Spirit Lake in northern Idaho sits at an elevation of approximately 2,437 feet in the Idaho Panhandle, surrounded by dense pine forests with temperatures averaging 70-85°F during summer camping seasons. The area features both commercial and state-managed camping spots with varying amenities and access points around the 1,445-acre lake. Camping options range from full-hookup RV sites to primitive tent spots, many requiring advance booking during peak season.
What to Do
Fishing access points: Riley Creek Campground provides excellent access for anglers with clean, spacious sites near water. "Bring your Boat, Kayak, Canoe, Bike, & Bathing Suit (in summer). My favorite Army Corps of Engineers run Campground," notes Kasey T. in their review of Riley Creek Campground.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems surround the camping spots near Spirit Lake, Idaho. Round Lake State Park offers varied terrain for different skill levels. "We hiked the Round Lake trail. It also was very well maintained," reports The N. about Round Lake State Park Campground.
Model airplane field: For hobbyists, Farragut State Park has dedicated recreation areas. "There is a model plane field nearby and bird watching area," mentions Shelly S. about the Thimbleberry Group Camp section of the park.
Tree to Tree Adventure Park: This aerial challenge course offers a unique experience for adventurous campers. "The park has a lot of options. You can swim, boat, SUP, mountain bike, and hike... and a new tree to tree ropes course," explains Todd B. in a review of Farragut State Park.
What Campers Like
Private beach access: Many campers value waterfront amenities at their camping locations. At Sedlmayer's Resort & Campground, "there's a cute little restaurant with a bar and you can get to go drinks," notes Mackenzie M. about Sedlmayer's Resort & Campground, adding, "Right on the lakefront with your own private beach."
Free amenities: Some campgrounds offer unexpected perks. "This place has great amenities (free canoes, hot showers, flush toilets, free firewood) which made it the nicest campground I had been to for awhile," explains Jared in his review of Camp Coeur D Alene.
Dog-friendly areas: Pet owners appreciate designated spaces for their dogs. "There is also a pet area, and you can take your dogs for a swim," notes Roger L. about Riley Creek Campground, highlighting the campground's accommodation for four-legged campers.
Mature trees: The natural shade is valued by many campers. "There are numerous mature cedar trees providing shade and privacy throughout the campground," writes Brock W. about Sedlmayer's Resort & Campground, describing the environmental features that enhance comfort.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: During peak season, walk-up sites are limited. "We did not have reservations so had to join a lottery to get one of the walk up sites. Despite arriving early in the morning, we did not know until mid afternoon if we got a site," explains Chelsea K. about Riley Creek Campground.
Weather variations: Temperature differences between town and mountain campgrounds can be significant. "When Spokane had a heat wave of over 100 degrees temperature everyday, on Mt. Spokane the temperatures were a good 10 - 15 degrees cooler," reports Freddie Faith M. about Bald Knob Campground.
Campsite spacing: Privacy levels vary significantly between campgrounds. "The sites are a little close to the road and traffic noise. Campground is very near town with stores fuel and restaurants," observes Michael T G. about Priest River campground.
Winter access: Some campgrounds maintain year-round operation. "We were fortunate enough to meet some sled dog trainers at camp and even saw them along the trail," recalls Deanna D. about winter camping at Thimbleberry Group Camp.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground proximity: Some sites offer optimal placement near kid-friendly areas. "From camp site 12 you can see the playground if you were to bring kids!" mentions Lisa about Priest River campground, noting the convenience for parents.
Swimming beaches: Family-friendly water access points are available at several locations. "The swimming area is nice with kind of sandy beach," reports Jason S. about Round Lake State Park Campground, though he notes "there is a bit of seaweed in the swimming area."
Theme park access: For families seeking additional entertainment, Silverwood RV Park offers unique convenience. "It's next to Silverwood theme park, so you can camp the night before, hit the theme park early, and then crash after a fun filled day," explains Christon C., highlighting the logistical advantage.
Bathroom facilities: Clean restrooms matter for family comfort. "The bathrooms are well kept also. It's a great place if you're looking for easy camping with the kids," shares Alex W. about Farragut State Park campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup specifics: Power options vary by site and campground. "Make sure you reserve the correct power hookup for your RV," advises Christon C. about Silverwood RV Park, emphasizing the importance of matching your equipment needs.
Site dimensions: RV users should verify size compatibility before booking. "Sites have little to no tree cover. If it is hot out your camp will be hot," Brian C. notes about Silverwood RV Park, adding "If you have an RV, life is a lot easier at this park."
Seasonal availability: Winter camping presents unique challenges for RVers. "There was only one hookup spot plowed, and its connectivity was not stable. We decided not to stay as our Tesla kept reporting electrical risk every 10 minutes," reports Nic F. about winter conditions at Round Lake State Park Campground.
