Bumblebee Campground
4.0339 reviewsIDAHO PANHANDLE NATIONAL FOREST
Bumblebee Campground
$24.00 - $112.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Fees vary seasonally and by site type. Peak season rates are $24 for standard nonelectric individual sites, $48 for double standard nonelectric sites, and $112 for group standard area nonelectric sites. Additional fees, such as service fees for reservations and late cancellations, may apply.
About this campground
Tucked away in a sun-dappled meadow where Bumblebee Creek babbles its way through the Idaho wilderness, this tranquil campground beckons adventurers seeking both relaxation and recreation. The crystal-clear waters invite anglers to cast their lines, families to splash in shallow pools, and nature lovers to simply wade and explore. Two thoughtfully designed camping loops wind through the property, connected by smooth paved roads and equipped with essential amenities including vault toilets and hand-pumped wells that deliver fresh mountain water. Whether you're here to fish the productive waters, cool off with a refreshing swim, or use the site as your base camp during hunting season, Bumblebee Campground offers an authentic taste of Idaho's outdoor splendor.
Bumblebee Campground accommodates various types of campers, offering options for tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. Primitive camping is not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceWhile Bumblebee Campground may not boast famous historical events or ancient cultural sites, its significance lies in its role as a gateway to Idaho's pristine wilderness. This humble campground continues a long tradition of providing travelers and outdoor enthusiasts with direct access to the natural wonders of the Coeur d'Alene National Forest.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives at Bumblebee with warm, dry days perfect for outdoor adventures, while moderate temperatures keep nights comfortable for sleeping under the stars. The camping season typically runs from May through September, when wildflowers bloom in the meadows and the creek runs at its most inviting levels. As autumn gives way to winter, heavy snows and fallen trees prompt seasonal closures, transforming the campground into a quiet winter wonderland accessible only to the hardiest souls. Plan your visit during the peak months to experience the full magic of this mountain retreat.
ElevationPerched at 2,200 feet above sea level, Bumblebee Campground enjoys the sweet spot of mountain elevation—high enough to escape the valley heat but low enough to maintain comfortable conditions throughout the camping season. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate where warm days give way to cool, star-filled nights, and where both lowland and mountain flora thrive in harmonious abundance.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has painted a masterpiece at Bumblebee Campground, where emerald meadows stretch toward the sparkling waters of Bumblebee Creek and the Little North Fork Coeur d'Alene River. The surrounding Coeur d'Alene National Forest embraces the campground with its ancient presence, though recent storms have opened up the canopy in places, creating sun-drenched clearings that attract wildlife and offer unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks. Morning mist often dances above the creek, while afternoon light filters through the remaining forest giants, creating an ever-changing tableau of natural beauty.
Geological RegionBumblebee Campground claims its place within the vast 726,819-acre tapestry of the Coeur d'Alene National Forest, itself a jewel in the crown of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. At 2,200 feet elevation, the campground occupies a gentle valley where Bumblebee Creek converges with the Little North Fork Coeur d'Alene River. This meeting of waters has carved out a unique ecological niche over millennia, creating the lush meadows and diverse habitats that make this corner of Idaho so special. The surrounding landscape tells the ancient story of volcanic activity, glacial carving, and the patient work of water that has shaped these mountains into their current magnificent form.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative content. User reviews indicate some sites are easy to access for RVs, while others may be more challenging.
Sites SizeThe campground offers standard sites that vary in size, with some double sites available. Reviews describe "large camping areas" with "plenty of space," though specific measurements are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary depending on the loop and site location. User reviews note that the north loop campsites are "further apart" and provide greater privacy compared to the south loop, where sites are described as "close to each other."
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites on the north loop for more sunlight or site 24 for shade and privacy. Creekside sites on a first-come-first-served basis offer proximity to water activities.
Best CampsitesSites 24 and 25 are highly rated for shade and privacy. Site 22 received negative feedback for its rough terrain and thorny thistles.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during any 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum two vehicles per site, but no explicit guest limit per site stated.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 100 people. It is located on its own loop and shares the hand-pumped water source with single-family campsites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of two loops: a south loop with more shaded sites and a north loop with sunny, open sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16 to September 28 (reservable between June 25 and September 28). Closed from September 28 to May 22.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve availability is mentioned for creekside sites, but no specific details on numbers or patterns.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 service fee applies for changes or cancellations. Late cancellations may also forfeit the first night's fee. Specific policies for group or individual sites are outlined in the NRRS Reservation Policy.
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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bumblebee Campground provides a variety of recreational activities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Highlights include fishing, swimming, floating in the nearby river, hiking, and access to off-road trails. The nearby 803 Motorized Trail System offers dedicated off-road trails for ATV and dirt bike riders. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with sightings of moose and deer reported by campers.
Hiking
Hiking is available both within and near the campground. "Lots of hiking in the mountains" and "close hikes" are noted in user reviews, though specific trail names or difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, particularly for trout. "Trout fishing is available about a half-mile from the campground in the Little North Fork of Coeur d'Alene River." Rainbow and cutthroat trout are the most common catches.Swimming
Swimming and wading are highlighted as enjoyable activities in Bumblebee Creek and the Little North Fork Coeur d'Alene River. "Easy access to the float down the river" and a "deep pool you can jump into" contribute to the campground's appeal for water-based recreation.Biking
Biking opportunities are available nearby, with user reviews mentioning dirt biking and mountain biking in the surrounding areas.Boating
Floating and kayaking are mentioned by reviewers as enjoyable activities in the nearby river.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a notable activity, with user reviews describing moose and deer sightings. "We woke up to a mama and baby moose having breakfast right by our campsite!"Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed in the authoritative content or user reviews.Water Sports
Kayaking, floating, and paddleboarding are mentioned in user reviews as popular water sports near the campground. Specific facilities or rental options are not described.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but must be contained within campfire rings provided at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated, though complaints about noise suggest enforcement of general quiet hours after 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsBe aware of bears; campers are encouraged to store food securely. Fallen trees may present hazards during early or late seasons.
Active alertsCampground closures have occurred due to fallen trees. Some seasonal delays in opening have been reported.
Weather forecast
97
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 10%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16, 2025 - September 28, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available, and reviews confirm their presence near campsites without causing odor issues.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Bumblebee Creek and close to the Little North Fork Coeur d'Alene River, both suitable for fishing, swimming, and wading.
Common complaintsComplaints include poorly maintained access roads, noisy neighbors, broken water pumps, and limited river access.
HostCamp hosts are generally described as friendly and helpful, with some exceptions noted in user reviews. Hosts Miguel and Angela were specifically praised for their cleanliness and advice on local hikes.
Campground Map
IDAHO PANHANDLE NATIONAL FOREST
Driving directionsTake the Kingston Exit off Interstate 90 and take Forest Road 9 North for 5.4 miles. Turn left onto Bumblebee cutoff and head 3 miles to the campground sign at the junction with Forest Road 796. Turn right onto Forest Road 796 and go 0.1 miles to the campground. Single sites are on the loop to the right and the group site is the loop on the left.
Roads leading to the campground are paved but poorly maintained with large, deep potholes that can be challenging to navigate, especially when meeting other vehicles on narrow sections.Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
A convenience store and a restaurant/bar are about 15 minutes away from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.0
39 reviews
Bumblebee Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bumblebee Campground are mixed, with high praise for cleanliness, friendly hosts, and serene surroundings, alongside complaints about noise, broken amenities, and poor signage. Several users enjoyed the wildlife viewing, fishing, and hiking opportunities, while others were disappointed with the lack of shade or proximity to water.
Review Summaries
Based on 39 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive mentions include "extremely clean and very quiet" conditions, "amazing views," friendly and accommodating hosts, and well-maintained bathrooms. Wildlife sightings, such as moose and deer,...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include broken water pumps, poorly maintained roads leading to the campground, noise from nearby ATV trails, lack of shade due to tree removal, and overcrowded river access during peak...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include bringing bug spray due to proximity to water, reserving north loop sites for more privacy, and choosing site #24 for shade. Campers suggest visiting early to secure a spot and...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal reviews highlight pleasant conditions during summer, although noise and overcrowding near water are reported during holidays. Spring reviews mention fallen trees and limited access due to...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen of that type!" "Woke up to a mama and baby moose having breakfast right by our campsite!" "Extremely clean and very quiet." "There are only two negatives......
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #24 is praised for its shade and privacy. Site #22 was described as problematic due to uneven terrain and thistles. Sites in the north loop are noted to be "further apart," while south loop...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are limited but mention that many of the sites are easy to access for RVs. No specific features for disabilities are detailed.
Based on 39 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviews note positive experiences for pet owners. "We hiked, swam, and chased the chipmunks around."
Based on 39 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025