Pittsburg Campground
4.3614 reviewsPittsburg Campground, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, Idaho
Pittsburg Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
Overnight use fee is $15 per single site per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to single campsites only. The discount applies to the fee for the campsite physically occupied by the pass holder, not additional sites occupied by party members.
About this campground
Perched dramatically above the Wild and Scenic Snake River, Pittsburg Campground offers 28 thoughtfully designed sites where adventurers can wake to spectacular canyon views. This accessible haven in Hells Canyon National Recreation Area welcomes everyone from tent campers to those with large RVs, featuring paved roads, accessible facilities, and fresh drinking water available from April through October. Whether you're seeking a weekend escape or an extended canyon adventure, this well-appointed campground serves as your gateway to North America's deepest river gorge.
Pittsburg Campground offers various camping options, including tent and trailer sites that accommodate large RVs. The facility is accessible and open year-round.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at this culturally rich location where ancient peoples left their mark on the landscape. The nearby Pittsburg Rock Art Interpretive Site reveals fascinating glimpses into the lives of those who called this canyon home thousands of years ago. As you explore, you'll discover why Hells Canyon has captivated humans throughout history—from Native American tribes to miners, ranchers, and modern-day adventurers, all drawn to this spectacular meeting of land and water.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic contrasts of high desert living at Pittsburg Campground, where warm, sun-drenched days give way to crisp, star-filled nights. Open year-round, the campground transforms with the seasons—from occasional winter snowfalls that dust the canyon walls to blazing summer days perfect for early morning hikes and riverside exploration. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions with comfortable temperatures and wildflower blooms or golden autumn light painting the canyon walls.
ElevationPositioned at the perfect vantage point above the Snake River, the campground offers commanding views while maintaining easy access to both rim and river activities. This strategic elevation provides natural cooling breezes and stunning sunrise and sunset viewing opportunities.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering canyon walls frame the mighty Snake River below, creating a natural amphitheater of raw beauty. The rugged desert terrain bursts with surprising diversity—from resilient sagebrush and native grasses to seasonal wildflowers that paint the hillsides. Eagles soar overhead while bighorn sheep navigate the steep terrain, and each viewpoint reveals new perspectives of this ancient geological masterpiece carved by time and water.
Geological RegionWelcome to Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, where the Snake River has carved North America's deepest river gorge through ancient volcanic rock and limestone. This geological wonderland showcases millions of years of Earth's history in its exposed canyon walls, while the Wild and Scenic Snake River continues its timeless journey below. The surrounding high desert ecosystem creates a unique environment where river meets rim, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the raw power of geological forces at work.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground and its restrooms are accessible, with accessible campsites and paved roads mentioned in official descriptions.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate large RVs and trailers.
Sites PrivacyRV spaces are described by reviewers as being farther apart than those at most Forest Service campgrounds.
Total Campsites28 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo specific site recommendations mentioned.
Best CampsitesNo specific site numbers or recommendations mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Multiple nights for river trips must be paid individually.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit maximum mentioned.
Groups
No information is available about group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground includes 28 tent/trailer sites with paved roads and camp spurs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo specific reservation platforms mentioned; payment via cash or check onsite.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly described but implied as payment is made at a fee station.
Cancellation PolicyReservation fees apply, but specific cancellation policies are not mentioned.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Pittsburg Campground can enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, boating (motorized and non-motorized), hiking, picnicking, and exploring the nearby Snake River. The campground is surrounded by scenic views, and activities such as mushroom hunting and wildlife photography have been mentioned by users.
Hiking
The campground offers convenient access to hiking trails within the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. No specific details about trail lengths or difficulty levels are provided.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Pittsburg Campground due to its close proximity to the Snake River. One reviewer mentioned: 'The fishing is always fun!'Biking
Bicycling is mentioned as one of the activities enjoyed by visitors, but no details are provided about dedicated biking trails or paths.Boating
Boating is available, with both motorized and non-motorized options mentioned. The campground has access to the Pittsburg Landing Boat Launch.Wildlife viewing
Visitors can observe wildlife in the surrounding area, though specific species or observation spots are not detailed.Winter Activities
Visitors can enjoy winter activities such as fishing and hiking, as the campground is open year-round.Water Sports
The campground supports motorized and non-motorized water sports, such as boating and paddleboarding, with access to the Snake River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions active June 1 through September 30. Charcoal fires allowed only in fire pans.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include steep, narrow road access requiring caution for RV trailers and vehicles.
Active alertsFire restrictions are active from June 1 to September 30.
Weather forecast
99
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 13%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
Closest emergency services are located in White Bird, Idaho (18 miles) or Riggins, Idaho (27 miles). Exact locations are null.
Good to know
Peak season datesN/A; campground is open year-round.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details are provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated minutes away from the Snake River for boating and fishing activities.
Common complaintsUser reviews complain about filthy bathrooms, lack of water during certain periods, and no RV dumping facilities.
HostCampground host information is not provided.
Campground Map
Pittsburg Campground, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, Idaho
Driving directionsFrom White Bird, Idaho head south on Highway 95 for about 0.5 miles to Old Highway 95 at mile marker 222 (sign indicates Pittsburg Landing and Hammer Creek Recreation Area); turn right on Old Highway 95 and go about 1 mile to the bridge crossing the Salmon River; turn left and cross the bridge; immediately after the bridge turn left on the Deer Creek Road (also known as Forest Road 493); travel on the Deer Creek Road for 17.5 miles to the campground. Alternatively, from Riggins, Idaho head north on Highway 95 for about 27 miles to Old Highway 95 at mile marker 222 (sign indicates Pittsburg Landing and Hammer Creek Recreation Site); turn left on Old Highway 95 and go about 1 mile to the bridge crossing the Salmon River; turn left and cross the bridge; immediately after the bridge turn left on the Deer Creek Road (also known as Forest Road 493); travel on the Deer Creek Road for 17.5 miles to the campground.
The Deer Creek Road and Forest Road 493 is steep, narrow, and winding gravel. Large RVs and vehicles with trailers must use extreme caution.Nearby places
White Bird, Idaho: 18 miles (25 minutes)
Riggins, Idaho: 27 miles (40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies such as groceries, camping gear, and fuel can be found in White Bird, Idaho (18 miles) or Riggins, Idaho (27 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.4
14 reviews
Pittsburg Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Pittsburg Campground are mixed, highlighting both positive and negative aspects. While some praise the scenic views, quiet atmosphere, and availability of activities, others note significant issues with restroom cleanliness and the lack of potable water.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the scenic surroundings, proximity to the Snake River for fishing and boating, and quiet atmosphere. 'Great campground with shelters and tables at each spot,' one user noted....
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Reviews consistently criticize the restroom facilities, describing them as gross and poorly maintained. Lack of potable water and the absence of a dump station for RVs are other common complaints....
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend using low gear on the steep and winding Deer Creek Road, which leads to the campground. 'The road into the camp requires low gear to save your brakes,' advised one user.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during fishing, boating, and hunting seasons. Winter months see fewer visitors, though the campground remains open year-round.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Wow!!! My father had always told me stories of this place, and I finally made it. This place is amazing. Although I didn't camp here, I did visit, and the place was truly amazing!' 2. 'For a...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
RV spaces are farther apart than those at most Forest Service campgrounds, providing additional privacy. No specific campsite numbers are mentioned in reviews.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground is described as accessible, with accessible campsites and restrooms. No user reviews specifically addressing accessibility are available.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pet policies or pet-friendly features.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025