Aquarius Campground And Purple Beach Group Site
Closed — Closed for the season. Opens May 24, 2025, through October 14, 2025. Potable water available through September 30; after that date, campers must bring their own water.
Air Stagnation Advisory issued December 29 at 11:23AM PST until January 1 at 12:00PM PST by NWS Missoula MT
* WHAT...Stagnation conditions will trap pollutants, leading to deteriorating air quality. * WHERE...Lower Hells Canyon/Salmon River Region, Orofino/Grangeville Region, Southern Clearwater Mountains, and Northern Clearwater Mountains. * WHEN...Until noon PST Thursday. * IMPACTS...Periods of air stagnation can lead to the build up of pollutants near the surface.
About
Aquarius Campground is located along the scenic North Fork of the Clearwater River in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. The campground features 9 developed campsites and 2 group sites known as Purple Beach, all situated on the riverbank in a remote and peaceful setting. The location provides excellent opportunities for water-based recreation including swimming, fly fishing, tubing, and whitewater rafting, with rafting conditions typically best in May and June during higher water flows. The campground serves as a basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the surrounding wilderness. Hiking trails near the campground provide access to the Mallard Larkins Pioneer Area and lead to Black Mountain summit, one of the few remaining places in Idaho where mountain goats can still be observed in their natural habitat. The remote location also attracts hunters and anglers seeking a quieter wilderness experience. This recently revitalized campground sits at 1,700 feet elevation and offers basic amenities including vault toilets and picnic tables at each site. Standard campsites are available for $10 per night, while the Purple Beach group sites cost $15 per night on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground operates seasonally and requires visitors to pack out all trash.
Directions
From Pierce, Idaho, travel 11 miles north on Highway 11, then 25 miles northeast from the town of Headquarters on Forest Road 247.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $10 - $15 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 22ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (208) 935-2513 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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