Gateway Campground

Within the extensive and varied category of Campgrounds & RV Parks, Gateway Campground stands out as a premier destination, offering a comprehensive and well-equipped outdoor experience. Nestled within the vast Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests in Idaho, this campground is a true gateway to the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest, providing a wide range of services and features that cater to diverse camping preferences, from traditional tenters to RV enthusiasts and even those with horses.

Gateway Campground is strategically located at milepost 122.5 along the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway (US Highway 12), a picturesque route that winds through the heart of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. The environment is dominated by the majestic Lochsa River, which flows adjacent to one of the campground loops, providing serene riverside settings and the constant, soothing sound of flowing water. The campground is surrounded by dense forests, typical of the Northern Rocky Mountains, offering ample shade and a sense of immersion in nature. The scenery along the Highway 12 and Lochsa River corridor is stunning, ranging from dense forests to shrubfields, with steep canyon walls and impressive rock outcroppings.

The area is rich in wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for viewing deer, elk, moose, mountain goats, and bears. Springtime is particularly prime for wildlife viewing on the open, brushy hillsides. Birdwatchers will also find the environment captivating, with a dedicated bird-watching trail within the campground itself. The air is clean and fresh, and the overall atmosphere is one of peaceful outdoor recreation, making it an ideal escape for those seeking tranquility amidst natural beauty.

Gateway Campground is exceptionally well-equipped for a national forest campground, offering a total of 91 sites designed to accommodate a wide array of camping styles. This includes sites for RV and tent camping, specialized group camping areas, and even dedicated stock camping facilities. The campground typically operates from mid-May to the end of September, aligning with the more favorable weather conditions for outdoor activities.

The campground boasts a variety of site types: Loop A is a large group site with 26 campsites, available by reservation only, making it ideal for large gatherings. Loop B offers 27 sites, with 11 reservable spots, suitable for general tent and RV camping. Loop C also has 26 sites, with 9 reservable, providing more general camping options. Unique to Gateway, Loop D is exclusively reserved for stock camping, featuring 11 sites equipped with feed mangers and water troughs, catering specifically to horseback riders. The campground can accommodate RVs up to 50 feet in length, and it includes a convenient dump station for RV users.

Beyond individual campsites, Gateway Campground provides flush toilets, a significant upgrade from the pit toilets often found in more primitive national forest sites. A large picnic shelter is available for group use. While potable water is not consistently available at all sites or throughout the entire season, there are likely water spigots or a central water source, and visitors should confirm availability or bring their own water filtration. Each site is generally equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, allowing for traditional camping experiences, although fire restrictions should always be checked with the Lochsa-Powell Ranger District. The campground is a fee site, with typical costs around $14.00 per site for an 8-person maximum, with an additional fee for extra vehicles, and Senior Passes are accepted.

Gateway Campground truly lives up to its name, serving as an important access point to the vast Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, one of the largest wilderness areas in the continental United States. This feature alone makes it a prime location for serious backpackers and those seeking extended wilderness excursions, with large trailhead parking available for access into the wilderness via trails like #198 and #220.

For those looking for less strenuous activities, the campground offers a wealth of options. Fishing in the Lochsa River is a major draw, particularly for fly fishing enthusiasts, with crystal-clear waters known for cutthroat trout. Hikers can enjoy day hikes, including the dedicated bird-watching trail within the campground area, or explore the surrounding forests. Horseback riding is popular, especially for those utilizing the specialized stock camping loop. Beyond traditional camping activities, the scenic driving along US Highway 12, the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway, is an attraction in itself, offering breathtaking views and numerous pull-outs. For whitewater enthusiasts, the Lochsa River offers floating and kayaking opportunities generally from April to June, though no permit is required for non-motorized boating. Swimming is also possible in various "sand bars" along the river, though caution is advised due to cold, swift water and submerged obstacles.

The presence of interpretive information, possibly at an informational kiosk at the campground entrance or through the Lochsa-Powell Ranger District, enhances the visitor's understanding of the area's natural and cultural history. The campground's family-friendly atmosphere, coupled with its diverse recreational offerings, makes it a versatile destination for a wide range of outdoor adventurers.

Given its popularity and comprehensive amenities, planning ahead for a visit to Gateway Campground is highly recommended, especially for group sites and during peak summer months. Reservations for specific sites in Loops A, B, and C can be made via Recreation.gov. It is crucial to check the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests website or contact the Lochsa-Powell Ranger District (208-926-4274) for the most current information regarding opening and closing dates, fire restrictions, water availability, and any specific regulations for the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness (e.g., group size limits, no motorized vehicles).

As a fee site, campers should be prepared to pay the per-night rate, with options for using accepted passes like the Senior Pass for discounts. For stock users, Loop D provides a unique and valuable service, ensuring a comfortable stay for both riders and their horses. While the campground offers a wide range of activities, visitors should always prioritize safety, especially when engaging in water activities in the cold, swift Lochsa River. The abundance of wildlife means proper food storage is essential. Gateway Campground truly serves as an ideal base for exploring the rich natural resources and vast wilderness of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, promising a memorable outdoor experience for families, adventurers, and nature lovers alike.