Van Creek Campground
This primitive campsite does not accept advance reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Access requires navigating through a locked gate via a rough, steep road that necessitates a high-clearance vehicle.
Air Quality Alert issued August 7 at 11:56AM MDT by NWS Missoula MT
AQAMSO WHAT: Air Quality Advisory because of degraded air quality due to wildfire smoke. Air Quality Index is forecast to be Unhealthy. WHERE... Clearwater and Idaho Counties outside of reservation boundaries. WHEN: Extended until 3:00PM 8/10/2026 IMPACTS: Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. The general public is less likely to be affected. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS: Air pollutants can cause breathing difficult for children, the elderly, as well as persons with respiratory problems. Those individuals who are sensitive to increased particulate matter or smoke are encouraged to avoid prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity during this advisory. Open burning is prohibited by air quality rule. It is also recommended that all other individuals limit prolonged or strenuous activity outdoors. ISSUED BY THE IDAHO DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY, AIR QUALITY GROUP. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT DEQ's Lewiston Regional Office at (208) 799- 4370
About
Van Creek Campground is a primitive, undeveloped camping area in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests of north-central Idaho. Situated approximately 13 miles up Salmon River Road from Riggins, the site offers a secluded camping experience in wooded forest terrain with views of Pollock and Granite Mountains. The campground provides minimal facilities: a vault toilet and enough space for two tents with parking for up to three vehicles. There is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. The site is not suitable for trailers or RVs due to the challenging access road, which is rough, rocky, and steep, requiring a high-clearance vehicle with good tires. Access is through a locked gate. Nearby recreation includes access to a creek and the Little Salmon River for fishing approximately 2.7 miles away. The greater Riggins area offers opportunities for Salmon River fishing and rafting, as well as access to Hells Canyon National Recreation Area for hiking and scenic exploration.
Directions
From Riggins, Idaho, travel 13 miles up Salmon River Road. Access is through a locked gate via a rough, rocky, and steep road. A high-clearance vehicle with good tires is required.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (208) 935-2513 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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