Equine-friendly campsites near Elk City, Idaho provide access to the extensive Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests trail system. The area sits at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 feet with a short summer season typically running from June through early September. Most horse campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles due to rugged access roads and feature basic amenities designed for stock trailers.
What to do
Trail riding to hot springs: Multiple trailheads connect to Stanley Hot Springs from Wilderness Gateway and surrounding campgrounds. "I loved the views from this small cabin and the historic value is priceless. Road to this place is not recommended for low clearance vehicles it is a very rugged road and allows for a great experience in the wild most years you won't get there very early in the year because of snow," reports Christopher R. about Liz Butte Cabin.
Panning for garnets: The Ruby Meadows area contains garnet deposits accessible from trails. "I enjoyed panning in the creeks around the area because there are neat dark red and purple garnet to be had. Only found a speck or two of gold, so I am glad I was looking for garnet and not gold," notes a visitor to Ruby Meadows Trailhead.
Fire lookout exploration: Several historic fire lookouts provide panoramic views. Christopher R. says about Weitas Butte Lookout, "Great spot to camp at the historic fire lookout tower. The tower is locked up but it's a great spot to stay the night."
What campers like
River access: The Lochsa River runs alongside several campgrounds, offering cooling relief during summer. "Lying in the river was refreshing and recharged our inner batteries. Can't wait to go back," shares Tracey S. about Wilderness Gateway.
Spacious sites with shade: Many campsites feature large pines providing natural cooling. Katherine B. notes, "Great sites big enough to back a trailer in. Sites are close but feel secluded with trees and ferns. Running water was a bonus, after rafting for a week it felt luxurious!"
Uncrowded camping: Even during summer, many campgrounds remain relatively quiet. "The campground was pretty deserted when we were there in early August. Water had not been tested so was not considered potable and you can tell it doesn't get a lot of attention from the local park office," reports Lorrie K.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. "We used to pull horse trailers in there all the time - 20 years ago. We won't be pulling anything in there again. Gained some plumbing experience due to large 'pot holes' that can swallow trailer tires whole," warns J C. about Table Meadows Campground.
Fire impacts: Recent wildfires have affected some campgrounds. Jersey G. reports about Five Mile Campground, "It is reported the 2022 fire pretty well wiped out the area so camper beware..."
Limited facilities: Most equestrian campgrounds offer minimal services. Tom U. describes Bear Creek Pass Campground: "There are facilities for horses: several hitching posts and a loading ramp. These don't look like they have been used for a while. We did see signs that horses were up here recently but the area is little impacted by horse use."
Tips for camping with families
River safety: The Lochsa River current can be strong during spring runoff. Barbara F. from Wilderness Gateway notes, "We spent a week here this last summer. Awesome place for hikes and hot springs. Also dog friendly everywhere we went. Beautiful area with tons of trees."
Look for less obvious campgrounds: Some of the best horse camping areas aren't well-marked. Jersey G. says about Boulder Flat, "Found it by accident a few years back. It sits above the Lochsa River, just north and west of the Wilderness Gateway Campground. Both campgrounds are great, but this one is a little more rustic and provides easier access from the highway for camp trailers and stock trailers. Have to look carefully because it is easy to miss: not well marked..."
Pack your own water: Not all campgrounds have potable water available. "The C sites are right along the river and C10 has a gorgeous view of the whole river valley. The equine camp was amazing. The campground was petty deserted when we were there in early August. Water had not been tested so was not considered potable," shares Lorrie K.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have limited space for trailers. Jersey G. from Five Mile Campground advises, "Great little campsite. 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. I camped at the older one with my little 1960 Rolls Royal camper."
Hookup limitations: Most horse campgrounds near Elk City lack utility connections. Gretchen B. explains, "This large, wooded CG offers separate electric and no hookup loops, with a total of 91 spacious clean sites. The Lachsa River runs along the campground. Sites are $14 and $20 and are more than worth it!"
Dump station location: Plan accordingly for waste disposal. According to Tracey S., "The campground was clean, had flush toilets and drinking water, plus a dump station. There were plenty of open spots all weekend."
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