Devils Elbow
4.5449 reviewsIDAHO PANHANDLE NATIONAL FOREST
Devils Elbow
$26.00 - $102.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$102.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $26.00 per night for standard non-electric sites to $102.00 per night for group standard non-electric sites during peak season. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles and reservation service.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River, Devil's Elbow Campground beckons adventurers with its perfect blend of riverside tranquility and aquatic excitement. This intimate 20-site retreat invites you to cast a line into crystal-clear waters, navigate gentle rapids on a raft, or simply float the afternoon away. Whether you're planning a family reunion at one of the spacious group sites or seeking a peaceful solo escape, Devil's Elbow delivers the authentic Idaho wilderness experience with the comforts of a well-appointed campground.
Devil's Elbow Campground caters to a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group lodging. There are 20 individual sites and one group site available.
ElevationSitting at a refreshing 2,600 feet above sea level, Devil's Elbow offers a natural respite from summer heat. As evening shadows lengthen across the pine-covered slopes, the mountain air brings a welcome coolness that makes for perfect sleeping weather under star-filled skies. Pack that extra layer – the crisp mountain evenings are ideal for gathering around the campfire with hot cocoa in hand.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering lodgepole pines and mixed conifers create a cathedral-like canopy above Devil's Elbow, where sunlight filters through branches to dance on the forest floor. At 2,600 feet elevation, this riverside sanctuary serves as a crossroads for Idaho's most captivating wildlife – watch for majestic moose browsing along the riverbank at dawn, mule deer tiptoeing through camp at dusk, and osprey diving for trout in the rushing waters below. The nearby Downey and Valitons creeks carve inviting trails through the wilderness, while hummingbirds zip between wildflowers, adding flashes of iridescent color to your mountain morning.
Geological RegionDevil's Elbow finds its home in the heart of the Coeur d'Alene Mountains, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of rugged beauty softened by dense forests of lodgepole pine and mixed conifers. The star of this mountain show is the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River, whose waters have carved this scenic valley over millennia. Today, these same waters offer endless recreation – from morning fishing expeditions to afternoon kayak adventures, the river serves as both the campground's stunning backdrop and its aquatic playground.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCampground roads are paved, and parking spurs are designed to accommodate two vehicles alongside a trailer. However, there is no mention of ADA-compliant facilities.
Sites SizeParking spurs accommodate two vehicles and a trailer. The group site can host up to 50 people.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy across the sites varies. Some reviewers mentioned that campsites are large and provide decent privacy (e.g., "Very clean with large spaces that aren’t on top of each other" - Review by Celia O, 10/2/2022). Others found the sites to be closer together (e.g., "Spaces pretty close together" - Review by Susan S, 8/19/2023).
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites near the river for serene views and water access. Tent campers are suggested to use site 10 for its flatness and shade.
Best CampsitesSite 10 is noted to be ideal for tents, offering flat ground and proximity to the river. Larger group sites require leveling equipment due to sloped terrain.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins 15 minutes after the official time.
Check-out
Guests are expected to vacate by official check-out
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Group site accommodates up to 50 people
- individual sites likely allow fewer.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 50 people. One reviewer mentioned, "The group site was nice but be sure to bring items to level your RV due to the slope for drainage." (Review by Patricia H, 7/15/2023).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized in loops, and sites are relatively close together. Parking spurs are paved and can accommodate two vehicles alongside a trailer.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from May 22 through September 28, with reservations beginning June 25. Closed season begins September 28.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or by contacting Scenic Canyons Recreational Services.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites available. Reservations are retained until check-out time following the scheduled arrival date.
Cancellation PolicyStandard reservation changes are subject to a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeit the first night’s fee. Group sites must cancel at least 14 days prior to arrival to avoid penalties.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Devil's Elbow offers activities centered around enjoying the river and natural landscape, such as fishing, rafting, kayaking, and hiking in the surrounding area. Wildlife observation is also a key draw, as visitors can spot mule deer, moose, osprey, and calliope hummingbirds.
Hiking
The campground provides opportunities to explore nearby features such as Downey Creek and Valitons Creek on foot. Some visitors also mentioned exploring old logging roads in the area (Review by Dwight M, 11/23/2022).Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, especially catch-and-release cutthroat trout fishing. One camper shared, "Did some fishing. Caught a 10" cuttie" (Review by Daniel S, 8/2/2023). Fly fishing is also mentioned as a highlight (Review by Pamela C, 6/9/2020).Swimming
Swimming and floating in the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River are popular activities. One camper noted, "In warmer weather... floating the river would be a fun activity" (Review by John H, 9/24/2021).Boating
Rafting and kayaking are popular with Class I-III rapids downstream, but no information is provided about boat rentals or docking facilities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife watchers have opportunities to see mule deer, moose, osprey, and calliope hummingbirds. One reviewer noted the peaceful setting and the abundance of wildlife.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were mentioned, but the campground is closed for reservations during the off-season (late fall to early spring).Water Sports
Popular water sports include kayaking, rafting, and tubing on the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire regulations are enforced and may vary seasonally. Visitors are required to use local firewood to prevent pest spread.
- Quiet hours are strictly enforced, though some reviews note instances of disruptive neighbor behavior.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent visitation by bears requires strict compliance with food storage regulations. Wildlife such as moose and deer might also pose safety risks if approached.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - September 28, 2025; May 22, 2026 - September 27, 2026
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available throughout the campground with garbage cans spaced at convenient locations. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River, offering direct access to fishing, rafting, and kayaking opportunities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include crowded group sites disrupting peace, inconsistent bathroom maintenance, and generator noise. One user stated, 'The bathrooms need to be cleaned more often than posted.'
HostHosts are frequently described as 'friendly,' 'helpful,' and 'hardworking.' Specific mentions of hosts Dylan and Sabrina highlight their accommodating nature.
Campground Map
IDAHO PANHANDLE NATIONAL FOREST
Driving directionsFrom I-90, take Exit 43 (Kingston) and travel 20 miles north on FH9 to Prichard. Continue 11 miles north on Forest Road 208 to the campground.
All roads leading to the campground are paved, making access relatively straightforward. However, it is situated in a remote region, and travelers should plan for a significant drive through forest roads.Camper Reviews
4.5
49 reviews
Devils Elbow is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Devil's Elbow Campground is consistently praised for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and friendly camp hosts. However, some visitors noted issues such as overcrowding, noisy neighbors, and occasional maintenance lapses.
Review Summaries
Based on 49 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, the friendliness of hosts, and the serene environment. For example, "Very clean campground and restrooms. Hosts were delightful." (Review by Robert E,...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include noisy neighbors, overcrowding, and maintenance issues like running out of toilet paper in the restrooms. One reviewer noted, "Spaces pretty close together. A large...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own leveling equipment for RVs at the group site. Be prepared for limited privacy and no cell service. Firewood availability is not mentioned, so plan accordingly.
Based on 49 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are peak season with activities like fishing and swimming highly enjoyed. Complaints about overcrowding and noisy neighbors were more common in these months. Fall offers a quieter...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"In warmer weather floating the river would be a fun activity." (Review by John H, 9/24/2021). "Bathrooms were well stocked and clean." (Review by Clint H, 8/14/2023). "Hosts were friendly and...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 012 received mixed reviews. One camper stated, "Restroom ran out of toilet paper first thing in the morning." (Review by Bonnie O, 7/12/2022). Another camper noted, "Campground great,...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressed accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 49 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressed pet policies or experiences of campers with pets.
Based on 49 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025