Small towns dot the northern Idaho landscape, with St. Maries situated at the confluence of the St. Joe and St. Maries rivers. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-90°F, while winter brings averages of 20-40°F with occasional snow. Cell service varies throughout the region, with stronger signals near population centers and weaker or nonexistent coverage in mountain valleys.
What to do
Fishing access: Wallace RV Park offers proximity to nearby fishing spots. "Great spot to stay especially if you're visiting Wallace for a festival or stopover. Within walking distance to charming downtown," notes Elizabeth S. The campground borders a small creek, providing ambient water sounds and potential fishing opportunities.
Trail exploration: Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park provides a central location for accessing regional trails. "This facility is located very near the general Fairgrounds and next to the horse park. No horses are allowed at the campground but stables are very near by in the Fairgrounds," explains Joseph. The central location makes it ideal for day trips to nearby trail systems.
Water activities: CDA River RV, Riverfront Campground offers direct river access. "Bring kayak and put in the river right at the campground. Cement pads, New pavement, good hosts, nice spot," writes Randy V. The campground's riverside location makes it easy to enjoy water sports without additional travel.
What campers like
Riverside relaxation: Campers appreciate the water features at many area campgrounds. "A beautiful small privately owned campground in the heart of Wallace Idaho. Right next to the city limits brew pub. Awful hook up sites, all very level sites!" writes Kelly N. about Wallace RV Park. The sound of running water adds to the camping experience.
Entertainment options: Soaring Hawk RV Resort offers planned activities during peak seasons. "There's been some sort of entertainment each night we've been here, fire dancers Friday and Saturday, a 4th of july bbq, 2 bands and fireworks at midnight tonight," shares Kevin K. The resort provides social opportunities beyond standard camping.
Pet amenities: Dedicated pet areas exist at several campgrounds near St. Maries. "Quiet, spacious, beautiful smell of pine trees. Two large dog parks. Park is gravel and you may need to do a little leveling, but it isn't bad at all," notes a camper about Soaring Hawk RV Resort. These facilities allow pets to exercise while staying confined.
What you should know
Site spacing variations: RV camping near St. Maries varies significantly in terms of privacy between sites. "Tamarack RV Park is right in town, but the stand of trees it's in makes you forget that. The spaces are small. However, the restrooms and showers are very nice and convenient," explains Christon C.
Seasonal considerations: Some RV parks maintain different schedules throughout the year. "The biggest thing I disliked about this site is that the 30 dollars they charged us was not enough. They will charge an additional 3 dollars per head and 5 dollars for an additional car," notes Megan K. about Pines RV Park. Off-season rates may differ from summer pricing.
Noise factors: River Walk RV Park sits near urban areas with associated sounds. "It is hard to find many positives about this place. It has nothing to do with the people, but only about the 'campground'. It is a parking lot. No grass. Very tight. Lots of seasonal folks. It is right on the river. It is right on the bike trail," explains Nancy C. Urban campgrounds provide convenience at the expense of natural quiet.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some RV parks near St. Maries feature play areas for children. "There was a playground on site but other than that it's nothing special. The park manager was very social," notes Megan K. about Pines RV Park. Playgrounds provide entertainment options during downtime.
Entertainment planning: Tamarack RV Park offers family-friendly amenities in a convenient location. "Very well maintained and excellent front desk service. Wish there was space to sit outside at the picnic table but spaces are too tight," explains Dan L. The park's location allows for easy access to town activities.
Budget considerations: Big Creek RV Park offers economical camping options. "The campground is overall a great bang for your buck. The price is great if you're on a budget. They do not have sewer hookups but they have very nice bathroom facilities with showers," notes Darryl H. Lower-cost options often require flexibility with amenities.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in the area require minimal leveling despite gravel surfaces. "All gravel spots with cabins on other side of the river. No laundry but restaurant and bar on property," mentions Elizabeth S. about Wallace RV Park. Bringing leveling blocks remains advisable.
RV size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Had enough room to park my 44' rig and my truck right next to it. Would definitely come here again," reports a camper at Soaring Hawk RV Resort. Confirming space dimensions before booking prevents arrival complications.
Utility considerations: Northern Idaho's climate requires attention to water connections in winter. "August camp trip. Great one night spot on the river. Clean campground with nice flat spots. No Verizon. Wi-fi works at entrance to campground," shares Eric P. about CDA River RV. Water pressure varies significantly between campgrounds.
