Tent camping near Troy, Idaho offers diverse options across the Palouse region and Idaho Panhandle. Sites range from high-elevation buttes with panoramic views to waterfront locations along Dworshak Reservoir. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during day and drop to 45-55°F at night, with occasional thunderstorms from July through August requiring proper rain protection.
What to do
Hiking with elevation gain: Kamiak Butte County Park trails provide excellent vantage points. "I did the hike on a Saturday and there were quite few other hikers on the trail," notes Kelsey G., who appreciated the trailhead access near the campground entrance.
Fishing in Dworshak Reservoir: Mini Camp 5.0 offers direct water access. "Views are spectacular. Little wind coverage during the day though it's very private with quite a distance off the Big Eddy trail to get down to the waterside spot," reports Rachel A.
Wildlife viewing: Blyton Landing, located between Pullman/Moscow and Clarkston/Lewiston, provides opportunities to observe local fauna. "The wildlife is very loud and very curious so bring earplugs if your sensitive to noise," advises Megan S.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Mini Camp 3.5 offers substantial separation from neighboring sites. "This spot has a long walkway out from the main trail offering tons of privacy. Great shallow ramp for a boat and easy access the a dip is the res or to get your water to filter," according to Rachel A.
Family-friendly amenities: Kamiak Butte County Park provides facilities that appeal to families with children. "Very easy to find campsite. Plenty of space Fe our vehicle, a fire pit and grill area. Just overall a great experience," mentions Jace G., while another camper notes, "So many chipmunks, dog friendly, well organized. Fairly cheap and good for families."
Accessibility options: Some campgrounds in the region accommodate visitors with mobility considerations. At Partridge Creek Campground, "Sometimes it's hard to find sites where you can have a person in a wheelchair move around okay. These sites are good for that according to my cousin who has camped with out family in this area," shares Megan K.
What you should know
Trail difficulty variations: Big Eddy trails may challenge some hikers initially. "This is a backpacking trail. The first half mile is difficult but then the trail levels out and is easy for many miles. There's free dispersed camping sites starting after 4.5 miles down the trail," explains Megan K.
Noise considerations: Traffic sounds affect some campgrounds more than others. At Giant White Pine Campground, "Right off the highway, so traffic noise consistently. The trails are nice, but you don't come across water very often. Better for bikes and atv's," reports Tanny M.
Limited facilities: Most tent sites require self-sufficiency. "Bring your own TP as there wasn't any when I was there," warns Leslie H. about Giant White Pine Campground.
Weather preparation: Temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer. At Blyton Landing, campers should note it "gets real cold at night," according to a recent visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kamiak Butte County Park includes recreational facilities beyond camping. "Running water and pit toilets on site. Very nice playground in the day use area," mentions Cheryl S.
Educational opportunities: Dworshak National Fish Hatchery offers learning experiences for children. "The fish hatchery is a really fun educational stop. It's suitable for all ages. If you go at the right time of the year they have hands on activities for the whole family," shares Megan K.
Spacious sites for multiple tents: Some campgrounds accommodate larger family groups. At Kamiak Butte County Park, "We stayed in site #4 which was right at the end with glimpses of the Palouse through the trees and lots of space. You could easily set up 2 tents there," notes Kelsey G.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV amenities: Most campgrounds near Troy prioritize tent camping over RV facilities. Giant White Pine Campground has "only a dozen sites or so, but they're nicely spread out, wooded, and clean. They're a little noisy because some are close to the highway," according to Leslie H., who adds that parking may require vehicles to use the road outside the campground.
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites may present challenges for larger vehicles. Gretchen B. notes that Giant White Pine might be "OK in a RV" despite road noise, but indicates "No electric hookup available" for those requiring power connections.
Fee structures: Campground costs vary by vehicle count. At Kamiak Butte County Park, "It was $15 a night plus $5 for an extra car," reports Kelsey G., providing useful information for RVers with towed vehicles.
