Nez Perce National Forest offers dispersed camping options across more than 2.2 million acres surrounding Elk City. Located at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 8,900 feet, this mountainous region experiences significant temperature changes between day and night even during summer months. Creeks and rivers throughout the forest create natural boundaries between camping areas and provide cooling relief during hot summer afternoons.
What to do
Hiking to hot springs: Access Stanley Hot Springs via a 6-mile round-trip trail from Wilderness Gateway. "Awesome place for campers of all walks of life has trails to Stanley hot springs and has about everything you could ask for," notes Christopher R.
River activities: The Lochsa River offers swimming and wading spots at multiple campgrounds. Lauren from Knife Edge Campground mentions "Lochsa river access (rock bar)" making it easy to cool off during summer camping trips.
Gold panning: Try your luck panning for gold in creeks near Elk City, which has a history of gold mining. Jersey G. notes about Five Mile Campground: "Fun trails all around to explore and I've heard you can pan in the creek."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Many campers appreciate sites positioned along waterways. Caz M. from Johnson Bar Campground shares that it has "many great riverside camp spots. There is a beach with a good fishing spot."
Diverse camping environments: The Elk City area offers both open meadow and forested sites. Jersey G. describes Five Mile as having "two campgrounds across the road from each other. The newer one is a wide open area while the older one is not conducive to larger 5th wheels."
Seasonal solitude: Fall and spring visitors often find greater privacy. Pat F. at Whitewater Campground reports: "I have stayed here twice and shared the campground one time with another couple."
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary: Some campgrounds have fire limitations or require campers bring their own wood. Caz M. notes about Johnson Bar: "No firewood is for sale here and the site has been thoroughly picked over for wood so bring your own, if you'd like a fire."
Road conditions can be challenging: Some dog friendly campgrounds near Elk City require navigating difficult terrain. Pat F. describes Whitewater Campground's "steep and narrow road with at least 15 switchbacks," adding that "the campground appears to be used by horseback hunters in the fall."
Weather preparedness: Higher elevation sites experience significant temperature drops at night. Erica D. from Newsome Campground warns: "36 miles from Grangeville, and its got some elevation and it can get cold at night if in a tent."
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: Pack games and activities for children as some sites have limited natural play areas after fire damage. Christopher R. describes Glade Creek as having "a bunch of great camp sites with tables and firepits" which provide good spaces for family activities.
Consider proximity to bathrooms: Larger campgrounds like Wilderness Gateway offer flush toilets which families often prefer. Tracey S. reports it "was clean, had flush toilets and drinking water, plus a dump station."
Select sites with buffer space: Families with pets should choose locations away from high-traffic areas. Lauren at Knife Edge Campground notes that "with enough trees to feel there was privacy" even when other sites are occupied.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all pet-friendly campgrounds accommodate large vehicles. Look for newer campground sections when traveling with fifth wheels or longer trailers. Todd M. from Three Rivers Resort & Campground mentions the "large tent camping area for motorcyclists, bicyclists and hikers" but notes RV areas fill quickly on weekends.
Water and waste management: Check water availability before arrival as seasonal shutoffs occur. Patrick M. describes Knife Edge as having "5 or 6 wooded sites, firerings and picnic tables" but doesn't mention water service, indicating the need to bring your own.
Reserve spots at busier locations: Popular RV-friendly locations fill quickly during summer. Steven L. notes about Three Rivers Resort: "Booking was straightforward, Checking easy and was As Described... Lack of black water Capability was not an issue in our case and if needed there was a dump station on site."
