Cabin accommodations near Ponderay, Idaho sit in the northern Idaho panhandle at approximately 2,100 feet elevation where the Kaniksu National Forest meets Lake Pend Oreille. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F, with cooler nights even during peak season. Winter weather often brings snow accumulation from November through March, affecting cabin accessibility at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing at Mirror Lake: Five miles from Ponderay at the Mirror Lake: Bigfoot Campout, visitors can access multiple fishing spots. "The dock is fantastic and the fishing is top notch," reports Nathaniel, adding that "the views of Mirror Lake are just phenomenal."
Hiking nearby trails: At Lunch Peak Lookout near Sandpoint, visitors can combine cabin stays with day hikes. Jason S. notes, "There's a lovely hiking trail from the parking area as well which leads to even more spectacular views."
Water recreation: Blue Lake RV Resort offers rentals for water activities on their small lake. According to Alana R., "I got to do yoga by the lake at sunrise, not too buggy and I saw lots of turtles." Don R. adds, "They have paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards and a floating trampoline. The little lake is full of catfish and turtles that you can feed."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Some cabins offer more seclusion than others. At Mirror Lake, Nathaniel describes, "The campground is just far enough away to feel secluded but not too far that it's hard to get to."
Year-round options: While many campgrounds close seasonally, Travel America RV Park in Sagle remains open all year. Terry S. notes, "Management is easy to work with, facilities are kept clean, and price is good!"
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the maintenance standards. At Camp Coeur D Alene, Sienna V. shares, "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."
Lake proximity: Cabins with water access receive consistently high ratings. Phil G. observes that at Camp Coeur D Alene, "The camp is close to the freeway and on the edge of the lake. The camp offers tent camping, full service RV camping, and cabins for rent."
What you should know
Reservation timing: For popular cabin locations like those at Priest Lake State Park, timing matters. Buck notes about the Lionhead Campground, "Reservations are 9 months in advance and it is a phone call of luck that will get you this prime area."
Noise considerations: Some cabins have better sound insulation than others. Anil C. shares about Blue Lake RV Resort: "One of the major downsides was the campsite's unfortunate location between two railway lines. The constant sound of freight trains passing by throughout the day was quite disruptive."
Seasonal availability: Thousand Trails Little Diamond in Newport operates from "April 13 to October 1" only. Gary K. advises, "We spent a week here and loved it. It is so quiet and peaceful. The sites share electric and water, no sewer and are positioned oddly."
Internet access: Connectivity varies significantly. Buck L. reports from Thousand Trails Little Diamond: "At your campsite your internet must be purchased and 90% of the time it is unavailable. A complete waste of money."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Cabins with child-specific features rank highest among families. Don R. says of Blue Lake RV Resort: "My boys are ready to return and so am I. It's just one of those peaceful places that I don't think very many know about."
Group camping options: Lionhead Campground at Priest Lake State Park offers dedicated group facilities. Yuki B. explains, "The group camp has its own private dock and beach. The cabin has multiple bunk beds and a kitchen with fridge and range/oven."
Swimming access: Not all cabin locations have suitable swimming areas. Heather J. cautions about Lionhead Campground: "Very heartbreaking to be so close to that beautiful water and not be able to enjoy it because I couldn't bring my bestie [dog]."
Camp store proximity: Families appreciate on-site supplies. Jeff W. says of Priest Lake State Park: "The nearest town, Coolin, ID, is about 12 miles down the road. It is a small town with a store, a diner and a bar/restaurant."
Tips from RVers
Site positioning: At Waldron Campground, mary F. advises: "Most sites are large and well appointed with paved driveways and gravel pad for picnic table, fire pit, and tents if you have them. Water and electricity at site."
Dump station access: Kootenai River Campground in Troy, Montana offers full hookups for most sites. Patrick B. reports, "About 2/3 of the sites are full hookups. Rest water and electric."
Off-season considerations: Bruce P. notes about Waldron Campground: "Every site is immaculately maintained with even the gravel being raked between visitors. There are hot showers (in private rooms), visitor center, swimming, boating, fishing, and a host of other activities."
