Tent camping sites near Viola, Idaho range from established campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites. The region sits within the rolling hills of the Palouse, with elevations ranging from 2,500 to 3,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during day and drop to 45-55°F at night, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for rainfall averaging 2-3 inches monthly.
What to do
Hammock camping options: Giant White Pine Campground provides ideal hammock setups among its wooded sites. "I really like this campground for hammock camping. I had no trouble finding just the right spot to set up my gear," notes camper Megan K., who also mentioned finding "a really nice hiking trail near the campsite" where she "spent most of the day exploring the surrounding areas."
Water activities: Blyton Landing offers waterfront camping with swimming and fishing opportunities. According to a recent visitor: "Super pretty, gets real cold at night. Very convenient stop between pullman/moscow and clarkston/lewiston. The wildlife is very loud and very curious so bring earplugs if your sensitive to noise."
Hiking with views: Kamiak Butte County Park provides trail access 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," shares Kelsey G.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Big Eddy Marina & Lodge offers secluded tent camping along its trail system. A camper explains: "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Tent campers at Blyton Landing report diverse wildlife encounters. The area provides habitat for various birds and small mammals that frequently visit campsites. Campers should store food properly as wildlife is described as "very curious" by reviewers.
Affordable options: Most sites in the region cost between $8-15 per night. At Kamiak Butte County Park, one camper noted: "It was $15 a night plus $5 for an extra car. Nice campground, clean, trash cans at each site and a pit toilet."
What you should know
Road noise considerations: Giant White Pine Campground sits close to Highway 6, creating consistent traffic noise. One camper observed: "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. Beautiful trees."
Trail difficulty levels: Backpacking to tent sites at Mini Camp 4.7 requires preparation for challenging terrain. "Don't let the short distance fool you, this hike will test you, especially with a heavy pack, but SO worth it!" advises Rachel A., who camped there.
Water access limitations: While some sites appear to offer water access, reaching water sources can be challenging at certain campgrounds. A Big Eddy camper noted: "It is possible to get to the water (if you have a hydration filter pack), but it's not a beach like shore. I did swim, and the water gets very deep very quickly off the first two campsites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kamiak Butte County Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Very nice playground in the day use area," mentions Cheryl S., making it suitable for families with young children.
Wildlife education opportunities: Dworshak National Fish Hatchery provides educational experiences near camping areas. "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," reports Megan K.
Family-friendly campsites: Kamiak Butte County Park caters well to families according to visitor Megan S.: "Super cute small campground. So many chipmunks, dog friendly, well organized. Fairly cheap and good for families."
Tips from RVers
Spacious sites for vehicles: Several campsites offer adequate room for parking. At Kamiak Butte County Park, Jace G. reported: "Very easy to find campsite. Plenty of space for our vehicle, a fire pit and grill area. Just overall a great experience."
Limited hookup options: The best tent camping near Viola, Idaho typically lacks RV hookups. Most established campgrounds offer basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings but no electricity, water, or sewer connections for RVs.
Seasonal considerations: Boyer Park Campground near Lower Granite Dam offers favorable spring conditions for RVers. Scott B. notes: "Nice area to go in the spring because it's generally 10 degrees warmer than Spokane - nice boat launches - docks and mooring - full hook ups - showers - restaurant and store."
