Tent camping in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests of Idaho offers secluded primitive sites across varied terrain. Established campgrounds like Rocky Ridge feature spacious tent sites situated around a mountain lake with approximately seven sites available. Campbells Pond Access Area provides tent camping with fishing access, while more remote options like Clark Mountain/Orogrande Trailhead offer trailhead camping with proximity to ATV routes and fishing areas.
Most tent sites in this region feature natural forest floor surfaces with minimal site development. Toilet facilities vary significantly between locations, with rustic log outhouses at Rocky Ridge and clean vault toilets at Campbells Pond, while many trailhead sites lack facilities entirely. Fire restrictions apply seasonally, though most established sites permit campfires in designated rings when conditions allow. Several campgrounds, including Campbells Pond, offer free camping with picnic tables, but campers should bring all water supplies as drinking water is not available at any of the reviewed sites. Access roads to many locations require high-clearance vehicles, particularly during spring months when snowmelt can make travel difficult.
The tent camping experience throughout the Nez Perce-Clearwater region emphasizes solitude and natural surroundings. Areas like Smith Ridge Trailhead provide opportunities for backpackers to find more isolated camping experiences by hiking further into the wilderness. Sites along waterways like Boyd Creek allow campers to fall asleep to the sound of flowing water, though swimming options may be limited due to fast currents. Sites near Isabella Point Trailhead are particularly well-suited for beginning backpackers who want to test their gear before longer expeditions. According to one visitor, "The camps are near the trailhead so you can explore a bit then set up camp if you are getting used to your gear for a longer adventure."
"I visit every year at least once. campground has very spacious sites about 7 sites has a rustic log outhouse and trails to hike"
"Great location for all types of recreation has trailhead for ATV jeeps and also close to great fishing access."
"this is close to a wildlife viewing area and it's not far from great fishing access on musselshell creek and lolo creek"
"Beautiful wide open with trees close and a small creek close by."
"Has many spaced out sites and ATV trails for riding. Campbells pond has three docks to fish from or you can fish from the bank all around great spot to camp"
RangerKOA eastbound on US -12 enroute from Oregon to Missoula, MT. Located in the woods South of Kamiah, MT. Staff is minimal manned but they handle the customer service expertly. Bath/Shower rooms are perfectly cleaned and look newly remodeled. Plenty of sites; intermixed with 30/50 amp power,water and some without sewer.
TravelerVery nice owners! We came in late in pouring rain and she was still so helpful and nice. Very nice camp ground.
GuideIt appeared the camp host held the most shaded campsite for friends. They said the occupant was at work but no one ever occupied the site. Bathrooms were not very clean. The campsite did have full hook ups and it was only $18. There was a boat ramp. River was beautiful.
GuideI very rarely give 5 stars. This place earned it. Paved camp spot, very clean rest rooms, very quiet, fire ring, table, and drinking water nearby. To top that off with the old geezer pass, you get all this with electric (50, 30 amp.) for $10 a night. A GREAT deal !! $ 20 without the pass is still a very good deal. It would be nice if it had a dump station, but there is one down the road a bit.
ScoutCampground was quite the distance to drive to but was nice and quiet with few other campers. The spaces are extra long for big trailers. Water access was a bit limited, but a few of the camp spots have great access to their own beach
GuideThis little gem comes up quick and is tucked off of Highway 12. Handful of spots with a vault toilet and most the campsites are right on the river. There’s plenty of dead wood for fires and easy to drive my truck through.
GuideLove this place right on the Lochsa River. Small and peaceful. Pit toilet.
TravelerEasy to get in. Off the road but there’s some trees between the spots and the road. The first two sites are closer to the river than the last two but all of them are awesome. Only big enough for tent camping or camper van.
Seems pretty busy. We got there on a Tuesday at 5pm and there was only one spot.
TravelerIt’s technically by a creek but you can’t even see it or access it in any way so you drive all the way in there but it’s just like any other pull off.
The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests span over 4 million acres across north-central Idaho, with elevations ranging from 1,500 feet along river corridors to peaks exceeding 8,000 feet. Tent camping opportunities in this region extend beyond developed sites into backcountry areas with minimal facilities, accessible primarily from May through October depending on snow conditions. Many remote sites require navigation along Forest Service roads that become impassable during spring runoff.
Fishing access points: Campbells Pond Access Area offers dedicated fishing docks for anglers. According to Bridget L., the pond "has good trout fishing" and includes a "newer boat launch for small type boats only."
ATV trail exploration: The area surrounding Campbells Pond provides extensive off-road recreation opportunities. Christopher R. notes the location "has many spaced out sites and ATV trails for riding."
Wildlife viewing: Musselshell Meadows Campground serves as a convenient base for wildlife observation. "This is close to a wildlife viewing area and it's not far from great fishing access on musselshell creek and lolo creek," explains a visitor who frequently camps in the region.
Historic structures: The Liz Butte Cabin offers visitors a chance to experience forest history. "I loved the views from this small cabin and the historic value is priceless," says Christopher R., who appreciates the cabin's remote setting.
Uncrowded fishing spots: While some fishing locations get busy during peak season, Campbells Pond maintains a relaxed atmosphere. Cody B. describes it as "quiet and pretty, but kind of a small area," making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
Fire lookout access: Weitas Butte Lookout provides camping near a historic fire tower. A camper reports, "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."
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires appropriate vehicles. Regarding Liz Butte Cabin, a visitor cautions the "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."
Limited amenities: Even established campgrounds often lack facilities. At Pete Forks Campground along the Lolo Motorway, campers find basic accommodations described simply as an "awesome place to camp along the Lolo motorway."
Seasonal accessibility: Most remote sites close during winter months, with snowpack determining spring opening dates. EC Rettig Campground offers a "great place to camp if your not looking to go all the way out to the northfork of the Clearwater river but close enough to make a short drive there as well."
Choose sites with toilet facilities: Some campgrounds provide maintained restrooms. Cody B. noted at Campbells Pond that "the tent sites are well cared for. Pit toilets are clean."
Consider proximity to activities: Clark Mountain/Orogrande Trailhead offers versatile recreation options. "Great location for all types of recreation has trailhead for ATV jeeps and also close to great fishing access," according to one reviewer.
Pack for variable conditions: Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, requiring appropriate gear. At Weitas Guard Station, camping is available nearby where visitors note "this is an old guard station and is staffed part of the year with volunteers."
Tent-focused region: Most campsites in the Nez Perce-Clearwater forests accommodate tents rather than RVs. Rocky Ridge Lake features "very spacious sites about 7 sites has a rustic log outhouse and trails to hike."
Dust considerations: Unpaved access roads create dusty conditions during dry months. One camper at Clark Mountain/Orogrande notes the site is "located along a gravel road so can get a bit dusty from time to time but hey it's camping if you insist on being clean camping is probably not for you."
Limited turning radius: Forest roads often lack adequate turnarounds for larger vehicles. Sites along the Lolo Motorway like Pete Forks Campground are accessible but require careful navigation on narrow mountain roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests is Rocky Ridge with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests?
TheDyrt.com has all 79 tent camping locations near Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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