Mokins Bay Campground
3.6132 reviews12355 Mokins Road, Hayden Lake, ID, 83835, USA
Mokins Bay Campground
$26.00 - $26.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates for Standard Nonelectric sites are $26 per night from May 16 to September 21. Out-of-season reservations are not available. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles or reservation service charges.
About this campground
Tucked away on the eastern shores of pristine Hayden Lake, Mokins Bay Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of the Coeur d'Alene mountains. This hidden gem rewards adventurous souls who navigate its winding gravel road with an unparalleled sense of solitude. Here, beneath towering pines and far from the crowds, you'll discover what true forest camping feels like—where the only sounds are rustling branches and lapping water against the shore.
Mokins Bay Campground offers standard non-electric campsites suitable for tents and small RVs. Group camping, cabins, or glamping options are not available.
Historical SignificanceYou're camping on ancient ground at Mokins Bay, where the landscape tells a story written 15,000 years ago. The mighty Missoula Floods carved out Hayden Lake in a dramatic geological event that shaped the entire region. This corner of the Bitterroot Mountain Range carries deep ecological significance, its very name echoing the rich natural and cultural heritage that has drawn people to these mountains for generations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Mokins Bay into an outdoor paradise, with crystal-clear skies greeting campers 91% of the time and comfortable temperatures hovering between 60°F and 85°F during peak season. These idyllic conditions make it perfect for lakeside relaxation and forest exploration. While the narrow access road and secluded location create the campground's signature tranquility, they do require extra caution during stormy weather—a small price to pay for such pristine wilderness.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details for Mokins Bay Campground await documentation, visitors will experience the characteristic mountain terrain of the Coeur d'Alene range, where forested slopes meet the sparkling waters of Hayden Lake.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of towering pines that filter sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Come spring, the understory bursts to life with delicate trillium blooms and cheerful buttercups painting the landscape. Beyond the trees, Hayden Lake stretches magnificently with its 40 miles of pristine shoreline and 3,800 acres of clear mountain water—a breathtaking reminder of nature's ancient artistry.
Geological RegionMokins Bay sits proudly in the northwest reaches of the legendary Bitterroot Mountain range, specifically within the Coeur d'Alene mountains. This geological wonderland showcases nature's dramatic history, where dense pine forests blanket the mountainsides and seasonal wildflowers like trillium and buttercups add splashes of color. The crown jewel remains Hayden Lake itself—a 3,800-acre testament to the incredible Missoula Floods that sculpted this landscape 15,000 years ago, creating the stunning backdrop that makes every sunrise and sunset at Mokins Bay unforgettable.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features for campers with disabilities were mentioned.
Sites SizeMost sites are small, with limited space for larger vehicles or RVs. For example, one reviewer stated, 'According to recreation.gov site I should have been fine in campsite 16 and boy oh boy it was snug.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between sites is described as 'so-so' by reviewers, but the campground layout offers some secluded spots.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid larger RVs or trailers due to challenging road conditions and tight campsite layouts. Campsites 005 and 015 are recommended for shade and proximity to facilities.
Best CampsitesUser reviews mention Campsite 005 and Campsite 015 as favorable for privacy and proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 nights during a visit. Camping for a period longer than 14 days during any 30-consecutive day period is prohibited.
Groups
Group camping sites are not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is described as small, with sites arranged in a loop. Many sites are shaded by pine trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to September 21 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites may be available if reservations are not occupied, but details are limited on the number of sites available.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made prior to the scheduled arrival date but incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations result in forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to reservations are subject to a $10 change fee if dates are completely altered.
Amenities available
Potable water
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers various outdoor recreational activities including fishing, boating, biking, and hiking. Wildlife viewing is also noted in reviews. However, some activities are limited by lack of direct access to the lake and poorly maintained trails.
Hiking
Hiking is available but reviewers noted challenges such as fallen trees blocking access. One said, 'Trails we wanted to explore were blocked by large fallen trees.'Fishing
Fishing is popular in Hayden Lake and nearby streams, with cutthroat trout and large and small-mouth bass being common catches. However, fishing access from the campground is limited according to reviews.Biking
Biking is possible, and the campground loop provides a safe area for children to ride. One reviewer appreciated the layout for biking: 'Campground is small which was great for our kids to ride their bikes around the loop.'Boating
Boating activities like kayaking and paddleboarding are possible but launching access from the campground is limited. One reviewer stated, 'You could probably launch a kayak or paddleboard from the spot in front of the campground.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is another activity available, though details on specific species are limited.Winter Activities
No details on winter activities such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are provided.Water Sports
Water sports such as jet skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are mentioned as possible activities on Hayden Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campers are advised to use approved containers for food storage due to bear activity. Additional firewood policies are not explicitly mentioned.
- Quiet hours are Noise complaints suggest quiet hours are not enforced consistently.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include no-see-ems and bees, as reported in user reviews. Fallen trees and unkempt trails pose physical risks, and the winding access road challenges navigation for large vehicles.
Weather forecast
95
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 13%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5 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
Coeur d'Alene, ID, offers emergency services including hospitals, police stations, and other amenities approximately 21 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to September 21.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are available at the campground. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresHayden Lake is a 10-minute walk from the campground, but direct access is limited. Public swimming areas are reportedly far away.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include unclean bathrooms, noise disturbances from other campers, and poorly maintained facilities. User Dave Adams stated, 'Pit toilets unlit, gross, and not cleaned for at least 6 days.' Others noted difficulties accessing the lake and lack of upkeep, including trash and broken amenities.
HostThe campground host, named Bill in user reviews, is frequently praised for being friendly and maintaining cleanliness in the campground.
Campground Map
12355 Mokins Road, Hayden Lake, ID, 83835, USA
Driving directionsFrom Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, take Route 95 north for 6.1 miles to Lancaster Road. Turn right and continue 6.3 miles to a 'Y' intersection. Bear right and continue to Mokins Road, turn left go 0.1 mile to campground entrance.
Access to the campground is on a winding gravel road with narrow switchbacks. Several reviews highlight the difficulty navigating the road, particularly for larger RVs or trailers. For example, user Kevin G noted, 'The road is well maintained but it is one switchback after another constantly until you get there.'Nearby places
Coeur d'Alene, ID - 21 miles, approximately 30-60 minutes depending on road conditions.
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, gas, and camping necessities are available in Coeur d'Alene, ID, a 21-mile drive from the campground. User Tammy F highlighted the importance of bringing everything you need, stating that 'the only store is a 30-minute drive back up the slow-going winding road.'
Camper Reviews
3.6
32 reviews
Mokins Bay Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Mokins Bay Campground are mixed, highlighting its peaceful setting, clean facilities managed by friendly hosts, but also issues with maintenance, trash, and lack of direct lake access.
Review Summaries
Based on 32 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's quiet and remote setting, clean toilets, shaded campsites, and a friendly host. One reviewer remarked, 'We had the best time at Mokins Bay State Park. It’s...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poor upkeep, trash in campsites, unclean vault toilets, limited space for RVs, and lack of direct lake access. One user said, 'Most trash-laden campsite I have ever seen in...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing your own firewood, a rake for clearing tent spots, and being cautious on the narrow, winding access road. Reviewers recommend staying with smaller vehicles or RVs.
Based on 32 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews indicate the campground is peaceful but plagued with insects like bees and no-see-ems. Spring may showcase wildflowers, but lack of lake access is a year-round issue.
Based on 32 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Most trash-laden campsite I have ever seen.'
- 'It was quiet and clean. The park host cleaned up often and was a nice guy.'
- 'Pit toilets unlit, gross, and not cleaned for at least 6 days.'
- 'We...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 005: Spacious and close to the loop for kids to bike. Rating: 5
Campsite 015: Quiet and peaceful but challenging for large RVs. Rating: 4
Campsite 016: Small and difficult to navigate with...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Based on 32 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit reviews regarding pet experiences or policies.
Based on 32 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025