Cabin camping near Sandpoint, Idaho offers options within the 80,000-acre Kaniksu National Forest. The area sits at elevations ranging from 2,000-7,700 feet with summer temperatures averaging 80°F during day and 50°F at night. Winter cabin rentals require preparation for snow depths that can reach 300 inches annually at higher elevations.
What to do
Lake fishing access: Blue Lake RV Resort provides multiple water activities beyond just cabin stays. "We paddle boarded and swam the next day," notes one visitor who appreciated the lakeside location.
Winter recreation: When staying in seasonal cabins, snowmobile and cross-country ski trails connect to many rental locations. Some cabins serve as warming huts during snow season.
Wildlife viewing: Kootenai River Campground offers river access and regional exploration. One camper reported, "We sat on the tailgate eating lunch and watched eagles soaring and fishing on the bottom side of the dam."
Frisbee golf: Several cabin locations have disc golf courses nearby. "Started by playing frisbee golf at their awesome new course. Had our puppy with us and he had an absolute blast," shares a visitor at Indian Creek Campground.
What campers like
Peaceful environments: Cabins at Thousand Trails Little Diamond provide quiet settings with natural surroundings. "It is so quiet and peaceful. The sites are gravel, somewhat level and size/length varies," explains one reviewer.
Communal facilities: Many cabin locations feature shared kitchen facilities. "They had outdoor kitchens and several showers," noted a visitor at Camp Coeur D'Alene.
Fire provisions: Camp Coeur D'Alene offers convenient fire amenities. "If you purchase wood they deliver to your site," a camper mentioned, appreciating this service.
Water activities: Cabin guests often highlight water recreation as a key benefit. "They have paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards and a floating trampoline. The little lake is full of catfish and turtles that you can feed," reports a Blue Lake RV Resort visitor.
What you should know
Varied bathroom situations: While some cabins have nearby facilities, others require planning. At Waldron Campground, "Each campground only has one main bathroom, so you'll be wise to bring something to ride to get to the restrooms because some sites are 1/3 of a mile away."
Reservation requirements: Many cabins fill quickly, especially at Mirror Lake: Bigfoot Campout. A visitor advises, "Just. Book. You won't regret it. The campground is just far enough away to feel secluded but not too far that it's hard to get to."
Seasonal conditions: Weather impacts vary by season. "The stifling heat, along with the fires that were in the area, we were smoked out and weren't told that campfires were restricted," reported one Blue Lake RV Resort camper during fire season.
Proximity to transportation: Some cabins near railway lines experience noise. "One of the major downsides was the campsite's unfortunate location between two railway lines. The constant sound of freight trains passing by throughout the day was quite disruptive," noted a Blue Lake RV Resort guest.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with activities: Indian Creek Campground includes family-friendly amenities. "Cute little store that had all kinds of local art and everything you'll need for camping... Bathrooms were clean and showers were hot."
Consider fishing opportunities: Many cabin locations offer fishing for children. "The lake provided a pleasant and picturesque setting, offering campers the opportunity to enjoy various water activities or simply relax by its shores."
Check pool availability: Summer cabin stays benefit from swimming options. "The pool is wonderful along with a huge hot tub. They stock the lake with fish, so fishing is awesome!"
Ask about rental equipment: Several locations provide recreational equipment. "We took the paddle boat out for a sunset cruise and it was a very memorable experience!"
Tips from RVers
Cable access: For RVers transitioning to cabins, connectivity varies by location. "At your campsite your internet must be purchased and 90% of the time it is unavailable," reports one Thousand Trails Little Diamond visitor.
Electrical considerations: Cabins often have different electrical setups than RV sites. "The sites share electric and water, no sewer and are positioned oddly they are on the off side and in front by the road. Some 30 and 50 amp just check the box."
Dump station access: When bringing an RV alongside cabin rentals, know your options. "Very few of the KOA campsites have sewer hook ups. There are dump sites available. There is also a mobile pumpout service available if you want to pay for it."
