RV campgrounds around Weippe, Idaho sit at elevations between 3,000-4,000 feet, with seasonal temperatures ranging from summer highs in the 80s to winter lows below freezing. The region connects to significant historical routes including the Lewis and Clark Trail, with several camping options within a 40-mile radius. Autumn brings colorful foliage while spring features abundant wildflowers throughout the surrounding Clearwater National Forest.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Clearwater River system offers excellent steelhead and trout fishing. At Pink House Recreation Site, a camper noted it's "great place to camp if your looking to boat on the Clearwater river" and has "a nice beach to relax on or let the kids take a swim also has a boat launch."
Reservoir recreation: For families wanting calmer waters, Deyo Reservoir provides fishing from multiple docks. A visitor mentioned "There's a doc on a small pond that's great for fishing" and another observed "Lots of docks for fishing in both the east and west campgrounds! Some docks are easier than others to access!"
Historical exploration: The region contains significant Lewis and Clark historical sites. From Swiftwater RV Park, travelers can access numerous points along the expedition route. A camper commented they were "heading north from Boise and needed a place to crash for the night. This was convenient so we booked it and we're happily surprised when we arrived."
What campers like
Riverfront locations: Many campgrounds offer direct river access. At Swiftwater RV Park, guests appreciate sites "right overlooking the Salmon River" with "very limited road noise and the shade trees were plentiful & lovely."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness receives frequent positive mentions. One visitor to Swiftwater RV Park commented about the "Cleanest bathrooms and showers I have ever been in at a park I think," while another noted they were "very clean, quiet and great managers onsite."
Affordable rates: Many campgrounds maintain reasonable fees, especially for seniors. At Pink House, a camper highlighted "Excellent campground with full hookups at a good price, $18/day, $4/day for extra car. Half price for Golden Age passport, Access Passport, Interagency Senior pass."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by carrier and location. A Bear Den RV Resort guest reported "The WiFi and cell service was not the best," while at Long Camp RV Park visitors found it "Perfect to stop and unwind for a night or two. The owners are great!"
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis while others require bookings. At Deyo Reservoir, campers advise "Reserve online beforehand" and note "There is very little cell service and reservations are required."
Road conditions: Access roads vary in quality. When traveling the Idaho Backcountry Discovery Route, one camper mentioned "There aren't many options that are accessible for our Support Truck but found Deyo Reservoir as a welcome spot."
Site spacing: Campground layouts vary considerably. At Deyo Reservoir, "The West sites are very open and close to each other" while "the East Campground which is more for Truck/Tent camping is wooded and cooler."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Look for campgrounds with swimming areas. Pink House Recreation Site has "a nice beach" that's good for children, while multiple docks make fishing accessible for various ages and abilities.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience late-night activity. One Deyo Reservoir camper noted "the other people were up loud till 2 am," suggesting families with young children consider quieter areas or midweek stays.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on shade and privacy. At Bear Den RV Resort, visitors noted "There are a few small trees but mostly in the sun. Sites are close together," making site selection important for comfort.
Seasonal timing: For optimal family experiences, consider weather patterns. During summer, a camper at Deyo Reservoir appreciated finding the East Campground which is "wooded and cooler (it was 95 degrees when we rode in)."
Tips from RVers
Site types: RV parks offer various configurations to accommodate different rigs. At River Junction RV Park, "There are some pull through sites as well as back in sites and a small tent area," providing options for various setup preferences.
Leveling considerations: Many sites feature natural rather than developed surfaces. An RVer noted River Junction "is a small campground near the tiny town of Kooskia" where "owners are very very nice and helped us back in when we arrived after dark."
Highway proximity: While convenient for access, highway locations may produce noise. Bear Den RV Resort is "on the highway, but not much road noise," making it suitable for light sleepers.
Permanent residents: Some RV parks have long-term occupants. At River Junction RV Park, "There are some permanent residents here with some rundown trailers but they were all nice and waved hello. It is quiet and right on the river."
