Powell Campground

4.50

240 reviews

162 HIGHWAY 12, POWELL, ID 83539, USA

Quick Facts

3,400 ft

Price

$14 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

34 campsites

Season

Open from May 15 to ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens Recreation.gov site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

3,400 ft

Price

$14 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

34 campsites

Season

Open from May 15 to ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens Recreation.gov site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Powell Campground

$14.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season rates: Standard Electric sites cost $20/night, while Standard Nonelectric sites cost $14/night. First-come, first-served season rates...

Standard Site Fee$14.00

Hookup Site Fee$20.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(208) 942-3113

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What Campers Say

4.50

Recommended

Based on 240 reviews

41 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietcleanhiking

"Powell Campground is widely praised for its scenic beauty, clean facilities, and proximity to the Lochsa River and Lodge. While many users commend the camp hosts for their friendliness, several reviews highlight issues with host behavior and site management. Lack of showers and soap are noted as drawbacks."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

162 HIGHWAY 12, POWELL, ID 83539, USA

Powell Campground

162 HIGHWAY 12, POWELL, ID 83539, USA

Driving directionsFrom Lowell, travel east on Highway 12 for about 65 miles, to milepost 162. The campground is located 160 miles east of Lewiston, Idaho, and 60 miles southwest of Missoula, Montana.

Highway 12 winds along the narrow river canyon through evergreen trees and past large rock outcroppings. Accessible by paved roads. Seasonal restrictions are not mentioned.

Nearby places

Lewiston, ID (160 miles)

Missoula, MT (60 miles)

Lowell, ID (65 miles)

Nearby supplies

Within walking distance to a general store, fuel, lodging, and a restaurant. The nearest free dump station is 40 miles west on Highway 12 at the Wilderness Gateway Campground.

Best Time to Camp at Powell Campground

Experience the full drama of Idaho's mountain seasons at Powell Campground. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, perfect for those seeking solitude and crisp mountain air. As summer arrives, the campground comes alive under brilliant blue skies and comfortable temperatures that invite endless outdoor adventures. Pack your bug spray for the warmer months when mosquitoes join the ecosystem, but don't let them deter you from experiencing magical evenings by the campfire as temperatures cool and stars emerge in the crystal-clear mountain sky.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer reviews positive for hiking, fishing, wildlife; mosquitoes more common in warm months.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Autumn offers elk bugling, fall scenery and quieter conditions noted in descriptions.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Open from May 15; early spring conditions may include runoff and bugs, limiting appeal.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 15–Oct 31; winter stays not supported by facility season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15, 2025 - September 14, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 15 to September 14 (reservable season) and from September 15 to October 31 (first-come, first-served season).

About Powell Campground

Nestled along the rushing waters of the Lochsa Wild and Scenic River, Powell Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape with the majestic Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness as your backdrop. Whether you're settling into a secluded tent site or parking your RV on the paved pads, you'll find yourself immersed in nature's tranquility. Each thoughtfully spaced site provides a private retreat among towering evergreens, while modern vault toilets ensure comfort without compromising the pristine environment. Wake to the sound of the river and end your days watching alpenglow paint the surrounding peaks.

Powell Campground provides options for tent camping, RV sites with electrical hookups, and non-electric sites. Sites are reservable or first-come, first-served. No cabins or glamping accommodations are mentioned.

Historical SignificanceYour journey to Powell Campground follows the legendary Lewis and Clark Highway (Highway 12), retracing the footsteps of America's most famous explorers who traversed this rugged corridor in September 1805. The thundering Lochsa River that serenades your campsite earned its name from the Nez Perce people, who aptly called these waters 'rough water' - a testament to the untamed spirit that still defines this landscape today. Every bend in the river and vista from your campsite connects you to centuries of adventure seekers who have been drawn to this spectacular wilderness.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Idaho's mountain seasons at Powell Campground. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, perfect for those seeking solitude and crisp mountain air. As summer arrives, the campground comes alive under brilliant blue skies and comfortable temperatures that invite endless outdoor adventures. Pack your bug spray for the warmer months when mosquitoes join the ecosystem, but don't let them deter you from experiencing magical evenings by the campfire as temperatures cool and stars emerge in the crystal-clear mountain sky.

ElevationPerched at 3,400 feet above sea level, Powell Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air is crisp and the views stretch endlessly. This elevated position creates a natural air conditioning system during summer months and provides stunning vantage points for watching weather patterns roll through the valley. The altitude enhances every sunset and sunrise, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories against the backdrop of Idaho's rugged peaks.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering evergreens where ancient forests meet the untamed Lochsa River. This pristine ecosystem at 3,400 feet elevation serves as a living gallery of Idaho's most magnificent wildlife - from majestic elk bugling in autumn meadows to elusive mountain goats navigating rocky crags. Black bears forage in berry patches, while deer graze in dappled sunlight and the occasional moose wades through marshy areas. Mountain lions prowl these rugged terrains, maintaining the wild character of this unregulated river corridor where nature still reigns supreme.

Geological RegionPowell Campground sits at the heart of north-central Idaho's most dramatic landscapes, where the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests showcase millions of years of geological artistry. At 3,400 feet elevation, the campground occupies a sweet spot where dense coniferous forests cascade down to meet the Lochsa Wild and Scenic River. This remarkable location serves as your gateway to the legendary Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, one of the nation's premier protected areas where granite peaks, deep river canyons, and endless forests create an outdoor enthusiast's paradise.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in begins at 2 PM.

Check-out

Check-out is by 12 PM.

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampground is organized into two loops: Loop A (electric sites) and Loop B (nonelectric sites). Sites are well-spaced for privacy.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, through the app, or contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityApproximately half of the sites are first-come, first-served. Fill patterns vary based on season, with higher demand during summer months.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before the arrival date, subject to a $10 cancellation fee, reservation fees, and potential late penalties. Late cancellations (midnight one calendar day before check-in) will subtract the first night's recreation fee from any refund.

AccessibilityThe campground is paved with accessible vault toilets and a flush toilet near the day-use area. Sites are level and have easy back-in or pull-through options for RVs.

Site SizeSites are a mix of small, medium, and larger sizes with pull-through and back-in options. Loop A features larger sites, while Loop B tends to have smaller, non-electric sites.

PrivacySites are generally spaced well apart, providing a decent amount of privacy. However, some interior sites in Loop A are more closely packed.

Total Campsites34 campsites

Recommended SitesRecommended sites include those along the river for scenic views. Loop A offers electrical hookups useful for RV camping. Tent campers may prefer Loop B.

Amenities available

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

Activities you can enjoy

Powell Campground offers access to the Lochsa River for fishing and world-class whitewater rafting. Hiking opportunities range from the nearby Powell Complex Trail to longer expeditions in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. Wildlife viewing is abundant, with elk, moose, deer, and mountain goats in the area. Hunting is also permitted. Reviews highlight nearby hot springs and scenic drives along Highway 12.

HikingThe nearby Powell Complex Trail provides a shaded, 1.5-mile hiking experience. Visitors also enjoy hiking in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and to the nearby Jerry Johnson and Weir hot springs.

FishingThe Lochsa River supports cutthroat and rainbow trout, Chinook salmon, and steelhead fishing. It is catch-and-release in certain areas, with hatchery fish allowed in others.

BoatingWhitewater rafting is available on the Lochsa River, known for its challenging rapids. No permit is required, but technical expertise is necessary.

Wildlife viewingWildlife in the area includes elk, deer, moose, bear, cougar, and mountain goats. Scenic drives and trails provide excellent viewing opportunities.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes are prevalent during summer. Wildlife such as bears and cougars present risks; proper food storage is recommended.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed in designated rings. Firewood must be locally sourced to prevent pest spread.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Emergency ServicesPowell Ranger Station is nearby, but visitor services have moved to Lolo Pass Visitor Center. No detailed emergency services information provided.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are available on-site, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesDirectly adjacent to the Lochsa River. Fishing opportunities are abundant, with species like cutthroat trout and Chinook salmon.

Camp HostHosts are present but reviews indicate mixed experiences regarding friendliness and effectiveness. Some seasons lacked hosting services.

Weather at Powell Campground

Reviews

4.5

240 reviews

Recommended

Powell Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Powell Campground is widely praised for its scenic beauty, clean facilities, and proximity to the Lochsa River and Lodge. While many users commend the camp hosts for their friendliness, several reviews highlight issues with host behavior and site management. Lack of showers and soap are noted as drawbacks.

Review Summaries

Based on 240 reviews

What Campers Love

Many reviews praise the campground for being clean, quiet, and surrounded by natural beauty. Sites are well-spaced, and proximity to the Lochsa Lodge is a recurring positive aspect. Wildlife...

Based on 240 reviews

Common Concerns

Criticism is aimed at the campground hosts, who were described as rude or unhelpful by several campers. Other complaints include mosquito prevalence, no water hookups, and the lack of a dump station...

Based on 240 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring mosquito repellent, toilet paper, and soap. Prepare for no cell phone reception and be aware of campground rules regarding reservations and site usage. Consider visiting nearby hot springs and...

Based on 240 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews are generally positive, with campers enjoying hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and the scenic beauty of the area. Mosquitoes are more common in warmer months. Winter activity...

Based on 240 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Powell campground is a terrific place to rest, relax, fish, hike and explore.' - Kenneth Davis 2. 'Beautiful campground by the river, host was kind to me.' - Hardik Patel 3. 'Bathrooms clean,...

Based on 240 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site B010 was noted for being secluded and clean. Site A025 is praised for privacy and proximity to the river. Site A016 is described as on a grade and challenging for tent setup. Site A024 is...

Based on 240 reviews