Bumblebee Campground

For Idaho locals craving a tranquil, back-to-basics camping experience amidst stunning natural beauty, Bumblebee Campground near Wallace, Idaho, offers an inviting escape. Nestled within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, this campground provides a wonderfully rustic setting where privacy and peace take precedence. While it might be a bit "overgrown" or "rustic" for some, it's precisely these qualities that make it a cherished spot for those who truly want to disconnect and immerse themselves in the Idaho wilderness.

Bumblebee Campground is an ideal destination for those who appreciate the simple joys of outdoor living. Its well-spaced sites, buffered by natural flora, ensure a sense of solitude, making it perfect for birdwatchers, hikers, mountain bikers, and anyone looking to float or fish the nearby Coeur d'Alene River. While it's important to come prepared for a more primitive experience – notably, with your own water – the clean pit toilets and the overall quiet atmosphere make it a fantastic choice for a truly authentic Idaho camping adventure. This is a place where the sounds of nature dominate, offering a peaceful respite from the everyday hustle.

Bumblebee Campground is conveniently located at 26290 Coeur D'Alene River Rd, Wallace, ID 83873, USA. This places it directly in the heart of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, along the scenic Coeur d'Alene River corridor.

To reach Bumblebee Campground from Interstate 90, take the Kingston Exit and then head north on Forest Road 9 for approximately 5.4 miles. Turn left onto Bumblebee Cutoff and continue for about 3 miles until you reach the campground sign at the junction with Forest Road 796. Turn right onto Forest Road 796 and proceed for 0.1 miles to the campground entrance. The roads within the campground are paved, and the campsite parking spurs are sealed gravel, making navigation relatively straightforward for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers. While some areas might be more accessible than others, the campground is generally well-suited for both tent and RV camping. However, it's worth noting that the surrounding forest roads offer endless opportunities for walking and mountain biking, providing excellent accessibility to the wider natural area. The location near the Little North Fork Coeur d'Alene River ensures easy access to water-based activities directly from the campground.

Bumblebee Campground focuses on providing essential services for a comfortable, yet distinctly rustic, camping experience.

• Campsites for Tents, Trailers, and RVs: The campground offers 24 campsites spread across two loops, accommodating a range of setups from tents to RVs and trailers. Site sizes can accommodate RVs and trailers between 35 and 80 feet, although some sources may indicate smaller maximum lengths for specific sites.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Sites are well-spaced, with natural vegetation providing buffers for privacy between individual camping areas.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, perfect for outdoor dining and gathering.
• Fire Rings and Grills: Fire rings with grates are provided at each site, allowing for campfires and outdoor cooking (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Vault Toilets: The campground is equipped with clean vault toilets, maintained for visitor convenience.
• Water Availability (Important Note): While some older information might suggest potable water spigots, recent reviews indicate that water spigots have been removed. Some sources state that a hand-pump for drinking water is available at the group site, which single-site campers can also use. However, review feedback from customers suggests that this group site gate has sometimes been locked. Therefore, it is highly recommended that visitors bring all their own drinking and cooking water to ensure a comfortable stay.
• No Electric Hookups: Bumblebee Campground is a standard non-electric campground, meaning no electric hookups are available at the campsites.
• No Showers: There are no shower facilities at Bumblebee Campground.
• Camp Host: While a camp host is typically assigned to the campground to provide assistance, some reviews have noted instances where the host was not readily available.
• Trash Collection: Trash collection services are provided, making waste disposal convenient.
• Reservations and First-Come, First-Served: While some sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, Recreation.gov indicates that most, if not all, sites are reservable up to 6 months in advance. It's advisable to check current reservation policies and book ahead, especially during peak season.

Bumblebee Campground’s appeal lies in its natural features and the array of outdoor activities it facilitates.

• Riverside Location: Situated next to Bumblebee Creek near the Little North Fork Coeur d'Alene River, the campground offers easy access for floating, swimming, and wading in the cool, clear waters.
• Excellent Fishing: The nearby Little North Fork Coeur d'Alene River is known for trout fishing, with rainbow and cutthroat trout being common catches, making it a perfect spot for anglers.
• Birders' Paradise: Many visitors find the campground and surrounding area to be a "birder's heaven," with ample opportunities for birdwatching due to the diverse natural habitat.
• Extensive Trails for Hiking and Mountain Biking: The area is surrounded by endless National Forest roads and trails, providing abundant opportunities for walking, hiking, and mountain biking. About 15 miles from the campground is the 803 Motorized Trail System, which offers dedicated off-road trails.
• Privacy Between Sites: Despite being a developed campground, the sites are well-spaced with natural plant buffers, offering a good sense of privacy for campers.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Visitors consistently describe Bumblebee as a "nice small quiet park," making it ideal for those seeking a serene outdoor experience away from noise.
• Wildlife Viewing: The rich forest environment provides opportunities for spotting various wildlife, adding to the natural immersion.
• Base Camp for Hunting: During hunting season, the campground serves as an excellent base camp for hunters.
• Beautiful Meadow Setting: The campground is set in a beautiful meadow, providing an open yet naturally buffered environment. While a 2021 wind event and subsequent logging may have resulted in more open conditions, the beauty of the area remains.

For up-to-date information, reservations, or specific inquiries about Bumblebee Campground, the following contact details are provided.

Address: 26290 Coeur D'Alene River Rd, Wallace, ID 83873, USA

Phone: (208) 664-2318 (This number often directs to the Coeur d'Alene River Ranger District, Idaho Panhandle National Forests).

Mobile Phone: +1 208-664-2318 (This number likely also directs to the same Forest Service District).

For reservations, it is best to utilize the National Recreation Reservation System: Recreation.gov.

For general inquiries, the Idaho Panhandle National Forests - Coeur d'Alene River Ranger District office can provide current conditions and information. Their general information line is often cited as (435) 245-6521, or you can use the direct numbers provided above.

For Idaho locals, Bumblebee Campground offers a quintessential North Idaho camping experience that appeals to those who value peace, privacy, and a genuine connection with nature. Its slightly rustic and "overgrown" charm isn't a drawback but rather a draw, providing a more authentic wilderness feel than more manicured parks. This makes it an ideal spot for residents seeking to escape the everyday hustle and immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests.

The well-spaced campsites, naturally buffered by abundant flora, ensure a sense of seclusion, a rare commodity in many popular campgrounds. This privacy, coupled with a generally quiet atmosphere, is perfect for those who enjoy activities like birding, or simply reading a book by the campfire without disturbance. Its prime location along the Little North Fork Coeur d'Alene River means excellent opportunities for floating, swimming, and fishing – activities deeply ingrained in Idaho's outdoor culture. Additionally, the countless miles of Forest Service roads provide endless routes for mountain biking and hiking, catering to adventurers of all levels right from their campsite.

While the absence of readily available potable water means bringing your own supplies is essential, this requirement aligns with the self-sufficiency often embraced by true outdoor enthusiasts. The clean pit toilets contribute to a comfortable, no-frills experience. For Idahoans, Bumblebee Campground represents an affordable and accessible gateway to the natural wonders of their home state, offering a chance to reconnect with the wild, enjoy peaceful moments by the river, and engage in beloved outdoor pursuits. It's a place where the simplicity of nature takes center stage, fostering a deep appreciation for Idaho's beautiful, rugged landscapes.

Bumblebee Campground

26290 Coeur D'Alene River Rd, Wallace, ID 83873, USA