A
Alan G.
Scout
ScoutNugget RV Resort
Great owners
I have stayed there several times. It has been a welcoming park. There are mixed shade and open pull through sites. The bathrooms are clean. There are fun social events.
Camping near Mullan, ID
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The region surrounding Mullan, Idaho includes a range of camping experiences from established RV parks to remote backcountry settings. Wallace RV Park offers full hookup amenities along a creek within walking distance to historic downtown Wallace, while Lake Elsie Campground provides a more primitive experience at a mountain lake setting. Dispersed options include Stevens Lakes Backcountry, accessible only by hiking trails, and Cliff Creek Campground with its primitive sites. Accommodations range from tent sites and RV spaces to cabin rentals, with several campgrounds positioned along waterways or alpine lakes. Mullan camping areas offer diverse options for outdoor recreation, with campgrounds that provide access to excellent fishing and hiking trails throughout the scenic Idaho wilderness.
Road conditions vary significantly when accessing the more remote camping areas near Mullan. Lake Elsie Campground requires navigating approximately 8 miles of narrow, winding dirt roads that can be challenging for larger vehicles. Higher elevation sites like Stevens Lakes typically remain snow-covered until mid-June, limiting early season access. Most established campgrounds operate seasonally from late spring through early fall, with some closing by mid-October. The dispersed sites on public lands have no services beyond occasional vault toilets, requiring self-sufficiency with water and waste management. "The road up to the lake is really rough and narrow but manageable with a proper vehicle," noted one Lake Elsie visitor.
Campers report exceptional fishing opportunities at several locations, particularly at Lake Elsie where brook and rainbow trout are commonly caught. Wildlife sightings are frequent throughout the region, with moose appearing regularly around some campsites. Several visitors mentioned the trade-offs between convenience and solitude - sites closer to I-90 provide easier access but experience more traffic noise, while remote locations offer tranquility but require additional travel time and suitable vehicles. Noise from ATVs and dirt bikes can be significant during summer months at popular recreation areas. Reviews consistently highlight the scenic mountain views and creek-side settings as major draws, though broken glass and improper fire management were noted as occasional concerns at unmaintained sites. According to one visitor, Stevens Lakes represents "one of my favorite Mt lake hikes with great camping at both the lower and upper lakes."
Best Campgrounds near Mullan (193)
1. Wallace RV Park
"A beautiful small privately owned campground in the heart of Wallace Idaho. Right next to the city limits brew pub. Awful hook up sites, all very level sites!"
"Within walking distance to charming downtown. Very friendly staff. Some spots border a small river. Pet friendly. All gravel spots with cabins in other side of the river."
from $30 - $45 / night
Check Availability2. Lake Elsie Campground
"Easy to drive up to. Any vehicle will do. Dirt road to the top where you will find a lovely little lake with 4-5 camp spots surrounding it."
"A bit of a drive off I-90 but well worth the the stop. Multiple campsites right along the lake."
3. Stevens Lakes Backcountry
"By far one of my favorite Mt lake hikes! With great camping at both the lower and upper lakes, I recommend using the trails app to help navigate through the switch backs, and have lots of water!"
4. Crystal Gold Mine
"The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is right across the road. The Trail of the Hiawatha is very close. The town of Wallce is definitely worth going as they claim to be the center of the universe."
from $60 - $70 / night
Check Availability5. 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground
"Several spaces available behind the restaurant/ bar and casino- Tucked into the woods but road close- you can walk over for a meal, snack, coffee etc or some delightfully cheesey souvenirs."
"Stayed one night, pulled in and looked like only 3 other campers, maybe around 10 sites total? I hear it offers free electricity if you have a rig for it. Our site had a fire pit and picnic table."
6. Thompson Falls State Park Campground
"The campground is outside of town nestled in tall pines, next to a crystal clear mountain river. When we stayed, wildfires were burning due East from the town."
"Good spot conveniently located close to the highway but wooded enough to feel more remote. There was a short trail from our campsite that led down to the river with a little sandy beach."
from $18 - $72 / night
Check Availability7. Cliff Creek Campground Primitive Dispersed
8. Telichpah Campground
"We wanted a place to tent camp as close to the Pearson, Idaho end of the Hiawatha Bike Trail as possible. This little (5 camping sites) primitive campground suited our needs perfectly."
9. Cabins by the Joe
"There are cabins that are closely nestled next to a shallow and clear river."
10. North Fork Coeur D'Alene River
"I met some cool Idaho locals that said they’ve been coming here since they were kids!"
"Fantastic access to the river for great fly fishing. Several spots in the trees and several in the more open areas. Vault toilet is to the right as you pull in about 1/8 mile away from pull off."
Drive Time
- 51 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID
- 1 hr 20 min from Spokane, WA
- 1 hr 34 min from Missoula, MT
- 2 hrs 46 min from Lewiston, ID
Recent Camping Photos near Mullan, ID
127 Photos of 193 Mullan Campgrounds
joshua
Stevens Lakes Backcountry
Joe B.
North Fork Coeur D'Alene River
Julie H.
By the Way Campground
Tom K.
Thompson Falls State Park Campground
Gordie H.
Donkey Creek Campground
Amy S.
Bumblebee Campground
Tom K.
Cabin City Campground (Mt) — Lolo National Forest
David M.
Hanks Meadow
Evan H.
Coeur d'Alene National Forest Big Hank Campground
K B.
Marten Creek Campground
Lane P.
Breakwater Campground
Matthew S.
Copper King
Recent Reviews near Mullan, ID
616 Reviews of 193 Mullan Campgrounds
Rob S.
RangerDispersed Site - Lolo National Forest Recreation Area
Clark Fork River Vibes
There are at least 16 sites along the river with 2 vault toilets.
- TTom H.Scout
Superior Area
Not quiet
If arriving late and tired, it works. It is on the Clark’s Fork river which is beautiful. The campground is very nice, however, lots of interstate road noise and train tracks across the river with with frequent train traffic and horn blasts due to intersecting road.
- JJu J.
Travelercopper mountain rd dispersed
Ok spot for overnight
Driving directions are spot on. Good cell coverage (AT&T). Arrived around 6pm and drove the 1.8 mi. on gravel road. Road in decent condition. I’m pulling my 13’ Scamp, which rides low and had no problem as long as I took it slow. Drove 1/4 mi past the site in order to find a place to turn around. Site is well used and a little dirty. Has DIY campfire ring and lots of dead wood around though it looks like it’s just fallen, not v. tidy. Some trash. Great views about 20’ down. Site is right on road and a dozen + cars passed, including some in the middle of the night...not great due to noise and headlights. It is possible to hear the interstate, but only large trucks.
Helen S.TravelerCoeur d'Alene National Forest Big Hank Campground
Large, Spacious Campsites
Big Hank Campground is the last USFS campground along the road above Devil's Elbow and Bumble Bee and Kit's. It is close to excellent fly fishing along the river. All roads to and within are paved and good for kids to bike on.Lots of logs due to trees felled during storm and some logging there. There are 2 beautiful meadow areas within the campground. Some sites have more privacy then others. I had the best site 23! Distance between the sites is pretty good. Pit toilets were non smelly, freshly painted, very clean and host always checks to make sure there is plenty of toilet paper. He checks the park at least 2x a day and is very friendly and helpful if you have questions. Wood is available to buy from the host.Large garbage cans, fire rings, grills, and picnic tables are available. Some tables have waist high grass around them. It seems a neglected park compared to others down the road.
- EEric P.
LegendBlackwell Island RV Park
One night stay at Blackwell Island RV
Great spot on the Spokane river. We spent one day at this RV park and really enjoyed it. Had a great view of the river. The sights are large and most are pull through. There is about a half mile loop around the park if you’re in for a good walk. Part of it goes through a short woods. Beach and a place to dock your boat if you have one and are fishing the lake CDA. Shower house and rest rooms are spotless. The park is kept very clean. Full hook ups if needed. There are many places to eat out or re supply in the area. Would come back on our way though this area again.
- Deb S.Scout
Campground St. Regis
St. Regis, MT
Everything was clean and well kept including bathrooms. Freeway noise was heard when outside but once inside the RV, barely noticed.
James K.
GuideFishing access near i90 exit 30
2 mile Rd St Regis
Right on the river just off I90. Class A and long trailers no problem. I90 was not too noisy. Clean safe and right on and off I90. No camp sites just pull off. Bring your fly rod.
- JJeff T.Traveler
St. Maries Riverfront RV Resort
Quiet In-TownRiverfront View
I was needing a quick in town location due to a medical emergency with my pup that cut my planned trip short. The sites are all brand new and still coming into their own.
Spaces are sizable, but close together and will not offer much privacy, but it’s very clean and good for what it is, a place close to town with a great view of the river.
I’ll definitely be staying here whenever I am in town to visit family.
Guide to Mullan
Dispersed camping opportunities near Mullan, Idaho concentrate in the heavily forested mountain terrain surrounding this historic mining town. Located at an elevation of 3,278 feet in the Bitterroot Range, the area experiences heavy winter snowfall that limits access to many camping areas until late spring. Seasonal temperature variations are significant, with summer highs averaging in the mid-70s°F and winter lows regularly dropping below freezing.
What to do
Fishing in alpine lakes: Lake Elsie Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities just 8 miles from the main highway. "We always catch lots of brooke and rainbow trout and wild life is everywhere! There is a outhouse bathroom but you are on you're own otherwise!" notes Jessica C. The lake remains a reliable spot for anglers throughout the summer season.
Hiking to remote camping spots: Stevens Lakes Backcountry requires a moderately challenging hike but rewards with pristine alpine camping. "With great camping at both the lower and upper lakes, I recommend using the trails app to help navigate through the switch backs, and have lots of water!" advises Joshua.
Mountain biking: Cliff Creek Campground Primitive Dispersed provides convenient access to the popular Hiawatha Trail. "Great location to stay if you're doing the Hiawatha trail and want to camp in the area. The busses picking up hiawatha trail users go right by the campground multiple times a day in the summer," explains Jason S.
ATV exploring: The mountain roads around Mullan offer extensive trail networks for off-road enthusiasts. "Good place if you like to ride your toys. You'll want to bring good cars because the road gets pretty primitive. Awesome lake for kayaking and paddle boarding," reports Nathan M. regarding Lake Elsie Campground.
What campers like
Easy access to historic towns: Wallace RV Park provides convenient access to nearby historic districts. "Within walking distance to charming downtown. Very friendly staff. Some spots border a small river. Pet friendly. All gravel spots with cabins in other side of the river," shares Elizabeth S.
Creek-side sites: Many campers appreciate the waterfront locations available near Mullan. "We backed right above the creek. With the windows open I could hear it babbling all night. Pure bliss. Super clean bathrooms and showers. 41 sites nicely arranged," says Jennifer H. about Wallace RV Park.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the no-cost options in the region. "A price that can't be beat! Several spaces available behind the restaurant/bar and casino. Plug in your rig and unwind for the night," notes Renee Z. about 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground.
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer unique learning experiences. "This little camping spot off of interstate 90 is perfect for all ages... their 40 minutes tour of the mine is awesome!! And, it comes with an opportunity to pan for gold and gems," explains Jill T. about Crystal Gold Mine.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to remote sites requires preparation and appropriate vehicles. "The road up is rough, potholes, it does get better about halfway up. Expect at least 30 minutes to get up after you hit the gravel, and that's pushing it pretty hard," warns Samuel H. about Lake Elsie Campground.
Seasonal challenges: Many campgrounds face variable conditions based on season. "Convenient lake to get to by car, 30 minutes off the highway. Great fishing spot and is beautiful. 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," reports Natalie J. about Lake Elsie.
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for animal visitors at campsites. "Also, multiple bears went through the campground in the evening and came back at around 3am. Be careful with your food and be smart," cautions Natalie J. regarding Lake Elsie Campground.
Limited services: Many camping spots near Mullan require self-sufficiency. "This is a FREE RV park with electric hookups…no water, cable, or dumping station, but again, FREE," explains Andi F. about 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: Lake conditions provide natural recreation options. "Awesome lake for kayaking and paddle boarding," reports Nathan M. about Lake Elsie, suggesting water activities for children.
Consider noise levels: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "There is road noise during daylight hours," notes Shonni N. about Wallace RV Park, which might be important for families with children who nap during the day.
Look for educational opportunities: Crystal Gold Mine combines camping with learning experiences. "But…. their 40 minutes tour of the mine is awesome!! And, it comes with an opportunity to pan for gold and gems," explains Jill T.
Water safety awareness: Monitor children near alpine lakes and creeks. "The creek running alongside the campground is really nice," states Justin about Wallace RV Park, requiring supervision for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Size considerations: Many forest roads have limitations. "ROAD IS NARROW, WINDY, AND STEEP. not at all trailer or big rig friendly," cautions lili G. about roads to Lake Elsie.
Utility access: Cabins by the Joe offers developed sites for larger vehicles. "Great place for older campers and our door enthusiasts. There are cabins that are closely nestled next to a shallow and clear river," explains Megan K.
Supply planning: Remote locations require advance preparation. "It is a ways out and you better bring every thing you need because there aren't any stores close. They do have ice, on site," advises Jamie about Cabins by the Joe.
Site spacing awareness: "The only thing that would've made it better if there was a little bit more space between the RVs, but it was still great. The view was amazing," notes Jamie regarding Cabins by the Joe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping spots near Mullan, Idaho?
Where can I find camping spots near Mullan, Idaho?
Mullan offers several camping options within driving distance. Stevens Lakes Backcountry provides a beautiful hike-in experience for those seeking solitude in the mountains. For RV travelers, Trout Creek Motel & RV Park near the Idaho-Montana border offers convenient accommodations. Dispersed camping opportunities can be found along forest roads, particularly in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Most campgrounds in the area are open from late spring through early fall, with some accessible year-round depending on snow conditions.
When is the best season for camping in Mullan, Idaho?
When is the best season for camping in Mullan, Idaho?
The prime camping season near Mullan runs from late May through September when weather conditions are most favorable. Summer offers warm days ideal for hiking and exploring the area's rivers and lakes. North Fork Coeur D'Alene River is particularly popular during summer months for fishing and water activities. Bumblebee Campground offers wooded sites with creek access that are most enjoyable in summer and early fall. Higher elevation sites may have snow until late June, while lower elevation campgrounds can sometimes be accessible into October, depending on weather conditions.
What amenities are available at Mullan campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Mullan campgrounds?
Campgrounds near Mullan vary in amenities based on their type. Albert's Landing offers water and 30/50 amp service, level gravel pads, picnic tables, fire rings, and nearly 1000 feet of river frontage. Bull Run Access Dispersed provides more primitive camping with some spots featuring established fire pits. For more developed facilities, nearby RV parks typically include full hookups, laundry facilities, and showers. Dispersed camping areas in national forests generally have minimal amenities but offer more privacy and natural settings.
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