Beauty Creek Campground
3.99100 reviews7500 Beauty Creek Rd, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814, USA
Beauty Creek Campground
$26.00 - $85.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$52.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$85.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $26 for standard non-electric sites, $52 for premium double non-electric sites, and $85 for group shelter sites. Extra vehicle fee is $10 per day for each additional vehicle beyond the first one included in campsite fee.
About this campground
Tucked away in a serene narrow valley where wooded hillsides rise like natural amphitheater walls, Beauty Creek Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience that feels worlds away from civilization. This hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for adventurers seeking to explore the stunning Lake Coeur d'Alene region while enjoying the tranquility of rustic camping beneath towering evergreens.
Beauty Creek Campground accommodates tent and RV camping, and also offers group campsites. Primitive camping with minimal facilities is emphasized, making it ideal for those seeking a rustic experience.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Beauty Creek into an idyllic outdoor paradise, with crystal-clear days averaging a comfortable 67°F that cool to refreshing 47°F nights perfect for campfire gatherings. The dry season means rain rarely interrupts your adventures, though wise campers come prepared for the evening mosquito chorus that accompanies these pristine wilderness settings.
ElevationPerched at 2,100 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a intimate valley setting where mountain air stays crisp and clear, offering just enough elevation to escape the summer heat while remaining easily accessible for all types of campers.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 2,100 feet in the heart of northern Idaho's wilderness, Beauty Creek Campground presents a stunning contrast of landscapes—from the open, sparse woodlands carpeting the valley floor to the dense, mysterious forests cloaking the surrounding hillsides. Throughout the seasons, watch as the creek transforms from a rushing spring torrent to a gentle summer trickle, while wildflowers and native vegetation paint an ever-changing canvas of colors across this mountain sanctuary.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Beauty Creek Campground occupies a dramatic narrow valley carved between two of the Northwest's most majestic mountain ranges—the volcanic Cascades rising to the west and the ancient Bitterroots standing sentinel to the east. This unique geographical position creates a protected corridor where diverse ecosystems converge, offering campers a front-row seat to some of Idaho's most spectacular natural theater.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include vault toilets with paved pathways and ADA compliance. The campground is designed with paved parking aprons and roads, but specific details on wheelchair-accessible campsites are not provided.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and capable of accommodating large setups such as two 35-foot rigs side by side, although tent sites are smaller and closer together.
Sites PrivacyThe degree of privacy varies significantly between campsites. Some RV sites offer considerable privacy with brush and foliage barriers, while tent sites are clustered in an open field without barriers.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, consider sites towards the east end of the campground such as Site 15 or 19. Tent campers should note rocky soil and cluster layout in some areas.
Best CampsitesSite 15 is often praised for its privacy and proximity to a creek.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights within any rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sites can accommodate varying group sizes. Some sites are large enough for two 35-foot rigs side by side.
Groups
Group shelters are available and priced at $85 per night during peak season. These sites are spacious and equipped with picnic tables and grills.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne-way road with sites spaced out except for tent field arrangements. Some sites are near the road while others offer private space surrounded by foliage.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16 to September 28 annually for reservations. Closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available, but fill patterns vary heavily based on seasonality and weekends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are subject to a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual campsites will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee and incur an additional $10 fee. Changes to reservations are allowed but may also incur $10 fees depending on the modification type.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and birding. Guests can access multiple trails directly from the campground, such as the Caribou Ridge National Recreation Trail and Beauty Creek Overlook. The nearby Lake Coeur d'Alene provides opportunities for water sports, boating, and fishing. Wildlife viewing and birding are popular due to the area's diverse flora and fauna.
Hiking
Hiking trails accessible from the campground include the 5-mile Caribou Ridge National Recreation Trail featuring moderate climbs and scenic overlooks, the 1.8-mile Beauty Creek Overlook, and the 4.9-mile Mt. Coeur d'Alene Viewpoint. User reviews highlight these trails as excellent options for exploring the surrounding nature.Fishing
Fishing opportunities near the campground include northern pike, chinook salmon, and bass. Mineral Ridge less than a mile away offers a boat ramp for enhanced access to fishing spots.Biking
Biking is supported on trails surrounding the campground, but specific details on trail difficulty or terrain are not provided.Boating
Boating is supported at Lake Coeur d'Alene, with the nearest boat ramp located at Mineral Ridge, less than a mile from the campground. Activities like paddle boating and canoeing are popular.Wildlife viewing
The area is conducive to wildlife viewing, with species such as golden eagles noted in user reviews. Birdsong and natural surroundings enhance the outdoor experience.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not discussed in the provided information.Water Sports
Water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are popular on nearby Lake Coeur d'Alene.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed except during fire bans, which may be enforced during dry seasons.
- Quiet hours are enforced at night, specific timeframes not stated.
Hazards
General hazardsYellow jackets, mosquitoes during summer evenings, and occasional sightings of mountain lions.
Active alertsNo active alerts noted recently.
Weather forecast
96
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 11%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Police and emergency responders are located in Coeur d'Alene, approximately 20 minutes away by car.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 28 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available in the campground, and some reviews appreciate their proximity to campsites. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated half a mile from Lake Coeur d'Alene. Beauty Creek runs through the area but is typically dry during summer.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints about dry creek during summer, lack of privacy, and high rates compared to amenities. Some dissatisfaction with host responsiveness or campsite upkeep.
HostReviews praise hosts like Christy for being helpful and proactive. Some negative feedback about host behavior has been reported.
Campground Map
7500 Beauty Creek Rd, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814, USA
Driving directionsFrom Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, go east on I-90 to exit 22, then turn south on ID-97. Drive 2.5 miles to Forest Road 438 and turn left. Go one mile and look for signs.
The road is paved but has multiple large potholes requiring cautious driving. Seasonal conditions may influence accessibility.Nearby places
Coeur d'Alene (20 minutes drive), Spokane (about 30 miles), Post Falls (around 15 miles).
Nearby supplies
Convenience stores within 10 minutes drive, nearby fuel stations, and camping supply stores in Coeur d'Alene are a short drive away.
Camper Reviews
4.0
100 reviews
Beauty Creek Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reveal mixed sentiments, with positive feedback for the scenic beauty, quiet environment, and helpful hosts. Common complaints include high fees, clustered tent sites, and the dry creek bed during summer months.
Review Summaries
Based on 100 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include friendly and accommodating hosts, clean facilities, spacious and private RV sites, proximity to Lake Coeur d'Alene, and excellent hiking trails.
Based on 100 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include high camping fees relative to amenities, lack of privacy in tent areas, poorly maintained vault toilets, and seasonal issues such as dry creek beds and mosquitoes.
Based on 100 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from reviewers suggest bringing mosquito repellent, avoiding tent sites for more privacy, and preparing for the hand-pump water system. Visitors also recommend exploring nearby trails and Lake...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
User experiences vary significantly by season. Summer months often feature dry creek beds and increased mosquito activity, while spring and fall offer quieter stays. Winter camping conditions are not...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "The campground was cute and quaint. ... It's a good spot to stay for a couple days to explore Coeur D’Alene without actually staying in town.” - Emma Thompson
- "Nice quiet campground for the...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 015 was praised for its privacy and space, accommodating both RVs and tents. Group site 014 received mixed reviews, with one reviewer noting poor upkeep and another praising its spaciousness....
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features such as ADA-compliant vault toilets were noted positively, though no reviews specifically address experiences of users with disabilities.
Based on 100 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed, with some reviewers mentioning their suitability for dogs, especially with nearby trails and creek beds for walking.
Based on 100 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025