The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest surrounding Elk City, Idaho offers camping spots at elevations between 3,700 and 6,000 feet, creating distinct climate patterns throughout the camping season. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during the day, with occasional thunderstorms common in July and August. Forest roads accessing many camping areas are unpaved and may require high-clearance vehicles following spring thaw.
What to do
Riverside relaxation: O'Hara Bar Campground provides excellent water access with unique swimming opportunities. According to Nicholas G., "This campground directly borders the river with many sites sitting just feet from it. There are some pools built from river rock that allow for the water to warm to a comfortable temperature before the rest of the river does, making swimming much more feasible."
Hiking exploration: From Table Meadows Campground, campers can access multiple trail systems despite access challenges. One camper notes, "We used to pull horse trailers in there all the time - 20 years ago...Forest service has forgotten about the road and let it fall into dismal shape. Would be best if traveled without a trailer and with 4x4."
Waterfall viewing: Selway Falls Campground offers camping within walking distance of the falls. Christopher R. reports, "Camp has a bunch of sites and very spacious wish I had a camera when I was there great experience." The falls are accessible via a short path from the campground.
What campers like
Natural soundscapes: Visitors to Boyd Creek Campground appreciate the auditory experience. As Megan K. describes, "The river was very fast flowing and would not make a good swimming area. Listening to the river was amazing."
Fire lookout visits: Some campers make special trips to historical structures in the area. At Indian Hill, Megan K. reports, "We visited this lookout on a wilderness Excursion. We always make it a point to visit the lookouts in any areas where we are visiting. The lookout was originally built to be a lookout tower for wildfires. As such the building is very high and has stunning views."
Space and privacy: O'Hara Bar Campground receives positive feedback for its layout. Laura notes, "Beautiful, quiet area, camps spots are spacious and well distanced. Dogs allowed, bathrooms were nice and clean, easy access to the river. For how popular it was, it was a nice quiet stay."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many camping areas requires careful planning. Regarding Race Creek Campground, Megan K. warns, "While this is a nice area it's about an hour drive down a gravel road that is often pretty rough driving... It's like a pothole mine field where at times, there's so many it's Impossible to miss them."
Fire impacts: The 2022 wildfires significantly altered several camping areas. About Orogrande Campground, Jersey G. cautions, "It is reported the fire of 2022 pretty much burnt up this campground. Haven't been there to see, so camper beware...It may be many decades before it starts to return to its former glory."
Seasonal planning: Camping spots near Elk City have specific seasonal considerations. For Newsome Campground, Erica D. advises, "36 miles from Grangeville, and its got some elevation and it can get cold at night if in a tent. But the days are gorgeous there are alot of ORVs during the weekend but during the week its quiet."
Tips for camping with families
River activities: O'Hara Bar Campground offers family-friendly water access. Mitchel N. shares, "My family has been camping here for years. There is plenty of room to explore and have a good time. It is also just a few miles away from Fenn pond for the more leisure fisherman."
Bike-friendly options: Some campgrounds offer additional recreation beyond hiking. Celine K. mentions about O'Hara Bar, "The loop around the campsite is paved. Kids and families often ride their bikes around the loop."
Creek exploration: Five Mile Campground provides opportunities for younger campers. Jersey G. reports, "Fun trails all around to explore and I've heard you can pan in the creek."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When selecting RV camping spots near Elk City, be specific about which section you choose. Jersey G. notes about Five Mile Campground, "There are actually two campgrounds across the road from each other. The newer one is a wide open area while the older one is not conducive to larger 5th wheels."
Multiple vehicle considerations: Some sites accommodate various camping configurations. Laura mentions at O'Hara Bar Campground, "We easily fit 4 tents and 3 vehicles in the area. Plenty of space for 3 dogs as well."
Weather preparation: Rapid temperature changes require planning. Campers should bring additional warm clothing and proper sleeping gear even in summer, as nighttime temperatures frequently drop below 50°F at higher elevations.
