Campgrounds near Mullan, Idaho offer a mix of remote mountain sites, riverside camps, and basic facilities within the Coeur d'Alene National Forest. Located in Idaho's Silver Valley at 3,200 feet elevation, this mining region experiences moderate summer temperatures ranging from 50-85°F and significant winter snowfall. Seasonal closure affects many campgrounds, with most open from May through September when road conditions permit access.
What to do
Mining history exploration: Visit Crystal Gold Mine where camping is combined with educational experiences. "The mine tour is well worth it. Especially for kids," notes Jeff T. The facility includes a gift shop where visitors can purchase mining souvenirs.
River activities: Clark Fork River offers multiple fishing opportunities with Sloway Campground providing direct river access. "We enjoyed sitting in our space watching the river flow and, the anglers and the trains go by," shares Lisa K. Fishing licenses required and available in nearby towns.
Kayaking opportunities: Seasonal paddling options abound near many camps. "We loved kayaking down the creek at the campground and saw wildlife," reports one visitor at Wolf Lodge. Water levels typically highest in May-June, with some sections requiring intermediate skills.
Trail exploration: The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes connects multiple areas with 73 miles of paved pathway. "The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is right across the road," mentions Nancy C. Trail maps available at visitor centers in Wallace and Kellogg.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Camp Coeur D Alene offers waterfront camping including secluded spots. "We were lucky enough to land the island campground which made the whole experience amazing! This place has great amenities (free canoes, hot showers, flush toilets, free firewood)," writes Jared.
Firewood service: Several campgrounds provide complimentary or delivery service for campfire wood. "If you purchase wood they deliver to your site," notes Debbie S. Most campgrounds restrict outside firewood to prevent pest spread.
Cell service availability: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "We were able to connect to the wifi at our tent site," reports Sienna V. Many visitors recommend downloading offline maps before arrival as coverage remains spotty throughout the region.
Yurt accommodations: For travelers seeking yurt camping near Mullan, Idaho, Sylvan Lake Campground provides this option. "We always wanted to try the Yurts but also book out, great place for family," mentions Dustin J. Yurt rentals require advance booking, often 6+ months ahead for summer weekends.
What you should know
Train noise impacts: Multiple campgrounds border active train routes. "It's loud, and bright with lights from the highway. More of a trailer park," explains Ashlee B. about one location. Earplugs recommended as train whistles occur throughout night at crossing locations.
Booking timelines: Secure reservations well in advance for holiday periods. "Need to book months ahead or get there early to get a spot," advises Robert F. about popular campgrounds. Cancellations occasionally become available 24-48 hours before arrival dates.
Seasonal closures: Most facilities operate May through September. "Most glamping sites operate seasonally from May through September, with some offering year-round accommodations with additional winter amenities," according to local information. Shoulder season camping (April/October) available at limited locations depending on weather conditions.
Highway proximity: Several campgrounds sit adjacent to Interstate 90. "The I-90 highway runs fairly close to the campground & the noise can be distracting at times," Kenneth F. notes about one location. Sites farther from roadways generally fill fastest.
Tips for camping with families
Educational mining tours: Trout Creek Motel & RV Park and nearby attractions provide mining history lessons. "The kids did some gem panning and found some gold specks. A neat insight into the mining that was so prevalent in these parts," shares Jennifer H. Tours typically run 9am-4pm daily during summer.
Structured recreation: Look for campgrounds with organized activities. "Lots of free or low priced activities for the kids," mentions Jenn about Wolf Lodge. Most activities run weekends only except during peak July-August period.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Several campgrounds report regular wildlife sightings. "Felt like the traffic was going through my tent," explains Angela S. about highway-adjacent sites, highlighting importance of choosing interior campsites for younger children.
Playground availability: Limited playground equipment exists at most public campgrounds. "The campground has a big green for frisbee, horseshoes, etc," notes Sarah about one location. Consider bringing portable games and activities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven parking surfaces. "The concrete strips are no longer level," reports Sherrie C. Bring leveling blocks as standard equipment when visiting older facilities.
Pull-through availability: Limited pull-through sites exist at most campgrounds. "Long, pull through RV sites that are over 80 feet long," Eric D. mentions about By the Way Campground. Reserve specific sites when traveling with larger rigs.
Shower availability: Not all campgrounds provide shower facilities. "Clean, warm bathrooms with showers and very friendly management," Julie H. notes about facilities at By the Way Campground. Campgrounds with showers typically charge $1-2 per 5-minute use.
Winter accommodations: Limited year-round camping options exist for RVers. "We stayed in Gilmore with a combination of tents and RVs there," explains Todd B. Winterized RV sites available primarily at private campgrounds with full hookups at higher rates.
