Wallace sits at the base of the Bitterroot Mountain Range at approximately 2,700 feet elevation, offering campers a blend of forest and riverside camping options. The area experiences warm summer days with cooler nights, creating ideal conditions for exploring the region's extensive trail systems and waterways. Pet-friendly camping options near Wallace provide access to both developed facilities and dispersed sites along the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River.
What to do
Tubing the river: Launch from areas near Bumblebee Campground for a relaxing float. "Great place if you like to ride your toys. You'll want to bring good cars because the road gets pretty primitive. Awesome lake for kayaking and paddle boarding," notes Nathan M. about Lake Elsie.
Explore historic sites: Visit Murray, a historic mining town north on CDA River Road. "Drive north on the CDA River Road and you'll find the historic mining town of Murray. Stop off at the Pritchard Tavern on your way back. It's an historic tavern in the middle of nowhere," recommends a visitor to Albert's Landing.
Hiking with dogs: Access numerous trails from Lake Elsie area. "This is one of the most spectacular campsites I have ever been to. It's off I-90, down a long (8ish mile) dirt road. ROAD IS NARROW, WINDY, AND STEEP," writes lili G.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Many campgrounds offer premium spots adjacent to waterways. "We backed right above the creek. With the windows open I could hear it babbling all night. Pure bliss," shares Jennifer H. about Wallace RV Park.
Lake fishing opportunities: Alpine lakes provide excellent fishing. "We stay here often. Easy to drive up to. Any vehicle will do. Dirt road to the top where you will find a lovely little lake with 4-5 camp spots surrounding it. We always catch lots of brooke and rainbow trout and wild life is everywhere!" notes Jessica C. about Lake Elsie Campground.
Off-road trail access: Multiple locations connect to ATV routes. "Tons of riding trails and a quiet campground," says Russell M. about Lake Elsie, making it popular for those bringing off-road vehicles.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require travel on rough forest roads. "The road up to the lake is really rough and narrow but manageable with a proper vehicle," advises Diadra G. about Lake Elsie.
Wildlife awareness: Bears frequently visit campsites. "Multiple bears went through the campground in the evening and came back at around 3am. Be careful with your food and be smart," warns Natalie J. at Lake Elsie.
Seasonal crowding: Summer weekends fill quickly at popular spots. "Might be a place you could stop mid-week (though I would guess it stays fairly busy all summer) or during the off-season, but if avoid it during the summer if you're looking for any privacy or quiet," suggests Karen about Bumblebee Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Look for gentle water access points. "This is a spacious, green campground surrounded by trees and greenery. Great for bike rides, fire pit cooking and hiking. This is a popular spot for tubing, swimming and playing in the river," reports Amy S. about Bumblebee Campground.
Pack for variable temperatures: Mountain elevations create cool evenings even in summer. "Clean park with beautiful creekside camping. Friendly employees and a very pet friendly. Road next the RV Park is very busy! It does slow down after dark but be prepared for road noise during daylight hours," notes Shonni N.
Pack out pet waste: No disposal facilities at dispersed sites. "This campground was super cozy and safe. They had firewood for sale, a pool, and clean showers and bathrooms. We had a very comfortable stay and were able to connect to the wifi at our tent site," shares Sienna V. about Camp Coeur D Alene.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many forest campgrounds can't accommodate large rigs. "A beautiful small privately owned campground in the heart of Wallace Idaho. Awful hook up sites, all very level sites! We did not have reservations and although the park was pretty full they were very accommodating and letting us use one of the smaller sites for our RV," shares Kelly N.
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at forest service sites. "We were hesitant to stay as there were no trees in individual sites, but because if it's location in a narrow canyon it became shady and cooled down quickly in the afternoon. Clean showers! 3 cabins. Friendly staff," reports Kathy H.
Highway noise considerations: Some sites experience road noise. "Your right next to freeway very noisy. The AC couldn't drown out the traffic noise. Wore earplugs. Very nice people and a clean spot! Bonus the moose come to visit," mentions BoGwen J. about By the Way Campground.
