Camping spots near Viola, Idaho offer unique recreation opportunities in the rolling Palouse region where forested hills transition to wheat fields. The region sits at elevations between 2,500-3,500 feet with significant temperature swings between seasons. Winter camping is limited as most facilities close by late September, though a few sites like Latah County Fairgrounds maintain year-round accessibility with reduced amenities.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Kamiak Butte County Park, campers can access hiking trails directly from the campground. "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," notes Kelsey G.
Fishing opportunities: Spring Valley Reservoir provides water recreation just outside Troy. "This reservoir camping area has many amenities which make it nice. Great docks on the water, swimming, fishing, bathrooms, trash cans, and even a fish cleaning station," says Hannah C. The reservoir typically sees peak fishing conditions in late spring.
Wildlife watching: The varied terrain creates diverse habitats for wildlife viewing. "Decent bird watching here. I always see a Great Blue Heron and often eagles as well!" shares Celine K. about Spring Valley Reservoir. The best viewing times are early morning or evening when animals are most active.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites. At Redtail Campground in McCroskey State Park, campers appreciate the solitude. "We stayed here for a night midweek after the Memorial Day weekend and had the whole campground to ourselves. Beautiful unobstructed views to the East, South and West," reports Mark M.
Panoramic views: The elevated ridgelines provide extensive vistas across multiple states. "You are on the Ridgeline between two valleys with views of the horizons of 50 miles or more. To the east it is very much like the views in the Smokey mountains," mentions Brett I. about Redtail Campground.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and grounds. "The sites are inexpensive. Running water and pit toilets on site. Very nice playground in the day use area," describes Cheryl S. about Kamiak Butte County Park.
What you should know
Seasonal water access: Water systems at some campgrounds shut down during colder months. At Redtail Campground, one camper noted, "There was potable water but it was turned off." Always bring extra water when camping between October and April.
Train noise: Some camping areas sit near active rail lines. At Palouse RV Park, "There are train tracks very very close, but it was not disruptive surprisingly for the time we were there," according to Megan K.
Weather preparedness: Wind can be significant at exposed sites. Rachel A. mentions about Spring Valley Reservoir, "Wind kicks up so high it's hard to make a campfire last." Pack windbreaks and secure tent stakes for camping on ridgelines or in open areas.
Cell service variations: Reception varies widely based on terrain. Brett I. notes about Redtail Campground, "ATT and Verizon were 3 plus. Great for solar and Skylink."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Very nice playground in the day use area," reports Cheryl S. about Kamiak Butte County Park, while Megan K. mentions, "So many chipmunks, dog friendly, well organized. Fairly cheap and good for families."
Easy hiking for kids: Look for shorter loop trails suitable for younger hikers. "The hiking loops are nice, if not short. The picnic areas are super nice and there are lots of spaces to enjoy," shares Celine K. about Robinson County Park.
Multi-activity sites: Some locations combine various recreation options. "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," notes Celine K. about Robinson County Park.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. Mark W. shares about Robinson County Park, "Electric only. Nice spot. Had to work it to get out 35' Brinkley in the largest spot partly clearance from trees and fence posts limiting back and fill efforts."
Access challenges: Some roads to campgrounds have height restrictions. Mark W. adds, "Drive in was a bit concerning with a 13'4" height. Routed through neighborhood in addition to power line height concerns... there were some lower lines that made us use the whole road to pick our line."
RV hookup options: Scenic Six Park offers full connections. Beverly A. notes, "I camp in my vehicle, so I rented a tent site. They gave me a RV site because they were not full, same price as tent site." Sites typically cost $20-30 per night with full hookups.
