Best Campgrounds near Viola, ID

The Palouse region surrounding Viola, Idaho features a mix of established campgrounds and recreational areas within a short drive. Campers can choose from several developed facilities like Spring Valley Reservoir near Troy, which accommodates both tents and RVs with electric hookups and water access. Other options include Robinson County Park in Moscow and Kamiak Butte County Park just across the Washington border, both offering tent and RV camping with varying amenities. The area's rolling hills and agricultural landscapes provide distinctive camping backdrops with views extending into both Idaho and Washington.

Seasonal considerations affect camping experiences throughout the region, with most campgrounds operating year-round but offering peak conditions from late spring through early fall. Many sites feature drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Cell service can be spotty in more remote areas, particularly in the forested sections east of Viola. Campgrounds like Giant White Pine operate seasonally from May to September, while others maintain year-round accessibility. One visitor noted the unique landscape: "We camped at the first campground in this Idaho state park close to the Washington border. Our views were into undulating hills of the Palouse farming region of Washington."

Several campgrounds in the area feature water access as a primary attraction. Spring Valley Reservoir provides opportunities for fishing and water recreation, while locations like Scenic Six Park offer full hookups for RVs seeking more amenities. Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of the region's campgrounds. "It was so quiet there. You could see into both the forested hills of Idaho and the Palouse of Washington," shared one visitor about camping near the state border. Sites with shade are particularly valued during summer months when temperatures can rise significantly. The mixed-use campgrounds throughout the region accommodate various camping styles, from primitive tent sites to fully-developed RV parks with electric, water, and sewer connections.

Best Camping Sites Near Viola, Idaho (109)

    1. Kamiak Butte County Park

    7 Reviews
    Palouse, WA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 397-6238

    $25 / night

    "There’s a little trail at Kamiak Butte and you can access it via a trailhead near the entrance of the campground. I did the hike on a Saturday and there were quite few other hikers on the trail."

    "I’ve grown up around this place and will always love it"

    2. Spring Valley Reservoir

    9 Reviews
    Troy, ID
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 799-5010

    $10 / night

    "This campground is located conveniently near Troy, and is about a 25 minute drive to Moscow. There is also a large Pavilion which is perfect for a large get together."

    "Close to the town of Troy and simple setup. You can camp up by the reservoir parking lot, or further in, closer to the wooded area. There are bathrooms interspersed and great for fishing."

    3. Robinson County Park

    5 Reviews
    Moscow, ID
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 883-5709

    "This is a great place to take your dog for a walk. The trail is a nice loop through the woods, and there is a nice picnic area, swings, and volleyball court."

    "Easy drive and family friendly"

    4. Scenic Six Park

    2 Reviews
    Potlatch, ID
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 875-1117

    5. Pullman RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Pullman, WA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 338-3227

    "Very quiet except for occasional street noise because I was near the tent site and tent camping. Very close to this beautiful historic town with scenic views like no other. Highly recommend."

    6. Palouse RV Park

    1 Review
    Palouse, WA
    6 miles
    +1 (509) 878-1811

    $35 / night

    "Like many RV parks there is a park, and tables outside.

    There are train tracks very very close, but it was not disruptive surprisingly for the time we were there."

    7. Latah County Fairgrounds

    3 Reviews
    Moscow, ID
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 883-5722

    8. Redtail Campground — Mary Minerva McCroskey State Park

    3 Reviews
    Potlatch, ID
    16 miles
    Website

    "Take a night or two to visit this nearly unused campground. What a wonder. You are on the Ridgeline between two valleys with views of the horizons of 50 miles or more."

    9. Pines RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Harvard, ID
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 875-0831

    "You are right next to a highway, but you can barely hear it. Robin and Dennis are extremely nice! They will go out of their way to make sure you are happy and safe!"

    10. Giant White Pine Campground

    5 Reviews
    Harvard, ID
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 875-1131

    "Super easy access from the road, clean sites though somewhat close to neighboring sites. Awesome trails nearby for all levels"

    "I found a really nice hiking trail near the campsite and spent most of the day exploring the surrounding areas.

    Our site did have a fire ring and a bench with dirt and moss cover."

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Recent Reviews near Viola, ID

308 Reviews of 109 Viola Campgrounds


  • Devon C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Elk River

    ELK RIVER IDAHO

    Many free dispersed camping site for several miles. There is also low cost Campgrounds available as well. There is a small local store nearby. Dump site on edge of town with trash available. Many recreational activities too.

  • Devon C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Shadowy St. Joe Campground — Idaho Panhandle National Forests

    Great Campground

    The Shadowy St. Joe Campground is a great place to stay. It has 14 sites total. With one taken by the camp hosts, all are paved, with space for 2 vehicles each, have fire pits, and a picnic bench, and electricity. 7 sites to reserve ahead of time on the meadow side that has grass and is spacious. There are 6 first come first serve sites, 2 on the meadow side, and 4 along the river. If looking to reserve a site, the numbers start with #1 closest to the entrance on the meadow side and grow larger in counter clockwise fashion. There is a day use area you can also reserve, with charcoal grills, and multiple picnic benches. There are several vault toilets and all are kept very clean by the 2 wonderful park hosts. There is a boat launch area for day use, with a small fee, but if camping there is no extra charge. There is 2 docks and if staying multiple days you can leave your boat on the dock overnight. It is supposed to be a no wake zone, but the signs have warn down, so we lost a bumper to our boat from crashing into the dock, from passing boat wakes. There is a couple of potable water stations available, with small hose spouts, but no water hookups at the sites. The sites are electric with 50amp, 30amp, and 110 plugs available. No sewer hookup at the sites, but there is a dump station at the fairgrounds in the town of St. Maries about 10 miles away. Phone service is spotty, texting easier and lots of dropped calls, but we like to unplug when camping. Dogs are allowed with no limits, just to stay on leashes at all times. The Lazy St. Joe River is boat passable up to St. Joe City, and all the way to Lake Coeur d'Alene if you want to adventure for a full day in the boat. Great for fishing too. Make sure to have Idaho invasive species tag for the boat if you are from out of state. The Sheriff and Park Rangers patrol daily and check. St. Maries has 2 grocery stores, and sports shop where you can get supplies, and fishing licenses. The town also has great shops, a swimming pool, parks, restaurants, and ATM/banks. This is a great little gem in the Gem State.

  • #1 National R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Soaring Hawk RV Resort

    Soaring Hawk Rv Park

    We love the park, people are very friendly. Very close to Heyburn State Park

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    McKay's Bend Recreation Site

    Great Park especially for the Price

    Full hookups bathroom and showers. In a canyon on river. Number 8 has river view but not much shade. Other sites with much shade.

  • mike L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    McKay's Bend Recreation Site

    Easy to camp here

    This campground is just off Highway 12 in Western Idaho and very convenient. It’s a little close to the road but the traffic seems to be pretty quiet at 8:30 at night. It’s right by the river, which is very nice and it seems like there is good fishing in this river so that may be a plus. I do recommend this campground.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Shadowy St. Joe Campground — Idaho Panhandle National Forests

    Shadowy St Joe

    We parked next to the river. No trouble with red noise in the spot, but on the other side is closer to the road. The park was clean and appears well managed. Vault toilets spaced a appropriately throughout the small campground. They were clean and without odor. Is out about 8 to 10 miles from Saint Marie, which has two small grocery stores, laundromat, and car wash. If ever in the area would stay here again. Has Electric and drinking water at a nominal price.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Chatcolet Campground — Heyburn State Park

    2025 Aug Review

    Campground is super clean, flushable toilets, metal picnic tables, fire rings all in good shape. Spots are fairly close so you can see your neighbors but there are trees and brush which helps. Frequented by young families so don’t be annoyed by kids having a good time on their bikes or playing. Camp spot 123 was right next to the Camp Host spot but that wasn’t a bad thing at all.

  • D
    Aug. 8, 2025

    McKay's Bend Recreation Site

    Norm is a great host

    Beautiful, well kept grounds. If you have a seniors America The Beautiful pass, $9 gets you full hookups, showers and toilets. Short drive to town. Norm (host) is awesome and full of knowledge. Nice fishing river on the Northern side of the camp. Will come back.


Guide to Viola

Camping near Viola, Idaho, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Swimming: Many campgrounds, like Hells Gate State Park Campground, provide great access to the Snake River. One camper mentioned, "Nice beach for swimming and launching kayaks," making it a perfect spot for water lovers.
  • Hiking: Trails abound in the area, especially around Kamiak Butte County Park. A reviewer noted, "There’s a little trail at Kamiak Butte and you can access it via a trailhead near the entrance of the campground."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Emerald Creek Campground enjoy the natural surroundings. One visitor shared, "The creek was nice background noise," highlighting the peaceful atmosphere.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained sites. A review for Spring Valley Reservoir stated, "Everything but the outhouses was clean," which is a big plus for many.
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds, like Little Boulder Campground, offer spaced-out sites. A camper remarked, "They've done a good job of spacing the spots out and keeping plenty of trees and foliage in between for privacy."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. At Hells Canyon Resort, one visitor said, "Susan is so flexible and has wonderful customer service!"

What you should know:

  • Bugs and Weather: Be prepared for bugs, especially in summer. A camper at Chief Timothy Park noted, "My wife and family were freaked out about the bugs… wanted to boondocks after 1 night."
  • Crowded on Holidays: Popular spots can get busy during holidays. A review for Boyer Park & Marina KOA mentioned, "Gets REALLY busy on weekends," so plan accordingly.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Moose Creek Reservoir Access, have fewer amenities. A visitor pointed out, "There are no public bathrooms and showers," so be ready for a more rustic experience.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with swimming areas. One camper at Hells Gate State Park Campground said, "Campers were all very respectful and it was very relaxing," making it a good choice for families.
  • Space for Kids to Play: Choose campgrounds with larger sites. A review for Kamiak Butte County Park mentioned, "Plenty of space for our vehicle, a fire pit and grill area," which is great for family gatherings.
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds are quieter than others. A camper at Emerald Creek Campground noted, "Very quiet and off the beaten path," perfect for winding down after a day of activities.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check for Hookups: Make sure the campground has the necessary hookups. A review for Premier RV Resort at Granite Lake stated, "Full hookups with lots of pull through spaces if needed," which is a plus for RV travelers.
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be tight. A camper at Chief Timothy Park mentioned, "Spots away from the river are better shaded," which can help with comfort.
  • Plan for Accessibility: Look for campgrounds that are easy to navigate. A review for Hells Canyon Resort noted, "Check in was easy," making it a hassle-free option for RVers.

Camping near Viola, Idaho, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What outdoor activities can you do while camping near Viola, Idaho?

The Viola area offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. At Hells Gate State Park Campground, you can enjoy extensive biking both within the park and along the riverfront, plus explore the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center. Fishing is popular at Dent Acres on the Dworshak Reservoir, accessed via the scenic Dent Bridge. The region also offers hiking opportunities through the rolling Palouse hills, water activities on various lakes and rivers, and wildlife viewing. During summer months, swimming spots provide relief from the heat, while the diverse landscape creates excellent photography opportunities throughout the seasons.

What amenities are available at Viola campgrounds?

Campgrounds near Viola offer various amenities to enhance your stay. Freeman Creek Campground — Dworshak State Park provides options for all camping levels with tent sites, RV/trailer sites, and small primitive cabins. The park includes reservoir access for boating and fishing. At Winchester Lake State Park Campground, you'll find somewhat level sites nestled under pine trees providing natural shade and coolness. Most campgrounds in the region offer basic facilities like restrooms and water, with some providing shower facilities and hookups for RVs depending on the specific location.

Where can I find camping spots in Viola, Idaho?

While Viola itself is small, nearby Iron Mountain Campground — Mary Minerva McCroskey State Park offers camping with beautiful views of the Palouse region. The campground is accessible via a narrow unimproved road from the Washington side. For those looking for alternatives close to the Viola area, McKay's Bend Recreation Site located off Highway 12 in Western Idaho provides convenient camping with 15 RV sites and 3 tent sites near the river. Both locations offer a peaceful setting for your camping adventure in the Viola region.