Spirit Lake sits at an elevation of 2,437 feet in Idaho's northern panhandle region, approximately 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby Spokane during summer months. The lake itself covers 1,477 acres with a maximum depth of 90 feet, providing habitat for several fish species including cutthroat trout, kokanee, and bass. Camping options around Spirit Lake range from full-service RV sites to primitive forest camping, with most campgrounds opening from May through September.
What to do
Swimming access at Spirit Lake: Riley Creek Campground offers a family-friendly beach area for swimming. "Our favorite place to camp hands down. It had it all!" noted camper Jill K. The swimming area includes a designated beach with clear water access.
Mountain hiking with dogs: The trails surrounding Bald Knob Campground welcome leashed pets and offer cooler temperatures. "There are tons of lovely hiking trails on Mt Spokane and there were plenty of people out enjoying it over the weekend," shares Kelsey G. The campground sits at approximately 3,000 feet elevation, providing temperatures 10-15 degrees cooler than valley floors.
Water sports and boating: Spirit Lake permits motorized boats with multiple launches available. "Bring your Boat, Kayak, Canoe, Bike, & Bathing Suit (in summer)," recommends Kasey T. about Riley Creek Campground. The lake offers 12 miles of shoreline for water recreation with calmer waters in mornings and evenings.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: Camp Coeur D Alene offers wooded sites that provide natural cooling. "The camp is close to the freeway and on the edge of the lake. There are hiking trails adjacent, a well stocked camp store and laundry facilities," notes Phil G. The campground maintains mature cedar trees throughout the property.
Clean shower facilities: Round Lake State Park Campground provides free hot showers that campers consistently praise. "All of the bathrooms and showers are cleaned daily," reports Heather M. The bathrooms include both vault and flush toilets distributed throughout the campground loops.
Spacious group camping areas: Thimbleberry Group Camp at Farragut State Park accommodates large gatherings with ample space. "If you have a large group, this is the place to be. This site is massive and can accommodate tents, RV's, trailers, etc. Even with a lot of people, you can still seclude yourself from others," explains Deanna D. The campground can host groups of 50+ people with multiple tent and RV spaces.
What you should know
Seasonal sprinkler systems: At Silverwood RV Park, sprinklers run nightly on grassed areas. "While we were there the sprinklers went off in the middle of the night, soaking our tent. Management gave us a free night and moved us for the next night," reports Brian C. Tents must be placed on gravel pads rather than grass to avoid getting wet.
Reservation requirements: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Spirit Lake fill quickly during summer months. "Need to book months ahead or get there early to get a spot," advises Robert F. about Round Lake State Park. Many campgrounds open their reservation systems 6-9 months in advance.
Limited fire pits: Some campgrounds restrict fire pit access or provide communal fire areas. "Only 5 fire pits are located throughout the campground," notes Brock W. about Sedlmayer's Resort & Campground. Always check specific fire rules before planning cooking arrangements.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Priest River campground offers safe water access for children. "Beach is so kid friendly for the little ones; this was the best part for us. Our 3 year old really gained some water confidence while here," shares Nanette C. The gradual entry beach area provides safer swimming for young children.
Nature education opportunities: Several pet-friendly campgrounds feature interpretive displays or ranger programs. "The camp visitor center has a cool place for kids to learn about the wildlife in the area with foot prints in sand, bird calls, samples of the different types of trees and more," explains Heather M. about Round Lake State Park.
Playground availability: Look for campgrounds with built-in play structures. "The playground is fantastic to wear out the kiddos energy too!" recommends Nanette C. about Priest River campground. Many campgrounds also offer open fields for ball games or frisbee.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Check site measurements carefully when booking. "Sites are large,with plenty of shade. Partial hook ups (no sewer). Some sites can be dark under the canopies of fir, cedar and pine trees," advises Roger L. about Riley Creek Campground.
Distance from water: At most pet-friendly campgrounds near Spirit Lake, RV sites may be set back from water access points. "The lake is not that close. I was about 9 months pregnant when we camped here and the walk down to the boat launch/beach area was okay, but the was back up the steep hill was painful!" shares Alex W. about Whitetail Campground.
Winter RV access: For off-season campers, Round Lake stays open year-round with limited winter services. "Swung by here yesterday (late Dec) after calling to confirm hookups were still functional. There was only one hookup spot plowed," reports Nic F. Winter camping requires advance planning and confirming which utilities remain operational.
Guide
