Leggett Creek Campground Introduce

Hey there, fellow Idaho outdoor lovers! Are you searching for a genuinely tranquil and well-maintained camping spot where you can truly connect with nature without breaking the bank? Look no further than Leggett Creek Campground, nestled near the charming town of Elk City. This fantastic spot is a true gem in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, offering a serene escape for both tent and RV campers. Best of all? It's a free campground, making it an incredibly appealing option for locals looking to enjoy Idaho's beautiful wilderness.

Leggett Creek Campground stands out for its remarkable cleanliness and peaceful ambiance. Imagine falling asleep to the soothing sounds of a flowing creek and waking up to the fresh Idaho air. It’s a place where the simple pleasures of outdoor life are magnified, whether you're casting a line, exploring ATV trails, or simply enjoying a quiet evening under the stars. Visitors consistently praise its upkeep and the overall positive experience, making it a highly recommended spot for your next Idaho adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Leggett Creek Campground is conveniently located just 14 miles west of Elk City, ID, off Highway 14. Its address is Elk City, ID 83525, USA. This placement makes it relatively easy to access for campers, including those with larger RVs and trailers. To reach the campground, travel east on State Highway 14 toward Elk City. You'll find the campground by turning north into the campground just west of the junction with Leggett Creek Road #649.

Despite being close to the highway, many campers report that the sound of traffic is barely noticeable, thanks to the natural buffer provided by the surrounding environment and the soothing sounds of the nearby creek. This makes it a perfect blend of accessibility and peaceful seclusion. Its proximity to Elk City also means that essential supplies, such as food, water, gas, and propane, are just a short drive away, allowing for convenient resupply during your stay. This balance of remoteness and convenience is a significant draw for local Idaho campers.

Services Offered

Leggett Creek Campground provides essential services designed to offer a comfortable, yet primitive, camping experience:

  • Vault Toilets: The campground features well-maintained vault toilets, which campers have noted are remarkably clean and odor-free, a pleasant surprise for a primitive site.
  • Metal Fire Rings: Each of the five campsites is equipped with a sturdy metal fire ring, complete with an attached grill, perfect for cooking meals over an open fire (always check for fire restrictions before lighting).
  • Picnic Tables: Every campsite includes a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for dining and campsite activities.
  • Designated Campsites: There are five established campsites, designed to accommodate both tent and trailer camping. While some sites might be more open, they are generally well-kept.
  • No Potable Water: It's important to note that there is no potable water available on-site, so campers must bring their own supply.
  • No Garbage Services: Leggett Creek Campground operates on a "pack it in, pack it out" policy. There are no refuse receptacles, requiring campers to take all their trash with them when they leave.
  • First-Come, First-Served: Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are required or accepted.
  • Open Year-Round: The campground is open year-round, though it is primarily used during the summer and fall months.
Features / Highlights

Leggett Creek Campground boasts several features that make it a truly appealing destination for Idaho locals:

  • Peaceful Creekside Setting: A significant highlight is Leggett Creek running right next to the campground. The peaceful sound of the creek is a consistent favorite among visitors, creating a very relaxing atmosphere.
  • Exceptional Cleanliness and Upkeep: Campers frequently rave about how "REALLY nice," "clean," and "well kept" the campground is, including the vault toilets. This attention to detail greatly enhances the camping experience.
  • Access to ATV Trails: The area surrounding Leggett Creek offers well-maintained ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) trails, providing a fun and exciting recreational activity for riders. This is a major draw for those looking to explore Idaho's backcountry.
  • River Fishing within Walking Distance: The campground provides excellent public fishing access to Leggett Creek and the South Fork of the Clearwater River, which is within walking distance. This makes it a prime spot for anglers.
  • Free Camping: As a free campground, it offers incredible value, allowing campers to enjoy extended stays without fees, which is a huge advantage for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Easy Access for RVs and Trailers: The campground's layout and access off Highway 14 are suitable for larger RVs and trailers, making it convenient for those with bigger rigs.
  • Natural Seclusion with Accessibility: Despite its proximity to the highway, the natural setting ensures a sense of tranquility. The lack of audible road noise is a definite plus.
  • Beautiful Surroundings: Located within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, the campground is surrounded by the natural beauty of Idaho's wilderness, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.
Contact Information

For specific information regarding Leggett Creek Campground, including current conditions, accessibility, or any local regulations (such as fire restrictions), it is best to contact the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests.

Address: Elk City, ID 83525, USA (The campground is managed by the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, with the main office in Kamiah)

Phone: (208) 842-2245 (Red River Ranger District - Elk City, ID)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-842-2245

It's always recommended to call the local Ranger District before your trip, especially if you have questions about specific site availability, seasonal changes, or any alerts or closures that might be in effect.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Idaho locals, Leggett Creek Campground is an ideal destination that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Idaho's accessible outdoor adventures. Its status as a free campground is a significant draw, allowing residents to enjoy extended stays in nature without incurring typical camping fees, making quality outdoor recreation more attainable for everyone. The unparalleled cleanliness and meticulous upkeep, frequently highlighted by visitors, mean that locals can enjoy a comfortable and pleasant experience that often exceeds expectations for a primitive site.

The location offers a unique blend of convenience and peaceful seclusion. Being just a short drive from Elk City ensures easy access to supplies, while the immediate proximity to Leggett Creek provides a constant, soothing soundtrack and direct access to excellent river fishing – a beloved pastime for many Idahoans. Furthermore, the well-maintained ATV trails nearby offer an exciting avenue for exploration, catering to the adventurous spirit common among Idaho residents.

Whether you're seeking a quiet retreat to de-stress by the creek, a productive fishing trip on the South Fork of the Clearwater River, or an exhilarating day exploring trails on your ATV, Leggett Creek Campground offers it all. It’s a testament to the beauty and generosity of Idaho's public lands, providing a cherished local spot where memories are made, and the connection to the great outdoors is truly felt. This "REALLY nice" and free campground is sure to become a beloved regular on your Idaho camping itinerary.

Location

IdahoIdaho CountyElk City

Customer Reviews

4.0
8 reviews
C
Crystal Eagle
Sep 18, 2024

It was REALLY nice. Clean and well kept. There is a creek that runs right next to the campground that is very peaceful to listen to. The highway is close, but I couldn't hear any of the cars drive by. The 4 wheeler trails are nice, and we'll kept as well. Had a lot of fun up there. Will go back.

R
Robert Turner
Oct 24, 2024

Loved this campground. We stayed for a week. Campsites were pretty nice. You can hear a creek that runs along it. Very well kept vault toilet that actually smelled nice. Walking distance to river fishing. Very nice FREE campground.

L
Leeann Wadsworth
Jun 05, 2021

This campground was ok. It was more of the experience I had while there. Nothing against the actual camp ground. I was camping with my husband for our 28th anniversary and we were getting a little frisky one night when we heard loud bangs from out side. Of course we stayed quit and looked outside and there was a family of bears outside eating all of our food. I was going camping so of course i had bear spray on me to repel bears. I went to spray the bears but my husband jumped out of the tent the moment I pressed the botton and ended up getting it in his eyes... all together scaring experience.

D
David Wallentine
Feb 05, 2025

When you camp in BEAR country, pack up your food.

k
kat barnard
Aug 15, 2024

I love camping here. Squirrels are friendly, too!