Best Campgrounds near Elk City, ID
The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest surrounds Elk City, Idaho, providing numerous established campgrounds and dispersed camping opportunities. Five Mile Campground and Newsome Campground offer basic facilities with vault toilets but limited amenities, operating seasonally from early summer through fall. Selway Falls Campground provides access to the scenic Selway River, while Orogrande Campground serves primarily as a tent camping destination. Most sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, though hookups are generally unavailable. The region's camping options range from small, intimate sites to more developed areas that can accommodate larger groups and various camping styles.
Many forest roads in the Elk City area become impassable during winter months, with most campgrounds operating only from June through September or early November. As one camper noted about Newsome Campground, "It's got some elevation and can get cold at night if in a tent, but the days are gorgeous." Limited cell service is common throughout the region, requiring advance planning. According to a visitor at Adams Ranger Station, "There is no cell service here, so prepare for the trip ahead, print out your maps to the station, otherwise getting lost on your way here is a very likely possibility." Fire restrictions may apply during dry summer months, and some areas show evidence of past wildfires.
Riverside camping locations receive particularly positive reviews from visitors to the region. Campers frequently mention the peaceful settings and natural beauty as highlights of their experience. Weekend traffic from ATVs and motorcycles can increase noise levels at some campgrounds, particularly those near popular recreation trails. As one visitor to Ruby Meadows noted, "It can sometimes be crowded with ATV and motorbikes, but most of the time they are courteous and polite." Wildlife sightings are common, with black bears present throughout the area, requiring proper food storage. Fishing opportunities abound in local streams and rivers, with several campgrounds providing direct water access. The higher elevation campgrounds offer cooler temperatures during hot summer months but require warmer sleeping gear even in mid-summer.
