Tent campsites near Orofino, Idaho concentrate in several wilderness pockets within a 35-mile radius of town. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates. Spring camping season typically begins in mid-April when snowmelt subsides and extends through late October when temperatures begin dropping below freezing at night.
What to do
Fishing access options: Campbells Pond Access Area provides excellent bank fishing opportunities with three dedicated docks. "Has good trout fishing. Newer boat launch for small type boats only," notes Bridget L. The pond design accommodates shore anglers with gentle slopes and cleared banks.
Trail exploration: The Big Eddy trail system features variable terrain beyond what casual visitors see. Rachel A. describes hiking from Mini Camp 4.7: "We set up here for two nights hiking in from Freeman and then hiked 8ish mi round trip to Big Eddy as a day hike on day 2. Don't let the short distance fool you, this hike will test you, especially with a heavy pack, but SO worth it!"
Educational visits: The Dworshak National Fish Hatchery offers educational programs seasonally. "The fish hatchery is a really fun educational stop. It's suitable for all ages. If you go at the right time of the year they have hands on activities for the whole family," writes Megan K. The facility operates year-round with self-guided options available when programs aren't scheduled.
What campers like
Privacy level: Mini camp sites provide exceptional seclusion compared to standard campgrounds. Rachel A. describes Mini Camp 5.0 as "very private with quite a distance off the Big Eddy trail to get down to the waterside spot. Vaulted toilet, fire ring and a picnic table make for some comfy accommodations."
Water access: Several camps feature dedicated water entry points for swimming and boat launching. At Mini Camp 3.5, Rachel A. found "a long walkway out from the main trail offering tons of privacy. Great shallow ramp for a boat and easy access to a dip in the res or to get your water to filter."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear nights offer exceptional celestial viewing due to minimal light pollution. Megan K. notes at Partridge Creek Campground: "My family's site had a lot of packed soil making most of the traveling simple as we only stayed on the site for one night to watch the stars."
What you should know
Trail difficulty ratings: The Big Eddy trail system presents challenges many hikers underestimate. "This is a backpacking trail. The first half mile is difficult but then the trail levels out and is easy for many miles," explains Megan K. about Big Eddy Marina & Lodge. Initial sections feature 15-20% grades before leveling to gentle terrain.
Water safety considerations: Reservoir swimming areas often feature rapid depth changes. Megan K. warns about Big Eddy: "It is possible to get to the water (if you have a hydration filter pack), but it's not a beach like shore. I did swim, and the water gets very deep very quickly off the first two campsites."
Site selection timing: Due to limited tent sites at the more remote locations, early arrival significantly impacts quality. Cody B. observes at Campbells Pond: "I only camped here one night. The tent sites are well cared for. Pit toilets are clean. It is quiet and pretty, but kind of a small area."
Tips for camping with families
ATV-friendly options: Some campgrounds accommodate families seeking motorized recreation. Christopher R. recommends Campbells Pond Access Area: "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."
Accessibility considerations: Limited wheelchair-accessible options exist within the area. Megan K. notes about Partridge Creek: "Sometimes it's hard to find sites where you can have a person in a wheelchair move around okay. These sites are good for that according to my cousin who has camped with our family in this area."
Alternative base camps: For families seeking shorter trips into the wilderness, EC Rettig provides strategic positioning. Christopher R. explains: "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."
Tips from RVers
Road condition alerts: Access roads to several campgrounds feature challenging terrain for larger vehicles. Christopher R. warns about Merrys Bay Campground: "Steep road leading down to camp but very beautiful place for a picnic." The narrow access road drops approximately 200 feet in elevation over a quarter-mile stretch.
Group site planning: Some areas better accommodate multiple-tent configurations for RV and tent combinations. Rachel A. notes about Mini Camp 4.8: "Another private off-shoot from the Big Eddy trail, mini camp 4.8 is first come first served and a highly sought after spot. Perched a bit higher than the sites around it you'll find some wonderful views and privacy to set up your tent at the tree edge."
Small craft launch points: Several tent camping areas provide basic boat launch facilities for portable watercraft. Bridget L. mentions Campbells Pond has a "newer boat launch for small type boats only," making it suitable for kayaks and canoes but restricting larger powerboats.
