Best Tent Camping near Sandpoint, ID

The forested mountains surrounding Sandpoint, Idaho offer diverse tent camping opportunities ranging from lakeside sites to alpine backcountry experiences. Green Bay Campground on Lake Pend Oreille provides walk-in tent sites with waterfront access, though it's temporarily closed for 2024. Maiden Rock Campground offers tent-only camping accessible by boat or hiking trail, while Pack River Dispersed Site provides free primitive tent camping in a more remote setting. Scotchmans Peak area features backcountry tent sites with challenging access but rewarding mountain views.

Most tent campgrounds near Sandpoint require campers to bring their own water and waste disposal supplies. Sites typically feature dirt or forest duff surfaces with minimal grading, making them ideal for tent setups but challenging for other camping styles. Vault toilets are available at some established campgrounds like Green Bay, but many primitive tent camping areas have no facilities whatsoever. Forest roads accessing backcountry tent sites often require high-clearance vehicles, particularly at Beehive Lake and Roman Nose areas. Seasonal considerations affect accessibility, with snow blocking higher elevation tent campsites until early summer and fire restrictions common during dry periods.

Tent campers frequently report exceptional solitude at walk-in sites compared to drive-up campgrounds. One visitor noted that "while all the drive-up sites on lower Priest Lake were full, there was no one at Navigation," highlighting the benefit of hike-in tent camping. At Green Bay Campground, campers described waterfront tent sites with "picnic tables and fire pits right on the water with serene views of Pend Oreille." Fall brings particularly peaceful conditions to primitive tent sites, with fewer crowds and vibrant colors enhancing the camping experience. Backcountry tent camping at Beehive Lake rewards hikers with pristine alpine scenery and seasonal huckleberry picking opportunities, though the trail requires careful navigation and physical preparation.

Best Tent Sites Near Sandpoint, Idaho (45)

    1. Green Bay Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED 2024

    12 Reviews
    Kaniksu National Forest, ID
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 263-5111

    $15 / night

    "There is a single vault toilet, they ask that you bring a bucket and shovel for solid waste. Bring your own way to dispose of trash, and have a way to lock it up, or animals WILL get into it."

    "Lightning cutting across the lake was a real spook. We brought our kayaks into the water in the sunny part of the day, other camping spots available by boat if you can get there!"

    2. Maiden Rock Campground

    1 Review
    Idaho Panhandle National Forests, ID
    13 miles

    "Boat and hike in only access. No pump for water source, only lake or creek. Multiple sites. 3 bouy-tethers for boats."

    3. Pack River Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    Naples, ID
    17 miles

    "Remember to leave not trace and pack out your trash!"

    4. Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground

    3 Reviews
    Coolin, ID
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 443-2512

    $15 / night

    "First come, first serve sites are your best bet for getting a campsite on Priest Lake during peak season. I was able to snag one of the 10ish first come sites last minute for a weekend."

    "Large and private, nice beach, good wind block. Will definitely be back."

    5. Scotchmans Peak

    2 Reviews
    Clark Fork, ID
    23 miles

    "Be sure to read trail reports and weather reports before heading out. North Idaho weather can be pretty finicky, especially at high elevations. Make sure to be aware of wildlife as well!"

    "Plenty of wildlife. I have only been one time and not seen mountain goats. Not too many people camp up here however there are spots/ clearings where it’s obvious a camp site would be."

    6. Kalispell Island Boat-in Campground

    3 Reviews
    Nordman, ID
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 443-2512

    $15 / night

    "Storms all around us but the views were beautiful. Nature is beautiful. Set up our hammocks, tents and brought out fishing poles."

    "Nice to have bathrooms, although you may want to bring extra to, and decent space between you and the next campsite."

    7. Roman Nose

    2 Reviews
    Naples, ID
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 267-5561

    "We really enjoyed the hike to the upper lakes as well."

    8. Kalispell Island West Shores Campground

    1 Review
    Nordman, ID
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 443-2512

    "Vault toilet is close and easy to find in the dark. Beautiful sunsets!"

    9. Porcupine Lake

    Be the first to review!
    Hope, ID
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 263-5111

    10. Beehive Lake Dispersed

    1 Review
    Naples, ID
    26 miles

    "This hike-in lake campground is a true alpine treasure, but be prepared to work for it! The hike to get there is pretty strenuous, with some tough climbs along the way."

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Showing results 1-10 of 45 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Sandpoint, ID

624 Reviews of 45 Sandpoint Campgrounds



Guide to Sandpoint

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Idaho, Sandpoint offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.

Explore Scenic Water Activities

Tent Campers Appreciate These Amenities

  • At the Maiden Rock Campground, campers can enjoy multiple sites with access to toilets, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer a bit of comfort.
  • The Roman Nose campground features a quiet setting with basic amenities, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • For a more rugged experience, Scotchmans Peak offers a challenging hike-in option, rewarding campers with stunning views and a true back-to-nature experience.

Discover Local Attractions and Natural Beauty

  • The picturesque surroundings of Kalispell Island - Silver Beach Campground make it a fantastic spot for enjoying the beauty of Priest Lake and its crystal-clear waters.
  • Just a short distance away, Porcupine Lake offers a serene environment for hiking and wildlife watching, perfect for nature lovers.
  • The Three Pines Campground on Kalispell Island is an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat with easy access to the lake and surrounding trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Sandpoint, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Sandpoint, ID is Green Bay Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED 2024 with a 5-star rating from 12 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Sandpoint, ID?

TheDyrt.com has all 45 tent camping locations near Sandpoint, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.