Dispersed camping dominates the terrain surrounding St. Maries, Idaho, with numerous primitive sites scattered throughout the Panhandle National Forest and adjacent BLM lands. Most sites sit at elevations between 2,500-4,500 feet, accessible via forest service roads that become impassable during winter months. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F while nights drop to 45-55°F even in July and August, creating significant temperature variations for tent campers.
What to do
Fishing access points: Lake Elsie Campground offers excellent trout fishing with both rainbow and brook trout. "We always catch lots of brooke and rainbow trout and wild life is everywhere!" notes Jessica C., who visits frequently.
Mountain biking trails: Giant White Pine Campground provides direct access to trail networks. "There's a trailhead nearby for bird watching and hiking, and mountain biking around as well. Lots to do!" explains Leslie H. in her review.
Target practice opportunities: The remote areas around Tingley Spring provide space for responsible firearms use. "There are several sites near here and it's remote enough to sight in your guns and do a little practice," according to one visitor.
Paddle sports: Calm waters at Lake Elsie Campground create ideal conditions for non-motorized watercraft. Nathan M. confirms the lake is "awesome for kayaking and paddle boarding," making it perfect for those bringing personal watercraft.
What campers like
Alpine lake swimming: Despite cold temperatures, Lake Elsie offers swimming opportunities during peak summer. One reviewer notes, "There is a beautiful alpine lake, which is obviously cold spring water. But, you can get away with taking a dip in the summer season!"
Solitude on weekdays: Campsites that become crowded on weekends often remain vacant midweek. "It might get a bit crowded on summer weekends but multiple sites were vacant when we arrived on a Thursday afternoon in July," reports Ivy K. about her experience at Lake Elsie.
Wildlife viewing: The St. Maries area provides abundant wildlife observation opportunities. "Wild life is everywhere!" at Lake Elsie according to Jessica C., while other campers report moose sightings and bald eagles at Mica Bay Boater Park.
Hammock-friendly sites: Many locations feature appropriately spaced trees for hammock camping. A visitor to Giant White Pine Campground shared, "I really like this campground for hammock camping. I had no trouble finding just the right spot to set up my gear."
What you should know
Road conditions vary drastically: Forest roads to remote sites can be challenging, especially after rain. For Lake Elsie, Samuel H. warns, "The road up is rough, potholes, it does get better about halfway up. Expect at least 30 minutes to get up after you hit the gravel."
Bear activity: Bears frequent some camping areas, particularly Lake Elsie. "Multiple bears went through the campground in the evening and came back at around 3am. Be careful with your food and be smart," cautions Natalie J.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans are common but not always followed. One Lakes Divide Road camper observed, "Despite being stage 1 fire restrictions, multiple people were having fires, one person's was still smoldering when I got up the next morning."
Trash issues: Pack-in, pack-out ethics aren't universally practiced. "There was broken glass EVERYWHERE. We cleaned up so much trash in our site and off the road," reports a disappointed Lakes Divide Road visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground equipment: Mica Bay offers amenities specifically for children. A visitor notes, "Great camping spot for families or anyone! Swing sets and slide for youngsters, horseshoe pit, large grass field for frisbee or football."
Shallow water access: Several lakes provide gradual entry points suitable for younger swimmers. "There are some marshy shallow areas nearby" at Killarney Lake Picnic Site according to Megan K., making it safer for wading.
Noise considerations: Traffic sounds affect some sites more than others. Gretchen B. observed at Giant White Pine Campground, "We checked out campground but decided not to camp there due to its proximity to a busy road. Lots of logging trucks made it awfully noisy for tent camping."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility limitations: Most sites accommodate smaller vehicles only. For Lake Elsie, a reviewer cautions, "ROAD IS NARROW, WINDY, AND STEEP. not at all trailer or big rig friendly."
Limited designated RV sites: Few established campgrounds offer RV amenities. "The sites are flat and quiet" at Mica Bay according to Ginger S., but she emphasizes, "Campground is NOT a Drive-in. You can Boat in, Park on road, or Hike in only."
Vault toilet availability: Some sites offer basic facilities while many require self-containment. The Giant White Pine Campground visitor noted, "Bring your own TP as there wasn't any when I was there," highlighting the need to come prepared even at established sites.
