13 Memorable Places to Camp in Coeur D’alene, Idaho

You’ll discover that Coeur d’Alene’s camping scene offers more than just a place to pitch your tent. From budget-friendly state parks to full-service RV resorts, this Idaho gem caters to every outdoor preference and spending level. Whether you’re seeking lakeside solitude at Beauty Creek or modern amenities at Blackwell Island, each location brings its own unique appeal. Let’s explore these 13 destinations that prove you don’t need to break the bank for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Farragut State Park: A Lakeside Paradise

Located on the southern shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Farragut State Park offers an impressive 4,000 acres of outdoor adventure and affordable camping options.

Nestled along Lake Pend Oreille’s southern shore, this expansive state park delivers 4,000 acres of natural wonder and budget-friendly camping.

You’ll find 223 individual campsites spread across multiple campgrounds, including Waldron with 69 water and electric hookup sites and Gilmore with 87 full and electric-only sites. The park also features seven group camps and ten camping cabins for alternative lodging options.

The park’s rich World War II history comes alive at the Museum at the Brig, where you can explore exhibits about naval training, German POWs, and women volunteers.

You won’t run out of activities, with options for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and even disc golf. In winter, try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

For your convenience, the park provides modern amenities like flush toilets, hot showers, and drinking water. Remember to book your campsite up to nine months ahead.

Beauty Creek Campground’s Hidden Treasures

Just a half mile from Lake Coeur d’Alene, Beauty Creek Campground offers a more intimate camping experience than its larger neighbor, Farragut State Park. This family-friendly destination provides an ideal setting for camping with young children.

With only 20 spacious campsites nestled in a narrow valley at 2,100 feet elevation, you’ll find both tent and RV spots complete with paved parking aprons and basic amenities like vault toilets and drinking water. Make sure to budget appropriately as sites cost $26 per night for single spots.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the campground delivers:

1. Direct access to popular hiking trails, including the Caribou Ridge National Recreation Trail
2. Two stunning overlooks of Lake Coeur d’Alene via the 1.8-mile Beauty Creek trail
3. Prime fishing spots for northern pike, chinook salmon, and bass in nearby streams

You’re just minutes from boating at Mineral Ridge boat ramp, and local towns offer additional adventures from para-sailing to seaplane rides.

Blackwell Island RV Park’s Waterfront Experience

Nestled on an island in the heart of Coeur d’Alene, Blackwell Island RV Park offers waterfront camping from April through October with rates starting at $49 per night.

You’ll find 182 sites equipped with full hookups, including 20/30/50 amp service, water, sewer, and cable TV.

The park’s private beach lets you swim, launch kayaks, or relax by the water. On-site amenities include volleyball courts, biking areas, and coin-operated laundry facilities. With a rating of 4.4, guests consistently praise the park’s prime waterfront location.

While Wi-Fi is available, it’s most reliable in designated Wi-Fi rooms. You’re just minutes from local attractions like Tubbs Hill Nature Trails and Fort Sherman historic site.

Premium waterfront sites cost up to $89 during peak season, but standard sites offer better value.

All campsites include picnic tables, and the park welcomes both pets and RVs of various sizes.

Wolf Lodge Campground: Where Rustic Meets Comfort

While embracing its rustic charm, Wolf Lodge Campground delivers modern comforts across its diverse range of accommodations.

Experience wilderness with a touch of luxury at Wolf Lodge, where rustic meets modern in perfect outdoor harmony.

You’ll find cozy cabins, shaded RV sites with spacious pull-thrus, and creek-side tent spots that cater to every camping style. The friendly staff members are always available to provide local recommendations and assistance during your stay. The renovated facilities include ADA-compliant restrooms, modern laundry machines, and reliable Wi-Fi for basic connectivity.

1. Watch the sunset from your private campfire, with traditional fire pits at tent sites and propane options for RV campers.
2. Spend afternoons paddling on Lake Coeur d’Alene with rental kayaks and canoes.
3. Let your pets roam in the fenced dog park while kids enjoy the playground and volleyball court.

The campground’s mix of natural surroundings and thoughtful amenities makes it an ideal base for exploring the lake’s recreational opportunities and nearby mountain trails.

Camp Coeur D’Alene’s All-Season Adventures

Spanning all four seasons, Camp Coeur D’Alene transforms from a summer water sports haven into a winter wonderland without losing its adventurous spirit.

You’ll find endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, whether you’re paddleboarding on the lake in July or snowshoeing through pristine trails in December.

In warmer months, take advantage of the direct lake access for swimming, fishing, and boating. The free paddle boats and canoes provided by the camp make water exploration accessible to all guests.

When temperatures drop, you can explore snow-covered landscapes perfect for winter sports.

Spring and fall offer ideal conditions for hiking the surrounding trails, where you might spot local wildlife in their natural habitat.

The camp’s proximity to Coeur d’Alene city means you’re never far from urban amenities, while still enjoying the wild, remote setting that makes outdoor adventures truly memorable.

Bell Bay Campground’s Mountain Views

Along the southeast shores of Coeur d’Alene Lake, Bell Bay Campground offers some of the area’s most spectacular mountain vistas.

From the upper loop, you’ll get unobstructed views of the lake while being nestled among towering Ponderosa pines. At just $26 per night, you can wake up to breathtaking sunrises and end your days with stunning sunsets over the water. The group site area can accommodate up to 75 people for larger gatherings and special events.

Experience tranquil lakeside camping beneath majestic pines, where every morning brings a new masterpiece painted across Coeur d’Alene’s pristine waters.

1. Watch for local wildlife from your campsite while surrounded by mixed pine forest
2. Capture memorable photos from the upper loop’s premium vantage points
3. Follow trails to the day use area for lakefront relaxation and mountain panoramas

The campground’s two loops provide different perspectives of the landscape, with the lower loop offering easy lake access and the upper loop delivering sweeping views perfect for group gatherings.

Mineral Ridge Recreation Area’s Scenic Escapes

Located just minutes from Beauty Creek Campground, Mineral Ridge Recreation Area offers an ideal blend of hiking and lakeside activities without breaking the bank.

You’ll find a well-maintained 3.3-mile loop trail that showcases stunning views of Coeur d’Alene Lake, with interpretive signs to enhance your outdoor learning experience.

The area’s practical amenities include paved parking, two picnic shelters, and drinking water stations, making it perfect for budget-friendly day trips. Nature enthusiasts can observe up to 150 eagles during their winter migration from November to February.

You can easily combine your camping adventure with hiking, photography, and wildlife watching.

When you’re ready to cool off, head to the nearby Mineral Ridge boat ramp for quick access to the lake.

The facility’s accessible design guarantees everyone in your group can enjoy the landscaped grounds and scenic viewpoints without additional cost.

Mica Bay Public Boat Launch & Camping

For a serene water-based camping experience, you’ll find the Mica Bay Public Boat Launch and its accompanying Boater Park just south of Coeur d’Alene via Old U.S. Drive past Mica, Idaho, and turn left on Old U.S. Hwy 95 Road to reach this peaceful destination.

The park offers 16 tent sites accessible primarily by boat, making it perfect for a budget-friendly adventure away from crowds. Visitors will appreciate the convenient paved parking lot that leads directly to the launch area.

Escape the ordinary at this hidden gem, where 16 boat-accessible campsites promise solitude and adventure without breaking the bank.

1. Pack light and bring essential camping gear – you’ll need to boat or hike to reach your campsite.
2. Take advantage of the park’s amenities, including vault toilets, picnic areas, and two mooring docks.
3. Spend your days swimming at the beach, paddling to nearby attractions like Toad Rock, or exploring Camp Sweyolakan.

You’ll find ample parking at the launch and plenty of opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing throughout your stay.

Harrison City RV Park’s Urban Retreat

While seeking an urban camping experience with modern amenities, you’ll discover Harrison City RV Park nestled along Lake Coeur d’Alene’s eastern shore.

Just 51 minutes from Coeur d’Alene and accessible via US-97, this campground offers both tent and RV sites with full hookups.

You’ll find essential amenities including 30-amp service, water hookups, and WiFi at each site.

The park’s walkability score of 61 means you’re never far from local conveniences.

Your camping experience includes access to showers, restrooms, and picnic tables.

The location puts you right on the lake with a marina nearby, and you’re just steps from the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes for hiking and biking.

Pet owners will appreciate the designated pet area near the RV dump station.

With a rating of 3.0 out of 5, the campground ranks second among Harrison’s three camping destinations.

Blue Creek Bay Campground’s Tranquil Setting

Deep within the 736-acre Wallace Forest Conservation Area, Blue Creek Bay Campground offers a serene escape just eight miles east of Coeur d’Alene.

You’ll find this non-fee public access area by taking Interstate 90 to Wolf Lodge Bay exit, then heading north on Yellowstone Trail Road.

The 6-mile loop trail network showcases the area’s natural beauty with:

1. Mixed fir and pine forests providing cool shade on hot days
2. Ridge-top vistas overlooking Lake Coeur d’Alene’s sparkling waters
3. Peaceful meadows perfect for wildlife watching and quiet reflection

Whether you’re hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding, you’ll appreciate the blend of single-track trails and old logging roads. History buffs will be intrigued by the historic Mullan Road that runs through the area.

While camping here is rustic, you’re close enough to Coeur d’Alene for supplies, making it ideal for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility. The area’s free activities make it an excellent choice for families looking to explore nature without breaking the bank.

Heyburn State Park’s Natural Wonders

Nestled where three pristine lakes merge with the St. Joe River, Heyburn State Park offers you an unforgettable natural escape across 8,000 acres.

You’ll discover three distinct lakes – Benewah, Chatcolet, and Hidden – each perfect for fishing, swimming, or boating adventures.

The park’s old-growth forests showcase majestic ponderosa pines, cedars, and hemlocks, creating a stunning backdrop for your outdoor activities.

You can spot osprey soaring overhead or whitetail deer grazing in meadows dotted with wildflowers.

With 44 miles of trails, including access to the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, you’ll find plenty of hiking options that fit your skill level. The visitor center provides friendly, helpful staff ready to guide you toward the best local trails.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or camping stay, the park’s diverse landscape provides year-round recreational opportunities at budget-friendly rates.

Round Lake State Park’s Family-Friendly Haven

Just 16 miles south of Coeur d’Alene, Round Lake State Park offers families a compact yet adventure-filled 142-acre paradise.

You’ll find 51 campsites, including 16 with water and electricity, perfect for both tent camping and RVs up to 24 feet. Remember that quiet hours run 10PM-7AM, ensuring peaceful nights for all campers. The park’s accessibility features guarantee everyone in your family can enjoy the outdoors comfortably.

Experience these memory-making highlights:

1. Paddle across the peaceful 58-acre lake in a rental canoe ($14/hour) while watching for ospreys and Canada geese.
2. Trek forest trails to spot beaver lodges and maybe even catch a glimpse of a moose.
3. Let your kids earn their Junior Ranger badge through educational programs at the visitor center.

The park’s manageable size and well-maintained facilities make it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions, including golf courses and the Bonner County Historical Museum.

Thompson Lake Campground’s Wilderness Experience

Located on the northeast border of Harrison, Thompson Lake Wildlife Refuge spans 1,000 acres of pristine wetlands that you can explore without spending a dime.

While you can’t camp directly within the refuge, you’ll find plenty of camping options in nearby Coeur d’Alene.

The refuge boasts the region’s largest nesting osprey population and attracts diverse wildlife, including eagles, white swans, and shorebirds.

You’ll find ADA-accessible areas, basic facilities like restrooms, and convenient parking. If you’re bringing a boat, there’s a ramp on the adjacent Coeur d’Alene River.

For photographers and nature enthusiasts, the refuge offers year-round access to capture stunning wildlife shots and observe various species in their natural habitat. The refuge is situated along East Thompson Lake Road in Harrison, Idaho.

Remember to pack your binoculars – the wetland ecosystem provides excellent birdwatching opportunities throughout the seasons.

Recap

Pack your tent and head to Coeur d’Alene’s diverse camping spots, where crystal-clear lakes mirror towering pines and starlit skies await. You’ll find budget-friendly options from basic tent sites at $15 to full-service RV hookups at $45. Whether you’re pitching a tent at Beauty Creek or parking your RV at Blackwell Island, these 13 destinations offer practical amenities and unforgettable views without breaking the bank.