Map showing campground location near Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, Idaho

Camper submitted image from Colgate Camp

Colgate Camp

Off Highway 12 near Kooskia, Colgate Camp sits alongside the Clearwater River with seven first-come, first-serve sites at no charge. The Forest Service campground occupies a compact area where some sites offer direct river access down a steep bank, while others provide more distance from the water's edge.

Road noise from the adjacent highway carries through during daytime hours, though traffic diminishes significantly after dark. The rushing river creates a consistent backdrop of sound, particularly notable during high water periods when Anthony D. notes it "was roaring and you would probably want to be careful with kids and pets." Sites can become muddy following rain, and solar panel users may find limited sun exposure due to tree coverage.

The vault toilet receives regular maintenance, and the campground's location provides convenient access to multiple hot springs in the area. Cell service remains unavailable across all carriers. Most visitors find the campground uncrowded, with several sites typically available even on weekend arrivals. The compact layout creates some privacy between sites despite the small footprint.

Colgate Camp works well for campers seeking an affordable riverside stop along the Clearwater corridor, particularly those comfortable with highway proximity and basic amenities. For additional options in the region, see campgrounds around Clearwater National Forest.

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Location

Public Campground

Colgate Camp is located in Idaho

Coordinates

46.46765952 N
114.94354628 W

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Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&T
No Coverage

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&T
No Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

Picnic Table
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Pull-Through Sites

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 21 min from Missoula, MT
2 hrs 45 min from Lewiston, ID
3 hrs 2 min from Helena, MT
3 hrs 24 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID

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5 Stars

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5.0

out of 5

5 Reviews

Campers regularly cited this hidden gem's peaceful riverside setting and convenient highway access. Many appreciated the proximity to hot springs and lack of crowds, making it a solid overnight stop.

Jesse-David M.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 7, 2025

Peaceful camping by the river

Spot was great with a few spots for camping right beside the river. Wasn’t busy. Spent 2 days there. Close to a few different hot springs

Month of VisitJune

Catherine L.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 13, 2024

Nice river spot

Great hidden gem off 12. It has enough spots to accommodate 5-6 campers. We had no issues on a Sunday night. Very peaceful next to the river.

Month of VisitSeptember

Zach P.

Ranger

Reviewed Aug. 14, 2023

Nice spot!

Nice little campground some spots right on the river. Tucked in a little so has a little privacy. Not busy at all.

Month of VisitAugust

Abby M.

Legend

Reviewed Jun. 20, 2022

Great stay!

Fantastic campground off the map. You’re right between two hot springs so very easy access to visit. There’s a clean vault toilet & front row access to a beautiful river. It is right along the road so you do hear some road noise but very quiet at night time. There’s 7 campsites ranging in size. No cell service for any carrier. Met some awesome people here and would definitely visit again! Arrived on a Sunday afternoon to find 5 open spots. First come first serve & free. Not a lot of solar site options if needing, may not be the best spot.

Month of VisitJune

(6) View All

Anthony D.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 14, 2022

Hidden gem

Great location just off the highway. Stayed here for one night on our way to Missoula. River located just down a cliff along the campsite. When we were here is was roaring and you would probably want to be careful with kids and pets. Very quite with little to no traffic in the campground as well as the highway during our stay. Some spots were a little muddy due to rain for the past couple days. Didn't use the restrooms while we were here so unsure how clean those were but a couple people stopped by on the drive to use them. Would definitly stay here again.

SiteN/A

Month of VisitJune

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Colgate Campground located and how do I get there?

Colgate Camp is located just off Highway 12 in Idaho. This small campground is nestled alongside a river and situated between two hot springs, making it an ideal stopover point for travelers heading to or from Missoula. The campground is relatively hidden and considered something of a hidden gem along Highway 12. Access is straightforward as it's directly off the highway, though the turnoff can be easy to miss since it's somewhat tucked away from the main road.

Is Colgate Campground near the Lochsa River, and what water activities are available?

Yes, Colgate Campground sits right alongside a river, with some campsites offering direct river access. The river can run quite powerfully at certain times of year, so caution is advised, especially with children and pets. While specific water activities aren't detailed, the proximity to the river provides opportunities for fishing, wading, or simply enjoying the riverside ambiance. The powerful flow mentioned suggests that during high water periods, swimming might not be recommended for safety reasons.

What are the best camping options near Kooskia, Idaho including Colgate Campground?

Colgate Camp stands out as an excellent camping option in the Kooskia area. This peaceful riverside campground offers about 7 sites with varying sizes and configurations, some directly beside the water. Its key advantages include proximity to two hot springs, clean vault toilets, and a secluded feel despite being accessible from Highway 12. The campground is rarely crowded, making it perfect for those seeking tranquility. While there is some road noise during the day, nights are typically very quiet. Its location makes it ideal for travelers exploring the region or looking for a multi-day base camp.

Can I bring my RV to Colgate Campground and what facilities are available for RVs?

Colgate Camp can accommodate RVs, with space for 5-6 campers across its approximately 7 campsites. The sites vary in size, so some may be better suited for RVs than others. Facilities are basic, with clean vault toilets available. There's no mention of hookups, suggesting this is a more primitive camping experience for RV users. The campground's layout along the highway provides reasonable access for vehicles, though it's best to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a suitable spot for your RV.

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