Hells Gate State Park
00 review5100 Hells Gate Rd, Lewiston, Idaho, 83501-5679, United States
Hells Gate State Park
$35.00 - $70.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$45.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Non-residents pay double the fee for camping, with electric sites costing $70 instead of $35. Idaho residents pay lower fees.
About this campground
Nestled along the emerald banks of the Snake River, Hells Gate State Park welcomes visitors with sprawling, tree-canopied campsites that offer a perfect blend of natural serenity and adventure. This riverside oasis combines the tranquility of shaded camping with world-class recreation opportunities, while the fascinating Lewis & Clark Discovery Center and Jack O'Connor Hunting Heritage and Education Center add layers of historical richness to your outdoor experience. Whether you're casting a line into the Snake River or exploring the park's cultural attractions, Hells Gate serves as your gateway to both relaxation and discovery.
Hells Gate State Park accommodates a variety of camping preferences, from RV and tent camping to cabins and group sites.
Historical SignificanceStep into the footsteps of America's most famous explorers at the Lewis & Clark Discovery Center, where the epic journey of the Corps of Discovery comes alive through engaging exhibits and interpretive programs. This living testament to their 1805-1806 expedition transforms your camping trip into a journey through time, offering insights into the challenges, triumphs, and cultural exchanges that shaped our nation's westward expansion.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal tapestry of Hells Gate, where each season paints the landscape with its own palette. Summer brings intense heat that can soar above 100°F, but the park's generous canopy of mature trees creates natural air conditioning, making even tent camping a comfortable adventure. As autumn arrives, the oppressive heat gives way to crisp, perfect camping weather that beckons outdoor enthusiasts. Winter transforms the park into a quiet retreat, where light dustings of snow accent the landscape and hardy campers enjoy solitude. Be aware that regional wildfires can occasionally create atmospheric haze, adding dramatic sunsets but requiring awareness of air quality.
ElevationThe park's riverside location provides a gentle, accessible terrain perfect for campers of all abilities and ages.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a verdant paradise where towering trees create cathedral-like canopies over expansive grassy meadows. The Snake River flows majestically along the campground's edge, its waters reflecting the changing moods of the sky while providing endless opportunities for recreation. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the park's diverse inhabitants – watch for graceful deer grazing at dawn, wild turkeys strutting through the underbrush, and playful bunnies hopping across the meadows. This rich ecosystem creates an ever-changing natural theater right outside your tent or RV door.
Geological RegionPerched on the lush banks of the Snake River Valley, Hells Gate State Park serves as your launching point to one of North America's most spectacular geological wonders. The park provides access to the legendary Hells Canyon, where the continent's deepest river gorge plunges dramatically between ancient basalt cliffs. This unique location places you at the intersection of gentle riverside camping and some of the most dramatic canyon country in the world, offering both peaceful relaxation and heart-pounding adventure just minutes apart.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-accessible cabins and group facilities are available. Proof of disability is not required upon arrival.
Sites SizeLarge campsites with room for RVs and ample space between sites.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels; some sites are spaced well apart, others are clustered. Shady trees provide additional seclusion in certain areas.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAspen Circle is recommended for proximity to the swim beach. Other loops may require a long walk to access water or other amenities.
Best CampsitesSite #15 in the A Loop is noted for having the best view of the Snake River.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
RV/trailer dump stations available for long stays.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Large campsites with plenty of room to spread out.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops (A, B, C, and Aspen Circle). Aspen Circle is ideal for swim beach access.
Open and Closed SeasonNo specific seasonal closure dates provided.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Idaho State Parks official website or by calling the park management numbers.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome user reviews mention that walk-up availability is possible but highly trafficked during peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy information not provided.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Hells Gate State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, from hiking and biking to swimming, fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. The river access allows for activities like boating and kayaking.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available with varying difficulty levels, from easy paved paths to more moderate trails. Some trails are shared with horseback riders.Fishing
Fishing is allowed in the Snake River. Some reviews mentioned the proximity of campsites to excellent salmon fishing areas.Swimming
Day-use beaches are available for swimming. The Snake River provides additional opportunities for water-based recreation.Biking
The park offers paved biking trails suitable for families, including young children. There are also more rugged mountain biking trails available.Boating
The park has a boat launch ramp, and boating is a popular activity. Visitors can access remote beaches via boat.Wildlife viewing
Deer, turkeys, and other local wildlife are often seen around the park. Some visitors reported skunks and orb spiders as part of the natural setting.Beach activities
The beaches along the Snake River offer opportunities for sunbathing and playing. Some areas are designated for dog-friendly activities.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Lewis & Clark Discovery Center and the Jack O'Connor Hunting Heritage and Education Center provide educational opportunities.Winter Activities
None specifically mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular non-motorized water sports in the park.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated areas only.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsReviews frequently note an abundance of spiders, including large orb spiders, which can be overwhelming for arachnophobes. Skunks are also common and may wander through campsites.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned in the source materials.
Weather forecast
101
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 15%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services, including hospitals and a medical clinic, are located within 10 miles in Lewiston.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak prices seem to apply during summer months due to higher visitor traffic.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available. Dump station includes drinking water for RVs.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground borders the Snake River, providing access to boating, kayaking, and beaches.
Common complaints"Camping spots were overrun with spiders, including large ones." "Management treated campers rudely." "Non-residents pay double Idaho resident fees." "Facilities such as showers were outdated."
HostSome reviewers praised hosts for cleaning and prepping sites before arrival, while others noted hosts and rangers were rude or overly strict.
Campground Map
5100 Hells Gate Rd, Lewiston, Idaho, 83501-5679, United States
Driving directionsHells Gate State Park is located 4 miles south of downtown Lewiston, ID on Snake River Ave. Driving from the west take US Highway 12 EAST, cross the blue Interstate Bridge from Clarkston, WA to Lewiston, ID. Immediately turn right onto Snake River Ave. Proceed 4 miles south on Snake River Ave, take a right at Hells Gate Road. Approaching from the east, use US Highway 12 WEST through Lewiston until it intersects Snake River Ave. Turn right on Snake River Ave and proceed 4 miles to Hells Gate Road. Turn right on Hells Gate Road. From the north or south, use US Highway 95 until it intersects US Highway 12 WEST. Then follow the directions as if you were coming from the east.
Roads to the park and inside the park are completely paved and easy to drive, even for large RVs like 35 ft fifth-wheels. There are no mentions of seasonal closures, but travelers should be aware that extreme weather warnings may affect road usability.Nearby places
Lewiston (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, dining, vehicle fuel, bait and tackle, drinks, ice, and seasonal concessions can be found within 10 miles in Lewiston.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Hells Gate State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Hells Gate State Park are generally positive, highlighting the spacious campsites, variety of activities, and clean facilities. However, some complaints include issues with spiders, strict enforcement of rules, and additional fees for out-of-state visitors.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciated the large and shaded campsites, clean showers, and wide range of activities like hiking, swimming, and boating. Wildlife sightings such as deer and turkeys were also a highlight.
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes issues with spiders ('huge and everywhere'), strict park rules, outdated restroom facilities, and significant fee differences for non-residents.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood if staying for several days as the bundles sold at the park are small. Choose campsites with shade if visiting during the summer. Avoid showing up early for check-in as the...
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Seasonal Insights
The park is busiest in summer when temperatures can be very high. Spring and fall offer a quieter experience and more comfortable weather. Winter visits are less common, with some facilities...
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Camper Quotes
- 'The Snake River is beautiful; lots of spots to drive up and down the river.' (Ashley Gerstenberger)
- 'If you have any fear of spiders, this is not the place for you.' (Kylie Even)
- 'Great park...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 in Loop A is highlighted as having the best view of the water. Aspen Circle provides convenient access to the swim beach.
Accessibility Features
Cabins are ADA-accessible, and proof of disability is not required upon arrival. However, no specific reviews detail other aspects of accessibility.
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed and are not permitted in the water, except in designated areas. Some users expressed frustration with the lack of a dedicated swimming area for dogs.
Last updated August 10, 2025