Orofino camping areas provide access to the Clearwater River watershed at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with cooler nights around 50-60°F. Most riverside campgrounds remain accessible year-round while reservoir locations experience significant water level fluctuations during irrigation season from July through September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Clearwater River offers exceptional steelhead and salmon fishing, particularly during fall and spring runs. At Pink House Recreation Site, visitors appreciate the boat launch access. "Great place to camp if your looking to boat on the Clearwater river... also has a boat launch," notes Christopher R.
Water recreation: Dworshak Reservoir provides swimming, boating and water sports options from May through September. Water levels drop significantly by late summer. One camper at Pink House notes it "has tent and RV sites and a nice beach to relax on or let the kids take a swim."
Historic exploration: Downtown Orofino sits within walking distance of several RV sites near Orofino, Idaho. The area features Lewis and Clark Trail historical markers and interpretive centers documenting the Corps of Discovery's journey. Visitors to Clearwater Crossing RV Park note that "Downtown is within walking distance. City park nearby."
What campers like
River proximity: Many campsites feature direct Clearwater River access, important for anglers and water enthusiasts. A camper at The Hook Up RV Park appreciates the riverside setting with its combination of electric hookups, sewer connections and picnic tables at each site.
Quieter camping options: While some parks sit between highways and railroad tracks, others offer more peaceful settings. "We enjoyed our stay here. Very clean, quiet and great managers onsite," reports Annell N. about Pink House Recreation Site.
Proximity to essentials: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to necessities while maintaining natural settings. "Very close to this beautiful historic town with scenic views like no other," writes Lynn about Pullman RV Park, noting its $35 per night shaded RV sites.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: During steelhead fishing season (September-November and February-April), campground occupancy spikes dramatically. Douglas M. notes Pink House Recreation Site charges "$18/day, $4/day for extra car. Half price for Golden Age passport, Access Passport, Interagency Senior pass."
Payment systems: Many smaller campgrounds near Orofino require cash or check. "You will need cash or check to pay for your campsite!" advises Marian J. about Pink House Recreation Site.
Reservation limitations: Several sites operate on first-come, first-served basis only. "This small, nicely maintained campground is first come first serve! No reservations!" warns a Pink House Recreation Site visitor.
Site availability: Popular locations fill quickly, especially during peak fishing seasons and summer weekends. "This is quite a popular spot b/c of boat launch area. Compact camping adjacent to day-use area. Fills early & no overnight parking allowed outside on CG," reports H S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Pines RV Park features an on-site playground. "There was a playground on site but other than that it's nothing special," notes Megan K., adding that the park manager was very social, which "if you have safety concerns with children, I can see this as being a bonus."
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with beach access for safer swimming. Pink House Recreation Site includes a "nice beach to relax on or let the kids take a swim."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit between highways and railroad tracks, creating potential noise issues for light sleepers. Rachel A. notes about Clearwater Crossing RV Park: "Well, if you like to camp between the railroad tracks and highway, this is the spot for you! Redeeming quality—river runs right next to parking spots for your RV."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Options vary significantly between parks. Long Camp RV Park provides full hookups in a peaceful setting. "Great little place. Perfect to stop and unwind for a night or two. The owners are great!" reports Jeffrey S.
Site spacing: RV parks range from spacious to tightly packed. At Pullman RV Park, "sites are right on top of one another," according to one camper, while Seubert RV Park offers "easy to access pull-through sites" according to Brandily.
Electrical service options: Most parks offer 30-amp service, with some featuring 50-amp options for larger rigs. Pink House Recreation Site provides electric hookups with thirty-amp service and water connections on paved pull-through sites accommodating larger RVs.
Dump station locations: Not all parks have on-site dump stations. Pink House Recreation Site includes a sanitary dump station, while others require using facilities in nearby towns.
