Aquarius Campground And Purple Beach Group Site
4.527 reviewsAquarius Campground And Purple Beach Group Site
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$10 per site, per night as per user review
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About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of the North Fork Clearwater River, Aquarius Campground and Purple Beach Group Site beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 9 thoughtfully developed campsites and 2 spacious group sites. Here, days unfold with the rhythm of the river—morning mists give way to afternoons spent swimming in crystal-clear pools, casting lines for native trout, or floating lazily downstream on inner tubes. When the river runs high, thrill-seekers flock here for exhilarating whitewater rafting adventures. Beyond the water's edge, well-maintained trails wind upward into the untamed Mallard Larkins Pioneer Area, ultimately reaching the majestic summit of Black Mountain, where lucky hikers might glimpse the elusive mountain goats that call these rocky heights home.
Aquarius Campground offers camping accommodations for both tents and groups. Its 9 developed sites and 2 group campsites provide options for families and small groups, but no cabins or RV hookups are available.
Historical Significancenull
Natural Features and SceneryThe North Fork Clearwater River serves as the campground's centerpiece, its banks adorned with a tapestry of verdant vegetation that creates a natural sanctuary for both wildlife and weary travelers. Ancient cedars and towering pines frame the campsites, while the gentle murmur of flowing water provides nature's soundtrack. Adventure awaits along trails that ascend through old-growth forests into the pristine wilderness of the Mallard Larkins Pioneer Area. The journey culminates at Black Mountain's dramatic peaks, where panoramic vistas reward intrepid hikers and where, if fortune smiles, you might witness the graceful silhouettes of mountain goats navigating their vertical kingdom against an endless sky.
Campsite details
AccessibilityLimited accessibility features mentioned; exact details unavailable.
Sites SizeThe campground accommodates both standard campsites and two larger group sites (Purple Beach). Specific dimensions of campsites are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels at campsites are not reviewed in detail; one reviewer noted that the campground was small and could feel crowded when busy.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Groups
The two group campsites, known as Purple Beach, are suited for larger gatherings but do not include specific details about capacity limits or vehicle restrictions.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Aquarius Campground offers a range of water-based activities such as swimming, fly fishing, tubing, and whitewater rafting (especially in May and June). Hiking trails in the nearby Mallard Larkins Pioneer Area provide opportunities to explore Black Mountain and observe wildlife, including mountain goats.
Hiking
Hiking trails nearby are described as scenic, leading into the Mallard Larkins Pioneer Area and up to Black Mountain summit. Specific trail lengths are not mentioned.Fishing
Fishing is highly recommended for anglers. The location along the North Fork of Clearwater River supports a range of freshwater activities.Swimming
The river provides opportunities to swim and enjoy water recreation. One user described this as 'the best swimming ever,' emphasizing the site's appeal.Boating
Activities like tubing and whitewater rafting are highlighted as popular. May and June are peak times for these sports.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife spotting opportunities include mountain goats in the Black Mountain area. No detailed information about other wildlife is provided.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Whitewater rafting and tubing are prominent water sports at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsUser review suggests water may be non-potable due to a bad well. Bring your own water supply. No electrical hookups available.
Weather forecast
95
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 17%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are not explicitly mentioned. Users are advised to practice 'pack-it-in, pack-it-out' guidelines.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to the North Fork Clearwater River. Ideal for swimming, fishing, and water recreation.
Common complaintsUser complaints include limited RV turnaround space and potential water non-potability.
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
4.5
7 reviews
Aquarius Campground And Purple Beach Group Site is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews convey a largely positive sentiment for Aquarius Campground. Visitors describe it as peaceful, clean, and scenic, but note the lack of potable water as a limitation. Many appreciate the opportunities for fishing, swimming, and relaxing along the Clearwater River.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
'Best swimming and fishing ever!' 'Peaceful and clean.' 'Camping at its finest.'
Based on 7 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users mentioned the lack of potable water and the difficulty of turning around RVs due to dead-end layouts.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water as there is no potable source. Arrive early to secure a spot, as the small size means sites can fill quickly.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
May through July appears to be the most favorable period, with whitewater rafting and hiking being standout activities. Summer offers the clearest views and warmer water for swimming.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Best camping, best swimming, best fishing ever!' - Dev Doty
- 'Campground is small and all spots were taken. Difficult to turn around in RV because dead ends.' - Brenda Boyer Knoll
- 'Camping has...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite numbers or detailed site reviews are provided in the source materials.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility-specific reviews are available.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No information about pet policies or pet experiences is provided.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025