Sams Creek Campground

Closed — Closed for winter due to snow and road closures. Typically accessible from late spring through early fall when Forest Roads 222, 233, and 311 are open.

About

Sams Creek Campground is a small, primitive campground located in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests near the Gospel-Hump Wilderness. The campground features just three campsites peacefully situated among a grove of pine trees, with Crooked Creek and Sams Creek providing a natural soundtrack of flowing water. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire grate. This remote campground is accessed via a series of forest roads from Elk City, traveling first west on Idaho Highway 14, then south on Forest Roads 233 and 311, and finally north on Forest Road 222. The location offers a true backcountry experience with limited facilities and no fees. Due to limited parking and tight maneuvering space, the campground is best suited for tent camping or small camping trailers. The proximity to the Gospel-Hump Wilderness makes this an ideal base camp for hikers and wilderness enthusiasts seeking solitude and access to pristine backcountry. Water can be treated or filtered from nearby creek sources. The remote location and high elevation mean the campground is typically accessible only during summer and early fall months when forest roads are passable.

Directions

From Elk City, travel 2 miles west on Idaho Highway 14, then turn south on Forest Road 233 and continue on FR 311 for approximately 30 miles. Turn north on Forest Road 222 and continue 1 mile to the campground.

Nearby Campgrounds