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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Community favorites near Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge

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 BEST Hipcamp in Idaho 2024 and 2022 -- and 2nd BEST in 2023 *** 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) & 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. Paying homage to the Bigfoot legend in northern Idaho, the theme of this campground is all things Sasquatch! Can you find all NINE Sasquatch throughout the campground? Some are hidden, 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 on the laminated brochure at the campground entrance. The most important campground rule is leaving the campground just as you found it. This means 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 & D. An on-site portable toilet 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. (Electric fee may apply -- please ask Host.) Also, a sand tent pad was installed in campsite F. In 2023 a brand-new 70' elevated nature-walk & 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 small lakefront cabin was added down by the dock at Campsite A. An "Amenities Shed" full of several camping games like horseshoes, bocce, and corn hole was also added by the Port-A-Potty. In 2025, a well & pump will be installed, allowing campers to fill up with potable water within steps of each campsite. Also, a new grass beach will be created by the dock, which will be great for picnicking. 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 & F have limited lake views) Easiest RV access: Campsite B. Most private: Campsite B or Campsites E & F when booked together. Most shade: Campsites E & F. Sunniest: Campsite B. Electric access: Campsites B, C & D. (C & D share a power pedestal.) Nearest to Port-a-Potty: Campsite E. Nearest to lake: Campsite A. Best for large parties: Book Campsites C & D together (for larger RV camping parties) or book Campsites E & F together (for larger tent camping parties). Property located 48°10'11.0"N, 116°30'02.1"W

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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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Turnipseed Creek Campsites

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Sandpoint, ID

Our property is located on 7 forested acres a few miles from Sandpoint. We have a few different houses on the property where parts of my family live. There are 3 rental spots that are all creek side and next to each other. You can wade in the shallow creek, swim in the pond, enjoy a walk on the nature trail around the property and just enjoy your camp spot surrounded by the forest and creek. There are also many trails and adventures within a 15 min drive of the property.

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ALMOST TO CANADA - FAR NORTH IDAHO

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

GOOD NEWS EARLY CAMPERS! Due to forecasted warmer night-time temps (33F+), we'll opening the shower shed and providing potable water at the River Cabin the weekend of May 10-11. If you dont mind cooler nights and fewer mosquitos consider booking early this month. 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 - Please note, due to below freezing nighttime temps it is likely our shower facility and on-site cabin water (other water available) will not be reopened until May15. We strive to reopen it as early as Mother Nature allows but can’t guarantee those amenities until mid May. 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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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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David C.’s Land

7 sites · Lodging211 acres · Bonners Ferry, ID

Once a farm in the early 20th century. This area then became an outdoor adventure summer camp in the 1980s. It has now expanded to become a 200+ acre year round private campground with direct access to over 1,000,000 acres of public land encompassing the Selkirk Mountains. There is a coin operated laundry room, outdoor basketball and volleyball courts, and a gym available for use.

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Allicins Ranch

2 sites · Tents10 acres · Moyie Springs, ID

We originally bought the land as a parcel off of my Uncle's farm. We are an organic garlic farm and also raise sheep so our land is our place of business and also our home. We have a beautiful getaway for you to come visit with a nice pond, rope swing and zip line. Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent next to the pond, enjoy the rope swing, zip-line, or come help in the organic garden. You may wake up to our sheep munching grass beside your tent. National forest trails about 10 minutes away, lots of lakes, rivers, and other outdoor opportunities to enjoy.

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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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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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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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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!

The Homestead

6 sites · RVs12 acres · Moyie Springs, ID

Local, private RV/camp park in Bonners Ferry, Idaho. Homestead with chickens, cows, pigs, and a community garden in the center. Surrounded by mature trees and an orchard right off the highway into town. 50/30amp services, internet, sewer, and water. Relax in the garden or by the fire pit- or venture out into the town to kayak on the Kootenai River, or drive up to Smith Lake, 5 minutes away. The Kootenai River Casino & Spa is also a big hit in town!

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.