Established Camping
McKay's Bend Recreation Site
McKay's Bend Recreation Site, near Lapwai, Idaho, is a welcoming campground that caters to both tent campers and RV travelers. With a friendly host who’s earned national recognition, you can expect a clean and well-maintained environment, making it a pleasant place to unwind.
The campground features essential amenities like drinking water, electric hookups, and picnic tables, ensuring you have what you need for a comfortable stay. Visitors have noted the easy access off Highway 12, with just enough distance to keep road noise to a minor hum. One camper mentioned, “Very nice no-reservation campground with a truly legendary host.”
For those who enjoy fishing, this area is particularly appealing, as it attracts many anglers. While the campground has limited tent sites, it offers ample RV spots, making it a popular choice for those traveling in larger vehicles. The scenic dirt road leading to the river adds to the charm, although some campers found the river access a bit lacking for lounging.
If you're looking to explore, you're in luck. The surrounding area offers beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities, perfect for a day of adventure. Whether you're here for a quick getaway or a longer stay, McKay's Bend provides a friendly atmosphere and essential comforts for a memorable camping experience.
Description
Bureau of Land Management
Bureau of Land Management
Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY. Overview McKays Bend, which is jointly managed by the BLM and Idaho Fish and Game, is a developed recreation site located along the Clearwater River and Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. This recreation site offers developed camping for RVs and tents, group facilities, a day use area, showers, flush toilets, and provides river access.
Facilities
14 full hookup RV sites with water, electricity 50 AMP service, sewer, picnic tables, and fire rings 3 large tent campsites with picnic tables and fire rings Showers - 2 (only available to registered campground visitors) Day use area with picnic tables and BBQ grills Drinking water Flush toilets - 2 Parking area NO RV dump station Open year-round; first come, first served- no reservations can be made. Dogs must be on a leash (6 feet or less) Garbage disposal on site. Disposal of any household or industrial refuse or waste brought in from private or municipal property is prohibited and subject to fines. Campground fees must be paid within 30 minutes after occupying site. Group day use pavilion, exclusive use: $50 per day. To reserve, please call the BLM- Cottonwood Field Office at 208-962-3245.
Fee Info
$18/night per camper for RV full hookups; $10/night for tent camping; $4/night per extra vehicle. America the Beautiful - Senior Pass or Access Pass holders receive half price for standard amenity fees.
Location
McKay's Bend Recreation Site is located in Idaho
Directions
18 miles east of Lewiston, Idaho at mile post 18.6 on U.S. Highway 12
Address
Cottonwood Field Office
2 Butte Drive
Cottonwood, ID 83522
Coordinates
46.4975 N
116.726944 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TGood
- T-MobileGood
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
