Tent camping near Riggins, Idaho offers sites ranging from 1,800 feet along the Salmon River to over 7,000 feet in the Seven Devils Mountains, creating dramatic temperature variations throughout the camping season. The area falls within Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests and borders Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, North America's deepest river gorge. Mountain campsites typically remain snow-covered until late May or early June, with some high-elevation roads requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Fishing access: Several campgrounds provide direct access to the Salmon River for fishing opportunities. At Lucile Recreation Site, the main draw isn't the camping but its popularity as "a place to go rafting" according to Courtney R., who notes it serves primarily as a "river pull out site."
Hiking to alpine lakes: Trails from Windy Saddle Trailhead Campground connect to numerous alpine lakes. Max L. reports, "We were the only campers at windy saddle and were able to get a perfect site at the head of the trail over looking hell's canyon and Heaven's gate... easy access to trails, devils lake, Heaven's gate trail."
Wildlife viewing: The diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. At Pittsburgh Landing, Celine K. shares, "I saw mountain goats and heard of a rattler on the trail. Dog friendly, the picnic tables are nice and the toilets are clean. Learn about local Nimiipuu history and respectfully take time to look through the petroglyphs."
Swimming spots: When summer temperatures rise, riverside campsites offer cooling relief. At Island Bar Recreation Site, Jessica C. notes it's "Great for fishing, swimming and kayaking. There are snakes and spiders as this is a desert zone so be careful!"
Stargazing: The remote location and minimal light pollution create excellent night sky viewing. At Saddle Creek Campground, Andrew S. describes it as having "One of the most stunning views I've had at a campground" though warns it "Got pretty gusty at night and several of the sites are fairly exposed so plan accordingly."
What campers like
River proximity: Campers appreciate sites that allow immediate river access for cooling off during hot days. Erin M. shares that at Island Bar Recreation Site, you can "sleep right on the beach or up in the trees... Wake up to amazing views of the river, you can put your boat in upstream and float down to your site."
Solitude opportunities: The remote nature of many sites provides sought-after isolation. At North Fork Slate Creek Campground, Misty A. notes, "It's a very beautiful campground surrounded by lots of green. green trees green grass. There's a creek that runs just a short walk away."
Scenic vistas: High-elevation camps offer panoramic views spanning multiple states. Cheryl M. describes Saddle Creek Campground as offering "Fabulous views, wildflowers, but windy so not planning on a campfire this evening," also noting it features "pit toilet, picnic tables, and fire pits."
Primitive amenities: Many campers appreciate the basic facilities that maintain the wilderness feel. Zanna H. notes that Seven Devils Campground has "10 free sites first come first serve. Vaulted toilets BYOT (bring your own toilet paper). Hidden lake within short walk. Picnic tables, fire pits."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to high-elevation campgrounds requires preparation and appropriate vehicles. At Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, Thomas K. warns about "17 mile drive from roadway. Not recommended for any type of trailer; road can be difficult and is pinched in portions to single lane (substantial change in altitude from valley floor)."
Temperature fluctuations: Elevation differences create significant temperature variations between sites. Kirsten I. described enjoying Seven Devils Campground's "loneliness and the spacious sites in a little fir wood close to a 0.2 trail to the wonderful clear little lake next by," while preparing for cooler temperatures.
Water requirements: Most tent sites near Riggins lack potable water. Island Bar Recreation Site offers beautiful riverside camping, but as Erin M. advises, "Bring your own water but there are vault toilets."
Early season limitations: Spring conditions can restrict access to certain areas. Katherine B. notes about Island Bar Recreation Site: "Early season made this inaccessible except for paddlers."
Tips for camping with families
Hidden lake access: Short walks from certain campgrounds lead to small lakes perfect for families. At Seven Devils Campground, Zanna H. notes the "Hidden lake within short walk" provides an easy adventure for children without long hikes.
Bathroom planning: Most sites feature only vault toilets with variable maintenance. Todd R. found Saddle Creek Campground offered a "Nice toilet," while Zanna H. reminds campers about Seven Devils Campground to "BYOT (bring your own toilet paper)."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife safety protocols. Celine K. advises those camping at Pittsburgh Landing - Snake River: "The campsite is stunning and there are really cool plants in the area. I saw mountain goats and heard of a rattler on the trail."
Heat considerations: River sites provide natural cooling during summer months. Jessica C. warns about Island Bar Recreation Site: "There are snakes and spiders as this is a desert zone so be careful!" while highlighting its benefits for "fishing, swimming and kayaking."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Narrow mountain roads restrict larger vehicles and trailers. For Seven Devils Campground, Zanna H. cautions: "Driving is single car, narrow, bumpy dirt roads. Be prepared to back up a ways when you encounter another vehicle. Also look out for mountain cows 🐄 they like to be in the road. I would not take an RV."
Seasonal timing: RVers should check road conditions before attempting high-elevation sites. Thomas K. advises those heading to Seven Devils to "check with ranger station on road condition before mid June" due to potential snow and road damage.
Overflow options: When established campgrounds fill, some nearby areas permit dispersed camping for smaller rigs. Cheryl M. notes that at Saddle Creek Campground, "Trailers not allowed on the 1 lane road with turnouts from the Joseph, OR site. Road is better up too."
