Rathdrum's campgrounds lie within the Selkirk and Coeur d'Alene mountain ranges, with elevations ranging from 2,200 to 2,600 feet. The area's climate transitions sharply between seasons, with winter lows regularly dropping below freezing while summer highs can reach into the mid-90s during July and August. Camping options around Rathdrum typically involve a mix of forest service campgrounds and privately-operated facilities with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Hiking at Beauty Creek Campground: Located 20 miles southeast of Rathdrum, this campground offers access to wooded trails. "Hiked the trail on the backside of the campground, which followed along a stream. There's nearby wildlife, including a resident moose. We didn't get to see her but enjoyed looking," notes Julie M. from Camp Coeur D Alene.
Water activities on Lake Pend Oreille: The third-deepest lake in the continental US offers boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities. "The water is honestly one of the best parts about this area," writes a visitor to Gilmore Campground. "We took our paddle boards out and it was great!" shares Lauren C. from Blackwell Island RV Park.
Explore nature trails around Liberty Lake: Just across the Washington border, these trails provide wildlife viewing opportunities. "There were deer in the campground every day, we saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks," reports Joel R. from Liberty Lake Regional Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and common areas. "Very clean campground our site worked great for our Sprinter van. Site had outdoor kitchens and several showers," notes Debbie S. about Camp Coeur D Alene.
Budget-friendly overnight parking: Free options exist for travelers on tight budgets. "Great place to rest after a long drive. Check in at customer service stay up to 2 days," explains Dave B. about Cabela's Post Falls, which allows 48-hour RV parking.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse animal populations. "Gilmore Campground has a big green for frisbee, horseshoes, etc. Farragut State Park has abundant hiking, water activities and interesting interpretive exhibits. And Lake Pend Oreille is simply breathtaking," notes Sarah from Gilmore Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "The shower house is on the other side of Gilmore CG. The sites over there have older trees and more shade," explains Shelly S. from Gilmore Campground.
Fire restrictions: Several campgrounds limit or prohibit wood fires, especially in late summer. "Sites are gravel, level, both pull throughs and back ins available, FHU, no privacy between sites. Some nice water front sites. Picnic tables, no wood fires allowed," reports Janet H. about Blackwell Island RV Park.
Noise considerations: Train tracks and highways affect some campgrounds. "The tent sites had a nice triangular metal and wood canopy for shelter from rain and also for shade. It is right next to an active railroad, so bring earplugs if you don't want to be woken up by trains several times," advises Kristen M. about Spokane KOA Journey.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for children. "We really had a great time here. The other campers were so friendly. Easy access to wineries and hikes. Clean facilities and sites," says Ted N. about Spokane KOA Journey.
Swimming options: Family-oriented water access varies between locations. "The campground has a big open central meadow that had a few sites in it, but the campground also had some sites that were more tucked back in the vegetation," notes Elise Z. about Beauty Creek Campground.
Insect awareness: Certain times bring increased insect activity. "There was a bit of a wasp problem there (we were there in August), so not the best place to go if you're afraid of or allergic to bees and wasps," warns Elise Z. about Beauty Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "No shade, good for solar. Good cell and internet connection. Campground is designed well so sites have more space than other campgrounds," shares Stacey G. about Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park.
Big rig accessibility: Some areas have limitations for larger vehicles. "If you are coming off of interstate 90, don't use exit 13. The round about is way too small to handle big rig or any camper. The best route is exit 12 big rig friendly," advises Rick Shannon P. about Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park.
Site spacing considerations: Privacy levels vary significantly between facilities. "The spaces are small. However, the restrooms and showers are very nice and convenient. Also had a great price," notes Christon C. about Tamarack RV Park.
