Near Murray, Idaho, glamping and yurt camping options are nestled in the Silver Valley region of North Idaho at elevations around 2,300 feet. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures ranging from 45-65°F. Most glamping accommodations operate seasonally from late May through September due to harsh winter conditions that make access difficult.
What to do
Mine exploration and education: Crystal Gold Mine provides both accommodation and educational experiences. "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 one visitor. The tour offers insight into the region's rich mining history.
Cycling on regional trails: The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes crosses near many camping areas. "The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is right across the road. The Trail of the Hiawatha is very close," notes a visitor. These paved trails provide easy cycling options for all skill levels and connect to multiple small towns.
Water activities and fishing: Many glamping sites offer direct water access. At Trout Creek Motel & RV Park, "the campground has beautiful treed sites with lots of amenities. They are redoing the pool, and the bathrooms are very clean," according to a recent camper. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular on nearby lakes and rivers.
What campers like
Natural shade and privacy: Tall trees provide natural screening between sites at many campgrounds. "Beautiful surrounding area, with wooded grounds create a quiet and peaceful stay. Long, pull through RV sites that are over 80 feet long," reports one camper about Trout Creek Motel & RV Park.
Clean facilities: Wolf Lodge Campground maintains exceptional standards. One camper notes, "Made my reservation for an overnight stay over the phone on my way there. Staff was very kind and friendly. I came after the office was closed and a map was left for which tent site was mine."
Yurt options for comfort: Sylvan Lake Campground offers yurt accommodations popular with families. "We love going camping and fishing at Sylvan Lake, always wanted to try the Yurts but also book out, great place for family," says a camper. Yurt camping near Murray, Idaho provides more comfortable sleeping accommodations than traditional tents.
What you should know
Highway and train noise: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation. At Sloway Campground, "The I-90 highway runs fairly close to the campground & the noise can be distracting at times. The bigger noise maker is the train that runs on the other side of the Clark Fork River," warns one visitor.
Seasonal operation: Most glamping accommodations are only available during warm months. "We were there late September and it was pretty vacant," reports a camper at Sloway Campground. Make reservations well in advance for summer weekends as sites fill quickly.
Varied amenities between sites: Facilities differ significantly between locations. "No laundry or bathhouse. Would probably pass next time and keep going to Cour d'alane to find something a little nicer as a vacation spot. But if you need a place to stay for a night or two this will work ok," shares a Crystal Gold Mine visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Educational activities: Mining history provides learning opportunities. At Crystal Gold Mine, a visitor shared, "This little camping spot off of interstate 90 is perfect for all ages. A couple of dozen small pull in, and pull-through, sites that have full hookups and tire rim fire pits. A bit of shade and a bit of noise from the interstate."
Water safety awareness: Camp Coeur D'Alene offers water activities with safety measures. A visitor noted, "This campground was super cozy and safe. They had firewood for sale, a pool, and clean showers and bathrooms. We had a very comfortable stay and were able to connect to the wifi at our tent site."
Pet-friendly options: Many sites welcome four-legged family members. "The campground has a big green for frisbee, horseshoes, etc." reports a visitor to Gilmore Campground, making it ideal for active families with pets who need space to play.
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: Finley Flats offers spacious RV accommodations. "This campsite is perfect for a simple and free camping spot. Doesn't have any hook ups but is right on the water and you can park your boat. We caught many fish and enjoyed swimming right on the river," explains a visitor.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have tight entrances that challenge larger rigs. A Trout Creek visitor warned, "We didnt stay here as when we arrived at 9 pm, the office area and road to get to rv park were way to tight for our 40 ft fight wheel."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. Pack appropriate gear for cool nights even in summer, when temperatures can drop into the 50s after sunset.
