Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

Payette National Forest

Weed Free Hay Order 04-2021-03

Prohibited by this order: Possessing, storing, or transporting non-pelletized hay, straw, or mulch in the Intermountain Region, unless it is certified as weed free by the state where the product originated.

Payette National Forest

Fireworks and Spark Arrestor Order 04-2021-01

Prohibited by this order: Possessing, discharging, or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device. 36 CFR §261.52(t)Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order as described…

Payette National Forest

Explosives and Exploding Target Order 04-2021-02

This order prohibits the use of explosives and exploding targets on National Forest System lands within the Intermountain Region.

Overview

The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests encompass 4 million acres of diverse terrain in north-central Idaho, ranging from the rugged canyons of the Salmon River to moist cedar forests and rolling Palouse uplands. The forests are currently open with fire danger rated as Very High. Recent alerts include a closure of Fish Creek Campground, Pavilion, and surrounding roads (FSR 4600 and FSR 221) due to windstorm damage and hazardous snags as of December 19, 2025. Seasonal winter restrictions are in effect at the Lolo Pass Winter Recreation Area for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and dog use. The forests are known for cold, snowy winters (with snow depths of 1-10 feet) and hot, dry summers, offering extensive winter recreation including over 350 miles of groomed trails near Elk City. A new Land Management Plan was finalized in January 2025 after a comprehensive planning process. The forests contain four wilderness areas and provide diverse recreation opportunities year-round. Water quality issues were noted at Laird Park Campground in summer 2025. Always check current conditions before visiting as weather can be extreme and variable, especially at higher elevations.

Campgrounds

Adams Ranger Station Apgar Campground Aquarius Campground Aquarius Campground And Purple Beach Group Site Austin Ridge Lookout Bald Mountain Lookout Bimerick Creek Camp Boyd Creek Campground Bridge Creek Campground Bungalow Camp Castle Butte Lookout Castle Creek Campground Cayuse Landing Camp Cedars Campground Clark Mountain Camp Cold Springs Peak Cabin Corral Creek Campground Crooked River Crooked River Campground #4 Ditch Creek Campground Dixie Meadow Campground Dog Creek Camp Elk Creek Campground Elk Creek Pavilion Elk Summit Campground FRENCH GULCH Fawn Creek Camp Fish Creek Group Use

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