Camping near Clearwater National Forest

Searching for the best camping near Clearwater National Forest, ID? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Clearwater National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Clearwater National Forest, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Clearwater National Forest (145)

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Recent Reviews near Clearwater National Forest

83 Reviews of 145 Clearwater National Forest Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Three Rivers Resort & Campground

    Great overnight stay

    We needed an rv spot for the night on our way to McCall Idaho. Booking was straightforward, Checking easy and was As Described. The hamburgers at the restaurant were perfect for our tastebuds after a long day on the road. Lack of black water Capability was not an issue in our case and if needed there was a dump station on site. Ongoing renovation was apparent and good to see.

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Secesh Campground — Payette National Forest

    Remote Camping on a flowing river

    This campground is right off Lick Creek road along the Secesh River. There are only 5 spots. First come first served $10 fee. There are picnic tables, fire rings and a clean vault toilet. Our site was Site 1 and we backed up to the river. This was a quick overnight stop for us. It was beautiful to listen to the river all night. There are horse hitching posts in this campground. We were the only campers but the camps are pretty spread out.

  • B
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Ohara Bar Campground

    Great spot on the River

    Came in on a Tuesday night, still several spots available and found one on the river. Quiet, clean and very pretty. Campground is over the bridge, across the river if you are coming from the ranger station

  • P
    Jul. 4, 2025

    Knife Edge Campground

    Idyllic location for a tiny public campground

    Situated on the Lochsa River, right off US 12, a tiny US Forest Service campground: 5 or 6 wooded sites, firerings and picnic tables at each site.  Early spring closure of all but two sites to accomodate boaters at the river access point, also part of the campground.  Pull-through site 5 provides a perfect location next to the river.  First come, first serve, and free.

  • Sadie P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 24, 2025

    Rombo Campground

    Services but small, not maintained

    Extra 5$ over other local campgrounds because there is water available and trash. Not especially nice or terrible. Very small sites, most with no room for a normal size tent, sites packed on top of each other. Even the few meant for small rvs have little room. Host on site in a nice beautiful and well maintained site, the public sites are not well maintained. Overgrown with weeds, very disappointing. Hosts don’t do much and are unhelpful. Suggest looking for any other CG in the area, there are several

    Details: Toilet and trash on site Tight road, don’t tow anything to big On site managers are unhelpful Minimal room for even the average size tent One car per site at mist of them, nowhere else to park Long but easy drive to Darby, minimal amenities. Hamilton only 15 more minutes

  • Sadie P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 23, 2025

    Sam Billings Memorial Campground

    The best in SW Montana

    12 sites with good tables and fire rings. This is a well maintained NFS campground. 3 vault toilets that are kept clean. Sites #1 & #2 get the most sun, are the largest, and can accommodate any size RV. The remaining sites vary in size. #2 can easily hold 5 full size trucks side by side, or three medium size trailers/5th wheels with their tow vehicles. It also has 3 large tables, plenty of open ground for tents, and is ideal for large groups and families. Toilets are located across from site 3, between 5/6, across from 12. #7 is low ground camping you walk down to with minimal shade and perfect for hot weather days.

    The exit is at site 12, one way travel thru the campground. Across the street from the exit is the entry to sites 1-4 horse camping. Small sites with table, fire ring, and enough room for a small tent. There are 3 large metal structures with 3 chains each for horses and 2 horizontal tie out bars. No room to park horse trailers on that pull thru. One trailer spot across from site 4 by the “stock water trail” sign, the rest can park 50 yards down the road at the trail head/turn around. There are 2 additional tie out areas here for horses and plenty of room for horse trailers and several other vehicles.

    Be sure to read the notice above the envelope box before you pay. From weather dependent dates chosen by the Rangers there is no cost from late Oct to late May. Otherwise it is $10 per night, $5 with golden or access passes.

    No cell service, only 1 mile to the paved road, Ranger station is only about 1/2 mile down that paved road. The Rangers are proactive in sharing any important information such as severe weather, bear activity, or any other notable activity.

    Details: Ranger station on the main road less than a mike from the entrance. They show up once a week Ravialli county sheriff is who to call on weekends and holidays, they will respond Be bear aware in season Equestrian specific campsites Trailhead next to the CG So much firewood laying around There are some karens that have been “coming here my whole life” and think they own the place; avoid Only three site requires walking access, the rest are drive right in to. Only a few sites so if its great weather or holiday show up mid week or even a week ahead if you can Free stays out of season, otherwise it’s a daily fee, pay at the entrance sign

  • Spencer S.
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Chinook Campground

    Remote!

    We had the place to ourselves. Great small campground if you want to get away from everything.

  • Judy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 2, 2023

    Wild Goose Campground

    Small campground along Highway 12 and the Clearwater River

    There aren’t too many campgrounds between Orofino and Kooskia, Idaho except for a few RV parks. We finally found a beautiful campground off highway 12 or the scenic Lolo Highway. It was small but had quite a few open sites so we snagged one close to the river and bathroom. The highway noise was noticeable but not bad at night. Our picnic table had a view of the Clearwater river (yes, it is very clear and has salmon.). There were steps down to the rocky shore of the river. We net a couple from elsewhere in Udaho who always choose this campground.

  • I
    Aug. 3, 2023

    Spring Creek Campground

    Hot, hot and hot

    I would not recommend end of July/ August. Temps 100 and no breeze. Plenty to see if traveling in vehicle like bighorn sheep, whitetail deer and bald eagles. Recommend a visit to the firefighter memorial at Indian river FS training camp.


Guide to Clearwater National Forest

Camping near Clearwater National Forest, Idaho, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the river, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails to explore, including those near Ponderosa Campground. One camper mentioned, "I found wild huckleberries and strawberries on this hike in early July," making it a sweet adventure.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Ohara Bar Campground, are close to rivers that are great for fishing. A reviewer noted, "There is plenty of room to explore and have a good time," perfect for family fishing trips.
  • Water Activities: Kayaking and canoeing are popular here. Campers at Upper Payette Lake Campground enjoyed the lake, saying, "The lake is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and leisurely boat rides."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One visitor at Knife Edge Campground said, "Such beautiful area lots of trees and river fun at this camp."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Ohara Bar Campground mentioned, "For how popular it was, it was a nice quiet stay."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at places like Wilderness Gateway. One camper noted, "Great sites big enough to back a trailer in."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Shorts Bar Recreation Site, have few facilities. A camper remarked, "They haven't put money into this place since inception. Very sad."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can get busy. A visitor at Ponderosa Campground said, "Very large and busy campground. Seems like the sites are very close together."
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of local wildlife. A camper at Knife Edge Campground mentioned seeing a black bear, reminding everyone to "remember to be cautious and aware of our wilder friends!"

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Ohara Bar Campground, which has spacious spots and is great for families. One reviewer said, "There is plenty of room to explore and have a good time."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to bring bikes or fishing gear. A camper at Wilderness Gateway noted, "Awesome place for hikes and hot springs."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone happy with snacks for hikes. A visitor at Ponderosa Campground found wild berries, which could be a fun treat for kids.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A reviewer at Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground mentioned, "Spots were side by side so little in the way of privacy."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity: Many areas have poor cell service. A camper at Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground said, "No cell service for Verizon."
  • Bring Your Own Firewood: Some campgrounds do not provide firewood. A visitor at Knife Edge Campground noted, "Firewood was easily found, campfire ring was already there," so it’s good to have your own just in case.

Camping near Clearwater National Forest, Idaho, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but being prepared will make your experience even better!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for camping in Clearwater National Forest?

Most developed campgrounds in Clearwater National Forest operate on a first-come, first-served basis with standard fees, though some may require reservations during peak season. Sam Billings Memorial Campground offers 12 maintained sites with a standard fee structure. For backcountry camping or at locations like Deadman Campground, a free BLM site, no advance permits are typically required, but you should check with the local ranger district for current regulations, especially during fire season when restrictions may apply.

Where are the best camping spots in Clearwater National Forest?

Clearwater National Forest offers several excellent camping locations. The Ohara Bar Campground along the Selway River provides 32 sites in one of Idaho's most beautiful areas, though it can get crowded during peak season. For river lovers, Knife Edge Campground sits right on the Lochsa River with 5-6 wooded sites and convenient river access. Other notable options include Wild Goose Campground along Highway 12, Ruby Meadows Trailhead for those seeking more remote camping, and Newsome Campground at higher elevation for cooler summer nights.

What amenities are available at Clearwater National Forest campgrounds?

Amenities vary across Clearwater National Forest campgrounds. Three Rivers Resort & Campground offers more extensive facilities including riverfront cabins, RV spots, and a restaurant. For those seeking basic Forest Service campgrounds, Yellow Pine Campground provides creek-side sites with shade trees. Most public campgrounds like Wild Goose and Knife Edge feature picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Larger sites such as Sam Billings Memorial have well-maintained vault toilets and spacious sites that can accommodate RVs. Water availability varies by location, with some sites offering pumps while others require you to bring your own water.