Dispersed camping sites near Princeton, Idaho sit at moderate elevations in the Palouse region, offering cooler temperatures than lower-lying areas. With forested terrain transitioning to rolling hills, campers can expect significant day-to-night temperature variations even in summer months. Access roads to many Princeton area campsites range from well-maintained gravel to challenging dirt tracks requiring higher clearance vehicles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Spring Valley Reservoir has excellent fishing access with docks and dedicated facilities. According to Hannah C., "Great docks on the water, swimming, fishing, bathrooms, trash cans, and even a fish cleaning station. I like how the RV sites have water and electricity unlike most campgrounds in the area."
Hammock camping: Giant White Pine Campground offers perfect spots for hammock enthusiasts. Megan K. notes: "I really like this campground for hammock camping. I had no trouble finding just the right spot to set up my gear... I found a really nice hiking trail near the campsite and spent most of the day exploring the surrounding areas."
Hiking options: Trails range from easy loops to more challenging terrain with significant wildlife viewing. At Kamiak Butte County Park, Jeff K. reports: "I grew up camping here and after traveling the world I can say this park and the view from the top still take my breath away."
Bird watching: Several sites provide habitat for local and migratory birds. Celine K. observed at Robinson County Park: "This is a great place to take your dog for a walk. The trail is a nice loop through the woods, and there is a nice picnic area, swings, and volleyball court."
What campers like
Spacious, shaded sites: Many campsites offer good separation and natural shade. At Laird Park Campground, Leslie H. describes: "There are two loops at Laird Park campground, which I found to be very different. If you head left to the East loop, there are some nice, shaded and wooded spots."
Mountain views: Several campgrounds offer scenic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Mark M. writes about Redtail Campground: "Beautiful unobstructed views to the East, South and West. Initially pulled in under a large dead ponderosa pine tree and decided to move to another spot to avoid windfall. The water from the spigot was cold and lovely."
Clean facilities: Many campers mention the well-maintained facilities. Hayli N. says about Spring Valley Reservoir: "A very easy access campsite. Close to the town of Troy and simple setup. You can camp up by the reservoir parking lot, or further in, closer to the wooded area. There are bathrooms interspersed and great for fishing."
Quieter weekday options: Several campgrounds get busy on weekends but remain peaceful midweek. Brett I. notes about Redtail Campground: "Take a night or two to visit this nearly unused campground. What a wonder. You are on the Ridgeline between two valleys with views of the horizons of 50 miles or more."
What you should know
Road conditions: Some campsites require careful driving and higher clearance vehicles. At Iron Mountain Campground, Megan K. reports: "It was rough roads getting here and the terrain is fairly void of trees. My car got scraped up a bit as it sits a bit low to justify coming back to this area."
Seasonal openings: Many campgrounds operate only during warmer months. Laird Park Campground has a defined season from May to September, while Giant White Pine Campground runs from May 20 to September 19.
Site variations: Within the same campground, site quality can vary significantly. Leslie H. explains about Laird Park: "If you head right to the west loop, the spots are much more exposed, close together, and sunny. But both loops have plenty of parking areas and picnic areas, with water and a playground at the end of the west loop."
Variable pricing: Costs range from free to moderate depending on amenities and location. Judy T. writes about Iron Mountain: "We camped at the first campground in this Idaho state park close to the Washington border called Iron Mountain. There were two sites with a vault toilet. We chose site number two but both were very spacious."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds have dedicated play areas for children. Shelly H. notes about Laird Park Campground: "Very quiet, cozy location. Stayed here twice; both times was an overnight stay while waiting to pick my Scouts up from summer camp. The sites are very spacious and vault restrooms are located all through the grounds."
Beginner-friendly sites: Some campgrounds are particularly suited for new campers. Gabrielle L. says about Spring Valley Reservoir: "Our first camping trip in the books! Lots to learn. Great trails and great places to put up your hammock."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many families enjoy the animal sightings. Megan S. mentions about Kamiak Butte County Park: "So many chipmunks, dog friendly, well organized. Fairly cheap and good for families."
Easy water access: Several sites offer safe swimming areas during summer months. Megan K. explains about Laird Park: "This seasonal campground has areas to swim. It does have restrooms and a playground for kids. I enjoy recreation here in the summer but I prefer to have more privacy when camping."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Some RV sites require careful maneuvering. Mark W. shares about Robinson County Park: "Electric only. Nice spot. Had to work it to get out 35' Brinkley in the largest spot partly clearance from trees and fence posts limiting back and fill efforts... Drive in was a bit concerning with a 13'4" height."
Hookup availability: Electric, water and sewer connections vary by location. Samantha S. explains: "Such a nice place! It's a little tight to get into with a bigger rig, we have a 32ft class A, but overall it's really nice. 5 spots with 20/30/50 amps and only $25 every 24 hours."
Cell service reliability: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the area. Brett I. notes about Redtail Campground: "Great for solar and Skylink. ATT and Verizon were 3 plus. Make certain the chores are done and the drinks are made before the light show begins at sundown."
Parking limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on additional vehicles. Megan K. mentions about Pines RV Park: "The biggest thing I disliked about this site is that the 30 dollars they charge us was not enough. They will charge an additional 3 dollars per head and 5 dollars for an additional car."
