Freeman Creek Campground at Dworshak State Park offers both primitive cabins and various camping sites at 1,600 feet elevation near Weippe, Idaho. The campground provides access to the 53-mile-long Dworshak Reservoir with steep terrain surrounding much of the shoreline. Temperature variations are significant throughout the year, with summer highs regularly reaching 90°F while winter conditions often include snow and freezing temperatures.
What to do
Fishing options: Freeman Creek Campground provides access to exceptional fishing opportunities on Dworshak Reservoir. "Smallmouth bass fishing is great! The Idaho state Smallmouth record was caught in this lake," notes reviewer Cody B., who also mentions seasonal considerations: "Kokanee fishing is great from March to about late July. The spawn begins in August, so the fish move up the reservoir as the season progresses."
Wildlife viewing: The forests and shorelines around Weippe's camping areas support diverse wildlife throughout the seasons. Cody B. reports from Freeman Creek: "If you are lucky you may see a black bear feeding on blackberries, deer are numerous, elk frequent the lake, and one of my favorites is to watch Osprey dive in the lake for fish."
Family recreation: Winchester Lake State Park Campground offers family-friendly activities beyond glamping. "Beautiful setting. Nice campsite options, tent, RV, and yurt. Nice place to ride bikes, fish, hike, and relax," writes Kendra M. The lake prohibits motorized watercraft, creating a peaceful environment for paddling and fishing.
What campers like
Peaceful water activities: Non-motorized boating provides a tranquil experience at Winchester Lake. Nancy C. explains, "No motorized watercraft are allowed on the lake which makes it a wonderful place to kayak and SUP." The restriction creates a quieter atmosphere compared to larger lakes in the region.
Diverse fishing experiences: Three Rivers Resort & Campground adds river fishing options to the area's lake opportunities. The property sits at the confluence of the Lochsa, Selway, and Middle Fork Clearwater Rivers, offering different fishing environments than the reservoir-based options at Freeman Creek.
Forested seclusion: Winchester Lake's wooded setting creates natural privacy between sites. Nicholas G. describes it as a "Forested Oasis" noting: "Amidst the rolling hills of farmland and open spaces emerges this deeply forested reservoir... great for boating a small boat or getting lost in the thick pines around it."
What you should know
Access challenges: Some campgrounds near Weippe require navigating difficult roads. Agnes B. warns about Freeman Creek Campground: "We won't be returning simply because of the road to get there. Google maps wrecked us - I selected 'quickest route' and had NO warnings that we would be driving up the narrowest gravel road with a 11% incline!"
Limited cell service: Most camping areas around Weippe have minimal or no cellular connectivity. Agnes B. notes plainly: "NO CELL SERVICE. You just have to be present with one another." Some locations may offer limited WiFi at central facilities, but most camping areas remain disconnected.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited services in winter months. While Winchester Lake remains open year-round, Megan S. mentions winter camping there: "I will definitely be back soon, even frozen it was very enjoyable."
Tips for camping with families
Group camping options: Freeman Creek Campground provides dedicated group sites suitable for family reunions or multi-family trips. Ashley C. shares: "We book a group camp site every year and have a camping reunion! The kids love it and the grown up worry less at such a family appropriate park."
Elevation changes within campsites: Be prepared for significant level changes at some camping areas. Jerry R. notes about Winchester Lake: "I got to use all my orange blocks for our bottom step out of our trailer. Looks like erosion has happened over time there is about 4 or so feet vertical drop from the parking pad to the fire ring."
Nature programs: Winchester Lake offers educational programs during summer months, including Junior Ranger activities, guided hikes, and wildlife presentations. The visitor center has fishing poles available for loan, making it easy for children to try fishing without bringing gear.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Three Rivers Resort & Campground offers different hookup options depending on site selection. Steven L. explains: "Lack of black water capability was not an issue in our case and if needed there was a dump station on site."
Length considerations: Several campsites in the area can accommodate larger rigs despite the challenging access roads. Jennifer R. reports about Winchester Lake: "We pulled our 40ft RV up here and had a great time! Not full hookups but lots of fishing... they did have electricity and water hookups just no dump so we showered and used the bathroom facilities which were very well kept!"
Site selection for glamping in Weippe: When booking luxury glamping near Weippe, Idaho, consider site positioning for optimal views and access. Dawn G. from Freeman Creek notes: "We originally had a reservation for a view site with no hook ups, but upon arrival they had a hookup site(#104) available, and the temps were nearly 100 degrees, so we took it!"
