Best Campgrounds near Athol, ID

Northern Idaho's Athol region features multiple camping options centered around Farragut State Park, a sprawling recreation area on Lake Pend Oreille. The park contains several distinct campgrounds including Gilmore, Snowberry, Whitetail, Waldron, and Thimbleberry Group Camp, each offering varying levels of amenities and privacy. Beyond the state park, nearby options include Silverwood RV Park adjacent to the theme park, Ravenwood RV Resort, and Camp Coeur d'Alene. Accommodations range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots, yurts, and cabins, with most campgrounds providing picnic tables, fire rings, and access to potable water.

Reservations are essential during the peak summer season from late May through September, particularly for waterfront sites and weekend stays. While Farragut State Park remains open year-round, many private campgrounds operate seasonally, typically closing between October and April. As one camper noted, "Thoroughly enjoyed the spacious site and privacy provided by the various trees and undercover vegetation. Great hiking trails around Lake Pend Oreille that offer spectacular views." Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with Verizon providing consistent coverage. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F during the day, while spring and fall bring cooler conditions and occasional storms.

Lake access represents a significant draw for campers in the region, with fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities available at multiple locations. Visitors frequently mention the well-maintained facilities and family-friendly atmosphere at Farragut State Park, which includes hiking trails, disc golf courses, and a Tree to Tree Adventure Park. The campgrounds are described as thoughtfully designed, with one reviewer noting, "The campgrounds are well laid out in that there are many sites but they are situated in a way that still gives each site space." Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, eagles, and various waterfowl. The nearby towns of Bayview and Coeur d'Alene provide additional amenities, including restaurants, grocery stores, and laundromats.

Best Camping Sites Near Athol, Idaho (213)

    1. Gilmore Campground — Farragut State Park

    16 Reviews
    Bayview, ID
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 683-2425

    $31 - $33 / night

    "Gilmore Campground Farragut State Park, Idaho Lake Pend Oreille

    Who Knew?!!

    I crossed the Montana / Idaho state line this morning and was pleasantly surprised at the AMAZING scenery ."

    "And Lake Pend Oreille is simply breathtaking.

    We had limited Verizon connectivity — 2 bars at most."

    2. Whitetail Campground — Farragut State Park

    15 Reviews
    Bayview, ID
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 683-2425

    "There is easy access to both Silverwood and Coeur D'Alene Idaho outside the campground. Apparently there is a former U.S. Naval brig turned museum at the park as well."

    "Farragut State Park in scenic Northern Idaho is a huge campground that is open year-round."

    3. Riley Creek Campground

    23 Reviews
    Cocolalla, ID
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 437-3133

    $35 - $75 / night

    "We were looking for a campsite in the Idaho Panhandle and discovered Riley Creek. After a 10 hour drive we arrived, drove to our spot and was greeted by an attendant who happened to be in the area."

    "Today I check out a great little campground/recreation area on Lake Pend Oreille( locally pronounced Pond Array")."

    4. Camp Coeur D Alene

    44 Reviews
    Coeur d'Alene, ID
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 664-4471

    $39 - $83 / night

    "Very cute campside with free cano’s to use"

    "Even though the sites are small and close together, they are at different levels as you go up the hill combined with the sites and cabins being tucked under the giant pines, gives you a sense of privacy"

    5. Thimbleberry Group Camp — Farragut State Park

    7 Reviews
    Bayview, ID
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 683-2428

    "Being from Kentucky I now rank myself as a lightweight after visiting Farragut State Park and realizing the weather people camp during in Idaho!"

    "My favorite group camps are Thimbleberry (horse friendly) and Locust Grove (lake views). But there are 7 group camps to choose from."

    6. Silverwood RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Athol, ID
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 683-3400

    "It's next to Silverwood theme park, so you can camp the night before, hit the theme park early, and then crash after a fun filled day. The spaces are close and very open."

    "5 minute walk to theme parks under the highway.  Site 74 backed up to a fence. Had no neighbors. But was furthest from the parks."

    7. Round Lake State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Cocolalla, ID
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 263-3489

    $12 - $29 / night

    "This spot is very close to the main hiking trail, that leads around the lake and to the beach area. Probably about 15 feet away, down a slight hill."

    "Super clean, great back-in spots for RVs, awesome walking trails around the lake."

    8. Waldron Campground — Farragut State Park

    5 Reviews
    Bayview, ID
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 683-2425

    "Plenty of trails to walk. Three dump and water stations."

    "A nice museum is located here with the history of the naval training base.

    Every site is immaculately maintained with even the gravel being raked between visitors.  "

    9. Snowberry Campground — Farragut State Park

    4 Reviews
    Bayview, ID
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 683-2425

    "Stayed 3 nights in Snowberry Campground within Farragut State Park, Athol, Idaho. Thoroughly enjoyed the spacious site and privacy provided by the various trees and undercover vegetation."

    "Farragut State Park, Idaho Lake Pend Oreille

    I crossed the Montana / Idaho state line this morning and was pleasantly surprised at the AMAZING scenery ."

    10. Ravenwood RV Resort

    3 Reviews
    Athol, ID
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 683-0891

    $45 - $60 / night

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 213 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Athol, ID

880 Reviews of 213 Athol Campgrounds


  • Martha H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Wolf Lodge Campground

    Convient location

    Nice Campground right off Highway 90. Some road noise. Nice bathrooms and showers. Horseshoes, corn hole, kayaks for guests.

  • B
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Round Lake State Park Campground

    Well kept with lots of amenities and activities

    60 dollars a night and checkout was at 1. Lots of amenities and we enjoyed the family environment. Definitely glamping but a perfect beginner spot. Lots to do; Fishing, hiking, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding etc. Great spot!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Blackwell Island RV Park

    Coeur d’Alene Lakefront RV park

    Nicely located and well maintained large rv park on Lake Coeur d’Alene. This park offers both lake front and non-lakefront spaces with full hookups. This park offered free but poor WiFi unless in or near the club house. Kayaks speedboat in pontoon boats are available for rent from the front office. This park could use more foliage between sites otherwise a nice place to stay near downtown, stores and restaurants. We would stay here again.

  • Devon C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Shadowy St. Joe Campground — Idaho Panhandle National Forests

    Great Campground

    The Shadowy St. Joe Campground is a great place to stay. It has 14 sites total. With one taken by the camp hosts, all are paved, with space for 2 vehicles each, have fire pits, and a picnic bench, and electricity. 7 sites to reserve ahead of time on the meadow side that has grass and is spacious. There are 6 first come first serve sites, 2 on the meadow side, and 4 along the river. If looking to reserve a site, the numbers start with #1 closest to the entrance on the meadow side and grow larger in counter clockwise fashion. There is a day use area you can also reserve, with charcoal grills, and multiple picnic benches. There are several vault toilets and all are kept very clean by the 2 wonderful park hosts. There is a boat launch area for day use, with a small fee, but if camping there is no extra charge. There is 2 docks and if staying multiple days you can leave your boat on the dock overnight. It is supposed to be a no wake zone, but the signs have warn down, so we lost a bumper to our boat from crashing into the dock, from passing boat wakes. There is a couple of potable water stations available, with small hose spouts, but no water hookups at the sites. The sites are electric with 50amp, 30amp, and 110 plugs available. No sewer hookup at the sites, but there is a dump station at the fairgrounds in the town of St. Maries about 10 miles away. Phone service is spotty, texting easier and lots of dropped calls, but we like to unplug when camping. Dogs are allowed with no limits, just to stay on leashes at all times. The Lazy St. Joe River is boat passable up to St. Joe City, and all the way to Lake Coeur d'Alene if you want to adventure for a full day in the boat. Great for fishing too. Make sure to have Idaho invasive species tag for the boat if you are from out of state. The Sheriff and Park Rangers patrol daily and check. St. Maries has 2 grocery stores, and sports shop where you can get supplies, and fishing licenses. The town also has great shops, a swimming pool, parks, restaurants, and ATM/banks. This is a great little gem in the Gem State.

  • #1 National R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Soaring Hawk RV Resort

    Soaring Hawk Rv Park

    We love the park, people are very friendly. Very close to Heyburn State Park

  • Phillip C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Riley Creek Campground

    Pleasant Surprise

    We were looking for a campsite in the Idaho Panhandle and discovered Riley Creek. After a 10 hour drive we arrived, drove to our spot and was greeted by an attendant who happened to be in the area. They volunteered to help us spot our rig, we were fine. No help needed.

    This was an indication of how this trip would be. Very enjoyable! Power and water close. Level gravel pad, plenty of shade. Walking and biking trails galore. River was peaceful, large grass area, large playground for kids. Fairly full of couples and families surprisingly quiet.

    Close to town for any supplies you might need.
    We plan on returning.

  • andrew The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Crystal Gold Mine

    Ok, let’s try it

    We booked this campground as a stop on our way through and to the northwest. You can’t beat access from I-90. It’s so close you will listen to traffic your whole stay. That does not bother us at night, but kind of spoils the peaceful day. The spaces are big and open. There seem to be a lot of long timers but that’s fine. No laundry or bathhouse. Would probably pass next time and keep going to Cour d’alane to find a 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. Very accessible. Young man at check-in very friendly. If you need to stop for the night and want FHU instead of a state park or rec area this place works.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Luby Bay Campground

    Relaxing in the trees by the lake

    We were here for one night in late August. The lake is beautiful and a great place to cool off just a short walk from our site. Very nice campground, clean and well maintained with paved roads and parking pads. We visited here during a very warm spell and all the shade was a blessing and it cooled off quickly once the sun went down. Maybe the best part there are very few bugs this time of year.

  • Matt S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Sam Owen Camnpground

    Decent Stop

    Stayed at site 80 in Scented Leafs section. Decent campground with mix of full sun/semi shaded sites. Campground was prob 50% full but many reserves signs starting Friday. Lake was excellent, warmer than expected. If you’re a cyclist, the ride up Trestle Creek then down Lightning Creek is excellent, top 1/3 of the climb still had lots of wildflowers and high alpine feel/views.


Guide to Athol

Camping near Athol, Idaho, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Boating and Fishing: Many campers enjoy the water activities available at Riley Creek Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Water activities including boating, fishing, and swimming" make it a great spot for families.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Liberty Lake Regional Park. A visitor noted, "Great halfway between Rainier and Glacier," highlighting the park's accessibility to beautiful hikes.
  • Swimming: Campers at Camp Coeur d'Alene loved the swimming pool, with one saying, "The swimming pool was well kept, and we really enjoyed using the free canoes."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Gilmore Campground — Farragut State Park. One review stated, "The restrooms are well kept also," which is a big plus for many.
  • Privacy: Many enjoy the spacious sites at Riley Creek Campground. A happy camper shared, "Good privacy for the most part once you’ve learned your spots."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpful staff at Dragoon Creek Campground. One reviewer said, "The Campground Hosts are nice people," making the experience more enjoyable.

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Spokane KOA Journey, have limited facilities. A visitor warned, "Only 2 stalls and 2 showers, but lots of campers," so plan accordingly.
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise, especially near Spokane KOA Journey. One camper noted, "Be aware that there is a train that runs by very close to the camping spots."
  • Booking Ahead: Popular spots like Riley Creek Campground fill up quickly. A reviewer mentioned, "Not easy have to book way ahead of time," so make your reservations early.

Tips for camping with families

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water activities. At Riley Creek Campground, one family enjoyed "two playgrounds (one for younger children, one for older)."
  • Safety: Choose campgrounds that feel secure. A camper at Liberty Lake Regional Park felt "very safe for solo camping," which is reassuring for families.
  • Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds, like Gilmore Campground, have picnic tables and fire pits, making it easier to cook and eat together. One reviewer said, "Lots of great hikes to go on and peaceful," perfect for family bonding.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: RVers should be cautious about site sizes at places like Sam Owen Campground. One reviewer warned, "Be very careful in choosing your site, the majority are not level."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Campers at Newport Little Diamond Lake KOA suggested bringing extension cords and extra hoses, as "all the hookups are at the front of the sites."
  • Dump Station Availability: Make sure to check for dump stations, especially at campgrounds like Riley Creek Campground, where one camper mentioned, "There is also a dump station."

Camping near Athol, Idaho, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a little planning, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Athol, Idaho?

The Athol area offers exceptional camping options with Farragut State Park standing out as a premier destination. Located on Lake Pend Oreille, it features multiple campgrounds with spacious sites, privacy from trees and vegetation, and spectacular hiking trails with lake views. For those seeking water activities, Blackwell Island RV Park in nearby Coeur d'Alene offers waterfront sites on the Spokane River with boat and kayak rentals. Dispersed camping options include North Fork Coeur D'Alene River and Bull Run Access areas. Silverwood RV Park provides convenient access to the theme park, while Sedlmayer's Resort offers lakeside camping at Spirit Lake just minutes from Athol.

Is tent camping available in Athol, Idaho?

Yes, tent camping is readily available in and around Athol. Bumblebee Campground offers wooded, private tent sites with creek access for fishing. North Fork Coeur D'Alene River provides beautiful dispersed tent camping options along the riverbank, though it can be popular during peak season. For a more developed experience, Farragut State Park accommodates tent campers with spacious sites and access to Lake Pend Oreille. Most campgrounds in the area welcome tent campers year-round, though services may be limited in winter months. Reservations are recommended during summer weekends, especially at state park campgrounds.

What amenities are available at Athol, Idaho campgrounds?

Amenities vary widely across Athol area campgrounds. Sedlmayer's Resort & Campground offers full hookups with 20/30/50 amp electrical service at select sites, direct lake access, and resort facilities. Riley Creek Campground provides clean facilities with helpful staff. At Farragut State Park's campgrounds, you'll find water access, restrooms, hiking trails, and decent cell service. For those seeking more amenities, RV parks like Blackwell Island and Ravenwood offer full hookups, shower facilities, laundry services, and WiFi (though connectivity can be spotty). Dispersed camping areas like Bull Run Access have minimal amenities but often include established fire rings. Most developed campgrounds in the area offer potable water and vault toilets at minimum.