Smith Lake Campground

For those of us living in Idaho, the pursuit of the perfect outdoor escape often involves balancing breathtaking scenery with practical considerations like accessibility and cost. Smith Lake Campground, nestled near Bonners Ferry, emerges as a truly compelling option for locals, offering a blend of natural beauty and an incredibly appealing no-fee structure. It’s a place where the simplicity of camping truly shines, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene Idaho wilderness without breaking the bank.

Situated within the broader Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Smith Lake Campground provides a rustic yet welcoming environment. It’s designed for those who appreciate the fundamentals of camping – a clean spot to set up, access to nature, and the tranquility that only a lakeside setting can offer. While it might require navigating a bit of a rugged road to get there, the rewards of this free, first-come, first-served site are well worth the journey for any Idahoan seeking a genuine outdoor adventure. This article will guide you through the various aspects of Smith Lake Campground, helping you understand why it's a gem for our local community.

Smith Lake Campground is located in Bonners Ferry, ID 83805, USA, a charming town in the northern reaches of Idaho. More specifically, it resides within the expansive and beautiful Kootenai National Forest. To reach this serene spot, travelers can head north on US 95 from Bonners Ferry, continuing for approximately 2.2 miles past its junction with US 2. From there, you’ll turn east onto Smith Lake Road (County Road #36) and follow it for about 2.3 miles directly to the lake and campground.

It's important for visitors to be aware that the road leading to Smith Lake Campground, while navigable, has been described by some as "terrible" and "very washboard." This suggests that while standard vehicles can make the journey, a higher-clearance vehicle might offer a more comfortable ride, and certainly, caution should be exercised, especially if pulling a smaller trailer. Despite the road conditions, the accessibility remains straightforward, making it reachable for most local adventurers.

The campground’s setting is picturesque, situated on a slope above Smith Lake within a mature forest, providing quite a bit of undergrowth that enhances privacy between the seven available camp units. While the sites aren't directly lakefront, a short walk leads to a day-use area with fishing docks and a boat launch. The location’s elevation is around 2890-3036 feet, meaning access can sometimes depend on snowpack, typically opening mid to late June.

• Camping Units: Smith Lake Campground features 7 camp units. These sites are available at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option for campers. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a grill/fire ring, although fire restrictions may sometimes apply.

• Restroom Facilities: The campground provides vault toilets. Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness of these restrooms, often noting they are kept well-stocked with toilet paper, which is a significant convenience in a rustic setting.

• Potable Water: Potable water is available at the campground, a crucial amenity that adds to the comfort of your stay. While specific information on the type of water source (e.g., pump) and its operational status can vary, the availability of drinking water is a major plus.

• Fishing Docks: For angling enthusiasts, the campground boasts two dedicated fishing docks, offering excellent opportunities to cast a line into Smith Lake. The lake is known to be stocked with various fish species, including Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, and Kokanee, among others.

• Boat Ramp: A boat ramp is available for those wishing to explore Smith Lake by water. It’s important to note that the lake has an electric motors-only restriction, preserving the peaceful atmosphere.

• Day Use Area: In addition to the camping units, there is a day-use area with three picnic units, perfect for visitors who want to enjoy the lake for a few hours without staying overnight.

• Free Camping: This is arguably the biggest highlight for many locals. The fact that Smith Lake Campground offers free camping on a first-come, first-served basis makes it an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious outdoor adventurers.

• Clean and Stocked Bathrooms: The consistent feedback regarding the cleanliness and regular stocking of toilet paper in the vault toilets is a significant positive, enhancing the overall comfort of a rustic camping experience.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: With two dedicated fishing docks and a lake known for various stocked fish species, it's a prime location for anglers of all skill levels. The electric motors-only restriction also contributes to a calm fishing environment.

• Wonderful Sites: The individual campsites are often described as "wonderful," providing sufficient space and some natural shade. While some sites in older campgrounds might be closer, the overall impression is positive.

• Access to Smith Lake: Beyond fishing, the lake offers opportunities for swimming and is even popular for ice fishing and ice skating during the winter months, making it a year-round recreational spot.

• Beautiful Forest Setting: The campground is nestled in a mature forest with undergrowth, providing a picturesque and authentic wilderness atmosphere.

• Peaceful Atmosphere (Mostly): Despite some mentions of potential night noise from "hot rodding" on the lake road, many visitors describe the campground as very peaceful and quiet, particularly given its remote forest setting.

While the benefits are numerous, potential visitors should be aware of a few reported issues. Some campers have encountered numerous wasp nests throughout the campground, which can be a concern for those with severe allergies. Additionally, the road leading to the campground can be quite rough, described as "very washboard," which might be challenging for certain vehicles or trailers. Lastly, there isn't a dedicated camp host mentioned, which means campers are expected to self-regulate and ensure adherence to rules, and payment envelopes for fees might not always be stocked (though this is a no-fee campground).

Phone: (208) 267-5561

Mobile Phone: +1 208-267-5561

Address: Bonners Ferry, ID 83805, USA

For the most current information regarding operational status (especially concerning snowpack and fire restrictions), road conditions, or any specific inquiries, it is highly recommended to contact the Bonners Ferry Ranger District of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests using the provided phone numbers. They can offer the most up-to-date guidance for your visit.

For Idahoans, Smith Lake Campground near Bonners Ferry is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an embodiment of the accessible, natural beauty that defines our state. Its suitability for locals stems from several key factors, most notably its incredible value as a free, first-come, first-served campground. In an era where outdoor recreation can sometimes come with a hefty price tag, Smith Lake offers a refreshing return to the basics, allowing families and individuals to enjoy nature without financial burden.

The clean and well-maintained vault toilets, a feature often overlooked but highly appreciated in rustic settings, significantly enhance the comfort of your stay. Coupled with the availability of potable water, these amenities provide a solid foundation for a comfortable camping trip. The true allure, however, lies in the abundance of recreational activities centered around Smith Lake. Whether you’re an avid angler keen to utilize the fishing docks, someone who enjoys a refreshing swim on a warm day, or even a winter enthusiast looking for ice fishing and skating opportunities, the lake serves as a vibrant hub of activity.

While the journey on the washboard road requires a bit of patience, and being mindful of potential wasp activity is wise, these minor considerations are easily outweighed by the peace, beauty, and affordability that Smith Lake Campground offers. It’s a genuine slice of Idaho wilderness, providing a serene backdrop for making lasting outdoor memories. For any local seeking an authentic, budget-friendly, and truly engaging camping experience, Smith Lake Campground stands as an ideal choice, inviting you to connect with the natural splendor of our own backyard.

Smith Lake Campground

Bonners Ferry, ID 83805, USA