Bell Bay Campground

Welcome, Idaho adventurers! Are you searching for the perfect escape into nature without traveling too far from home? Look no further than Bell Bay Campground, a true gem nestled on the scenic shores of Coeur d'Alene Lake. This beloved local spot offers a fantastic blend of serene natural beauty and accessible outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for families, friends, and solo explorers alike.

Bell Bay Campground provides an authentic camping experience within the breathtaking Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the lake, surrounded by towering trees, and breathing in the crisp, clean air. It’s a place where memories are made, whether you’re casting a line into the lake, enjoying a crackling campfire under a blanket of stars, or simply unwinding in the shade of the pines.

Bell Bay Campground is strategically located on the southeast shores of Coeur d'Alene Lake, just a short drive north of the charming town of Harrison, Idaho. Its official address is Bell Bay Rd, Harrison, ID 83833, USA. While it feels wonderfully secluded, it remains easily accessible for those coming from various parts of Idaho.

For many Idahoans, reaching Bell Bay involves a picturesque drive through some of the state's most beautiful landscapes. If you're coming from the south, you might take Highway 5 east from St. Maries and then head north on Highway 3 to Highway 97. From the north, Highway 97 itself offers stunning lake views, though it’s known for its winding nature. Regardless of your starting point in Idaho, the journey to Bell Bay is part of the adventure, leading you to a tranquil lakeside haven.

The campground features two distinct loops: an upper loop perched on a hill, often used for group camping, and a lower loop that sits along the shoreline. Both offer excellent views of the lake, providing campers with their preferred level of intimacy with the water. Access to the lake from the lower loop is straightforward, with paths leading to the docks and swimming areas. It's important to note that while the campground is generally accessible, some trails to the lake or within the campground can be steep, so visitors should plan accordingly.

• Potable (drinking) water available throughout the campground.
• Clean vault toilets for convenience.
• Trash collection services to help maintain the pristine environment.
• Firewood available for purchase from the camp host, ensuring cozy evenings by the campfire.
• Good cell service in the area, allowing for connectivity if needed.
• Campsites equipped with paved parking spurs (ranging from 20 to 40 feet), picnic tables, fire rings, and grills.
• Two docks on the lower loop, providing convenient boat mooring for lake enthusiasts.
• Designated group campsites available, accommodating larger gatherings (up to 75 guests).

• Stunning Lakeside Views: Many campsites offer direct or partial views of the picturesque Coeur d'Alene Lake, especially those in the lower loop.
• Ample Shade: Nestled within a forest of ponderosa and mixed pines, the campground provides abundant shade, offering relief during warmer Idaho summer days.
• Direct Lake Access: With two docks in the lower loop and a swim dock, campers have easy access to the clear waters of Coeur d'Alene Lake for swimming, boating, and various water sports.
• Hiking Opportunities: The Bell Bay Trail, a mile-long footpath, winds along the lakeshore, offering scenic vistas and a peaceful walk through the natural surroundings.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Visitors frequently praise the cleanliness of the campsites and vault toilets, a testament to the dedicated camp hosts.
• Diverse Campsite Options: From tent-only sites to those accommodating RVs and trailers (up to 40 feet), Bell Bay caters to various camping preferences.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, the campground maintains a quiet and serene environment, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's tranquility.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding forest and lake are home to diverse wildlife, offering opportunities to spot local fauna like wild turkeys and osprey.

For reservations and inquiries about Bell Bay Campground, you can reach them at:

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is typically for reservations via Recreation.gov)

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777

Address: Bell Bay Rd, Harrison, ID 83833, USA

For Idaho locals, Bell Bay Campground truly stands out as an exceptional choice for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, its prime location on Coeur d'Alene Lake means that a spectacular lakeside retreat is just a drive away, offering a convenient escape without the need for extensive travel. It’s close enough to nearby towns like Harrison for quick supply runs, yet sufficiently removed to provide that essential feeling of being "away from it all."

The campground offers a genuine connection to Idaho's natural beauty. The majestic pines, the sparkling clear waters of Coeur d'Alene Lake, and the tranquil atmosphere create an idyllic setting for disconnecting from daily routines and reconnecting with nature. Whether you’re an avid angler hoping to reel in some trout, a family looking for a safe and beautiful spot for the kids to swim, or simply someone seeking a peaceful shaded campsite to read and relax, Bell Bay delivers.

The reviews from fellow campers echo this sentiment, highlighting the friendly and accommodating nature of the staff, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the overall peaceful ambiance. As one satisfied visitor put it, it's a "fantastic old school Forrest Service Campground perched above the lake and bathed in ample shade from the trees! Amazing swim dock for cooling off in the lake. Clean spacious campsites." Another raved about the "beautiful site, restrooms very clean and mostly not very stinky," and the "quiet and serene campground." This consistent feedback underscores that Bell Bay lives up to its promise of a quality outdoor experience.

Moreover, Bell Bay Campground caters to a variety of camping styles, from tent camping to accommodating RVs and trailers. The availability of both individual and group sites means it can facilitate everything from a quiet weekend getaway for two to a larger family reunion. The amenities, including potable water, vault toilets, and fire rings, provide necessary comforts while maintaining a rustic feel.

In essence, Bell Bay Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an accessible, well-maintained, and naturally stunning destination that embodies the spirit of Idaho’s outdoor lifestyle. It’s a place where local families can create cherished memories, where friends can gather amidst nature’s splendor, and where individuals can find solace and rejuvenation by the water. Discover the charm and beauty of Bell Bay Campground for your next Idaho adventure – it’s truly a local treasure waiting to be explored.

Bell Bay Campground

Bell Bay Rd, Harrison, ID 83833, USA