Camping options near Spirit Lake, Idaho range from forested tent sites to RV parks with full hookups. Located in the northern Idaho panhandle at approximately 2,400 feet elevation, the region experiences warm summers with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Camping season generally runs from May through September, with many campgrounds closing during winter months due to snow conditions.
What to Do
Hiking trails: Round Lake State Park Campground offers extensive trails for all skill levels. "We hiked the Round Lake trail. It also was very well maintained. Once again there are trails coming and going and the trail markings are sometimes confusing but if you have a good sense of direction you'll be fine," notes one visitor.
Water activities: Albeni Cove provides direct access to Lake Pend Oreille for fishing and swimming. A reviewer shares, "A great place to launch a boat, picnic, fish or swim. Lots of area to play on the Pend Oreille River. Sees a lot of local swimmers and boaters."
Disc golf courses: Pend Oreille County Park features an 18-hole disc golf course among its amenities. "Day Use, Hiking, Horseback riding, Over 7 miles worth of trails and Disc Golf all free. We just ask that you donate to the park, if able," explains one camper.
Family theme park access: Silverwood RV Park offers direct access to Idaho's largest theme park. "5 minute walk to theme parks under the highway. Site 74 backed up to a fence. Had no neighbors. But was furthest from the parks," mentions a guest.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Liberty Lake Regional Park offers more separation than some alternatives. "Most of the sites are fairly level. The road in is a little narrow, but once in, it's a great little campground," states one reviewer who spent three weeks there.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds provide opportunities to spot local fauna. A Liberty Lake camper noted, "There were deer in the campground every day, we saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks."
Accessibility to supplies: Alpine Country Store & RV Park provides convenient access to necessities. "It's convenient that it's behind a gas station because if you need any snacks, drinks or propane it's just a short walk away," explains a camper.
Proximity to water: Round Lake State Park offers lake access within walking distance. "The swimming area is nice with kind of sandy beach, but there is a bit of seaweed in the swimming area. There are also two docks perfect for fishing," notes a recent visitor.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. A visitor to Round Lake State Park advises, "Need to book months ahead or get there early to get a spot."
Variable site privacy: Some campgrounds have undergone changes affecting privacy. One Round Lake camper reported, "They clear cut all the bushes between spots and threw wood chips down so there is no privacy at all. I know they are worried about fires but good grief. Hence the reason it feels like you are right on top of your neighbors."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "One downside was some road noise, which occasionally disrupted the peaceful atmosphere, especially in the evenings. It wasn't overwhelming, but it was noticeable enough to mention," explained a Round Lake visitor.
Weather preparation: Even summer temperatures can fluctuate significantly. A visitor to Pend Oreille County Park highlighted the dense forest canopy: "The best thing about this place is how dense the trees overhead are, the whole area is well shaded for those hot summer days."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water safety features: Camp Coeur D'Alene offers family-friendly water access. "This place has everything you can ask for from Kayaks on lake CDA to shower, laundry etc and more than one. Everyone is very friendly and just want you to have a good time," reports a satisfied visitor.
Multi-day activities: Planning extended stays can maximize enjoyment. One Albeni Cove camper shared, "While the campground is small, it's close to several forests you can go hiking in, or go boating and kayaking on the river. We would also drive to Sandpoint to spend the day in town."
Playground amenities: Ravenwood RV Resort offers dedicated play areas. "They have a beautiful pool, basketball court, volleyball area and small playground," notes a visitor, providing options for children during downtime between other activities.
Crowding considerations: Some swimming areas fill early. A Todd B. mentioned about Round Lake: "If you are going to swim at one of the bays while there get there early. In the peak of summer, the parking lot will fill up by 10 or 11 am."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on seasonal factors. At Ravenwood RV Resort, "All sites now have full hook-ups with water, power and sewer and every site has both 30/50amp. No showers but who needs that when you have full hook-ups," reports a camper.
Access road challenges: Some parks have narrow entrance roads. "The road in was kinda sketchy if you are pulling a large RV," notes one Liberty Lake Regional Park visitor, suggesting caution for larger rigs.
Hookup availability: Limited full-hookup sites require advance planning. One Ravenwood visitor noted, "This park is very well-maintained by the on-site hosts. Very nice, and green grass areas between all of the sites. The sites are decent size and we were able to park our 28 foot trailer and park our full-size pick up sideways in the site."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly between locations. A Round Lake visitor mentioned: "We had limited Verizon connectivity — 2 bars at most," important information for those needing to stay connected.
