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, RVs2 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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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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Crooks Lookout

1 site · RV4 acres · Viola, ID

!!SHOWER HOUSE IS CLOSED FOR THE SEASON WILL BE OPEN AGAIN IN THE SPRING OF 2025!! 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!

Camp Tyler - Cheap, Functional

4 sites · RVs2 acres · Lacrosse, WA

Camp Tyler Dusty is a 2.5 acre area at the junction of highway 26 and 127 in Whitman County, WA. This location is in the heart of the palúspam territory, the traditional lands of the Palus tribe of Indigenous Americans*. There is a quonset hut on the property which used to be operated as the "Dusty Country Store." The Tylers bought the site in 2021 to use as a Van Life campground. It's been renamed "Camp Tyler" but we haven't yet changed the signs. We have six 50 amp plug ins but are still working to get the water back to potable (lots of nitrates in this farming county's ground water!). We have a vending machine with drinks, chips, and candy available 24/7. There is a store next door that has propane, some hardware, gasoline. There is a rest area a little over a mile away by either highway or back road. That rest area has two toilets but no running water. About 12 miles away (to the west) is the town of Lacrosse - where there is a grocery store, bank, cafe, gas station, and an RV dump station. About 16 miles to the east is Colfax, which is a town with lots of businesses and services. We have working bathrooms inside the quonset hut and are currently working out the details to get a vendor to provide coffee and snacks. When Tina's coffee shop is up and running, the indoor bathrooms will become available to all during her operating hours. This is not a glamorous, nature rich site. It's cheap and easy overnight parking and we are just getting started figuring out how to structure pricing. We have free wifi and will offer 50 amp plug in for an hourly or overnight fee. We'll have a graduated fee for overnight stays. * Over time we plan to carry merchandise created by Palus, Cayuse, Nez Perce and Yakima authors and artists and provide opportunities for non-indigenous visitors to learn about the Palus people on site. If you are Palus, Cayuse, Nez Perce or Yakima, please reach out to us for codes you can use for free accommodation.

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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. We live on 1 acre surrounded by farmland just outside town. The views and sunsets are amazing, and it's very quiet for being so close to town. We are a family of four with a dog, barn cats, and chickens. We enjoy providing a convenient and tidy location for travelers to stay, and can provide as much assistance as needed while giving you as much privacy as possible.

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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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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!

Buck Canyon Barn

20 sites · RVs5 acres · Colfax, WA

We are located just 1 mile north of Colfax and a short 15 minute drive from Steptoe Butte State Park. Pullman/Moscow is a 20 minute drive and the Snake River is approximately 30 minutes away. Property is flat and level and is 5 acres total. We have 20 RV spots to offer in the camping area which is located in our well kept pasture area.

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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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Wheat and Beans

1 site · RV3 acres · Moscow, ID

Welcome to Wheat & Beans, a charming farmhouse property constructed in 1900! Situated close to town yet nestled in a tranquil setting, this property offers a serene getaway for your vacation. As you explore the surroundings, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking views of Moscow Mountain to the East and stunning sunsets to the West. The property is enveloped by picturesque farmland, featuring lush fields of wheat and Garbanzo Beans, creating a scenic backdrop that truly embodies the essence of rural living. One of the unique aspects of our property is the presence of our friendly and curious barn cats. They add a touch of charm and may even join you on your adventures around the grounds. Additionally, our free-roaming chickens contribute to the idyllic atmosphere as they meander through the property, creating a delightful and authentic farm experience. To ensure your comfort and convenience during your stay, we provide essential amenities such as water, a 50 amp hook-up, and a dump station located at the parking area. Please note that there is a slight hill on the property, which may require some RV leveling. As you explore the grounds, you'll notice the trees and grain bins that not only provide shade and relief from the wind and sun but also add to the rustic charm of the property. You can enjoy leisurely strolls amidst the peaceful greenery or simply relax and bask in the tranquility of the surroundings. Whether you're seeking a serene retreat or an opportunity to experience rural farm life, our RV parking offers a delightful blend of comfort, natural beauty, and a touch of farmyard enchantment. Come and create lasting memories in this idyllic setting! Ask about event space in the Barn

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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.

Waha View

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Lewiston, ID

At Waha View you will have spacious views of the farming countryside along with views of both the Waha Mountains and the Blue Mountains. Waha View is located on a working hobby farm and vineyard (Obscure Vineyards). There is a communal fire pit and hot tub for use and plenty to do in town and nearby outdoors such as fishing, boating, golfing, mushroom hunting and more.

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.