French Gulch Campground

Idaho, the "Gem State," is a treasure trove of wild landscapes, offering endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From its rugged mountains to its pristine rivers, Idaho invites locals to explore its vast and untamed beauty. For those who embrace a more rustic, off-the-grid camping experience, French Gulch Campground near Elk City, Idaho, provides a genuine taste of the state's backcountry. This isn't a bustling resort with all the bells and whistles; rather, it’s a simple, no-fee campground managed by the US Forest Service, perfect for adventurers seeking a quiet basecamp in the heart of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests.

French Gulch Campground is designed for the self-sufficient camper who appreciates solitude and direct access to nature. While some online reviews might describe it as "not much of a campground" due to its minimal amenities, this perspective often comes from those expecting more developed facilities. For Idahoans who understand the appeal of primitive camping, French Gulch offers a valuable, unpretentious spot to connect with the land. It’s a place where the sounds of the Red River and French Gulch Creek are your primary soundtrack, and the starry Idaho sky provides the evening entertainment. Whether you're an angler, a day-hhiker, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle, French Gulch can serve as your gateway to the rugged beauty of the Red River Ranger District.

French Gulch Campground is located at NF-1800, Elk City, ID 83525, USA, placing it within the expansive Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. More precisely, it’s situated in the Red River Ranger District, a region known for its forested terrain and rolling hills. The campground is conveniently located near Elk City, which serves as the closest town for any last-minute supplies or services.

To reach French Gulch Campground, visitors typically travel from State Highway 14. You'll turn south onto Red River-Dixie Road #222, then follow Road #222 for approximately 11 miles until you find French Gulch Campground on your left (east) side. While the roads leading to the campground are generally accessible, conditions can vary depending on the season and recent weather. The campground is open year-round, but accessibility might be limited during winter due to snow, so checking current conditions with the Forest Service is always recommended before heading out. Its location makes it a suitable base for exploring various parts of the Red River Ranger District, allowing for convenient day trips to other trailheads and recreational areas.

• Primitive Campsites: French Gulch Campground features two designated campsites, offering a basic yet functional space for overnight stays. These sites are intended for a more traditional, minimalist camping experience.
• Vault Toilet: The campground is equipped with a vault toilet for visitor convenience, providing basic sanitation.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Campsites at French Gulch are available on a first-come, first-served basis. This means no reservations are needed, but it's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.
• No Fee: French Gulch Campground is a no-fee site, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious campers looking to experience Idaho's wilderness without extra costs.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to note that potable (drinkable) water is not available at this campground. Campers must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene, or be prepared to filter and treat surface water from nearby sources.
• No Garbage Services: French Gulch operates on a "Pack It In, Pack It Out" policy. There are no garbage services, so visitors are responsible for packing out all their waste to help keep the area pristine.
• Plenty of Parking: The campground offers a roomy area with plenty of parking available, which can be a significant advantage, especially for those with larger vehicles or trailers, despite the limited number of individual campsites.

• Public Fishing Access: French Gulch Campground provides public fishing access to the nearby Red River, a well-known local fishing spot. French Gulch Creek also flows directly through the campground, offering additional fishing opportunities.
• Excellent Base Camp: Due to its central location within the Red River Ranger District, French Gulch serves as an ideal "base camp" for various day trips, including exploring other recreational areas and embarking on day hikes.
• Light Usage: The campground typically experiences light usage, especially outside of peak times, which contributes to a quieter and more solitary camping experience. This is a significant draw for those seeking true peace and quiet in nature.
• Open Year-Round (Weather Permitting): While accessibility may be limited by snow in winter, the campground is technically open year-round, allowing for brave adventurers to enjoy winter camping if conditions permit.
• Natural Beauty: The setting amidst forested terrain and rolling hills provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities, with French Gulch Creek adding to the natural charm of the site.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: As part of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, the area around French Gulch offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, though specific animals might vary by season.

Address: NF-1800, Elk City, ID 83525, USA

Phone: (208) 842-2245

Mobile Phone: +1 208-842-2245

For the most current information regarding French Gulch Campground, including road conditions, potential closures, or any fire restrictions, it is highly recommended to contact the Red River Ranger District of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests directly.

For Idahoans, French Gulch Campground truly embodies the spirit of our state's wild side. While some might find it "not much of a campground" due to its primitive nature and lack of extensive amenities, this is precisely its appeal for many locals. It caters to the resilient, self-reliant adventurer who seeks authentic solitude and direct engagement with the natural world, rather than crowded sites and creature comforts.

The no-fee, first-come, first-served policy aligns perfectly with the spontaneous nature of many Idaho outdoor excursions, offering a convenient, budget-friendly option for a quick weekend escape or a longer fishing trip. The direct access to the Red River and French Gulch Creek makes it a prime spot for anglers, a pastime deeply ingrained in Idaho's outdoor culture. Furthermore, its role as a "base camp" for day trips within the vast Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests resonates with Idahoans who love to explore and discover new corners of their backyard.

Despite the lack of potable water and garbage services, these characteristics reinforce the "Pack It In, Pack It Out" ethos that responsible Idaho campers live by, ensuring the preservation of these precious natural spaces. French Gulch Campground is a testament to Idaho's commitment to maintaining wild, accessible areas for its residents. It’s a place where you can truly unplug, listen to the sounds of nature, and rediscover the simple joys of Idaho's incredible wilderness – making it a perfectly suitable and cherished spot for any local seeking an authentic, no-frills outdoor adventure.

French Gulch Campground

NF-1800, Elk City, ID 83525, USA