Best Campgrounds near Porthill, ID

Camping in the northern Idaho panhandle near Porthill encompasses a range of options from developed campgrounds to lakeside retreats. The area features established campgrounds like Kootenai River Water Front at Jake's Landing with waterfront access, and North Haven Campground offering RV sites and cabin accommodations. Boundary County Fairgrounds provides free camping with basic amenities, while more remote options like Brush Lake Campground offer a more secluded experience. Many campgrounds in this region are situated near lakes and rivers, with several providing both tent and RV sites along with cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort.

Road conditions and seasonal availability significantly impact camping experiences in the Porthill area. Most campgrounds operate from May through September, with many closing by mid-September due to weather conditions. The region experiences variable spring weather that can affect accessibility, particularly at higher elevations or on forest service roads. Campgrounds like Robinson Lake and Meadow Creek typically open in late May and close by early September. Some areas require high-clearance vehicles to access, particularly after rain or during early season conditions. "The road getting there is pretty rough, so be ready for a bit of a bumpy ride. But once you're there, the quiet, the fall colors, and the overall atmosphere more than make up for it," noted one visitor to Brush Lake Campground.

Waterfront camping locations receive consistently positive reviews from visitors to the Porthill region. Priest Lake State Park's Lionhead Campground draws campers seeking clear water and mountain views, while smaller lakes like Smith Lake provide more intimate settings. Several campgrounds feature bear boxes for food storage, reflecting the area's wildlife presence. Campers frequently mention the pristine water quality in the region's lakes, particularly at higher elevations. A camper described Priest Lake as "our favorite lake in N Idaho. The view of chimney rock is spectacular. Easy access to the sandy beach." Mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping are common throughout the area, with many offering picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. More developed sites typically provide drinking water and trash service, while remote locations may require visitors to pack in their own supplies.

Best Camping Sites Near Porthill, Idaho (105)

    2. Brush Lake Campground

    3 Reviews
    Porthill, ID
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 267-5561

    "This little lake campground is a real hidden gem, especially if you're looking for some peace and quiet. The lake itself is small but beautiful, though it is a bit swampy around the edges."

    "We spent one night as part of our trip around the International Selkirk Loop. Small and quiet and just far enough off the highway where it wasn’t crowded during the week."

    3. Smith Lake Campground

    7 Reviews
    Moyie Springs, WA
    19 miles
    Website

    "Access to the lake is very close, there is a day use area with toilets, benches and fire pits right near the lake and the campsites are just a bit further off the lake."

    "Although the campsites are not lakefront, it's only a short walk to the day use area with a fishing dock, boat launch and dock, and a nice public area."

    4. Robinson Lake Campground

    2 Reviews
    Porthill, ID
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 267-5561

    "great mountain lake camp very beautiful place"

    5. Meadow Creek Campground

    7 Reviews
    Moyie Springs, ID
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 267-5561

    "The only major problem is that dogs are not on leashes and no one is around to enforce the leash law."

    "Buck Mountain Trail #176 is a great hike or bike in the area. If you scramble to the top of the mountain, there is an incredible view of the Cabinets and the Selkirks."

    6. Copper Creek Campground

    2 Reviews
    Porthill, ID
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 267-5561

    7. Trout Creek Base Camp

    1 Review
    Bonners Ferry, ID
    14 miles
    +1 (208) 920-3074

    $32 - $42 / night

    "There was paint and brushes, and the kids were invited to paint a rock and plant it on the creek path. We stayed 2 nights and hiked the full day in between."

    8. Lionhead Campground — Priest Lake State Park

    9 Reviews
    Nordman, ID
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 443-2200

    "Ended our tour of Northern Idaho at spot #140. Tons of flat area to put down a tent, mosquito shade (they are pretty bad), and enjoy the amazing view!"

    "I worked at Priest Lake State Park as a residential biologist for the summer of 2016. It was an amazing experience! I had access to parts of the park not allowed to campers."

    9. Boundary County Fairgrounds

    7 Reviews
    Bonners Ferry, ID
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 267-7041

    "Not being county Fair time I assumed nobody else, except maybe a stray RVer who found themselves way up here despite the Canadian border being closed, would be there."

    "I did a drive by and was so impressed! The parking is next to a grassy park. The place is well maintained. Several ports potties were clean and available."

    10. North Haven Campground

    3 Reviews
    Bonners Ferry, ID
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 603-9212

    $49 - $300 / night

    "Close to all the wonders of Idaho's panhandle. They have several back in and pull through sites with more on the way. Choice of full hookups, or water and electric."

    "Rachel and her family recently purchased this location, and are putting in so much work! Check them out and leave them some love."

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Recent Reviews near Porthill, ID

215 Reviews of 105 Porthill Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Brush Lake Campground

    Nice overnight spot

    We spent one night as part of our trip around the International Selkirk Loop. Small and quiet and just far enough off the highway where it wasn’t crowded during the week. The campground is on the east end of the lake where the water is pretty well covered with Lilly pads and other aquatic plants. Our camp site was right on the lake and we were expecting to be overrun with bugs but it was surprisingly nice, not a single mosquito bite! Everything was clean and well maintained we would stay here again if we pass back through.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Mill Pond Campground

    Very nice underutilized campground

    We spent one night the week before Labor Day weekend. All the campgrounds around Sullivan Lake were nearly full and busy. We had this entire place to ourselves, what a treat but also a shame it isn’t being better utilized. It has been recently updated with paved roads and flat gravel parking pads. All facilities are extremely nice. The only downside is that all the sites are a short ways off the stream that flows past. If in the area again we will absolutely stay here again.

  • 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

    Beehives Lakes

    Beehives Lake Dispersed

    Awesome single site adjacent to the Beehive Lakes trailhead parking lot.

  • Eric D.
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Boundary Dam Campground

    Better than paid sites

    Everything is well maintained, the sites are clean if maybe a little crammed together. The lake is warm and the sites are great.

  • Cindy
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Yaak River Campground

    Nicely wooded.

    Nicely wooded campground right on the river but we couldn't stay there.  We have a 20ft camper and there was no way that I could back up into any spot that I saw.  Looks like it would be nice for a van camper or tent but not ideal for anything longer than that.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Roman Nose

    Roman Nose Campground, Dispersed, and Hike-In

    We stayed the night in the campground near the trailhead and did a day-hike to the 3 lakes the next morning. The actual campground has 4 designated sites and a group tent area. Trails lead to the lakes from each campsite or from the trailhead parking lot. The first lake is a short, easy walk. The 2nd (Lower) and 3rd (Upper) lakes are a moderate hike and have a couple sites you can overnight at from the trailhead parking lot. There is also quite a few dispersed sites along the mountain roads on the way up. The road is long and VERY washboarded, but you have lots of great options if you plan on doing some hiking in the area. If you're not looking to hike, I'm not sure beating up your vehicle for a solid hour on a washboarded dirt road is worth it just for camping here.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Meadow Creek Campground

    Meadow Creek Campground

    We had a pleasant one-night stay (for the most part) on one of the few waterfront sites. Very clean vault toilet. Weak ATT service, but much stronger with a booster. $15/night. Only a 3-star because this campground is right next to train tracks with trains blasting their horns at 8:40PM and 12:40AM on the Sunday night we stayed.

  • kThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Trout Creek Base Camp

    Great proximity to trail heads

    Kelly and Bill live right there but after they make sure you are all set, they leave you alone. Great for kids to explore and play in the creek. There was paint and brushes, and the kids were invited to paint a rock and plant it on the creek path. We stayed 2 nights and hiked the full day in between.


Guide to Porthill

Camping sites near Porthill, Idaho span a 30-mile radius along the Kootenai River valley, with elevations ranging from 1,800 to 2,500 feet. The area features mixed coniferous forests dominated by western larch, Douglas fir, and lodgepole pine. The camping season typically runs shorter than other Idaho regions, with most sites accessible from late May through early September due to the northern latitude and higher precipitation.

What to do

Fishing in the Moyie River: Access prime fishing spots at Meadow Creek Campground where rainbow trout are abundant. "Buck Mountain Trail #176 is a great hike or bike in the area. If you scramble to the top of the mountain, there is an incredible view of the Cabinets and the Selkirks," notes camper Celine K.

Paddling on Smith Lake: Smith Lake Campground offers a small but scenic lake perfect for casual paddling. "The lake itself isn't particularly large, but the people we saw fishing were catching. There appears to be 8 sites, one of which is outside of the gate which may be locked after the end of September," explains Lee F.

Scenic drives: The International Selkirk Loop passes through the area, connecting camping sites near Porthill with scenic viewpoints. "We spent one night as part of our trip around the International Selkirk Loop. Small and quiet and just far enough off the highway where it wasn't crowded during the week," shares Steve C. about his stay at Brush Lake Campground.

What campers like

Riverside camping: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites for their sounds and scenery. "You can choose ambiance in the first loop or river front in the second loop. Just be aware that the river is noisy," notes Paul G. about Meadow Creek Campground.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: The northern Idaho panhandle offers excellent wildlife watching. "Smith lake campground is so peaceful and relaxing. Birds chirping and squirrels chittering make a beautiful addition to mother nature's wild music," shares Rhonda about her experience at Smith Lake Campground.

Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region receive praise for maintenance. "By far the cleanest, most well kept campground I've ever visited," writes Michael T G. about Meadow Creek Campground. Similarly, at Copper Creek Campground, campers note "Bathrooms are exceptionally clean. Nice little trails that go down by the water."

What you should know

Train noise: Several campgrounds near the railroad tracks experience disruption. "Only a 3-star because this campground is right next to train tracks with trains blasting their horns at 8:40PM and 12:40AM on the Sunday night we stayed," cautions Meghan B. about Meadow Creek Campground.

Road challenges: Access roads to some sites require preparation. "The road getting there is pretty rough, so be ready for a bit of a bumpy ride," reports Jason S. about Brush Lake Campground.

Limited cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the area. "Weak ATT service, but much stronger with a booster," notes Meghan B. at Meadow Creek Campground, while at Smith Lake, campers report consistent but limited signal.

Tips for camping with families

Free camping options: Boundary County Fairgrounds offers convenient no-cost sites with basic amenities. "The parking is next to a grassy park. The place is well maintained. Several ports potties were clean and available. There's potable water next to the tennis courts," shares Gary W.

Water activities: Look for campgrounds with safe swimming areas for children. "Access to the lake is very close, there is a day use area with toilets, benches and fire pits right near the lake and the campsites are just a bit further off the lake," notes Alex P. about Smith Lake.

Creative activities: Some campgrounds offer unique amenities for children. "There was paint and brushes, and the kids were invited to paint a rock and plant it on the creek path," shares Kelly S. about her family's experience at Trout Creek Base Camp.

Tips from RVers

Size considerations: Many campgrounds in the area have limitations for larger rigs. "Probably 6 spaces, all big enough for a car or van but not suitable for large RV's," advises Todd M. about Smith Lake Campground.

Full-service options: For those needing hookups, North Haven Campground provides comprehensive amenities. "They have several back in and pull through sites with more on the way. Choice of full hookups, or water and electric. Their showers are emaculant and luxurious. Wife refused to use ours," shares David P.

Parking strategy: When using free camping areas, be mindful of local activities. "Even if it doesn't look busy this place really gets used and can fill up in minutes. We don't want them to ban us so park accordingly," advises Dave S. about Boundary County Fairgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Porthill border crossing located in Idaho?

The Porthill border crossing is located in the northern Idaho panhandle, connecting Idaho to British Columbia, Canada. It sits at the northernmost point of US Highway 95 in Boundary County, about 27 miles north of Bonners Ferry. Near this crossing, you'll find Smith Lake Campground, which is just a few minutes outside of Bonners Ferry and makes a convenient stopping point when traveling to or from the border. The crossing is situated in a scenic area surrounded by the Selkirk Mountains, with the Kootenay River flowing nearby.

What outdoor activities can you do near Porthill, Idaho?

The Porthill area offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing in the Selkirk Mountains and Kootenai National Forest. Water enthusiasts can visit Reeder Bay Campground for sandy beaches and swimming, or Lionhead Campground at Priest Lake State Park for stunning lake views and water activities. Fishing is excellent in local waterways, particularly for trout and kokanee salmon. Mountain biking, horseback riding, and ATV trails are plentiful throughout the region. During winter, the area transforms for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing adventures in the pristine northern Idaho wilderness.

What are the hours of operation for the Porthill border crossing?

The Porthill border crossing operates from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Pacific Time), seven days a week. These hours apply year-round, including holidays. If you're planning to cross outside these hours, you'll need to use an alternative crossing point like Eastport, Idaho, or Roosville, Montana. When visiting the area, North Haven Campground offers a modern basecamp with full hookups or water and electric options, making it convenient for travelers needing a place to stay before an early crossing or after a late arrival.

Is there camping available near Porthill, Idaho?

Yes, several camping options are available near Porthill. Beaver Creek offers beautiful hiking trails and spacious campsites for overnight stays. Robinson Lake Campground near Bonners Ferry provides drive-in access with water and toilet facilities. For those seeking a lakeside experience, Brush Lake Campground is a hidden gem with peaceful surroundings, though it has swampy edges. The area also features primitive camping opportunities in the Kootenai National Forest and Selkirk Mountains, perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty in northern Idaho.