Camping near Naples, Idaho offers diverse opportunities within the Kaniksu National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,900 to 7,000 feet. This northern panhandle region features dense cedar and pine forests with unpredictable weather patterns, especially in spring when temperatures can drop below freezing even in late May. Most dispersed camping sites lack facilities but provide direct access to wilderness areas with minimal light pollution.
What to do
Fishing at small lakes: The Beehives Lakes trailhead offers access to alpine fishing with "awesome single site adjacent to the Beehives Lakes trailhead parking lot" according to campers who've stayed there.
River activities: The Pack River Dispersed Site provides direct river access for wading, swimming and fishing. One visitor noted that "there are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude." Another mentioned it's "a quiet riverside camp area" with "lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Pack River, you can find solitude while keeping an eye out for deer, small mammals, and various bird species that thrive in the riparian environment.
What campers like
Natural features: Campers consistently praise the region's water bodies. At Smith Lake Campground, visitors appreciate that "access to the lake is very close, there is a day use area with toilets, benches and fire pits right near the lake." One camper added that "the lake itself looks decent for swimming."
Forest setting: The dense forest provides privacy and shade at most sites. One visitor at Smith Lake Campground mentioned that "there are lots of squirrels and birds to listen to/watch in the trees," creating an immersive nature experience.
Well-maintained facilities: Many established campgrounds receive positive reviews for their upkeep. At Roman Nose, campers appreciate the simple but functional setup, with one noting "this place is wonderful! It has about 5 camping spots and is normally not too busy."
What you should know
Bear safety: The entire region requires proper food management. As one camper at Smith Lake noted, "Although definitely in bear country, there were no food boxes. We were motorcycling camping so made sure to put everything away."
Road conditions: Many access roads to remote sites are challenging. At Yaak River Campground, about 35 minutes from Naples, a reviewer warned "I would not recommend anything over 25 ft but that's me. Our 34RLSA 5er couldn't get in. Deep woods feel with all the trees and shade. Solar would be a challenge."
Water availability: Potable water can be limited at more remote sites. At Smith Lake Campground, campers mention "there are water pumps with potable water. We confirmed with someone from forestry who was doing a monthly test on the water to make sure it was good to drink."
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience railroad disruptions. One visitor to Boundary County Fairgrounds reported "a train engine was going back and forth on the tracks at 1:00 am, then idling with air pressure releases for about an hour waiting for another train to pass. It was so loud it vibrated the trailer."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Sites with lake access are best for families. Roman Nose offers "a wonderful hike to the upper lakes" that children can enjoy, while Smith Lake Campground has "a day use area with toilets, benches and fire pits right near the lake."
Amenities considerations: For families needing more facilities, North Haven Campground offers significant improvements over primitive sites. A visitor mentioned "modern and beautiful campground" with "showers are emaculant and luxurious" making it "very family and senior friendly."
Wildlife education: Use camping as an opportunity to teach about local ecology. One Smith Lake camper noted they "heard from a few different people that grizzlies and other wildlife were common in the area," making it an opportunity to discuss bear safety and forest ecology.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many forest service campgrounds have tight access roads. A Yaak River Campground visitor cautioned "deep woods feel with all the trees and shade. Solar would be a challenge" with approximately 40 sites but difficult access for larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: For those needing utilities, Blue Lake RV Resort provides full amenities. As one camper described it: "Blue Lake is a nice enough campground, but I wouldn't call it a resort. It has a mix of sites, some full hookup pull through that are all side by side without much space, and some more nicely spaced water and electric sites amongst the trees."
Seasonal considerations: Most RV-friendly sites operate from late spring through early fall. A Blue Lake RV Resort visitor advised that "very nice campground lots of trees for shade. Staff is very helpful. Facilities are clean and well maintained."
