Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
If you're dreaming of lakeside camping, small-town charm, and top-tier outdoor recreation, Coeur d'Alene should be at the top of your RV travel list. Nestled in Northern Idaho just 40 minutes from Spokane, WA via I-90, Coeur d'Alene is best known for its crown jewel—Lake Coeur d'Alene. This stunning natural lake stretches 26 miles long and offers over 135 miles of shoreline. Surrounded by glacier-carved mountains and fed by the Coeur d'Alene and St. Joe Rivers, it's a scenic paradise that RVers return to year after year.
Outdoor Adventures on and Around Lake Coeur d'Alene
Lake Coeur d'Alene is the heart of the area. Whether you're renting a kayak, paddleboard, or simply lounging at City Park & Beach, you'll want to spend at least a day enjoying this natural wonder. Consider booking a lake cruise to explore hidden coves and old mining towns, including a trip up the St. George River.
For land lovers, downtown Coeur d'Alene offers charming shops, art galleries, local breweries, and a must-try scoop of huckleberry ice cream. Families and thrill-seekers can head 30 minutes north to Silverwood Theme Park & Boulder Beach Water Park, the Northwest's largest amusement park.
Scenic Bike Trails and Family-Friendly Hikes
Explore the 23-mile North Idaho Centennial Trail by bike or on foot—it’s ideal for e-bikes and offers stunning views along the Spokane River and Lake Coeur d’Alene. For more adventure, bike the Hiawatha Trail: a former rail line turned 15-mile downhill trail featuring 10 tunnels and 7 trestles.
If hiking is more your speed, try these family-friendly trails:
Tubbs Hill: A 2-mile loop hugging the lakeshore—perfect for families.
Mineral Ridge: A 3.3-mile moderate hike with views of Lake Coeur d’Alene.
English Point: A 5.6-mile forested trail in Hayden, Idaho, great for spotting wildlife.
Where to Eat in Coeur d’Alene
After a full day of activities, satisfy your hunger at one of these popular local spots:
Hudson’s Hamburgers: Over 100 years of simple, legendary burgers.
The Bluebird Midtown: Seasonally inspired fare with Northwest, Asian, and French influences.
Honey Eatery and Social Club: Comfort food and craft cocktails in a cozy setting.
Syringa Japanese Café: Fresh sushi and traditional Japanese cuisine.
Parallel 47: Upscale dining in nearby Hayden—reservations recommended.
Best RV Parks in Coeur d'Alene
Whether you want lake views or forest seclusion, Coeur d’Alene offers excellent RV camping options:
Blackwell Island RV Park: Waterfront sites and private beach access.
Camp Coeur d’Alene: Rustic feel with lake access and kayak rentals.
Wolf Lodge Campground: Big-rig-friendly with hiking nearby.
Farragut State Park: Lakeside forested sites near Silverwood.
Ravenwood RV Resort: Pool, full hook-ups, and proximity to Silverwood.
Travel Tips for RVers
Book early: Sites fill up fast in summer.
Pack layers: Warm days and chilly evenings.
Check local events: Plan around festivals and races like Ironman.
Bring bug spray: Mosquitoes are active at night.
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, is an unforgettable RV destination that blends natural beauty, outdoor thrills, and small-town hospitality. Whether you're hiking forested trails, biking along the water, or simply relaxing by the lake with a huckleberry lemonade in hand, this scenic gem in the Northwest will leave you longing to return.
If you’re looking for even more tips, stories, and insider info on RVing in Coeur d’Alene, be sure to tune into the podcast episode “Destinations: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.” It’s packed with everything you need to make your trip unforgettable.
