Fivemile Campground

Nestled within the breathtaking expanse of Idaho's Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, Fivemile Campground offers a quintessential outdoor experience for locals and visitors alike. This welcoming campground is a prime destination for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a host of recreational activities, all within reach of Elk City. Whether you're a seasoned camper or looking for a memorable family adventure, Fivemile Campground provides an ideal setting to connect with Idaho's stunning wilderness. Its location near a fishing and swimming pond, with a picturesque creek flowing through the site and easy access to the Crooked River, makes it a favored spot for water enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The campground's charm lies in its embrace of the natural environment, surrounded by open, tall timber that provides a sense of seclusion and peace. It's a place where the sounds of the forest and the gentle murmur of the creek replace the hustle and bustle of daily life, inviting campers to unwind and rejuvenate. Fivemile Campground truly embodies the spirit of Idaho's outdoor heritage, offering a convenient yet immersive wilderness experience.

Fivemile Campground is conveniently located at Elk City, ID 83525, USA, placing it deep within the scenic Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. For those driving, the campground is accessible from State Highway 14. You'll need to turn south onto Crooked River Road #233 and continue for approximately 10.5 miles, where you'll find the campground on your right. This route offers a picturesque journey through Idaho's diverse landscapes, setting the stage for your outdoor adventure.

While the campground itself is somewhat remote, offering that coveted sense of escape, it's not entirely isolated. Elk City, a small but essential hub, is the closest town, providing a point of reference and any last-minute supplies you might need before heading into the wilderness. The accessibility via a well-defined forest road ensures that most vehicles can reach the campground, although it's always advisable to check local conditions, especially during shoulder seasons when snow might affect travel. The beauty of this location is its balance: it's far enough to feel like a true getaway but still within reasonable driving distance for many Idaho residents.

• Campsites:

  Fivemile Campground offers individual campsites, designed for both tent camping and RVs. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are typically taken. Each site is equipped with fire rings, perfect for cozy evenings under the stars.

• Restrooms:

  The campground provides vault toilets for convenience. It's important to note that there is no potable water available on-site, so campers are advised to bring their own water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning, or be prepared to treat surface water.

• No Fee:

  One of the appealing aspects of Fivemile Campground is that it operates without a fee, making it an accessible option for many outdoor enthusiasts.

• Year-Round Access (with caveats):

  While the campground is technically open year-round, accessibility can be limited by snow during the colder months. The best seasons for visiting are generally summer and fall when conditions are most favorable for camping and recreation.

• Pack It In, Pack It Out:

  As a testament to its natural setting and commitment to preservation, Fivemile Campground does not offer garbage services. Campers are responsible for packing out everything they pack in, adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

• Proximity to Water:

  A major draw of Fivemile Campground is its direct access to the Crooked River, offering opportunities for river-based activities. Additionally, Five Mile Pond, a popular fishing and swimming spot stocked annually with rainbow trout by the Idaho Department of Fish & Game, is nearby, making it ideal for families and anglers.

• Creek-side Camping:

  A pretty little creek runs right by many of the campsites, adding to the serene ambiance and providing a soothing soundtrack to your stay.

• Big Game Hunting Access:

  For those interested in hunting, the area surrounding Fivemile Campground is popular for big game hunting, making it a strategic base camp during hunting seasons.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere:

  The combination of easy water access for swimming and fishing, along with the generally peaceful setting, makes this campground particularly popular for family camping trips.

• Forested Environment:

  The campground is situated in open, tall timber, providing a beautiful backdrop and natural shade for campers. This setting allows for an immersive experience within the Idaho forest.

• Exploring the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests:

  Being within this vast national forest means campers have endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the diverse ecosystems of Idaho. The area experiences a range of temperatures, from mild winters to warm summers, inviting different types of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Address: Elk City, ID 83525, USA

For general inquiries and current conditions, you can often reach out to the Red River Ranger District, which manages this area of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. Their contact number is typically: (208) 842-2245. It's always a good idea to call ahead for the latest information on accessibility, especially concerning snowmelt or any alerts or warnings in the forest.

For Idaho residents, Fivemile Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a readily accessible gateway to the state's unparalleled natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Its "first-come, first-served" approach embodies a true spirit of spontaneous adventure, allowing Idahoans to escape to the wilderness without the need for extensive planning or costly reservations. This makes it an ideal spot for last-minute weekend getaways or an impromptu mid-week retreat when the urge for nature strikes.

The close proximity to Elk City, while maintaining a feeling of remoteness, offers a perfect balance for those who appreciate being off the beaten path but still within a reasonable distance of essential services. The blend of fishing, swimming, and potential for big game hunting caters to a wide array of local outdoor interests, from casual family outings to more serious recreational pursuits. The serene environment, with the calming presence of the creek and the majestic surrounding timber, provides a much-needed respite from the demands of modern life.

Furthermore, the absence of a fee underscores the public-land ethos that many Idahoans value, providing an equitable opportunity for everyone to experience their state's natural heritage. While it requires campers to be self-sufficient (pack it in, pack it out, no potable water), these aspects often appeal to the independent and resourceful spirit of Idahoans who are accustomed to responsible outdoor practices. Fivemile Campground isn't just a destination; it's an invitation to embrace the rugged beauty and quietude that define the Idaho wilderness, offering a genuine and memorable escape right in their own backyard. It's a testament to the fact that some of the best adventures are found closest to home, fostering a deeper connection to the land that makes Idaho so special.