Berlin Flats Campground

For Idahoans seeking a quintessential North Idaho outdoor experience, Berlin Flats Campground stands out as a hidden gem within the vast and beautiful Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Tucked away along the serene Shoshone Creek and in close proximity to the majestic North Fork Coeur d'Alene River, this campground offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. Whether you're planning a large family gathering, a friends' reunion, or simply crave a spacious retreat into nature, Berlin Flats provides an ideal setting. Its unique offering as primarily a group camping area, combined with its accessibility to a wealth of recreational opportunities, makes it a highly sought-after destination for those looking to immerse themselves in Idaho's stunning wilderness.

This article serves as your comprehensive guide to Berlin Flats Campground, detailing its location, the services it provides, its standout features, and why it's an excellent choice for local users. We aim to equip you with all the essential information to plan your visit, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable stay in one of Idaho's most picturesque regions. From its well-maintained facilities to its direct access to popular fishing spots and extensive ATV trails, Berlin Flats Campground promises an authentic and unforgettable Idaho camping adventure.

Berlin Flats Campground is nestled deep within the scenic landscapes of Shoshone County, Idaho. The general address provided is Shoshone County, ID 83837, USA. More specifically, it is located along Shoshone Creek, near the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River, within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. This placement puts it in a prime position for exploring the vast wilderness and recreational opportunities that the Panhandle region is famous for.

Accessing Berlin Flats Campground requires a bit of a drive into the forest, but the journey is part of the adventure and well worth the effort. From Coeur d'Alene, the general route involves traveling approximately 28 miles east on Interstate 90. From there, take the Kingston exit (#43) and head north on paved Forest Road #9 for about 26 miles to the small town of Prichard. Continue north for another 5 miles on paved Forest Road #208. Finally, turn north (right) onto Forest Service Road #412 and continue for about 9 miles. It's important to note that after approximately 7 miles on Forest Service Road #412, the road will transition from paved to gravel. While generally well-maintained, always exercise caution on gravel roads and check current road conditions, especially during the shoulder seasons when weather can impact accessibility. The campground will be located on your left.

The remote yet accessible nature of Berlin Flats adds to its charm, offering a true escape from urban life while remaining within a manageable driving distance for many Idaho residents. The area's elevation is approximately 2,600 feet, which provides a comfortable climate during the warmer camping season.

Berlin Flats Campground, while offering a rustic experience, provides essential services designed to make your stay comfortable and convenient within a natural setting. The campground primarily functions as a group camping area, making its amenities well-suited for larger parties.

Services Offered:

• Vault Toilets: Clean and regularly maintained vault toilets are available on-site for campers' convenience.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is accessible via a hand pump, ensuring campers have a source of fresh water. Note that water availability may be seasonal, typically until late September, weather permitting.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite, or designated group area, is equipped with sturdy picnic tables, perfect for outdoor meals and gatherings.
• Fire Rings & Grills: Individual fire rings with grills are provided at campsites, allowing for safe and enjoyable campfires and outdoor cooking.
• Trash Collection: Designated trash receptacles are available for waste disposal, encouraging campers to keep the area clean.
• Group Site Capacity: The group area can accommodate up to 75 people and up to 15 vehicles (including trailers and RVs up to 40 feet).
• Camp Host (Seasonal): While not always continuously on-site, a camp host typically visits daily to ensure facilities are clean and assist campers.
• Overflow Parking: Limited overflow parking may be available for extra vehicles, especially useful for larger groups.

It is important to remember that Berlin Flats Campground does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs, emphasizing a more traditional camping experience. Cell service in this remote area is generally limited or non-existent, providing a true opportunity to disconnect and enjoy nature.

Berlin Flats Campground boasts a range of features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy active recreation and serene natural settings.

Features / Highlights:

• Riverside Location: Situated along Shoshone Creek and near the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River, offering excellent opportunities for fishing (especially catch-and-release cutthroat trout), river floating, swimming, and kayaking.
• ATV and OHV Access: Directly connected to miles of National Forest System (NFS) roads and ATV trails, making it an ideal base camp for off-highway vehicle adventures. This is a significant draw for many local users.
• Spacious Group Sites: Originally comprising 9 single-family sites, Berlin Flats has been designed as a group area, providing ample space for large gatherings and ensuring a sense of privacy even with multiple vehicles.
• Diverse Wildlife: The surrounding Idaho Panhandle National Forests are home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, moose, osprey, and calliope hummingbirds, offering fantastic opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
• Lodgepole Pine Forest Setting: The campground is nestled among a mix of lodgepole and other mixed pines, providing natural shade and a classic forest ambiance.
• Proximity to North Fork Coeur d'Alene River: While direct creek access from individual sites may be limited, the nearby North Fork Coeur d'Alene River is easily accessible for broader water activities.
• Hiking Opportunities: Numerous trails in the surrounding forest allow for diverse hiking experiences, from leisurely strolls to more challenging treks.
• Remote and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its group capacity, the campground maintains a peaceful and secluded environment, allowing visitors to fully relax and enjoy the sounds of nature.

These highlights underscore Berlin Flats Campground's appeal as a versatile outdoor destination, catering to both active adventurers and those seeking a quiet escape into the Idaho wilderness.

For questions, reservations, or more detailed information about Berlin Flats Campground, here's how you can get in touch:

Address: Shoshone County, ID 83837, USA (Note: This is a general county address; follow driving directions for precise location.)

Phone: (208) 664-2318 (This number connects to the Coeur d'Alene River Ranger District of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, which manages the campground.)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-664-2318

For reservations, Berlin Flats Group Area can typically be reserved through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially for group sites during peak season, as they can book up quickly. You can visit the Recreation.gov website or call their reservation line: 1-877-444-6777.

Always check the latest conditions and specific operating dates on the official USDA Forest Service website for the Idaho Panhandle National Forests or Recreation.gov before planning your trip, as closures or changes in services can occur due to weather, fire conditions, or other factors.

For Idaho locals, Berlin Flats Campground represents an ideal opportunity to experience the unparalleled natural beauty and recreational diversity of their home state. Its location within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests makes it easily accessible for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation without the need for extensive travel. The campground's primary focus as a group site is particularly beneficial for Idahoans looking to gather with friends, family, or outdoor clubs, offering ample space and amenities for larger parties.

The unique draw of Berlin Flats for locals lies in its exceptional access to ATV and OHV trails, which are a beloved pastime for many in the region. Coupled with excellent fishing opportunities in Shoshone Creek and the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River, it caters directly to popular Idaho outdoor activities. While some reviews mention limited direct river access from campsites, the overall area provides abundant opportunities for water recreation. The clean vault toilets and potable water, as highlighted by satisfied campers, ensure a comfortable experience even in a rustic setting.

Furthermore, the chance to disconnect from digital life with limited cell service offers a true escape from daily stresses, allowing for deeper immersion in nature. Whether you're an avid angler, an ATV enthusiast, a family seeking a spacious camping spot, or simply someone yearning for the peace and quiet of a dense pine forest, Berlin Flats Campground delivers. It provides a genuine Idaho wilderness experience, complete with opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploration, making it a perfect, convenient, and truly local choice for your next outdoor adventure.

Berlin Flats Campground

Shoshone County, ID 83837, USA