Camp Stidwell, Kiwanis

For Idahoans seeking a truly immersive and private group outdoor experience, Camp Stidwell, managed by the dedicated Sandpoint Kiwanis Club, stands as a unique and treasured destination. Nestled on the serene shores of Mirror Lake in Sagle, this privately-owned rustic campground is more than just a place to stay; it’s a commitment to fostering connection with nature, particularly for youth and families. Imagine a secluded haven where large groups can gather, enjoy lakeside views, and explore abundant wild treasures without the crowds of public campgrounds. Camp Stidwell provides exactly that: a safe, clean, and affordable environment where generations have come to create lasting memories, learn about the outdoors, and appreciate the immense medicinal and edible plants that flourish on the well-tended land. It's a testament to preserving wild spaces for the benefit of the community, truly a jewel in North Idaho's backyard.

Camp Stidwell is conveniently located at 4259 Talache Rd, Sagle, ID 83860, USA, at the southern end of Mirror Lake. Its location, approximately 15 miles from Sandpoint, offers a sense of seclusion while remaining relatively accessible for local groups. The camp comprises 159 acres of timberland with 2,000 feet of lake frontage, ensuring ample space and privacy. While the specific road conditions to Talache Rd can vary, it is generally well-maintained. As a private group campground, access to Camp Stidwell is by reservation only, ensuring a controlled and safe environment for its users. The property is utilized year-round, accommodating diverse activities across seasons. The camp features four developed camping and recreation areas: Camps Ouimet, Angell, and Vail are designed for overnight groups with covered pavilions, while the Shooting Star Day Camp is part of Camp Vail, situated on the shore of Mirror Lake. A "Golden Rule Trail" connects Camp Vail with the other areas, facilitating easy movement across the property. The private nature of the camp means visitors won't encounter random individuals, providing an added layer of security and privacy, which is a significant draw for many groups.

Services Offered:

• Private group rustic campground, available by reservation only.
• Accommodations in three primary rustic camps (Ouimet, Angell, Vail) with covered pavilions, designed for overnight camping groups.
• Specific facilities for day camps at Shooting Star Day Camp.
• Archery range with safety rules, targets, and benches (groups must bring their own equipment and provide adult supervision for youth under 14).
• Access to Mirror Lake for swimming, fishing (within season), kayaking, and canoeing (electric motors only allowed on Mirror Lake; no gas motors).
• Designated fire rings for campfires (in metal rings only; strictly no fireworks).
• Well-tended land with immense medicinal and edible plants.
• Trails for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
• Year-round availability for various activities.
• Outhouses/restrooms (groups exceeding 40 people in Camps Ouimet/Angell or 20 in Camp Vail may need to rent additional porta-potties).
• Limited electricity is available at Camps Ouimet and Angell (guests encouraged to make a donation for usage).
• Docks for swimming and fishing.
• Space for large family-oriented camps and gatherings (e.g., family reunions, church camping, weddings).

Features / Highlights:

• Private Group Exclusivity: Camp Stidwell's "by reservation only" policy ensures unparalleled privacy and security, making it ideal for youth organizations, large families, and various community groups seeking a secluded retreat.
• Scenic Lakeside Setting on Mirror Lake: Boasting 2,000 feet of waterfront on Mirror Lake, the camp offers beautiful lakeside views, particularly from Camp Angell, and opportunities for a range of water activities in a tranquil environment (electric motors only).
• Nature Connection Focus: Owned and operated by the Sandpoint Kiwanis Club, the camp is dedicated to providing a place for youth to connect with the outdoors, fostering a new generation of environmental stewards and promoting mental and physical health through outdoor experiences.
• Abundant Edible and Medicinal Plants: Reviewers highlight the "phenomenal preservation of wild treasures" and the abundance of medicinal and edible plants, indicating a rich natural ecosystem.
• Diverse Year-Round Activities: From summer camping, picnicking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and hiking to winter snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing, the camp offers activities for all seasons.
• Well-Designed Group Camps: With three distinct overnight group camps (Ouimet, Angell, Vail) and a day camp (Shooting Star Day Camp), the facility is structured to comfortably host multiple large groups simultaneously, with ample space between sites.
• Close to Sandpoint: Despite its secluded feel, the camp is conveniently located within 15 miles of Sandpoint, offering access to town amenities if needed.
• Conservation Easement: The land has been placed under a conservation easement with the Inland Northwest Land Conservancy, ensuring its pristine nature is preserved in perpetuity for future generations.
• Archery Range: A dedicated archery range provides a structured and safe environment for groups to engage in this popular outdoor activity.

Contact Information:

Address: 4259 Talache Rd, Sagle, ID 83860, USA

Phone: (208) 255-6645

Mobile Phone: +1 208-255-6645

For reservations and inquiries, contacting the Sandpoint Kiwanis Club directly is the recommended approach. Youth groups typically receive first priority for dates until January 1st each year, after which reservations are opened to other private groups.

For Idaho locals, Camp Stidwell, Kiwanis, offers an unparalleled opportunity for private group camping and nature connection that aligns perfectly with the state's outdoor ethos. Its suitability for locals stems from its foundational mission: to provide a safe, affordable, and secluded rustic campground for youth and family-oriented groups. Unlike public campgrounds that can be crowded, Camp Stidwell guarantees privacy and ample space, allowing for truly intimate gatherings and immersive learning experiences in nature. Whether it's a youth organization fostering outdoor skills, a large family reunion seeking a memorable setting, or a church group looking for a peaceful retreat, this camp caters specifically to the needs of community-minded groups. By choosing Camp Stidwell, Idahoans are not only securing an incredible outdoor experience but also supporting a long-standing local initiative by the Sandpoint Kiwanis Club to preserve and share the natural wonders of North Idaho for generations to come. It truly is a cherished "jewel right in our backyard."

Camp Stidwell, Kiwanis

4259 Talache Rd, Sagle, ID 83860, USA