Powell Campground
4.46114 reviews162 HIGHWAY 12, POWELL, ID 83539, USA
Powell Campground
$14.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Peak season rates: Standard Electric sites cost $20/night, while Standard Nonelectric sites cost $14/night. First-come, first-served season rates remain the same. Fees do not include taxes or discounts.
About this 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.
Campsite details
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.
Sites 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.
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 CampsitesRecommended sites include those along the river for scenic views. Loop A offers electrical hookups useful for RV camping. Tent campers may prefer Loop B.
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 are 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.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 15 to September 14 (reservable season) and from September 15 to October 31 (first-come, first-served season).
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.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
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.
Hiking
The 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.Fishing
The 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.Boating
Whitewater rafting is available on the Lochsa River, known for its challenging rapids. No permit is required, but technical expertise is necessary.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes elk, deer, moose, bear, cougar, and mountain goats. Scenic drives and trails provide excellent viewing opportunities.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned in the data.Water Sports
Whitewater rafting is the primary water sport available on the Lochsa River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated rings. Firewood must be locally sourced to prevent pest spread.
- Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are prevalent during summer. Wildlife such as bears and cougars present risks; proper food storage is recommended.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Powell Ranger Station is nearby, but visitor services have moved to Lolo Pass Visitor Center. No detailed emergency services information provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - September 14, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available on-site, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to the Lochsa River. Fishing opportunities are abundant, with species like cutthroat trout and Chinook salmon.
Common complaintsReviews show complaints about camp hosts' behavior and maintenance issues like dirty facilities or low supplies, notably toilet paper and soap.
HostHosts are present but reviews indicate mixed experiences regarding friendliness and effectiveness. Some seasons lacked hosting services.
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
4.5
114 reviews
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 114 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...
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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 114 reviewsShow more
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...
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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...
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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,...
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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...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible vault and flush toilets are noted. Sites are level and well-spaced for RVs.
Based on 114 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews mention leashed pets are required at all times. Some campers noted issues with dogs being off-leash despite rules.
Based on 114 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025