Tent camping near Weippe, Idaho centers on the Clearwater National Forest with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 feet. The camping season typically runs May through October, with July and August offering the most reliable weather conditions. Forest Service roads accessing many camping areas require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rainfall when clay-based soil becomes slippery.
What to do
Fishing access points: Campbells Pond Access Area provides good trout fishing opportunities with a newer boat launch designed for small watercraft. "Has good trout fishing. Newer boat launch for small type boats only," notes Bridget L. about the Campbells Pond Access Area.
Wildlife viewing: Musselshell Meadows serves as a strategic basecamp for wildlife observation in designated viewing areas. "This is close to a wildlife viewing area and it's not far from great fishing access on musselshell creek and lolo creek," according to Christopher R. about Musselshell Meadows.
Educational visits: The Dworshak National Fish Hatchery offers family-friendly activities during specific seasons. "If you go at the right time of the year they have hands on activities for the whole family," reports Megan K. about her visit to the hatchery area.
What campers like
Secluded shoreline access: Mini Camp 4.7 provides waterfront camping with protection from wind and excellent fishing opportunities. "Trees provide a bit of wind coverage though we enjoyed perfect 80s in the day and warm 50s temps in the night. Friendly little birds visited us regularly and excellent fishing off any of the sides you are surrounded by," shares Rachel A. about Mini camp 4.7.
Spacious group sites: Mini Camp 4.8 offers elevated positioning for better views and sufficient space for larger camping parties. "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. A nice long ramp to the water and plenty of space this site is ideal for a larger group," notes Rachel A. about Mini Camp 4.8.
Well-maintained facilities: Despite their rustic nature, several campgrounds feature clean, serviceable amenities. "The tent sites are well cared for. Pit toilets are clean. It is quiet and pretty, but kind of a small area," observes Cody B. regarding Campbells Pond.
What you should know
Trail difficulty varies: Big Eddy trail begins with challenging terrain before becoming more manageable. "This is a backpacking trail. The first half mile is difficult but then the trail levels out and is easy for many miles. There's free dispersed camping sites starting after 4.5 miles down the trail," explains Megan K. about Big Eddy Marina & Lodge.
Water access considerations: Water depth changes abruptly at certain shoreline camping areas. "I did swim, and the water gets very deep very quickly off the first two campsites," warns Megan K. about Big Eddy campsites.
Limited amenities: Most sites lack drinking water and trash service. "It is possible to get to the water (if you have a hydration filter pack), but it's not a beach like shore," reports Megan K. regarding water availability at Big Eddy.
Tips for camping with families
ATV-friendly options: Some campgrounds provide direct access to trail systems suitable for family off-road activities. "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," recommends Christopher R. about Campbells Pond Access Area.
Short hiking options: Mini Camp 3.5 offers a relatively accessible hiking experience from Big Eddy. "This is an easy 1mi hike from Big Eddy Recreation area on the Big Eddy trail. Ok, correction, challenging out of the gate with a fairly vertical start but levels out quickly," explains Rachel A. about Mini Camp 3.5.
Day trip possibilities: Many camping areas serve as basecamps for exploration. "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," shares Rachel A. regarding Mini Camp 4.7 usage.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds require appropriate vehicles, particularly Merrys Bay. "Steep road leading down to camp but very beautiful place for a picnic," cautions Christopher R. about Merrys Bay Campground.
Alternative basecamp options: E.C. Rettig Campground provides strategic positioning for day trips. "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," suggests Christopher R.
Size limitations: Most campgrounds near Weippe accommodate only smaller recreational vehicles or trailers. "Small camp along Lolo motorway," notes Christopher R. regarding Pete Forks Campground, indicating the limited space available for larger rigs.
