Established Camping
Powell Campground
Powell Campground, near Kooskia, Idaho, is a fantastic spot for those looking to unwind in nature. Nestled alongside the stunning Lochsa River, it offers a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations, making it a versatile choice for all types of campers.
The campground is known for its spacious, shaded sites that provide a sense of privacy, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Visitors rave about the well-maintained facilities, including clean pit toilets and communal water spigots, which add to the overall comfort. One camper noted, “The RV sites are level and have lots of shade and privacy,” highlighting the campground's appeal for longer stays.
For those eager to venture out, Powell Campground is surrounded by beautiful walking trails and offers easy access to the river for fishing or simply enjoying the scenery. Plus, the nearby Lochsa Lodge is a great option if you want a break from cooking, with a restaurant and a small market for essentials. As one reviewer put it, “If you don’t feel like cooking, you can run up to the Lochsa Lodge restaurant for a meal.”
With its serene atmosphere and proximity to outdoor activities, Powell Campground is a solid choice for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy some quality time in the great outdoors.
Description
USDA Forest Service
Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests
Overview
Powell Campground provides direct access to the Lochsa Wild and Scenic River, one of Idaho's most scenic waterways. The Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness lies on the opposite side of the river. The campground is within walking distance of a small general store, fuel, lodging and a restaurant. The Powell Ranger Station is nearby as well, but all visitor services have moved to Lolo Pass Visitor Center.
Recreation
The Lochsa River provides visitors with opportunities for fishing and other water-related recreation. Cutthroat and rainbow trout, Chinook salmon and steelhead swim in the clear waters. The Lochsa is world-famous for its exciting whitewater rafting opportunities. A permit is not necessary to float the river, but technical expertise is a must. A variety of hiking and horseback riding trails are available in the wilderness area. The 1.5-mile Powell Complex Trail begins near the campground and leads west through cool, shady cedar and larch trees, making for a relaxing day trip. Hunting is also a popular activity in the rugged and primitive landscape. Highway 12, also known as the Lewis and Clark Highway, winds along the narrow river canyon through evergreen trees and past large rock outcroppings. Visitors enjoy the scenic drive and historic sites along the way.
Natural Features
Lochsa is a Nez Perce word meaning "rough water." The 70-mile river and its tributaries have no dams and the flow is unregulated from its headwaters near the Powell Ranger Station in the Bitterroots, to Lowell, where it joins the Selway River to form the Middle Fork of the Clearwater River. The Lochsa is one of the world's best for continuous whitewater. The campground is situated in a dense forest in north-central Idaho at an elevation of 3,400 feet. It is across the river from the border of the 1.5-million acre Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. Famed explorers Lewis and Clark passed through on their way to the Pacific Ocean in September of 1805. Elk, deer, moose, bear, cougar and mountain goats make the steep canyon country their home.
Nearby Attractions
A variety of services are available in the rustic resort area near the campground including a general store, lodging, food and fuel. Fishing licenses are also available for purchase. The nearest free dump station is 40 miles west on Highway 12, at the Wilderness Gateway Campground.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (208) 942-3113.
Location
Powell Campground is located in Idaho
Directions
The campground is located 160 miles east of Lewiston, Idaho, and 60 miles southwest of Missoula, Montana. From Lowell, travel east on Highway 12 for about 65 miles, to milepost 162.
Coordinates
46.51226 N
114.7172188 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly