Orogrande Summit Campground

For Idahoans who truly cherish the raw, untamed beauty of their home state, Orogrande Summit Campground offers an unparalleled wilderness experience. Tucked away in the vast Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests near the historic mining town of Elk City, this high-elevation campground is a sanctuary for those looking to disconnect from the everyday and immerse themselves in the rugged Idaho landscape. It's a place where the air is crisp, the nights are cool, and the sounds of nature are your only companions.

Orogrande Summit isn't your typical bustling campground with all the bells and whistles. Instead, it offers a more primitive, authentic camping adventure, appealing to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and anyone eager to embrace the quiet grandeur of Idaho's alpine country. With its dispersed campsites set amidst open timber and its proximity to breathtaking natural features like Wildhorse Lake, this campground serves as an ideal base for hiking, backpacking, and simply soaking in the serene environment. Whether you're planning a multi-day trek into the backcountry or simply a weekend escape to recharge, Orogrande Summit promises a memorable encounter with the Idaho wilderness, reminding you why this state is a true gem for outdoor lovers.

Orogrande Summit Campground is situated in a remote yet accessible part of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, near Elk City, Idaho. The official address is Elk City, ID 83525, USA. Reaching this high-elevation retreat requires a journey that truly sets the tone for a wilderness experience, gradually transitioning from paved roads to more rustic forest service roads.

To access Orogrande Summit Campground from State Highway 14, you will need to turn south onto Crooked River Road #233. From this turn-off, continue for approximately 18.6 miles. The campground is located on a saddle along Columbia Ridge, offering a picturesque setting. It's important for visitors to be aware that Forest Road #233, while the primary access route, is not recommended for trailers due to its potentially challenging conditions. The road is unpaved in its latter sections, and conditions can vary greatly depending on recent weather. Drivers should be prepared for gravel surfaces and potential washouts, especially early or late in the season.

Due to its elevation (approximately 7,260 feet), Orogrande Summit Campground can experience cooler temperatures, even during summer months, and can be inaccessible due to snow for a significant portion of the year. While officially open year-round, accessibility is highly dependent on snowmelt and accumulation. Visitors should check current forest service road conditions before planning their trip, especially if traveling during shoulder seasons. The remote location also means that cell service is generally non-existent, providing a true opportunity to disconnect and immerse oneself in nature without interruption. This sense of seclusion is part of the campground's appeal, but it also necessitates careful planning and self-sufficiency for all visitors.

• Developed Campsites: Orogrande Summit Campground features developed camp pads dispersed throughout open timber, offering designated spots for setting up tents.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining.

• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings are available at campsites, allowing for campfires (contingent on fire restrictions) to enhance the traditional camping experience.

• Outhouses/Vault Toilets: The campground provides basic restroom facilities, specifically outhouses or vault toilets, shared with the trailhead. As noted by a past visitor, there is an outhouse on site.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to understand that there is no potable (drinkable) water available at Orogrande Summit Campground. Campers must bring their own sufficient supply of water for all needs, including drinking, cooking, and hygiene.

• No Electrical Hookups: This campground offers a primitive, off-grid experience, meaning there are no electrical hookups available for RVs or trailers.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Sites at Orogrande Summit Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not accepted, so arriving early, especially during peak periods, is advisable to secure a spot.

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: There are no garbage services available at the campground. Visitors are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles, meaning all trash and waste must be packed out and disposed of properly off-site.

• Free of Charge: As of available public information, camping at Orogrande Summit Campground is often free of charge, contributing to its appeal for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts seeking a rustic experience.

• High-Elevation Wilderness Setting: Orogrande Summit Campground is situated at an elevation of approximately 7,260 feet, placing it in a stunning alpine environment within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. This offers cooler temperatures and breathtaking views of the rugged landscape.

• Gateway to Columbia Ridge Trail #205: The campground serves as the trailhead for the Columbia Ridge Trail #205, making it an excellent starting point for challenging hikes and backpacking adventures into the surrounding wilderness.

• Proximity to Wildhorse Lake: Wildhorse Lake is located about two miles by road northwest of the campground, offering a beautiful destination for a day trip, fishing, or simply enjoying the serene mountain lake environment.

• Dispersed, Rustic Camping: Unlike more developed campgrounds, Orogrande Summit provides a more dispersed and primitive camping experience. Sites are spread out amidst open timber, offering a greater sense of solitude and connection to nature.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Given its deep wilderness location, visitors have excellent opportunities to spot various forms of wildlife, including elk, deer, and other forest creatures, enhancing the true outdoor experience.

• Seasonal Accessibility: While open year-round, the campground’s high elevation means it offers a unique "snow camping" experience for hardy winter enthusiasts when conditions permit, as evidenced by a past visitor's account of snow in July. Conversely, it's a cool escape in the heat of summer.

• Undeveloped Charm: For those who prefer camping away from crowds and modern amenities, Orogrande Summit's undeveloped nature is a significant highlight. It encourages self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the natural environment.

• Hunting and Fishing Access: The surrounding national forest and nearby lake provide opportunities for hunting (during open seasons and with proper permits) and fishing, catering to avid outdoorsmen and women.

Address: Elk City, ID 83525, USA

Orogrande Summit Campground is managed by the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding conditions, accessibility, and regulations, it is best to contact the forest service directly. Due to the remote location, there is no direct phone number for the campground itself, and cell service is generally unavailable in the area.

For general inquiries about the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests and recreation areas like Orogrande Summit Campground, you can contact the Supervisor's Office:

Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests Supervisor's Office

Phone: (208) 935-2513

It is highly recommended to call this number before your trip, especially to inquire about road conditions (Forest Road #233) and snow levels, which can significantly impact access to the campground. Additionally, checking the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests (fs.usda.gov/nezperceclearwater) for current alerts and recreation information is always a good practice.

For Idahoans, Orogrande Summit Campground isn't just a destination; it's an embodiment of the rugged, untamed spirit that defines their state. This high-elevation, rustic campground in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests offers an authentic wilderness experience that resonates deeply with locals who cherish off-grid adventures and a true connection to nature.

Idahoans often seek out places that provide a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle, and Orogrande Summit delivers exactly that. Its remote location and reliance on self-sufficiency mean that only those truly prepared for a wilderness setting will venture here, ensuring a more serene and less crowded experience than more developed campgrounds. For residents, this is a valued attribute—a chance to enjoy Idaho’s vast natural beauty without the throngs of tourists. The mention of it snowing even in July, as noted by a past visitor, highlights the unpredictable and exciting nature of high-elevation Idaho camping, appealing to those who embrace the elements.

The accessibility to the Columbia Ridge Trail #205 directly from the campground provides Idaho’s avid hikers and backpackers with immediate access to challenging and rewarding multi-day treks. This isn’t a place for short, paved strolls; it’s for those who crave the exertion and solitude of true backcountry exploration. Furthermore, the proximity to Wildhorse Lake offers a tranquil, picturesque reward for a short trek, perfect for an afternoon of fishing or quiet contemplation. These kinds of immersive experiences are what draw many Idahoans to their own wilderness areas.

The “pack it in, pack it out” philosophy and the lack of potable water foster a strong sense of responsibility and environmental stewardship, values that are often inherent in Idaho’s outdoor community. This campground encourages a deeper appreciation for conservation and sustainable recreation, aligning with the ethos of locals who strive to preserve their state's pristine natural resources. For Idahoans looking to genuinely disconnect, test their outdoor skills, and immerse themselves in the raw, majestic beauty of their home state, Orogrande Summit Campground stands out as an essential and truly rewarding escape. It's a place where the wild heart of Idaho beats strongest.