The Top Motorcycle Camping In North Idaho – Best Rides, Best Campsites

North Idaho offers some of the most breathtaking motorcycle routes and campsites in the Pacific Northwest. The region’s winding mountain roads, pristine lakes, and dense forests create perfect conditions for motorcycle enthusiasts looking to combine riding and camping.

I’ve explored countless trails and campsites throughout the area and am excited to share my favorite spots that combine great rides with amazing places to pitch your tent.

1. Priest Lake Loop – Waterfront Camping Paradise

Ever dreamed of waking up to misty lake views after a day of riding? The 80-mile Priest Lake Loop delivers exactly that magic. The northern section features smooth pavement with sweeping curves that hug the shoreline.

Lionhead Campground sits right on the water, offering spacious motorcycle-friendly sites with fire rings and picnic tables. You’ll find easy lake access for a refreshing swim after your ride.

During summer months, don’t miss the huckleberry picking along the eastern portion of the route – a perfect snack break during your ride!

2. St. Joe River Road – Riverside Riding Heaven

Nothing beats the rhythm of riding alongside a wild river. The St. Joe River Road stretches nearly 100 miles from St. Maries to Avery, following one of America’s highest navigable rivers.

Red Ives Ranger Station campground provides a perfect overnight stop with sites nestled among old-growth cedars. The sound of the rushing river will lull you to sleep after a day of carving through endless curves.

Pack your fishing gear! The St. Joe holds trophy-sized cutthroat trout, and a fresh-caught dinner over a campfire makes for an unforgettable evening.

3. Coeur d’Alene National Forest – Backcountry Bliss

Hidden gems await riders willing to venture into the heart of this massive forest. Logging roads and forest service routes create a network of both paved and unpaved adventures perfect for dual-sport motorcycles.

Mokins Bay Campground sits on the eastern shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene, offering primitive sites that feel worlds away from civilization. The campground’s location provides an excellent base for daily rides into the surrounding mountains.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try the route to Magee Peak lookout tower – the panoramic views of endless forest and distant mountain ranges make every mile worthwhile.

4. Lolo Motorway – Historic Adventure Route

Are you ready for a ride through history? The legendary Lolo Motorway follows the same path used by the Lewis and Clark expedition, offering challenging terrain and unforgettable views for adventure riders.

Wilderness Gateway Campground provides the perfect starting point with well-maintained facilities including hot showers – a luxury you’ll appreciate after tackling this rugged route. The campground sits alongside the Lochsa River, offering cool relief on hot summer days.

Make sure your bike is equipped for off-road conditions and carry extra fuel, as services are extremely limited along this remote 100-mile stretch.

5. Silver Mountain Loop – Mining Town Exploration

Mining history comes alive on this fascinating loop connecting the historic towns of Wallace, Kellogg, and Murray. The route features well-maintained roads with plenty of twisties to keep your ride exciting.

Crystal Gold Mine Campground offers unique accommodations where you can literally camp near an old mine entrance. Their motorcycle-specific sites include covered areas to protect your bike from unexpected mountain weather.

While in Wallace, don’t miss the chance to visit the Oasis Bordello Museum – a preserved brothel that operated until 1988, offering a glimpse into the area’s colorful past. The entire downtown is on the National Historic Register!

6. Selkirk Loop – International Riding Experience

How about riding through two countries in one trip? The International Selkirk Loop crosses into Canada, circling the breathtaking Selkirk Mountains and offering riders nearly 300 miles of scenic beauty.

Copper Bay Campground on Priest Lake makes an ideal first night’s stop, with waterfront sites and stunning sunset views. The gentle lapping of waves against the shore creates the perfect soundtrack for evening relaxation.

Remember to bring your passport and check border crossing requirements before setting out. The Canadian portion features excellent roads with significantly less traffic than the US side.

7. Marble Creek – Old Growth Forest Retreat

Deep in the St. Joe National Forest lies a motorcyclist’s secret paradise. Marble Creek Road winds through some of Idaho’s most impressive old-growth cedar forests, with trees towering hundreds of feet overhead.

Shadowy St. Joe Campground offers peaceful sites alongside a crystal-clear creek. The dense forest canopy keeps temperatures comfortable even during the hottest summer days, making this an ideal July or August destination.

Look for remnants of old logging operations along the route – abandoned equipment and historic markers tell the story of this area’s timber heritage. The road surface varies from paved to well-maintained gravel, suitable for most touring bikes.

8. Lake Pend Oreille – Naval Testing Ground Route

Did you know Idaho hosts a naval submarine research facility? This fascinating route circles massive Lake Pend Oreille, where the Navy tests submarine technology in the lake’s 1,150-foot depths.

Sam Owen Campground peninsula juts into the lake, offering 360-degree water views and excellent swimming access. The campground’s boat launch allows you to bring a kayak along on your motorcycle adventure for exploring hidden coves.

For a truly unique experience, time your visit during submarine testing periods when you might glimpse scale models being evaluated. The nearby town of Sandpoint provides excellent dining options for a break from camp cooking.

9. Cabinet Mountains Byway – Alpine Motorcycle Heaven

For riders seeking high-elevation thrills, nothing beats the Cabinet Mountains Byway. This route climbs to breathtaking heights with hairpin turns and panoramic vistas of the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness.

Bull Lake Campground sits at the base of the range, offering cool, shaded sites and excellent star-gazing opportunities. The lack of light pollution makes this one of Idaho’s premier spots for viewing the Milky Way.

Keep your camera handy for wildlife sightings – mountain goats, elk, and even the occasional grizzly bear call these mountains home. The best riding months are July through September, as snow can linger at higher elevations well into June.