Best Camping in and near Hells Gate State Park

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Discover Hells Gate State Park's rich history and outdoor adventures.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Hells Gate State Park

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Hells Gate Campground

98 sites · RVs, Tents In Hells Gate State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Hells Gate State Park

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Overnight at the Oasis

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Anatone, WA

Boggan's Oasis is in the SE corner of Washington state, right on the breathtaking Grande Ronde River. Visitors can arrive by driving to the bottom of Rattlesnake Grade (WA-129), or the bottom of Buford Grade (OR-3). These two curvacious roads are extremely popular rides for motorcyclists and bicyclists nationally. Visitors may also arrive by water (rafts, driftboats, jetboats, kayaks, etc) coming downriver from Oregon, or upriver from the Snake River (WA/ID). Many other unpaved roads will lead guests to our canyon, which creates great opportunities for off-road vehicle adventures! The Grande Ronde River, which drains much of northeast Oregon's Union and Wallowa counties, is fed by snowpack in the Elkhorn Mountains. The Wallowa River, a major tributary to the Grande Ronde, headwaters in the Wallowa Mountains, mostly within the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Twenty-two miles from Boggan's Oasis, the Grande Ronde River flows into the mighty Snake River. The river is surrounded by steep, rugged canyon walls that rise 3000 to 4000 feet above the river level. Dense conifer forests blend into grassy slopes set off by scattered conifer "stringers." Called "The Land of Winding Waters" by Native Americans, the river is home to rainbow trout, dolly varden, whitefish, squawfish, suckers, bass, and steelhead. Rocky Mountain elk, mule deer, whitetail deer, bighorn sheep, bear, bald eagles, and a variety of smaller animals and birds can be seen daily. And yes, there are rattlesnakes! Fishing, hunting, hiking, all kinds of boating/floating, offroad vehicle riding, and animal/bird watching are beyond expectations in this area. Seasonally, guests can also successfully gather a variety of mushrooms and berries while on one of the many nearby hiking trails. Many of these short walks also lead to incredible, far-reaching views of the Blue Mountains, Wenaha wildlife sanctuary, Hells Canyon, and the tri-state area. In the hotter summer months, the swimming hole below the Boggan's Bridge is a popular way to cool off. Boggan's Oasis also offers fishing trips, float trips, shuttles, and a FULL restaurant! Check our website for more info.

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Farmstead Veiws

14 sites · RVs26 acres · Pullman, WA

Learn more about this land: Several level gravel spots with easy access to both Moscow and Pullman, just three miles from WSU and U of I campuses. Take in the stars in the open fields of the Palouse, enjoy a beautiful sunrise/sunset or just take in some peace and quiet. We have 2 spots that can accommodate water, electricity, and sewage hookup, 2 with water only, and several more dry camp spots on open gravel lots. *Please ask us about our weekly and monthly rates!

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AirField Estates

30 sites · RVs, Tents2000 acres · Troy, ID

We are a century old farm, the 4th generation of Nelson farmers and working on the 5th! 360 degree view of the Palouse farm ground with beautiful mountains in the background. enjoy the fire pit on the back or the covered front porch. Call for information to fly into our private air strip!

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Convenient Palouse Paradise

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Moscow, ID

A quiet, scenic, and convenient location just a couple minutes from Moscow. 50' x 150' campsite with lot's of room. Mix of mowed grass and dirt. Water and 15 amp electricity available via supplied hose and extension cord. 30amp to 15amp adapter available if needed. Wifi available. Site has its own dedicated entrance, and is adjacent to a residence. Leashed dogs welcome. Free range chicken and barn cat entertainment provided.

Booked 1 time

Triple Tree Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Moscow, ID

Dry RV parking in our Horse Pasture with a view our the valley of the South Fork of the Palouse River all the way to the Blue Mountain and the other way is Paradise Ridge covered with trees. The Fence line is large pine trees. There is room for 4 to 5 campers great spot to have a family gathering going to a football game. You can call it tailgating walking distance to the Kibby Dome through the University of Idaho Arboretum. You can feed the horse 🐎 and the mule and feed the chickens pop corn. This spot has been used as a wedding venue With a flatbed trailer For the wedding party to be on and BALES of hay for friends and family to sit on. Lots of car parking.

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Crooks Lookout

1 site · RV4 acres · Viola, ID

We have a RV/Tent pad with full hookups, and a shower house. Tenting discounts are available. Its a great place to stop by for the night when traveling through on Hwy 95. There is some highway noise. Firewood is provided. Biking can be done across the highway with more awesome views. 15 minutes from Moscow!

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Obscure Vineyards

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Lewiston, ID

5 acres Located on a vineyard with 180 degree views of both the Waha and Blue mountain ranges. Within 5 minutes of two wineries, one of which makes wine out of the properties grapes. Communal fire pit and hammocks in the vineyard. During harvest or pruning season campers are welcome to join in the activities.

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Weiland Forage and Farm

1 site · RV, Tent8 acres · Dayton, WA

Situated in the foothills of the Blue Mountains just 20 miles from the ski mountain, Bluewood in Dayton, WA, our peaceful 8 acres homestead features a bubbling creek that runs through the property. We have alpine goat mixes, kune kune pig mixes, 2 great pyranees mixes all penned up but available for petting. Then our beloved and ever so friendly house dog roams free on the property and will greet you with a smile and a constant wag. Hunting, fishing, skiing and horseback riding are all activities that are closeby.

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McGovern Residence

3 sites · RVs, Tents28 acres · Pomeroy, WA

The McGovern Residence is a magical little world we've created at the base of the Blue Mountains. We're about an hour South of Palouse Falls, an hour East of Walla Walla wine country, and about an hour West of Lewiston/Clarkston. The property consists of 28 acres on the Tucannon River with mature Ponderosa Pines, wildflowers, curated gardens, hiking trails, incredible valley views, and direct access to 1.4 million acres of public land. Multiple stocked lakes are accessible for fishing just a few miles up the road. Close to the river, The Flat can accommodate up to 2 tents and 4 people. The main campsite includes a hammock, picnic table, fire ring with benches, and parking for up to 2 cars. Immediately off the parking area is a secondary site with another picnic table and fire ring for those camping directly out of their vehicle. Campers have a faucet for fresh potable water and an outhouse for 24/7 bathroom needs. A short path from either campsite leads to a small river clearing for cooling off and lazy afternoons by the water. The Flat is the only site that we offer and we keep the group size low to ensure a peaceful and relaxing experience for everyone. We allow tents, cars, and smaller camper vans, but unfortunately cannot accommodate trailers or RV's. The main property is a pocket of green with mature cottonwood, ponderosa pines, choke cherry and elder scrub. Our property borders the Wooten Wildlife area which leads into the Umatilla National Forest - so that's 1.4 million acres of public lands directly to our South. Just down the road are some really great hiking trails and access points to the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness, or if you prefer to stay close, our property gains 1000' from river to property line. An afternoon trek to the top is challenging but provides a spectacular panoramic view of the Tucannon River valley. Pack some beer and some snacks and hang out for a wicked sunset. We're working hard on our hiking trail - currently it's 3/4 mile (1.5 mile round trip), and growing in length by the week. During your stay you'll probably see some wild turkey, quail, and some white tailed or mule deer. The area is known to have cougars (we run into them occasionally) bighorn sheep, rattlesnake, black bears, bobcats, and even the occasional moose! There's no shortage of wildlife in the area, and we enjoy when they visit us. Be on the lookout at dusk for the nightly bat show! We also have a flock of chickens that free-range during the day, so don't be surprised to get a visitor or two poking around for scraps. Our property is rural, but not isolated. Depending on where you stake your tent you might see some neighbors, but we can direct you to the right spot if you want to avoid it. The towns of Dayton and Pomeroy are both about 20 minutes away. Both have their own charm and offer a grocery store, a couple bars, gas, and supplies. There's an RV park and general store about a mile up the road if you need some quick essentials or a few gallons of gas. At the center of the property is a log cabin we're slowly renovating. We live here full time so when we're home we're out and about working on projects or clearing brush. You'll see us wandering, so interact with us as much as you want or just do your thing. This is our home and we like to host, but it's not necessary. On that note, this is not a 'campground'. We have a beautiful property with a campsite and like to share it! We hope you enjoy yourself while also respecting our home :)

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Missouri Flat

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Moscow, ID

We are located a 10-minute drive north of downtown Moscow, on beautiful Moscow Mountain. We have 3 acres that includes our house, the studio (your home base), garage, greenhouse, and a couple storage sheds. The studio is most comfortable for just 2 people, but there is an extra foam queen mattress and bedding available. Our property is surrounded by and dotted with trees, with a peek-a-boo view of the Palouse. We have swaths of grassy yard, an orchard, and several raised beds in our garden. We also have a seasonal pond that is home to Mr. and Mrs. Mallard in the spring and summer. Take in the sunrise from the deck with coffee in hand, and sunset off the back patio. Enjoy a quiet, tranquil setting with easy access to town. Popular mountain biking and hiking trails are a 5-minute drive away. People also cross-country ski on the trails. Look for wildlife tracks if you make it high enough away from the well-used trails. You'll see deer, moose, and even cougar or bobcat.

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Butterfield Meadows

20 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Elk River, ID

Butterfield Meadows is 90 acres of beautiful mountain meadow with Butterfield Creek cutting across property. Trails for hiking, horseback riding or ATV travel connecting to 20 miles of backcountry trails. Less than 10 miles to Elk Creek falls, Elk River reservoir and 25 miles to Dent Bridge on Dworshak reservoir for sightseeing, boating, fishing and swimming. Property is surrounded by Forest Service, BLM, Potlatch land with private land (to the east of property). Round pen is available by request for horses and fire pits available for use (although caution requested when dry season).Open ranging area. Prime hunting available for Turkey, Deer, Elk and Bear by special arrangement and permission by owners.

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Triple H Ranch

3 sites · RVs3 acres · Lewiston, ID

Park like setting, in town mini ranch on 3 acres, with pastures, trees, and gardens. We have horses, chickens, goats and ducks to keep you company while you explore the grounds, with several benches to sit and relax. We are close to the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, with world class steel head fishing. Within 30 minutes you can be exploring the Waha or Blues Mountains. We are 40 minutes from Moscow ID and Pullman WA. We have room for you to park your campers and/or boats. If you’re here for the rodeo, you can board your horse here along with you. Small groups are welcome. We have a large covered area for group eating and gatherings. Glamping groups are welcome too! We are on the southeast corner of the Lewiston Orchards area, just up from the Rodeo grounds.

The best camping near Hells Gate State Park guide

Overview

About

Buckle up, 'cause you're on the highway to Hell...'s Gate, that is. Despite the menacing name, this place couldn't be anymore sweet or serene. Check out the frolicking otters in the waters, or listen to the echoes along the deep and looming canyons. Campers will enjoy the grassy campsites along Snake River's shores, where jet boat trips will only be a stone's throw away. Whether you're angling for smallmouth bass or swimming in the gentle waters, you'll be hard pressed to run out of activities soon. Nearby opportunities to hang glide, golf, or even take a hot air ballon tour will make this trip one for the books. Bring a guitar to pick around the fire, and we think AC/DC would approve.

Notable campgrounds

Aspen Loop - Offers a serene camping experience with sites nestled among lush trees.
Birch Loop - Ideal for families, this loop provides spacious sites with easy access to park amenities.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, as sites at Hells Gate State Park fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on cancellations to snag a last-minute spot at this popular destination.
Explore nearby camping options if Hells Gate is fully booked, ensuring you don't miss out on the area's beauty.

When to go

The best time to visit Hells Gate State Park is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm temperatures perfect for water activities, while winter can be quite cold, with some facilities closed for the season.

Know before you go

Check for any park updates or closures before your visit, especially during off-season months.
Day-use locations are open from 7am to 10pm, but hours may vary based on park manager discretion.
Remember to pack essentials for hot weather, as the park is known for its warm climate.
Water activities are a highlight, so bring your gear or rent it at the park for an unforgettable experience.
For history buffs, don't miss the Nez Perce National Historic Park and the Jack O'Connor Hunting Heritage and Education Center nearby.