Albeni Cove
4.4556 reviews2376 E HIGHWAY 2
Albeni Cove
$25.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by site type: Standard Nonelectric and Walk-To sites are $25 per night, while RV Electric sites are $30 per night. Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away upstream from the magnificent Albeni Falls Dam, Albeni Cove beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Pacific Northwest escape. This intimate campground harmoniously blends rustic simplicity with endless water recreation, where days unfold with refreshing swims in crystal-clear waters, productive fishing expeditions along the riverbank, and leisurely boat rides exploring hidden coves. As you settle into camp, keep your camera ready – majestic bald eagles soar overhead while osprey dive for their daily catch, and gentle deer often wander through the evening shadows, creating unforgettable wildlife encounters that define the magic of this riverside retreat.
The campground offers a range of setups including standard non-electric sites, walk-to tent sites, and RV sites with electrical hookups. Group camping is available, though details on capacities are limited.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the nearby Albeni Falls Visitor Center, where the fascinating story of human ingenuity meets natural wonder. Discover how the construction of Albeni Falls Dam transformed this region while preserving its natural beauty, and join daily summer tours that reveal the impressive engineering feat up close. The visitor center's engaging exhibits illuminate both the area's rich history and the delicate balance between progress and preservation that defines this special corner of the Northwest.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Albeni Cove transforms into a vibrant outdoor paradise, with warm sunshine filtering through towering evergreens and comfortable temperatures perfect for all your favorite activities. Summer days invite endless adventures, though wise campers pack a light rain jacket for those refreshing Pacific Northwest showers that keep the landscape lush and green. As autumn approaches, crisp mornings give way to golden afternoons, while winter brings a quieter charm with frosty mornings and a mix of snow and rain that blankets the forest in peaceful solitude.
ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain makes it accessible for campers of all abilities, creating an ideal basecamp for exploring the surrounding natural wonders.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the soft whisper of wind through ancient firs, cedars, and pines that stand as sentinels along the meandering Pend Oreille River. This enchanting campground immerses you in a living postcard of the Pacific Northwest, where towering evergreens frame glimpses of sparkling water and dramatic mountain vistas. The surrounding landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, with glacial-carved valleys creating a natural amphitheater of beauty that changes with every shift of light throughout the day.
Geological RegionAlbeni Cove sits at the heart of an extraordinary geological wonderland, cradled within ancient glacial valleys that separate three distinct mountain ranges. Here, the mighty Pend Oreille River flows toward its confluence with Lake Pend Oreille – one of the western United States' most impressive natural treasures and among its deepest lakes. This dramatic landscape, sculpted by ice age glaciers over millennia, creates a playground of water and stone where every vista tells the epic story of our planet's powerful forces at work.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the available sources.
Sites SizeSites are described as small and wooded, with packed gravel and wood beam borders. Site-specific reviews indicate varying levels of spaciousness and privacy.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some reviewers noted private tent sites, while others mentioned RV sites being close together. "Most tent sites are pretty private," noted one user. "Not super private though," mentioned another for the standard sites.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 11-13 require carrying items downhill or boating in. Site 2 and Site 3 are interconnected and suitable for larger groups.
Best CampsitesHighly-rated campsites include: Site 012 (waterfront), Site 014 (electric hookup and view), Site 003 (waterfront).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 3 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 2 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit or within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per site, with allowances for 2 motorized vehicles, 1 camping unit, and 2 tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSmall campground with 14 sites arranged near the river. Sites include picnic tables and grills, some directly facing the water or wooded areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 17, 2025, through September 13, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, including online, app, and contact center options.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampsites are by reservation only; walk-up availability is prohibited.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival, with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's fees. Changes to reservations also carry a $10 service fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Albeni Cove offers a variety of recreational activities including swimming, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. The sandy swimming beach and boat ramp are popular features of the campground. Campers have noted the abundance of wildlife such as bald eagles, osprey, deer, and other birds.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the campground, with easy access to the water. "Our site (012) was RIGHT up against the water. I was able to fish without having to walk around to find a spot," one reviewer stated.Swimming
The sandy swimming beach is one of the campground's highlights. It is described as suitable for families and providing a relaxing experience. "Nice sandy swimming area," one user noted.Boating
Boating is facilitated by the on-site dock and boat ramp. Some sites allow campers to tie boats directly to their campsite. "At campsites 8 & 9 you can tie up your boat at your campsite," noted one review.Wildlife viewing
Common wildlife sightings include bald eagles, osprey, and deer, contributing to the peaceful and scenic environment. "Campers are likely to spot wildlife, including bald eagles, osprey, and deer," described one official source.Beach activities
Beach activities are centered around the sandy swimming area. "Nice beach and swimming area," one reviewer commented.Winter Activities
Winter recreation options are not mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming are popular activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Each campsite includes a fire pit with a flip-down grill. Campfires must be within designated areas.
- Quiet hours are not specifically mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rough gravel roads, seasonal swim beach closures due to spillway gates, and wildlife sightings.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.1 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
Nearest emergency services include Bonner County Sheriff’s Office located in Sandpoint, Idaho, approximately 30 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 17, 2025 - September 13, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available, but reviews mentioned overflowing bins at times. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the Pend Oreille River with access to a boat ramp and swimming beach.
Common complaintsSome reviews note issues with bathroom maintenance, excessive generator use, noise disturbances, and local traffic accessing showers.
HostHosts are described as 'welcoming,' 'helpful,' and 'attentive.' Some reviews highlight issues with host management style, including reporting minor infractions to park rangers.
Campground Map
2376 E HIGHWAY 2
Driving directionsFrom Highway 2 in Newport, Washington, turn south onto Highway 41. Follow for 0.5 miles and turn east on Fourth Street into Oldtown, Idaho. Follow for approximately 3 miles to the campground.
Access to the recreation area is over a rough, gravel road, RV's not recommended.Nearby places
Newport, WA: approximately 3 miles
Oldtown, ID: approximately 0.5 miles
Nearby supplies
Nearest grocery and supplies available in Newport, WA, approximately 3 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
56 reviews
Albeni Cove is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, clean facilities, and friendly hosts. However, issues such as noisy neighbors, overflowing trash bins, and shared bathrooms with day-use visitors were raised. Privacy of sites and maintenance quality vary across different campsites.
Review Summaries
Based on 56 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the campground's peaceful atmosphere, wildlife sightings, and amenities like showers and the beach. "Beautiful setting and some of the most helpful camp hosts we’ve met," noted one...
Based on 56 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include noisy neighbors, lack of enforcement of quiet hours, overflowing trash bins, and cleanliness issues in bathrooms. "The bathrooms had showers but were not well maintained," noted...
Based on 56 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for showers and shade for the beach area. Choose tent sites for privacy and electric sites for convenience. Avoid weekends if seeking tranquility, as the campground can get crowded....
Based on 56 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season for camping at Albeni Cove, with users praising the swimming beach and water activities. Fall closures are noted as a downside for retirees seeking quieter camping...
Based on 56 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Amazing place to stay! Our site (012) was RIGHT up against the water." "The campground was fine - camp hosts were very 'tattling.'" "They have started leaving the gates open as well as the showers...
Based on 56 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 2 and 3 are close together, better suited for group camping. Site 012 offers excellent proximity to the water. Sites 011-013 require a downhill walk or boat access. Site 014 is secluded with...
Based on 56 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility issues are not specifically addressed in user reviews.
Based on 56 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but restrictions apply to areas like the beach. "No dogs on beach but they can play in the water by the boat dock," noted one user.
Based on 56 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025