommodate is an 8 person cabin tent. Also the end of the site (where we put our tent) is slightly slanted. So that was frustrating. The campsite was clean and well maintained. This spot is somewhat private because there’s only a spot on one side of it. Although that other spot is close. This spot is very close to the main hiking trail, that leads around the lake and to the beach area. Probably about 15 feet away, down a slight hill. This makes it nice for recreation, but also means people are walking that trail all day. There’s a one toilet bathroom relatively close to this spot. But it’s not that clean and somewhat yucky. Round lake is beautiful with a lot of recreation. I enjoyed camping here and will be going back!
ScoutSuper clean, great back-in spots for RVs, awesome walking trails around the lake.
The Pack River area offers several prime equestrian camping opportunities within a 30-mile radius of Moyie Springs, Idaho. Located in the northern Idaho panhandle at approximately 2,100 feet elevation, this region features a mix of dense forest and riverside terrain. The area receives moderate rainfall throughout spring and early summer, creating ideal conditions for riding from June through September when trails are typically dry and passable.
Trail riding near Priest Lake: The Lionhead Campground — Priest Lake State Park area offers access to multiple riding trails with views of the pristine lake. "Kayaking up the thoroughfare to the upper lake is a great workout with some amazing and beautiful scenery and animals along the way. You will see lots of moose, and sometimes black bears," notes Jeff W., highlighting wildlife viewing opportunities while riding.
Fishing from horseback: Several streams and lakes near equestrian camping areas allow anglers to combine riding with fishing. At Round Lake State Park, Jason S. reports, "I had a great time casting off from them and even caught a couple of crappies and trout which was a nice bonus," making this a good destination for riders who enjoy fishing.
Day trips to Montana trails: The Sheldon Mountain Trailhead Camp offers specific facilities for horses. "Nice equestrian campground! Picnic tables, metal fire rings with grills, vault toilets. Big pretty pine trees!" says Tee C., describing basic but functional facilities for horse owners traveling across the border.
Riverside camping with horses: The Pack River Dispersed Site receives consistent praise for its natural setting. "There are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude," notes T&A Adventures, confirming the suitability for equestrian camping.
Quiet backcountry access: Many equestrian campers appreciate the remote nature of sites away from developed areas. Emma T. describes, "A few sites available along this road. Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites. On the river and very peaceful."
Lake swimming for cooling horses: After trail rides, some campgrounds offer lake access for cooling horses. At Round Lake State Park Campground, one camper mentions, "The swimming area is nice with kind of sandy beach," which can be suitable for horses that enjoy water.
Road conditions for horse trailers: Many access roads to equestrian camping areas have challenging sections. Be prepared for difficult trailer access, as Emma T. warns about Pack River: "Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites."
Trailer parking limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted space for large rigs. At Outlet Campground, a camper notes, "I had hoped to bring a boat, but there's no trailer parking or good spot to anchor," indicating similar challenges for horse trailers.
Water access varies seasonally: Water sources for horses may be limited in late summer. Check local conditions before traveling, as stream levels drop significantly by August in many areas. Pack extra water containers if camping during drier periods.
Bring portable containment systems: No permanent corrals exist at most sites near Moyie Springs. Consider portable electric fencing or high-lines for overnight horse containment while camping with children.
Select sites with adequate separation: When camping with both horses and children, look for larger dispersed sites. The Bull River Guard Station area offers good separation. Corinne G. notes it's "Right by the Bull River with great fishing and fly fishing areas and swimming in the Bull River," providing activities for non-riders.
Plan shorter riding routes: For families with younger riders, stick to established trails under 5 miles. Several loops near Pack River provide scenic but shorter options suitable for beginners or children on horseback.
Limited hookup options: Most equestrian-friendly sites lack full hookups. The Bonner County Fairgrounds offers alternatives with "water and electric at site. Dump station close," according to Carol J., though it's not primarily an equestrian facility.
Leveling challenges: Many primitive horse camping areas have uneven parking. One camper at Round Lake noted, "the end of the site (where we put our tent) is slightly slanted," suggesting similar issues for RV parking at rustic sites.
Backup camping plans: During peak summer weekends, have alternative sites mapped out. Horse-friendly camping areas fill quickly between June and August, especially those with water access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Moyie Springs, ID?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Moyie Springs, ID is Lionhead Campground — Priest Lake State Park with a 4.4-star rating from 11 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Moyie Springs, ID?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Moyie Springs, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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