Bell Bay Campground
4.6149 reviews406 East Point Rd., Harrison, ID 83833, USA
Bell Bay Campground
$26.00 - $112.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$112.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Nonelectric sites and Tent Only Nonelectric sites are $26 per night during peak season. Group Standard Area Nonelectric sites cost $112 per night. Extra vehicles are charged $10 per day, payable on-site.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Coeur d'Alene Lake, Bell Bay Campground invites you to experience the perfect harmony of forest and water. This thoughtfully designed campground features two distinct camping experiences: the upper loop, where elevated sites offer sweeping panoramic views through towering pines, and the lower loop, where the gentle lapping of lake waters provides a natural soundtrack to your outdoor adventure.
Bell Bay Campground offers tent-only, standard non-electric sites, and a large group site. Most sites are first-come, first-serve, though six single-family sites and the group site are reservable.
Historical Significance.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Bell Bay into a sun-drenched paradise, where warm, dry days beckon swimmers and boaters to the crystal-clear waters. While the lush forest canopy provides welcome shade, it also attracts mosquitoes during peak season, so come prepared. As winter blankets the region in snow and temperatures plummet below freezing, the campground enters a peaceful dormancy, making spring through fall the ideal seasons for your camping getaway.
ElevationElevation details are not provided.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering Ponderosa pines and mixed conifers that frame breathtaking vistas of Coeur d'Alene Lake's expansive 50 square miles of pristine water. The dense forest creates a natural amphitheater of shade and serenity, while glimpses of the shimmering lake through the trees remind you that aquatic adventures are just steps away. This remarkable landscape offers photographers endless opportunities and nature lovers a front-row seat to Idaho's stunning wilderness.
Geological RegionDiscover the natural splendor of Idaho's Panhandle, where Bell Bay Campground claims its spectacular position on the southeast shores of Coeur d'Alene Lake. This remarkable location places you in the heart of a thriving ecosystem dominated by majestic Ponderosa pines and diverse mixed conifer forests, creating a quintessential Pacific Northwest camping experience that showcases the region's most treasured natural features.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes steep trails which may pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. However, hosts have reportedly been helpful accommodating guests, such as assisting with shade selection during hot weather.
Sites SizeMost campsites are medium-sized, with the group site accommodating up to 60 guests.
Sites PrivacySites in the lower loop are close together with limited privacy. Kathryn B. stated, "These sites are fairly close together with little privacy. You will see and hear your neighbors."
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 7 offers excellent lake views but requires a short but steep walk to parking. Site 15 is noted for breathtaking views and spaciousness.
Best CampsitesSite 15 and site 7 in the lower loop are frequently highlighted for their views and proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is at 2 PM local time.
Check-out
Check-out time is at 12 PM local time.
Stay Limit
- 14 nights per visit
- maximum of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single sites allow up to 8 guests. Group sites accommodate up to 60 guests.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 60 people, making it suitable for larger gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into an upper loop with elevated views and a lower loop closer to the water. Sites in the lower loop are fairly close together, offering limited privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonReservable season runs from May 16 to September 28 annually. Campground is closed for reservations from September 29 to May 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySeveral sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. These are highly sought after during peak season and tend to fill quickly.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 fee applies to cancellations, and late cancellations result in forfeiting the first night's fee. For group sites, cancellations within 14 days incur penalties. No refunds for Scan & Pay payments.
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
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bell Bay Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, especially centered around the lake. Hiking is popular with the Bell Bay Trail running for a mile along the lakeshore. Fishing opportunities are abundant, with trout, salmon, and panfish available. Swimming is limited to dock areas as there is no beach access. Boating and canoeing can also be enjoyed, with docks available for mooring boats.
Hiking
The Bell Bay Trail offers a scenic footpath along the lakeshore. It is approximately a mile long and suited for casual hikers.Fishing
Fishing at Bell Bay Campground is highly rated, with trout, salmon, and panfish being the main catches. "Day-use area has 2 docks that are excellent fishing," shared Fins Feathers and Fur.Swimming
Swimming is limited to the dock area, as there is no beach. "Swimming dock was the highlight," shared Dave C.Boating
Boating is supported with two docks available for mooring boats. However, launching facilities are not provided on-site; the nearest launch area is reportedly 13 miles away, according to Greg W.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, and the campground is closed during the off-season.Water Sports
Water-based activities include swimming, fishing, boating, and canoeing. However, no specific mention of kayaking, paddleboarding, or other water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated rings. Restrictions may apply during dry weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are enforced during nighttime hours, but the exact times are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear activity and steep trails leading to the docks. Narrow roads with blind corners may challenge large vehicles.
Active alertsNo current alerts mentioned; seasonal closures apply.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 11%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Emergency services are located in Harrison, ID, which is approximately 15 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to September 28 each year.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but reviews indicate occasional litter in vacant sites.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Coeur d'Alene Lake, the campground has docks for fishing and swimming but lacks a beach for easy access.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention narrow and winding access roads and steep trails to the lake. Occasional dissatisfaction stems from the lack of beach access and distance to boat launch facilities.
HostReviews about hosts are mixed, citing helpfulness and friendliness in some cases and dissatisfaction in others.
Campground Map
406 East Point Rd., Harrison, ID 83833, USA
Driving directionsFrom Pinehurst, Idaho, take Interstate 90 west and turn south on Highway 3. Make a right on Highway 97 and continue north for 13 miles. Turn west onto Road 314 (also known as East Point Road) and continue 3 miles to campground.
The road leading to the campground is narrow and winding, with blind corners. The last few miles are paved after dirt but are only wide enough for one vehicle, which could pose challenges for RVs or large vehicles.Nearby places
Coeur d'Alene (approximately 1 hour drive), Harrison (approximately 15 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Nearest supplies are found in Harrison, ID, including groceries and camping essentials. Fuel is available nearby.
Camper Reviews
4.6
49 reviews
Bell Bay Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews provide a mixed sentiment. Many campers praise the scenic views, clean facilities, and friendly hosts, while others point out challenges such as steep trails, limited beach access, and close proximity of campsites.
Review Summaries
Based on 49 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include breathtaking views of Coeur d'Alene Lake, clean vault toilets, well-maintained docks, and friendly camp hosts. "Wonderful campground, very close to the lake! Well...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include steep access trails to the docks, the lack of beach access, occasional issues with hosts, and close campsite proximity. "The walk from the camping area to the beach was a...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing appropriate footwear for steep trails, planning for limited privacy, and exploring nearby attractions like Harrison for beaches and ice cream.
Based on 49 reviewsSeasonal Insights
During peak summer months, visitors often praise the natural beauty and lake activities but note challenges like mosquitoes and limited shade. Fall reviews highlight quieter conditions and serene...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"I found this place by chance...incredible," shared Wildman Smith. "Bathrooms are spotless clean," he added. "Beautiful campground (lower loop) and views," said Sleep Never. "The campground perched...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 and 7 are frequently praised for their views and proximity to the lake. "Spot 15, incredible," according to Wildman Smith. "Sunset views were spectacular," added Kathryn B.
Based on 49 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility was noted as challenging due to steep trails and limited cleared areas near docks. "The hike down to the private dock area was a little too steep for the 88-year-old senior in our...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025