Camping options near Valleyford, Washington range from lakeside sites to forested retreats at elevations between 2,000-2,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during July and August, cooling significantly at night even during peak season. Most campgrounds in this area operate from May through mid-September due to seasonal weather patterns.
What to do
Hiking waterfall trails: Liberty Lake Regional Park offers a 7-mile round-trip trail to a scenic waterfall through cedar groves. "This is a nice site that is know for its hiking trail. It is also close to play structure and small beach. It has paved/gravel roads," notes a visitor to Liberty Lake Regional Park.
Kayaking and canoeing: Several lakes provide water recreation opportunities within 20-30 minutes of Valleyford. At Camp Coeur D Alene, "We took the paddle boat our for a sunset cruise and it was a very memorable experience!" One camper mentions the park "offers tent camping, full service RV camping, and cabins for rent. There are hiking trails adjacent, a well stocked camp store and laundry facilities."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife including deer, moose, and various bird species. "We saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks," reports a camper about their stay at Liberty Lake Regional Park, adding that "There were deer in the campground every day."
What campers like
Lake access: Multiple campgrounds provide direct water access for swimming and fishing during summer months. One camper at Wolf Lodge Campground appreciated "kayaking down the creek at the campground and saw wildlife." The campground runs from May 15 to October 1 with various accommodation options.
Natural settings: Despite proximity to urban areas, many sites maintain a natural atmosphere. At Bowl and Pitcher Campground, a visitor noted, "This is a larger campground great for RV, trailers and tents. The sites are enclosed in a circle, making a nice walk or bike ride. The campground has partial hook ups and is very camper friendly otherwise."
Free amenities: Some campgrounds include unexpected extras with your stay. A camper at Camp Coeur D Alene shared, "This place has great amenities (free canoes, hot showers, flush toilets, free firewood) which made it the nicest campground I had been to for awhile."
What you should know
Highway noise: Several campgrounds near Valleyford sit close to Interstate 90, creating noise considerations. A Wolf Lodge visitor mentioned, "Next to the interstate with heavy truck traffic is right next to it. Felt like the traffic was going through my tent."
Reservation requirements: Most sites, especially glamping close to Valleyford, Washington, require advance booking. "We did not have reservations beforehand and got the last space available on a Monday. Advise reservations," notes a visitor to Riverside State Park.
Site proximity: Many campgrounds feature sites positioned relatively close together. "The sites (especially the first few) are awfully close. This is a great campground for camping with friends but I don't recommend it for a quiet getaway," explains a tent camper at Liberty Lake.
Military ID requirements: Some recreational areas require military identification. A visitor to Clear Lake Recreation Area noted, "Military ID required. Sites 1-15 have zero shade and are close together. Dogs are not allowed on the beach or lake areas."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access facilities: Several glamping options near Valleyford offer dedicated swimming areas. "There is a clean shower/bathroom building and a beach within walking distance of the campground," reports a visitor to Liberty Lake Regional Park.
Playground amenities: Some campgrounds include play structures for children. A camper at Chatcolet Campground observed it's "Frequented by young families so don't be annoyed by kids having a good time on their bikes or playing."
Bike-friendly options: Multiple sites offer biking opportunities for family recreation. "We picked this campground for its access to the Trail of the Coeur D'Alenes. The campground is small and peaceful, at least mid week," notes a visitor to Chatcolet Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require equipment for proper leveling. "Nice cozy camp site. Can be a bit crowded but is nice here. Bring your blocks," advises an RV camper at Liberty Lake.
Size restrictions: Larger RVs face limitations at certain campgrounds. At Riverside State Park, "The largest site length is 45 feet, so large RVs won't fit."
Hookup variations: Electric service types vary between campgrounds. Bowl and Pitcher Campground offers "several partial-hookup sites with electricity and water, and several with no hook ups. There is a dump station, and two restrooms both with showers."
