Cabin rentals near St. Maries, Idaho range from rustic lookout towers to waterfront accommodations across northern Idaho. Located in the St. Joe Valley at 2,200 feet elevation, this area experiences warm summers with daytime temperatures typically in the 70s and 80s°F. Cabin rentals often close during winter months from October through April when snowfall makes access difficult.
What to do
Water activities at Heyburn State Park: The park offers swimming, kayaking, and boating opportunities on Lake Chatcolet. "Great place to swim, kayak, bike, and go bird watching. There are usually other visitors (especially boats on the water) but it never gets too hectic!" according to Celine K. who visited Hawleys Landing Campground.
Hiking and wildlife viewing: Many cabin locations provide access to hiking trails. At Liberty Lake Regional Park, Joel R. reports "Several hiking trails, including an equestrian trail, waterfall, fishing and lots of wildlife. There were deer in the campground every day, we saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks."
Biking on the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes: This paved trail runs through several cabin locations. "The Trail of the Coeur D'Alene runs through this campground. Biking the 7 mile ride to Harrison is a great way to spend the day, you cross the lake over a bridge, watching eagles swoop over the lake as you ride," notes Samantha W. from Hawleys Landing Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront cabin locations: Many visitors prefer cabins with lake access. "We were lucky enough to land the island campground which made the whole experience amazing!" said Jared at Camp Coeur D Alene, adding "This place has great amenities (free canoes, hot showers, flush toilets, free firewood) which made it the nicest campground I had been to for awhile."
Privacy levels vary by location: Some cabins offer more seclusion than others. At Chatcolet Campground, Annie B. noted "The campground is small and peaceful, at least mid week. Lovely views of the lake through the trees."
Clean facilities: Many cabin renters appreciate well-maintained properties. Nancy C. from Wolf Lodge Campground observed, "This place reminds me of the places my family stayed when I was growing up in the 60s and 70s. Very well keeped. River access from the campground to coeur d'Alene lake."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin sites require advance booking, especially during peak season (June-August). "We showed up May 1st, the first day they opened!" reports Julie M. from Camp Coeur D Alene, indicating seasonal operations.
Site leveling issues: Some cabin and tent sites require equipment for leveling. At Liberty Lake Regional Park, Adam B. advises: "Bring your blocks. Nice cozy camp site. Can be a bit crowded but is nice here. Cell service is solid att and Verizon."
Highway noise: Some cabin locations experience traffic noise. Angela B. from Wolf Lodge Campground notes: "This campground is next to the interstate. I called last minute as we were driving through and was offered a tent site next to 'the creek'—turns out the creek is the ditch between the highway and campsite. It's loud, and bright with lights from the highway."
Limited facilities at remote cabins: The Bald Mountain Lookout has minimal amenities. Nathan T. recommends: "Bring a lot of water. No cell service, if you have Starlink, set it up at the south east side of the tower, thats the only place I could get signal."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Many cabin locations offer family activities. At By the Way Campground, Joe B. shared: "Our family had a great one night stay. It was very last minute but they had a tent spot available. They do have around fifteen RV spots a few small cabins, and a handful of tent spots."
Wildlife awareness: Remind children about proper food storage to avoid attracting animals. Miranda R. from Heyburn State Park advises: "Always be aware of animals typical raccoons etc put your food away nice bathrooms good family camping."
Swimming access: Cabins near swimming areas are popular with families. Kris S. from Liberty Lake Regional Park notes: "Great place to explore. Lots of hiking trails. Nice beach area for swimming."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: RV sites near cabins vary in size and layout. Sherrie C. from Wolf Lodge Campground warns: "The concrete strips are are no longer level, one of the main bathroom/shower 'lodges' out of order, offering porta-potty or walk to other end of grounds."
Hookup availability: Water, electric, and sewer connections differ between cabin locations. James W. from Spokane KOA Journey states: "This KOA was a convenient stopover for us during our travels on I-90. The staff were nice and the site was level."
Access road conditions: Some cabin locations have challenging access roads. Nathan T. who stayed at Bald Mountain Lookout recommends: "Make sure your vehicle is offroad the ride is very rough. Don't bring any trailers, get offline map before coming."
