Mokins Bay Campground

For Idaho locals seeking an authentic and unpretentious outdoor escape, Mokins Bay Campground on the eastern shores of Hayden Lake offers a truly "old fashioned campsite" experience. Nestled within the picturesque Idaho Panhandle National Forests, this beloved spot provides a refreshing return to the basics of camping, where the focus is on nature, relaxation, and simple enjoyment. If you're looking for a place where you can truly connect with the natural world, enjoy lakeside activities, and appreciate a more rustic approach to outdoor living, Mokins Bay is a prime destination right here in our backyard.

While modern amenities like extensive RV hookups might be absent, Mokins Bay Campground compensates with its beautiful location and a genuine wilderness feel. It's an ideal choice for those who value peace and quiet over luxury, and who understand that the true joy of camping often lies in its simplicity. Many locals find this straightforward approach to camping deeply appealing, providing a much-needed respite from the demands of everyday life. It’s a place where you can feel "at home with nature," as one grateful camper described it, appreciating the essentials like fresh air and the convenience of a toilet after a day of exploring.

Mokins Bay Campground is conveniently located at 12355 E Mokins Bay Rd, Hayden, ID 83835, USA, directly on the eastern side of Hayden Lake in northwest Idaho. This puts it within the beautiful Idaho Panhandle National Forests, specifically in the northwest portion of the Bitterroot Mountain range, known locally as the Coeur d'Alene mountains.

For Idaho locals, accessing the campground is straightforward. From Coeur d'Alene, you can take Route 95 north for approximately 6.1 miles to Lancaster Road. Turn right onto Lancaster Road and continue for about 6.3 miles to a 'Y' intersection. Bear right at the 'Y' and continue until you reach Mokins Road, then turn left and go about 0.1 mile to the campground entrance. The access road to the campground is gravel, and within the campground, the roads and campsite parking spurs are paved.

While the campground is not directly on the water's edge, Hayden Lake is just a short 10-minute walk away, offering easy access for water activities. The location provides a sense of solitude in a forested setting, yet remains within a reasonable driving distance (about 21 miles) to the larger town of Coeur d'Alene for any necessary supplies, restaurants, or tourist attractions. This balance of natural seclusion and nearby amenities makes Mokins Bay highly accessible and practical for local campers.

• Campsites for Tents, Trailers, and RVs: Mokins Bay Campground offers 15-16 individual campsites that can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. Each site typically includes a paved parking spur (ranging from 20 to 40 feet in length, with some up to 50 feet), a picnic table, and a fire ring with a grill.

• Potable Drinking Water: Drinking water is available within the campground. This is provided via a hand pump, ensuring campers have access to fresh water during their stay.

• Vault Toilets: The campground is equipped with vault toilets. Reviews consistently note these facilities are "very clean" and "well maintained for what they are," providing a basic but appreciated amenity for a rustic camping experience.

• No Electrical Hookups: Mokins Bay is a "Standard Nonelectric" campground. There are no electrical hookups available at the campsites, reinforcing its primitive camping style.

• No RV Dump Site: Campers with RVs should be aware that there is no RV dump site directly at the campground. Planning for waste disposal off-site is necessary.

• Trash Collection: Trash disposal services are available, contributing to the cleanliness and well-maintained nature of the campground.

• Firewood Available for Purchase: Firewood can often be purchased directly from the camp host, providing convenience for campers who wish to enjoy campfires.

• Camp Host: A camp host is typically on-site during the operating season, offering assistance and information to campers. One reviewer praised the "caretaker" for being "full of information and knowhow."

• Beautiful Lakeside Location: Situated on the eastern side of Hayden Lake, the campground offers a "very nice location" with easy access to the lake for fishing, boating, and other water sports. While not directly on the shoreline, the lake is just a "10-minute walk" away, providing a stunning natural backdrop.

• Rustic and "Old Fashioned" Camping: For those who appreciate a more traditional and simple camping experience, Mokins Bay delivers. It’s described as an "old fashioned campsite," perfect for campers who "felt at home with nature and felt spoiled by having a toilet."

• Forested Setting: The campground is surrounded by a "heavy canopy of pines," offering a sense of solitude and a pleasant, shaded environment, especially during warmer months. In springtime, wildflowers like trillium and buttercups add to the scenic beauty.

• Fishing Opportunities: Hayden Lake and the surrounding streams are popular for fishing, with common catches including cutthroat trout and both large and small-mouth bass. This makes it an ideal spot for anglers.

• Water Sports Access: Beyond fishing, Hayden Lake offers opportunities for power boating, paddleboarding, water skiing, and other water sports, making it a versatile destination for aquatic recreation.

• Spacious, Private Sites (Generally): While some reviews note sites can be "fairly close together," others highlight that "sites are large and private" and allow for an "isolated feel," indicating variety in site privacy. The trees contribute to this sense of seclusion.

• Horseshoe Pit: A horseshoe pit is available on-site, offering a classic campground activity for friends and family.

• Poor Cell Service: For those looking to truly unplug, the "poor cell service in the area" is often considered a feature, allowing for a deeper immersion into the natural surroundings without digital distractions.

Address: Lake, 12355 E Mokins Bay Rd, Hayden, ID 83835, USA

Phone: (208) 664-2318

Mobile Phone: +1 208-664-2318

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding reservations (which can be made up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov), seasonal operating dates (generally mid-May to early September), current conditions, and specific site details, it is highly recommended to contact the Idaho Panhandle National Forests Coeur d'Alene River Ranger District. You can also check Recreation.gov for availability and to make reservations directly.

For Idaho locals, Mokins Bay Campground offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, traditional camping simplicity, and convenient access to one of North Idaho's beloved lakes. It’s a place that perfectly embodies the spirit of outdoor adventure that defines our state, making it an excellent choice for a variety of local campers.

One of the most appealing aspects for locals is its "very nice location on the east side of the lake." While not directly waterfront at every site, the easy "10 minute walk" to Hayden Lake ensures that boating, fishing, and general lakeside enjoyment are always within reach. For those who own a boat or paddleboard, the accessibility to the lake is a significant advantage, allowing for full days of recreation on the water. The surrounding "heavy canopy of pines" provides a serene and shaded environment, a welcome respite during warmer months and a picturesque setting for relaxation.

Furthermore, Mokins Bay caters to a specific local preference: authentic, "old fashioned" camping. In an era where many campgrounds are becoming increasingly commercialized, Mokins Bay stands out by offering a simpler experience. As one reviewer, coming from the Marine Corps, put it, they "felt at home with nature and felt spoiled by having a toilet." This sentiment perfectly captures the essence of Mokins Bay – it provides essential amenities like clean vault toilets and potable water, but without the distractions of excessive hookups or modern luxuries, encouraging a true connection with the outdoors. While some may find the sites "fairly close together" or express concerns about pricing, the overall consensus is that it's an "overall awesome place to be" for a genuine North Idaho camping experience. For Idahoans who prioritize tranquility, lakeside recreation, and a return to camping basics, Mokins Bay Campground is a highly suitable and cherished local destination.

Mokins Bay Campground

Lake, 12355 E Mokins Bay Rd, Hayden, ID 83835, USA