The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest surrounding Grangeville, Idaho contains multiple camping options at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 8,000 feet. Most forest service campgrounds operate seasonally, with primitive sites accessible via unpaved forest roads that may require vehicles with higher clearance. Water access points change throughout the season, with spring runoff creating higher water levels in May and June.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Campers staying at Pine Bar Recreation Site can access the Salmon River for steelhead and salmon fishing. "You can ride bikes or four wheelers to the beach that is really big and just beautiful!!" notes one visitor who frequented the sandy shoreline areas.
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas provide habitats for deer, with some campers reporting sightings. A visitor at South Fork Group Site 5 shared, "I'm not sure if you can hunt out in this area but I did spot a baby dear and got a zoomed in photo before it got spooked."
Terrain exploration: The diverse landscape features valleys, canyons and streams suitable for day hikes. One camper at South Fork Group Site 5 explained, "The terrain is complex and exciting to explore with canyons and great viewing points."
What campers like
River proximity: The location of Swiftwater RV Park directly on the Salmon River receives consistent praise. "We were happily surprised when we arrived. Friendly greeting from the owners & hosts, quiet and shaded spot right overlooking the Salmon River with water and power hookup," reports one reviewer.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms despite their remote locations. A visitor at Swiftwater RV Park noted, "Cleanest bathrooms and showers I have ever been in at a park I think. I was so thankful for their help and kindness since we were in tents."
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the spacing at several locations. At Castle Creek, a visitor mentioned, "There's a reasonable amount of privacy but you can see your neighbors depending where you camp. The trees on this site were perfect for hammock camping."
What you should know
Campground amenities vary significantly: Facilities range from developed sites with full hookups to primitive backcountry locations. Fish Creek Campground offers "vaulted toilets and paved campsites. Cost is $12/night," according to one reviewer who noted the campground's cleanliness.
Weather considerations: Higher elevation campgrounds can experience temperature fluctuations. At Meadow Creek Campground, campers find "great place to visit to avoid big crowds at least when I was there it wasn't busy very scenic." However, prepare for cool evenings at elevation, especially during spring and fall.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely, with better reception at developed campgrounds near highways. At Swiftwater RV Park, a camper was surprised: "The biggest surprise was the WiFI was very good. Strong signal throughout the small RV/camping area. We essentially had only extended service with our Verizon cell service."
Tips for camping with families
Select campgrounds with amenities: For families with young children, developed sites provide comfort. At Hammer Creek Recreation Site, a visitor shared, "When we first got here we weren't sure but it turned out to be quite nice! Big trees provided nice shade. Super clean FLUSH toilets yay! We walked down to the river and hung out. The river was nice and our toddler liked playing in the small amount of sand there was."
Consider noise factors: Some campgrounds experience traffic or environmental noise. A camper at Fish Creek Campground reported, "Our only complaints were you could hear dogs barking all night long due to it being close to a residential area. The other complaint was the amount of traffic noise you could hear all night long."
Look for campgrounds with recreation options: Sites with beaches, trails or open spaces provide entertainment. A visitor at Hammer Creek mentioned, "Spots are big (although pretty close to each other), and there isn't a lot of shade," but the water access makes it worthwhile for families.
Tips from RVers
RV accessibility: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles on forest roads. At Bear Den RV Resort, a mile outside town, one RVer noted it's "Big rig friendly and mostly pull through sites. Sites are close together. Friendly staff and nicely maintained campground."
Consider alternative sites during inclement weather: Muddy conditions can affect unpaved access roads. A camper at Hammer Creek Recreation Site reported, "The locals at Pine Ridge recommended me this spot. I was planning to camp in the Lost Valley Reservoir, but it had been raining the whole day, and the road up to the campsite was muddy. This campsite was a great alternative (no dirt road, woohoo!)."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited to commercial campgrounds. One RVer at Bear Den RV Resort commented, "The park and facilities are extremely clean and have good amenities, like laundry and showers. Sunsets are great from this location! On the highway, but not much road noise."
