Riley Creek

For Idahoans seeking a premier camping experience that combines natural beauty with exceptional amenities, Riley Creek Campground in Oldtown is a standout choice. Nestled on the scenic banks of the Pend Oreille River, this campground is celebrated by visitors for being "clean, well-maintained, and friendly hosts." It's a place where the tranquility of the Idaho wilderness meets the comfort of modern conveniences, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned RVers and traditional tent campers.

Riley Creek Campground, part of the larger Albeni Falls Recreation Area, offers a serene escape with abundant opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Its popularity stems from its consistently high standards, as evidenced by reviews praising "lots of trees to offer shade," "plenty of space at each site," and "lovely paths that take you along the water to the beach (sand) area." Whether you're looking to launch a boat, cast a line, explore scenic trails, or simply unwind by the campfire, Riley Creek provides a welcoming and picturesque setting. With excellent cell coverage, like "Good T-Mobile coverage," even staying connected to the outside world is an option for those who choose.

Riley Creek Campground is perfectly situated at US-2, Oldtown, ID 83822, USA, placing it directly on the banks of the Pend Oreille River. This location offers convenient access from Highway 2, making it easily reachable for locals across Northern Idaho and beyond. From Highway 2 in Laclede, Idaho, you turn south onto Riley Creek Road, then continue about 1 mile to the campground entrance. The drive is straightforward, leading you directly into a well-managed recreational area.

The campground is highly accessible for various types of camping setups. It features 67 campsites, all equipped with electric and water hookups, making it particularly appealing for RVs. While some larger rigs might find certain turns a bit challenging, as one reviewer noted, "Camping spots may be hard to navigate for bigger rigs, I barely made the turn to back my van into my site," the overall consensus points to "plenty of space at each site" and "level pads." The roads within the campground are paved, further enhancing ease of navigation. Its accessible location and robust infrastructure ensure that visitors can enjoy a comfortable camping experience, whether they are in a tent, trailer, or a large motorhome.

• Full Hookup Campsites:

  All 67 campsites at Riley Creek Campground are equipped with electric and water hookups, catering to both RVs and tents. Some sites also offer 50-amp service. This is a significant convenience, especially for RV campers, ensuring a comfortable stay.

• Reservable Sites:

  All campsites at Riley Creek are 100% reservable, and reservations can even be made for the same day. This eliminates the uncertainty of first-come, first-served camping, allowing visitors to plan their trips with confidence. Reservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

• Restrooms with Flush Toilets and Showers:

  The campground boasts clean, well-maintained restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers (for registered campers only). This amenity is highly valued by campers, providing a refreshing break from typical rustic campground facilities.

• RV Dump Station:

  An on-site dump station is available, which also includes a potable water fill station, making it convenient for RVers to manage their waste and water supplies before departure.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings:

  Each campsite is furnished with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires. These facilities are integral to the traditional camping experience.

• On-Site Hosts:

  The presence of "friendly hosts" ensures that the campground is well-managed and visitors have assistance with check-in, information, and any concerns that may arise during their stay.

• Boat Launch and Docks:

  The campground offers a convenient boat ramp and docking areas, providing easy access to the Pend Oreille River for boating, fishing, and water sports.

• Playground and Recreational Courts:

  For families, there's a playground, horseshoe pits, beach volleyball courts, and basketball courts, offering plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.

• Good Cell Service:

  As noted by a reviewer, "Good T-Mobile coverage" indicates reliable cell service, which is a modern convenience many campers appreciate.

• Riverside and Lakeside Access:

  Situated directly on the Pend Oreille River, Riley Creek Campground also offers close proximity to Lake Pend Oreille, one of the largest and deepest natural lakes in the western United States. This provides unparalleled access to diverse water activities.

• Sandy Beach Area:

  A "lovely beach (sand) area" along the water is a significant highlight, offering a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the riverside environment, particularly for families with children.

• Shaded Campsites:

  The campground boasts "lots of trees to offer shade," ensuring comfortable and cool campsites even during warm summer days. This natural canopy adds to the overall aesthetic and comfort of the camping experience.

• Extensive Trails:

  "Lovely paths that take you along the water" and "trails seem very nice" suggest a well-developed network of hiking and biking trails. These trails allow visitors to explore the beautiful natural surroundings and enjoy wildlife viewing.

• Water Sports Haven:

  The Pend Oreille River and nearby Lake Pend Oreille are popular for a wide array of water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing (known for trout, kokanee salmon, and more), water skiing, and jet skiing. The boat launch facilitates these activities.

• Wildlife Viewing:

  The natural setting attracts various wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and deer, providing opportunities for observation and photography.

• Family-Friendly Environment:

  With its beach, playground, sports courts, and diverse activities, Riley Creek is an excellent destination for families seeking an engaging and fun outdoor adventure.

Address: US-2, Oldtown, ID 83822, USA

Phone: (208) 437-3133

Mobile Phone: +1 208-437-3133

For the most up-to-date information regarding Riley Creek Campground, including reservation details, specific site availability, current fees (a review noted paying $35/night in June 2025, while official sources vary from $35-$75 depending on site type and season, with potential discounts for pass holders), and any seasonal alerts, it is best to contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Albeni Falls Dam, directly at the provided phone numbers. Reservations can also be made via Recreation.gov.

For Idaho residents, Riley Creek Campground stands as a prime example of accessible, high-quality outdoor recreation right in their backyard. The consistent praise for its "clean, well-maintained" facilities and "friendly hosts" speaks directly to the local preference for well-run public amenities that provide a comfortable and welcoming environment. The "plenty of space at each site" and abundant shade from "lots of trees" enhance the camping experience, offering both privacy and relief during warm Idaho summers.

The campground’s strategic location on the Pend Oreille River, with its lovely sandy beach and proximity to Lake Pend Oreille, makes it an ideal spot for a myriad of water-based activities that are deeply ingrained in the Idaho lifestyle. Whether it's fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the water with "kiddos," Riley Creek provides an easy and enjoyable outlet. The "lovely paths" and "nice trails" offer perfect opportunities for walking, biking, and exploring the beautiful North Idaho landscape, catering to the active spirit of residents.

Furthermore, the presence of full hookups, showers, and a dump station makes it particularly appealing for Idahoans with RVs, offering a convenient and amenity-rich experience without having to travel far from home. Even the "Good T-Mobile coverage" demonstrates an understanding of modern needs within a natural setting. Riley Creek Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a testament to Idaho's commitment to providing exceptional, accessible outdoor spaces that encourage residents to connect with nature, create lasting family memories, and fully embrace the unique beauty of their home state. Its popularity and high praise from locals confirm its status as a top-tier destination that many will "stay here again!"