Coeur d'alan, Idaho

The first navy nuclear propulsion systems were develop in Idaho near Idaho Falls. They were used in the first nuclear submarines Nautilus.

The Admiral H. Rickover was able to establish a nuclear research faciliy near Idaho Falls to develop a nuclear propulsion system for the Naval submarine fleet.

Rickovers Gamble

Top secret subs in Norther Idaho

I also recommend Farragut State Park. It has well-designed and well-maintained campsites in a forested setting and is located close to the area's major attractions. However, if you venture north to Sandpoint, beware of the view of the town while crossing the long bridge over the Pend Oreille river. It has seduced many into pulling up stakes and relocating to this picturesque resort community by the lake.

You also might consider the Alpine Country Store and RV Park just north of Coeur d'Alene. (http://nirvpark.com/) It does not have fancy amenities, but it has numerous shade trees with larger than average green spaces between the sites.

If you are an Elks Lodge member the Coeur d'Alene lodge has nice and reasonable RV parking.

X3 for Farragut State park.Nice campground with plenty of sites to choose from. The park also has a nice gift shop and a museum you can visit while staying there.

Routing help is dependent on your likes/dislikes. Are you in a hurry to get there? Does a few extra miles bother you? Do you like freeways or secondary roads? Is Spokane a destination on the way or is it a day trip from Coeur d'Alene? I live in Sacto too and have done this trip several times. PM me and we can talk.

P.S. I second Blackwell Island (eat at the the round restaurant on the water nearby). Take a look at the "Ride the Hiawatha Trail" as a fun adventure.