Kelly Forks Campground
03 reviewsKelly Forks Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
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About this campground
Where the pristine waters of Kelly Creek meet the legendary North Fork Clearwater River, Kelly Forks Campground awaits as your gateway to Idaho's untamed wilderness. Towering evergreens create a natural cathedral over thoughtfully spaced campsites, each offering its own pocket of serenity. Adventure beckons in every direction—challenge yourself on the hiking trail that winds up to Flat Mountain's commanding views, explore miles of horseback riding trails that thread through ancient forests, or cool off in crystal-clear swimming holes carved by centuries of flowing water. For anglers, this is hallowed ground: the Blue Ribbon cutthroat trout fishing here has created legends passed down through generations of devoted fly fishers.
Kelly Forks Campground caters to both tent and RV camping. It offers 14 individual sites and a group camping area, though RV amenities like hookups are not available.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where nature still reigns supreme. The dense canopy of old-growth forest filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor, while the constant melody of rushing water provides nature's soundtrack. This is big country, where your morning coffee might be interrupted by a majestic elk stepping into view, or where twilight brings the haunting call of wolves echoing through the valleys. Moose browse along the riverbanks, and if you're observant, you might catch a glimpse of a bobcat's silent passage through the undergrowth. The streamside setting offers both refreshing breezes and secluded spots where you can lose yourself in the rhythm of the wilderness.
Geological RegionTucked into the rugged mountains of Northwest Idaho, this pristine corner of the American West showcases nature at its most dramatic. The confluence of Kelly Creek and the North Fork Clearwater River has carved a verdant valley through dense coniferous forests, creating a landscape that feels untouched by time. This is the heart of Idaho's legendary backcountry, where towering pines and firs blanket steep mountainsides and crystal waters have sculpted their path through ancient bedrock.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome sites and facilities are accessible, though specific details about accessibility features are not provided.
Sites SizeThe campground offers standard-sized sites suitable for both tents and small RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is heavily wooded, offering natural privacy between sites. However, some users note that the sites may be close enough for noise from neighboring campers to be a concern.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended Campsites"The campground provides easy access to Kelly Creek and North Fork Clearwater River, with plenty of fishy water for anglers."
Reserving a campsite
Groups
The campground features a group camping area that is non-reservable and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Kelly Forks Campground is ideal for a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The area is known for its proximity to trails and a Blue Ribbon trout stream, making it a hotspot for anglers and nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
The campground offers direct access to a hiking trail leading to Flat Mountain, and several other nearby trails are available for exploration.Fishing
Kelly Forks is famous for its Blue Ribbon cutthroat trout stream. Fishing is catch-and-release only, and the clear waters provide an excellent experience for anglers.Swimming
Swimming is possible in Kelly Creek and the North Fork Clearwater River, though specific safety measures or designated areas are not mentioned.Wildlife viewing
The area is abundant with wildlife, offering opportunities to see elk, white-tailed deer, and various bird species.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 16%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is available, but recycling facilities are not mentioned. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresStreamside location at Kelly Creek and North Fork Clearwater River.
Common complaints"Nice spot but the sites are close to each other, so a noisy neighbor can be a downer." User review notes occasional noise.
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Kelly Forks Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, proximity to fishing opportunities, and quiet, wooded setting. However, some users mentioned that the sites are closely spaced, which could lead to noise from neighbors.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
"The campground is heavily wooded, providing natural privacy." "The grounds and toilets are very well maintained." "Kelly Forks is perfect for accessing fishing spots on Kelly Creek and the North...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Sites are close to each other, and noisy neighbors can detract from the serene environment.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood and drinking water, as these are not reliably available on-site. Arrive early to secure a spot, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground sees most of its visitors during the summer months, when fishing and hiking are most popular. Seasonal weather conditions, such as heavy snow in winter, may limit access.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This campground is one of my favorites anywhere," said one reviewer, highlighting the natural privacy and excellent maintenance. "Nice spot but the sites are close to each other," mentioned another...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews of individual sites were provided.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025