Tent campsites near Elk City, Idaho are primarily situated on U.S. Forest Service land within the Clearwater and Nez Perce National Forests. The area sits at elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet with a mix of dense coniferous forests and open meadows. Winter snow typically restricts access to many remote sites until mid-May, with the camping season generally running through October depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Fishing access points: Most campsites along the Selway River provide fishing opportunities. At Selway Falls Campground, one camper noted, "Very scenic area with a spot by the river suitable to sunbathe or have lunch."
Creek exploration: Several campgrounds feature shallow creeks perfect for wading. A camper at Orogrande Campground shared, "The creek behind the campground is fun to play in."
Fire lookout visits: Take a day trip to historic lookout towers for panoramic views. A visitor to Indian Hill explained, "The lookout was originally built to be a lookout tower for wildfires. As such the building is very high and has stunning views."
ATV trails: Multiple forest roads and designated trails accommodate off-road vehicles. A camper observed at Race Creek, "Lots of people go in this area to ride ATVs and shoot guns."
What campers like
River sounds: Many campers appreciate the natural soundtrack at waterside sites. At Boyd Creek Campground, one reviewer commented, "Listening to the river was amazing."
Spacious campsites: Several campgrounds provide ample room between sites. At Selway Falls, a camper reported, "Camp has a bunch of sites and very spacious."
Free dispersed options: Budget-conscious campers can find no-cost sites. At 25 Mile Bar Campground, a visitor learned, "I talked to the forest service guy who rides around on a motorcycle here and he said that one is free and was open as it's not a formal campground."
Ranger assistance: Forest Service personnel regularly patrol camping areas. One camper encountered a ranger who "stops by the formal campgrounds frequently" and noted rangers are "well versed about both the campsites and the dispersed areas so if you come and it is full... he can likely point you to somewhere you can find a spot."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest roads require patience and appropriate vehicles. At Slims Campground, a visitor warned, "traveling is very slow and it's more than 15 miles out on these roads."
Site conditions: Some established campgrounds suffer from maintenance issues. At Table Meadows, a camper observed, "Campsites are there but grasses have overgrown most of the site."
Weather impacts: Wildfire smoke can affect camping experiences. One visitor to Rainy Day Campground reported, "Visited here beginning of September 2017. Here terrible Forrest fires right now so visibility was awful and there really wasn't much to do."
Seasonal closures: Most remote campsites close after the first significant snowfall. French Gulch Campground typically operates from "May 15 to Oct 15."
Tips for camping with families
Consider site location: Not all sites suit children. For Boyd Creek Campground, a camper cautioned, "The river was very fast flowing and would not make a good swimming area."
Prepare for limited sunlight: Some valley campsites receive minimal sun. A visitor to Orogrande noted, "due to the valley and tall timber, it does not get much sun. 5-Mile back up the road provides much more sunshine, if one likes sunshine."
Plan for noise: Some areas have regular shooting activity. At 25 Mile Bar, one camper warned, "There's lots of shooting here so be prepared for that if you have a dog."
Check fire status: Recent wildfires have affected some campgrounds. A camper reported Orogrande "is reported the fire of 2022 pretty much burnt up this campground...It may be many decades before it starts to return to its former glory."
Tips from RVers
Road clearance considerations: Deep potholes can damage vehicles and trailers. A visitor to Table Meadows warned, "Gained some plumbing experience due to large 'pot holes' that can swallow trailer tires whole."
Limited turnaround space: Many forest roads lack adequate space for larger vehicles to turn around. Race Creek Campground has "a rocky show like pullout that I've frequently seen RVs parked at. It has two sites leading up to the campground with fire pits."
Alternative parking spots: Some campers find unofficial sites more accessible. One visitor noted near Race Creek, "Both the spot just before the campgrounds at the trail head. All the sites appeared to be free but for certain the RV spots by the river are."
Site selection for vehicle access: Choose carefully based on road conditions. About Table Meadows, a reviewer advised, "Would be best if traveled without a trailer and with 4x4. Assume that road is in poor shape and sites are best for tents."
