Camping near Kaniksu National Forest
Many campers head to Kaniksu National Forest in Idaho for its thick forests and mountain views. Gilmore Campground at Farragut State Park sits near Lake Pend Oreille, where you can swim after setting up camp. Riley Creek Campground has bigger sites than most in the area and includes showers and flush toilets. Sam Owen Campground juts out on a peninsula with water on three sides, making it quieter than other spots. Getting to these campgrounds doesn't require special vehicles - regular cars handle the roads fine, though some sections narrow and twist more than others. Watch for deer and moose wandering through campsites, and hang your food to keep it safe from wildlife. The Forest Service puts fire bans in place during dry spells, so check current rules before planning to cook over an open flame. While you don't need permits for most camping here, the good spots fill up fast in summer, so book ahead when possible. Both easy and challenging trails start near the campgrounds, with some designated for bikes and others for hiking only. Summer days often hit the 80s or 90s, so bring plenty of water bottles and sunscreen. If you're considering winter camping, come prepared with snow gear and a four-wheel drive vehicle - this area gets several feet of snow between November and March.
