Tent campsites near Murray, Idaho exist primarily in forested zones ranging from 2,800 to 4,700 feet elevation. The region experiences heavy snowfall from November through April, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most accessible campgrounds are situated along river corridors or mountain lakes that remain snow-covered until late spring.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Elsie Campground offers reliable brook and rainbow trout fishing. "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. about this alpine lake setting.
Paddling activities: Calm waters at several locations provide kayaking and paddleboarding options. Nathan M. describes Lake Elsie as an "awesome lake for kayaking and paddle boarding," while mentioning that "you'll want to bring good cars because the road gets pretty primitive."
Trail exploration: Marble Creek Campground serves as a base for exploring nearby cave systems. "Just miles from the camp, there is an old man-built cave that makes its way through the entire mountain. You can drop family members off, let them walk through the exciting damp, dark cave, and pick them up on the other side," explains Jade F.
ATV riding: Several campgrounds provide access to extensive off-road trail networks. Russell M. describes Lake Elsie as having "tons of riding trails and a quiet campground," making it suitable for motorized recreation enthusiasts.
What campers like
Alpine lake settings: The mountain lakes near Murray provide scenic camping with fishing access. "This is one of the most spectacular campsites I have ever been to," writes lili G. about Lake Elsie Campground, noting there are "11 first come first serve sites."
River access: Riverside camping spots offer water proximity and ambient sounds. Lane P. notes that Breakwater Campground "stretches along a tributary of the CdA river, and there is great tent camping and fly fishing."
Solitude options: Less-developed campsites provide quieter experiences, especially on weekdays. "A bit of a drive off I-90 but well worth the stop. Multiple campsites right along the lake. It might get a bit crowded on summer weekends but multiple sites were vacant when we arrived on a Thursday afternoon in July," reports Ivy K.
Cave exploration: Unique geological features enhance camping trips in this region. Simran D. describes Marble Creek as "truly a magical place. There are rivers and caves to explore, and the views are just insane."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require navigating challenging forest roads. Samuel H. warns about Lake Elsie: "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."
Wildlife concerns: Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region. Natalie J. reports, "multiple bears went through the campground in the evening and came back at around 3am. Be careful with your food and be smart."
Limited amenities: Most primitive sites lack standard facilities. Dealspeed describes Breakwater Campground as "very primitive... 0 amenities. It's just a place to pitch a tent and have a fire. And it cost nothing."
Cell service: Communication is limited or non-existent at most campgrounds. Dusty W. notes about Breakwater Campground: "No reception! We didn't find it since there is no reception anywhere nearby."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Lakes and rivers present both recreation opportunities and hazards. Saphrenne R. describes Lake Elsie as "a beautiful alpine lake, which is obviously cold spring water. But, you can get away with taking a dip in the summer season!"
Noise considerations: ATV activity creates varying noise levels across campgrounds. "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, especially with the echos off the lake," warns Natalie J.
Toilet facilities: Plan accordingly for limited bathroom access. Gretchen B. notes that Telichpah Campground "was clean, no frills, had a well-maintained vault toilet, and there was even a small creek for pleasant background sleeping sounds."
Campsite privacy: Some locations offer more separation between sites than others. Christopher R. notes that Gold Rush Campground "is not heavily used so you could possibly get the place to yourself. Lots of shade great place to go get away."
Tips for RVers
Access limitations: Many forest roads aren't suitable for larger vehicles. "ROAD IS NARROW, WINDY, AND STEEP. Not at all trailer or big rig friendly," lili G. emphasizes about Lake Elsie.
Parking configurations: Some campgrounds provide multiple vehicle spaces per site. Megan K. notes that Packsaddle Campground has "two parking spots for each campsite which is good cause I always travel in a small group for safety."
Seasonal access: Road conditions vary significantly by season. Saphrenne R. cautions: "The road sometimes still has a good foot of snow until about Mid-June, so beware."
Alternative camping: Consider nearby campgrounds with better RV access. Kyle M. notes about Bull River Pavilion: "The camp area is pretty full even in the off season, because it is absolutely beautiful. Located not far from Thompson Falls, and lot of water ways."
