The best camping near Kootenai National Forest
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Kootenai National Forest adventure.
71% (14 reviews)
71% (14 reviews)
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Top-rated campgrounds near Kootenai National Forest
96%
(173)
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 · 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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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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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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Creekside On Trestle Creek
1 site · Tent7 acres · Hope, ID
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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Shameless Oasis Lodging and Camping
12 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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North Haven Campground
23 sites · Lodging, RVs5 acres · Bonners Ferry, ID
ABOUT NORTH HAVEN...
Featuring 5+ acres in a peaceful wooded setting, with 5 Luxury Log Cabins (1BD and 2BD), 2 Conestoga Glamping Wagons w/ private bathroom access, 21 RV Sites, Bathhouse and Laundry Room (open 24/7), "The Outpost" Camp Store & Office, a 3/4 mile Nature Walking Trail Loop Around the Campground.
LUXURY LOG CABINS...
1-bedroom 1-bathroom log cabins that sleep up to 4 Guests.
2-bedroom 2-bathroom log cabins that sleep 6-8 Guests.
Two pet-friendly cabins available (Cabins 1 and 2).
CONESTOGA GLAMPING WAGONS...
Glamorous Camping at it's best!
King bed, twin-over-twin bunk bed; sleep up to 4 Guests;
Microwave, mini fridge and wagon wheel table;
Electricity, USB charging ports, Mitsubishi mini split for heat and A/C;
Private access to a dedicated bathroom in the adjacent Showerhouse, with shower, sink, toilet, with bath towels, bath amenities (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, bar soap);
Outdoor wood picnic table and fire pit;
Parking for one vehicle next to the Wagon
RV SITES...
21 RV sites: 10 full hook up; ALL are pull-through;
11 partial hook-up (Water and Electric); 7 are pull-through;
Each site features 20/30/50 amp electrical receptacles;
24/7/365 access to Bathhouse restrooms, showers and laundry room.
ABOUT THE OWNERS / MANAGERS...
Hi there! We are the Murdock Ohana family.
In the fall of 2020 we came to Bonners Ferry, Idaho for the first time. We stayed in a log cabin vacation rental at Log Inn Cabins & RV. We fell in love with the area and found a home to buy during that trip. Less than a year later we moved our family to Bonners Ferry.
We never would have imagined that two years after staying in that log cabin, that we would be the new owners of the RV park and log cabins campground where we stayed!
We are originally from Utah and lived in the Hawaiian Islands for nine years prior to moving to Bonners Ferry. Our daughters moved to Idaho with us and our son is still living in Hawaii. We have found a new kind of paradise in Bonners Ferry and we truly love it!
We are excited about this new chapter of life and look forward to continuing to provide a great service with the Log Cabins and RV sites under the new North Haven Campground business name. We will be introducing some fun and exciting new glamping options in 2023 for our Guests.
– The Murdocks
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BnR Horse Ranch
16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents161 acres · Libby, MT
Are you looking for an adventure and opportunities to explore the wilderness and Lake Koocanusa? Come experience camping off grid in the true beautiful nature and wildlife of Montana. I have an off grid ranch on 161 acres bordered by the Kootenai National Forest and Lake Koocanusa just down the dirt road. It's very wooded but does have a few open meadows. My land is very private surrounded by beautiful mountains, forestry, wildlife and streams/creeks. The lake has a great beach front for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, etc. There's a boat launch 3 miles away for bigger boats or pontoons. My property also provides direct access to hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, horse trail riding, biking, snowmobiling and 4-wheeling.
Want to bring your horse? We also offer horse camping, trail riding with overnight trail camping options and stall boarding. Round pen and outdoor arena available soon.
Learn more about this land:
Pitch a tent or park your RV next to the creek or anywhere on our 161 acres surrounded by the Kootenai National Forest. Full access to Lake Koocanusa for kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, etc. Immediate access to Kootenai National Forest with hundred miles of trails for hiking, 4-wheeling, biking, etc. Tour Libby Dam and visitor center located about 4 miles away. Also offer horse camping and trail riding.
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Home on the Range Campsite
2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Clark Fork, ID
This area is a fabulous collision of cultures that gives a Rustic-Mountain-Beach-relaxed-adventure vibe! (say that 3 times fast!) This is evident even on our property, as historically, it has been a hippy gathering site, a logging area, and a cattle range! We bought it as our 'forever home' and are working to create a forested ranch retreat. The property is off grid and offers all the serenity and remote feeling of a National Forest, but has quick access to daytime fun relaxation at the beach. For those who love both land and water, it couldn't be a better combination!Learn more about this land:RUSTIC MOUNTAIN BEACH DREAM! Camp in mountain solitude with the lake and beach only a short drive away. Enjoy Scotchman's peak and mountain views, sightings of wildlife and horses, stargazing, forest trailheads just down the quiet road; all in a relaxed beachy atmosphere. Shopping, tourist attractions, and all that comes with an eclectic town are just an hour away in Sandpoint. However, a few excellent restaurants can be found in Clark Fork and Hope. Campsites are private and out of view of our off-grid home but just a quick walk away. And you just might enjoy adventure tales from us about riding our horses across America, or make memories when we take you in to pet our horses, collect chicken eggs...or share in whatever farm excitement is happening! A note for booking your best stay: Campsite 1 has the best views, but is best for tent camping or very short trailers. Campsite 2 is flatter and the better option for trailers, oversize tents, and larger groups.
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Heritage Cabin Property
7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Fortine, MT
If you are looking for quietude, this is your spot! Twenty acres situated minutes from lakes, rivers and US Forest Service land. Partly forested and partly pasture land, we boast Aspen, Fir and Pine trees. Other wildlife that pass through include coyote, elk, deer and badger. Lots of bird life from woodpeckers and blue jays to eagles and owls. Fuel, groceries and river access available a short fifteen minute drive away.
Lake access is only twenty minutes to the closest, Murphy Lake. Half a dozen other lakes within a thirty minute range. We have a campfire ring set up at your RV/Camp site and camp wood is available. You have fresh, potable water on site as well as electric hook-up. No RV dump available. We are pet friendly! Since we do have neighbors and wildlife, we require pets to be leashed when not secured in our fenced area. We are located outside of the range of cell service when on-site however we do have wifi available at the host cabin.
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$16.65
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Blue Lake RV Resort
47 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · Naples, ID
BLUE LAKE RV RESORT
Your favorite North Idaho destination. Conveniently located in the heart of North Idaho, 22 miles north of Sandpoint and 5 miles south of Bonners Ferry.
From our lake to nearby trails and waterfalls, outdoor activities abound.
When entering the park, please watch for trains. There are no crossing arms.
COMING FROM THE SOUTH?
When you get here, go past our driveway, there is a semi-truck turnaround just 1/4 mile north of us. The approach from the north is much easier than trying to cross traffic coming from the south.
AMENITIES
•Our limited 36 sites on 21 acres make Blue Lake feel uncrowded and peaceful.
•Fire pits and picnic tables at EVERY SITE!
• Satellite-friendly sites available
•We retained the charm of the wooded, old-fashion campground of our youth, but with the amenities of a modern RV facility: WiFi, radiant floor heat and on demand hot water in the bathrooms, and full-service laundry.
•Big trees make lots of shade at the lakeside. The majority of the lake shore is shared space for all guests.
•Feed the turtles and catfish and watch the trout jump like little orcas! Big trout and catfish to be caught, no license needed!
•Summertime warms the surface water temps, so swim, kayak or float our awesome 3-acre lake.
•Enjoy the wine deck every day from 6pm-9 pm
•Free Showers
Every Bathroom in our bathhouse includes a toilet, sink and shower for your convenience.
Heated floors!
•Coin Laundry
$3.50 is needed to wash and dry 1 load. The laundry room also has a change machine for $1 bills.
•Free Wifi
Enjoy a free internet connection for checking emails and browsing the internet. Not suitable for streaming.
•Sauna
Book an all-day, private sauna for you and your friends Or book a single session on one of the open sauna days. Limited availability, you must book in advance
•Boat Rentals
Kayaks, Pedal Boats, and SUPs are available for rent by the hour.
•Movie Rentals
Action, Romance, Comedy, Cartoons. There’s something for everyone on our DVD rental shelf.
•Free Games/Balls
Giant Chess by the lake, horseshoes, Ladder Ball, Badminton, Bocce Ball, Ping Pong, Volley Ball, Croquet, Frisbee, footballs, checkers, Laddy Bug Tic-Tac-Toe.
•Wine and Beer Bar
Huckleberry Mimosas, Local Beers, Red and White Wine. We’ve got what you need to relax on our wine deck overlooking the lake.
•Swimming and Fishing
Swimming Dock, Fishing Dock. Cool off this summer with a dip in our lake. Or try your luck chasing trout, bass or catfish.
(catch and release only, no license needed)
•Firewood for Sale
Please help reduce the spread of invasive bugs and wood disease by buying locally. $5.25 per bundle or $15 for 3 bundles.Don’t worry, you’ll get more than 4 pieces in our bundles. Unlike some places…
•Ice for Sale
Run out of Ice? No need to run to town, we’ve got it right here.
•Community Fire Pits
Come down to the fire pits and listen to someone share their adventures, or share a story of your own!
•Dog Park
After a long day on the road, your pooch will enjoy our off-leash, fenced dog park, as well as our off-leash walking trail.
LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
•Places to Visit
-Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge
-Kootenai River
-Glacier National Park
-Bonners Ferry Pelton Wheel
-Boundary County Museum
-Brush Lake
-Mirror Lake Golf Course
-International Selkirk Loop
-9B Trails
-Clifty Mountain & Katka Peak
-Kootenai Falls & Swinging Bridge
-Snow Creek Falls
-Spruce Lake
-Copper Falls
-Myrtle Creek Falls
-Roman Nose Lakes
•Activities
-Dining
-Hiking
-Fishing
-Kayaking
-Golfing
-ATVs and Dirtbikes
-Bird Watching
-Bowling
-Bonners Ferry Events
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Hymas Family Farm Stay
6 sites · Lodging49 acres · Bonners Ferry, ID
Hymas Family Farm is an operating regenerative agricultural farm. We have cows to milk, eggs to gather, sheep to tend to
and pigs to feed each morning. You have the option for a farm fresh breakfast and to help with the chores. There are 29 acres of pasture and 15 acres of woods. Spectacular views nestled in a beautiful valley between the Rocky Mountains!
Learn more about this land:
North Idaho is outdoorsman's paradise. Hiking, fishing, climbing or relax and enjoy the peace of the farm and mountains. There are several waterfalls and lakes nearby or a majestic ski resort within an hour's distance. All are surrounded by the towering Rocky Mountains. Canada is 20 minutes to the north!
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The best camping near Kootenai National Forest guide
Overview
About
Stand on top of pine covered mountains and bask in the glory of the valleys below at Kootenai National Forest. With highly primitive areas like the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness, you can stand in lands untouched by time and man. If solitude is what you’re seeking you’ll find it here by way of bikes, hikes, and horseback riding. With a herd of glacial lakes, rivers, and streams, anglers and wave riders will have their pick at places like Bull Lake, Lake Koocanusa, and the Yaak River. With impressive mountain scenes, winter sports for days (hello, snowshoes!), and exciting history and wildlife, it’s easy to see why the Kootenai is Montana’s best kept secret!
Top cities near Kootenai National Forest
- Kootenai National Forest
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