Sagle sits in the Idaho panhandle where Lake Pend Oreille creates a unique microclimate, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows reaching below freezing. The area's campgrounds span elevations from 2,000-4,000 feet, creating distinct camping experiences from lakeside options to forested retreats. Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Sagle operate from late April through October, with limited winter facilities.
What to do
Kayaking from campsite to water: 1-minute access: North Fork Coeur D'Alene River camping offers quick water access for pets. "You will see them everywhere!! Which is fun for out-of-towners! People from the city who don't get much wildlife action," explains a visitor to Sam Owen Campground.
Rock skipping at hidden beaches: "Best skipping rocks you'll ever find! I love staying here with friends. Has a beautiful view of the lake and has tons of activities available," notes a camper about Green Bay Campground, which offers pristine shorelines for water play.
Off-season hiking with fewer crowds: Trails remain accessible during spring and fall when temperatures are milder. "We took a stroll down through the woods and when we got to Lake Pend Oreille... IT WAS AMAZING!! If you want a hike along the lake with easy to moderate difficulty, 70 along Idlewilde Bay is excellent," writes a visitor at Farragut State Park.
What campers like
Natural shade coverage: Many campsites feature mature trees providing natural cooling during summer heat. "Large, Clean Camp Sites with Electric & Water. Bring your Boat, Kayak, Canoe, Bike, & Bathing Suit (in summer). My favorite Army Corps of Engineers run Campground," reports a visitor at Riley Creek Campground.
Clean toilet facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies across campgrounds. "The bathrooms are well kept also. This spot is somewhat private because there's only a spot on one side of it," notes a camper at Whitetail Campground.
Morning quiet hours: Early risers appreciate the peaceful morning atmosphere. "We arrived on a Wednesday and had the place nearly to ourselves. This was a perfect place to camp with a family or with friends. Make sure to arrive early in the week if you want a camp site," advises a visitor at Green Bay Campground.
What you should know
Accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds feature difficult terrain. "A beautiful removed campsite overlooking the water. The road in is a typical forest road, no big deal if you're familiar with FS dirt roads," explains a visitor to Whiskey Rock Bay Campground.
Seasonal limitations: Winter camping requires preparation. "Swung by here yesterday (late Dec) after calling to confirm hookups were still functional. There was only one hookup spot plowed, and its connectivity was not stable," warns a winter visitor to Round Lake State Park.
Wildlife interactions: Be prepared for animal encounters. "A lot of yellow jackets—A LOT. But they weren't too aggressive. Despite being frequently swarmed by them, neither of us got stung while we were there," reports a camper at Green Bay Campground about summer insect activity.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming areas for kids: Look for designated swimming beaches with gradual entry points. "They have firewood you can go and get for free that the staff piles up under a little gazebo thing... You can also get a burn barrel and they'll bring one up to your campsite via golf cart, for free!" notes a family camper at Sam Owen Campground.
Bring insect protection: Summer months see increased yellow jacket activity. "The dish washing station with large stainless steel sinks was excellent and the bathrooms were clean and had flushing toilets. Camp hosts brought our two girls activity bags," shares a family at Springy Point.
Kid-friendly activity options: Many campgrounds offer junior ranger programs. "This is one of our favorite camp grounds. Lots of fun activities and trails, easy access bathrooms with nice showers. The water is beautiful and the beach is taken great care of," mentions a family visitor about Riley Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies widely: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. "Nice level spacious sites with lake view. Nice ACOE camp. Swimming beach and separate dog beach. Friendly hosts," notes an RV camper at Springy Point.
Electrical connectivity challenges: Power hookups can be unreliable in certain seasons. "Our site was somewhat small. The end of the site (where we put our tent) is slightly slanted. So that was frustrating," reports a camper at Whitetail Campground, highlighting the importance of checking site dimensions.
Off-season dump station access: Not all facilities remain open year-round. "Great place to camp. Very quiet here. Camp sites can be close depending on the one you get. No dump in sites, so a little bit of a bummer," mentions an RVer at Riley Creek Campground about the limited full-hookup availability.
