The best camping near Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge adventure.

Discover Kootenai Refuge's wildlife and scenic trails.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge

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Paradise on Mirror Lake

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Sagle, ID

>>> Voted #1 Campground in Idaho 2022, 2024 and #2 in 2023 (Hipcamp Awards) <<< Like a postcard photograph, Bigfoot Campout is perched up about 50 feet over Mirror Lake, sitting in a mountain bowl on one end of the lake. Campers will have gorgeous views and sunsets over the lake. Fishing, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, hiking and wildlife watching abound. The campsite is off-the-beaten path so you'll be away from the crowds, yet the site is still close to other area attractions like Lake Pend Oreille (10 min. drive), charming downtown Sandpoint (15 min. drive) and Silverwood Theme Park (30 min. drive). The beauty and allure of Mirror Lake led to it being featured in two Hollywood movies -- Dante's Peak (1997) and Mel (1998). The lake itself is excellent for fishing, and stocked with Kokanee, Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Cutthroat Trout. The stocking is typically scheduled for the first week of June each year, so if you are an angler, it's best to come after June 7th for the best fishing. (Just before June, the fish stock will be at it's lowest point of the year, so keep that in mind.) Paying homage to the Bigfoot legend in northern Idaho, the theme of this campground is all things Sasquatch! Can you find all 9 Sasquatch hiding throughout the campground? Some are hard to find, while others are in plain sight! Swimming in nearby Talache Landing (a.k.a. Talache Beach) on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille is an absolute must-do. The views are absolutely stunning and the water is crystal clear -- and quite refreshing on a hot day. Fishing is best done in a canoe or small boat which can be put in at our campground dock (free) or at the nearby public boat ramp ($5 fee). Fishing off of the campground dock is also a possibility but beware that lily pads are prevalent. Please obey all of the camp rules which are listed in each campsite. The most important campground rule is leaving the campground just as you found it, or better. This means smothering fires and packing out all trash to prevent wildlife from visiting our campground! A bit of history... In 2021, the campsites were graveled and graded, each with their own picnic table and fire pit. A mulch tent pad was added to Campsites C and D. An on-site Port-A-Potty was also installed at this time. In 2022, 50-30-20 Amp electric pedestals for camper and RV use were installed in campsites B and C/D. Also, a sand tent pad was installed in campsite F and a Sasquatch Trail was added where you can search for many Bigfoot hiding in the woods! In 2023 a brand-new 70' elevated nature-walk and dock were installed on the lakefront. In campsite E, a mulch tent pad was installed. Also, an interactive "Enchanted Forest" was added to the campground, which lights up a night to reveal all of the woodland creatures that live there! (Kids love this!) In 2024, a lakefront tiny cabin was added down by the dock at Campsite A, along with a grassy beach, hammocks and a grass tent pad. An Amenities Shed full of several camping games like horseshoes and corn hole was also added by the Port-A-Potty area. Two additional Port-A-Potties were also added, bringing the total to three for the campground. In 2025, a water tower will be installed, allowing campers to fill up with potable water within steps of each campsite. In addition, Fern Trail will be completed where you can hike through a "fern forest" along the lakefront. In 2026, a concrete corn hole pit will be installed, as well as a "shower bag" showering area. Yurt construction will also begin in 2026, with likely completion in 2027. As the host for this campground, I do not live on-site. You may reach me anytime before, during, or after your stay via phone, text or Hipcamp messenger. I almost always respond within a few minutes. Detailed directions, and camp information will be sent to every booked guest 48 hours prior to their arrival. When selecting your campsite, please take note of the following: Best lake views: Campsite A, C and D. (Campsites E and F have partially obstructed lake views due to trees.) Easiest RV access: Campsite B. It's a pull-through site. Most private: Campsites A and B, or booking Campsites C/D or E/F together. (Do not book C/D or E/F for complete privacy unless you book them in pairs.) Most shade: Campsites A, E and F. Sunniest: Campsites B, C an D. Electric access: Campsites B, C and D. (C/D share a power pedestal.) Nearest to Port-a-Potty: Campsites A and E. Nearest to lake: Campsite A. Best for large parties: Booking Campsites C/D together (for larger RV camping parties) or booking Campsites E/F together (for moderate-sized tent camping parties). Property located 48°10'11.0"N, 116°30'02.1"W

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Under the Cedars

8 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Priest River, ID

There are mountains, wetlands, meadows and forest land right in our back yard with an abundance of wildlife that don't understand boundaries. At any time, one critter or another will stroll through and feast on whatever vegetation they desire. We don't have a view of the river but it's nearby and our meadows and mountains offer a peaceful scene all its own. Camp surrounded by Old Growth Cedars and towering Grand Fir, stargaze by night, enjoy a campfire, smores and time with your family, Our peace includes little to no cellular or wifi service. We still depend on our landline phone and don't offer internet or satellite tv. Feels like we're in the country but we live on a paved county road and only 4 miles from the city of Priest River. Bring your boat for a trip on the Pend Oreille River to Lake Pend Oreille. Launching is a short distance away at the Mud Hole, Priest River City Beach or Riley Creek Campground. Try your hand at fishing for bass, kokanee, perch, northern pike, and trout in the river or on the lake. Wake up in a peaceful woodsy setting where elk, deer, the occasional moose and turkeys roam the property and are often seen in the meadow. Load up your ATV, side by side or motorcycle and head for Priest Lake right from here. It’s a 21 mile (40 minute ride) to Coolin, ID. Enjoy the back county and take some of the IDL roads along the way to explore scenic drainages and in July/August pick some luscious huckleberries (the state fruit of Idaho) for a pancake or milkshake treat. In the fall, a nice central location for hunting camp. Want to go skiing or enjoy the summer lift ride? Head up to Schweitzer Mountain, about an hour drive away (38 miles/65 mins). The city of Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille (Idaho's largest lake) are a half hour away (26 miles/33 mins) and Silverwood Theme Park in Athol, ID less than an hour away (36 miles/52 min).

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Lakeview Majesty

9 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Hope, ID

Enjoy our beautiful peaceful, scenic property while tent camping or RV camping (full hookups). Gorgeous views of Idaho's largest lake, Lake Pend Oreille. Wake up in a peaceful woodsy setting where deer and turkeys roam the property. Stargaze by night, while you enjoy every lake amenity available by the day, only half a mile away! Sandpoint Marina and beach are only 12 miles away! Want to go skiing? Head up to Schweitzer Mountain, only a short 30 minute drive away.

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Maverick Mountain Home

2 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Hope, ID

Maverick Mountain Home is perched on a mountainside several hundred feet above picturesque Trestle Creek, a protected Kokanee Salmon and Bull Trout spawning habitat, two short but gorgeous miles up the road from Lake Pend Oreille. Our property is hidden within an epic cedar and hemlock forest, bracketed by the Kaniksu National Forest to the east and conservation land to the west. SPRING/SUMMER/FALL: Spend the afternoon at the Trestle Creek Recreation Area just 2 miles down the road on the edge of Lake Pend Oreille (just off Highway 200) where you can launch your boat, go for a swim, or paddle along the shore in your kayak. Or, for a more adventurous afternoon head up Trestle Creek Road into the Kaniksu National Forest backcountry where you can check out Lunch Peak Lookout, hike the miles of pristine trails to one of the three mountain lakes, explore several waterfalls, or drive the entire 35 mile backcountry loop down to the town of Clark Fork. Better yet, find a secluded spot along Trestle Creek to hang your hammock and read a book until the peaceful sound of the water flowing by and the wind in the trees lulls you to sleep. WINTER: Bring your snow machines and sled in/out to the Trestle Creek loop system boasting spectacular backcountry terrain on 50+ miles of groomed trails, directly from your campsite! Trailer parking is available. If skiing is your thing, Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort is an easy (and gorgeous) 45 minute drive away. Don't tell anyone, but Schweitzer Mountain is an absolute gem of a ski resort with gorgeous terrain (and views) for all ages and skill levels. Our family spends a good bit of time skiing here. Of note: a 4-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicle is required to climb our driveway during winter conditions. OUR STORY: We (Tim and Molly) spent 14 years raising our young family in the desert heat of north Phoenix. Every summer we went camping as many weekends as we possibly could with our four (now five) children. We fell in love with the backcountry forests of the northern Arizona mountain ranges. Somewhere along the way we felt called to have a place where we could share some of the blessings our family experienced in the wilderness with others who long for a quiet place in the woods to unwind and escape the noise and pace of life in the city, if only for a few days. We found this place in 2018, moved our family here in 2019, named it Maverick Mountain Home and started preparing. We've spent the last five years working on all sorts of different projects around the property, including (but certainly not limited to) starting a new business, beginning the long-term remodel of our house, and building out infrastructure for livestock and personal guests. We've dedicated a good portion of the last few months to preparing our first HipCamp site, which we are very excited to start sharing with you, Camper!

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Creekside On Trestle Creek

2 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Hope, ID

Follow and tag us on Instagram @creeksideattrestle Creekside on Trestle Creek is located in Hope Idaho. Beautiful Trestle Creek runs directly through the property. Trestle creek is a protected Bull Trout spawning ground as well as other fish including the annual visit from the Kokanee Salmon each fall. Creekside tent Site #1 is located right at the edge of Trestle Creek, has ample space for two or three tents, a fire pit, picnic table, and parking space for two vehicles. Relaxing sounds of Trestle Creek 10 feet from your tent. Ample lake, hiking, and fishing opportunities in the summer, hunting in the Fall, and close to snowmobile trails and skiing in the Winter. One mile from Trestle Creek Rec. area with picnic, swimming, lake and boat launch. 4 miles from Snowmobile parking and miles of trails. Our working homestead has the occasional sound of animals(cats, chickens ,dogs), tractor, chainsaw and sometimes shooting.

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Grumpy Chicken Tent

2 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Sandpoint, ID

Learn more about this land:We are located on a You-Pick flower farm, a field of flowers for you to enjoy. You will be staying in a 10x14 elevated deck canvas tent. There is a daybed with 2 twins beds and 2 twin blow up mattress. Linens are provided. There is also room for tents. There is running water and a port o potty on the property.

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Shameless Oasis Lodging and Camping

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Troy, MT

Located in Yaak, MT, along the PNT (pacific northwest trail), deep in the Kootenai National Forest, in the Northwestern corner of Montana. Pick your campsite in the trees or in the grass, shade or sun. The 2 acre grounds extend to Yaak River, with a shared dock, and communal outdoor kitchen, (propane grill and fire pit, small fridge, some pans and utensils). Camp fire wood is available for purchase, or bring your own local firewood. Camping fee includes Hot outdoor shower, outdoor kitchen, outhouses, fire pits, WiFi, trash cans. In Summer, we have an on-site espresso/ice cream shop and fresh chicken eggs for sale. Roads and trails to explore are endless. Rivers, waterfalls, alpine lakes, Kootenai Falls and Lake Kookanusa are all close by. In Winter, explore groomed snowmobile/cross country ski trails, or go back country. Also, Turner Mountain Ski Area is only 17 miles away. Come set up your tent, or car camp. Also, we can accommodate your small camper/RV, with water and 110 power hookups. The Oasis can also be rented for parties and events, up to 100 people. Package includes exclusive use of the grounds, dock, outdoor kitchen, outdoor shower, firepits, and grills. Message for more information. Come Enjoy the true Montana experience here!

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The Woods in Sagle

2 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Sagle, ID

Our property in Sagle has two separate sites but also close enough to be used as a group campsite. Each has a fire pit and picnic table. There is a porta-potty very close with a handwashing station and garbage can. Please note there is potable water in the property but not at the sites. These are dry sites without potable water, electricity, sewer hookups or dump. Initial supply of firewood supplied with additional available for purchase at a low reasonable cost. There are other traditional vacation rentals on the property including your hosts home. We are surrounded by tall trees where it is very quiet with the exception of many bird, the distant call of the trains as well as our resident owls. You will find a Lake Pend Oreille is 15 minutes away, Sandpoint is about 10 minutes away with a wonderful swimming beach and Silverwood Theme Park is about 20 minutes. There is lots to do here from fishing and hunting to boating and skiing. Come visit soon!

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ALMOST TO CANADA - FAR NORTH IDAHO

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Bonners Ferry, ID

Note: We have a Bonners Ferry, ID mailing address but our physical location is approximately 30 miles North of Bonners Ferry and 1 mile South of Eastport, ID. We are a mile South of the Canadian Border just off US 95. 2024 SEASON INFO - New for 2024 we will have a swing set down by the river below the campsite. It is a common use amenity open to River Cabin and Campsite guests. Adult supervision is required. Thank you. You are in a forest on land shaped by the last Ice Age, The forest has nurtured generations of of wildlife including majestic birds of prey. It sustained the Kootenai People before borders separated their lands. It saw determined miners pass this way seeking their fortune in gold from British Columbia. This forest supplied timber to build railroads and homes for families in the western migration. Our family is the current steward of this forest and it is our wish to respectfully share its beauty and observe its wildlife with your family and friends! Our Forest is surrounded by Kaniksu National Forest which is managed by the United States Forest Service (USFS) as part of the Idaho Panhandle. National Forest.. The Moyie River ( say Moy-yay) has headwaters at Moyie Lake in British Columbia and feeds into the Kootenai River (say Koo-ten-e) just East of Bonners Ferry. The Moyie River is 95 miles long. The area is private, so there is no view of the neighbors. You’ll have a broken view of the Host’s Cabin. Camp is situated on 15.4 acres of Certified Family Forest. If you hear the rumble of a train at night, it's because the Union Pacific passes along the opposite edge of the property from the campsites. There is no mobile phone service at the campsite . There is WiFi at the campsite shelter. We strongly suggest you activate the “Cell over WiFi “ function on your smartphone BEFORE you arrive/lose cell signal so you can access Emergency 911 Services. There is a fire pit (firewood provided), covered shelter, a USFS-style charcoal grill, (bring charcoal and starter), picnic table, benches, bear-proof food storage box and TEMPORARY trash bin. Please plan to "pack-out" all of your trash and recyclables. There are a lot of deer roaming the property, along with many birds and other wildlife . OUR NIGHTLY CHARGE Includes all the firewood you need and a 10% Hipcamp Service Fee. It does not include 6% Idaho Sales Tax and 2% Idaho Convention and Travel Tax. Be Bear Aware : From April 1 - November 1 all food, beverages and trash must never be left unattended and, all of the same, be stored properly. Our Bear Box is large and can accommodate your supplies and cooler.

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Waterfront at Camp Peine

6 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Dover, ID

Beautiful far reaching southern views, shallow warm water, boat into Sandpoint. Week days are discounted 10% Paddleboards and kayaks are available for use in the bay. Hiking and biking, stargazing, kite flying, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Ski/snowboard at Schweitzer only 45 min drive to the mountain. Boat launch 2 miles away. A couple of mooring balls available, ask on availability. Shallow, soft, clay bottom. 17' water bouncer, slide, and double blaster available for fun times playing in the water during the summer months. Two sandy beaches shared with Hipcampers and family.

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7B Cabin

2 sites · Lodging32 acres · Athol, ID

Come nurture your soul at our off-grid cabin OR our grid tied cabin with modern conveniences. Surrounded by majestic conifers, you will find yourself in a forest paradise. Make time for bird watching, star gazing and watching wildlife enjoying their natural habitat. The cabins are both situated in a very private setting opposite our main house on our 32 acre property. We are conveniently located off Hwy 95, 7 miles north of Athol, ID. Spend your days exploring nearby Farragut State Park (7 miles), Round Lake State Park (15 miles), Sandpoint (20 miles), Coeur d’Alene (30 miles), or Silverwood Theme Park (9 miles). There are multiple dining options from breakfast to dinner within 7-10 miles. We have kayaks available upon request as there are multiple small lakes (Kelso and Granite Lake) less than 5 miles away. We are generally available and on-site 24/7 for any issues, questions and or problems that may need solved. In the case you forget anything at all……we can find it, fix it or provide it. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. Some exceptions could be accommodated for additional tent campers in the same group on a case by case basis. Please reach out if you have a special circumstance.

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Phoenix Rising Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Priest River, ID

This is a very private and quiet place, more of a sanctuary and not a party place. The only thing you hear is nature, a breeze through the pine trees, the birds, and the creek. This property was and is an organic permaculture farm in the forest. There are two orchards and an organic garden. The water is from a spring. The La Luna cabin is off-grid with an option to plugin if needed. Hot Showers at my cabins are private and outdoors. There's nothing more wonderful than a hot spring-fed shower. The toilets are composting. (No water is wasted here)! Two of the cabins were built from the trees on the property by the first family that lived here in the earlier 1900s. The Birds Nest cabin was originally a tool shed that needed a LOT of Love to be in the condition that it is today. It does have power, running water and wi-fi. There is the option to take an acrylic painting class, banjo, guitar or fiddle lessons, paddleboard lessons, and have a real old-timey campfire with a glass of wine or two with live music performed by our famous Fiddlin Red on the fiddle, banjo, and guitar. Your experience here may change your life forever! We haven't added all the experiential options yet, so if there is something you are interested in please inquire. Every year we make it more and more magical and interesting. It's four miles up a county-maintained dirt road and one mile to a non-motorized lake. I can't see my neighbors, but they are awesome artists and musicians and some of them are off the grid! If you're bringing a pet, they must be on a leash and be quiet pets. If you are bringing a child they also need to be quiet and respectful. I want to keep my neighbors and my other guests happy with a peaceful atmosphere. Thank you!

The best camping near Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge guide

Overview

About

Embark on a journey into undisturbed wilderness with a Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge camping expedition. Situated alongside the Selkirk Mountains in northern Idaho, this almost three-thousand-acre refuge boasts a mosaic of diverse habitats. From wetlands and meadows to riparian and coniferous forests, the area offers a vibrant sanctuary for a broad variety of wildlife, making it an exceptional destination for nature enthusiasts and campers alike. Primarily serving as a sanctuary for migrating waterfowl, Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers. The vast array of species and their fascinating behaviors make for a captivating spectacle, adding an extra layer of excitement to your camping trip. Camping near Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge also opens up an array of outdoor activities. From serene hikes through verdant forests to tranquil picnics amidst blooming meadows, each day offers a new adventure. And with the cultivated agricultural land that dots the refuge, you get a unique glimpse into the local farming practices. A short drive away, there are even more attractions waiting to be discovered. The Selkirk Mountains offer extensive trails for hiking and mountain biking, and the local communities of Bonners Ferry and Sandpoint provide an enticing mix of local culture, historic sites, and regional cuisine. A Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge camping experience promises an immersive adventure into the heart of Idaho's diverse landscapes and wildlife, making every trip a unique and rewarding journey.

When to go

The best time to visit Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge is during the spring and fall migrations, when the refuge becomes a bustling hub for birdwatching. Summer offers lush greenery and active wildlife, while winter presents a serene, snowy landscape, ideal for those seeking tranquility amid nature's quiet.

Know before you go

Check the refuge's seasonal activity schedule to plan your visit around prime wildlife viewing opportunities.
Be prepared for bear country; carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Some trails may be closed due to weather or conservation efforts; call ahead to confirm accessibility.
No fees are required to enjoy the refuge, making it an accessible option for all visitors.
Remember to bring essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen for a safe and enjoyable day out.