Glade Creek Group Campground: Your Idaho Wilderness Basecamp

Glade Creek Group Campground Introduce

Idaho, with its majestic mountains, wild rivers, and vast forests, offers an unparalleled playground for outdoor enthusiasts. For those planning a group adventure – be it a family reunion, a gathering of friends, or a club outing – Glade Creek Group Campground near Kooskia stands out as an exceptional choice. Nestled within the expansive Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests and bordering the renowned Wild and Scenic Lochsa River, this campground provides a dedicated space for groups to connect with nature, enjoy a myriad of recreational activities, and create lasting memories amidst Idaho's stunning wilderness. It's a place where the sounds of the river and the whispering pines replace city noise, offering a true escape into the heart of the Gem State.

Glade Creek Group Campground is conveniently located on US-12, near Kooskia, ID 83539, USA. More specifically, it’s situated at about milepost 105 on US Highway 12, approximately 31 miles east of Kooskia and about seven miles east of Lowell, Idaho. This prime location places it between US Highway 12 and the scenic Lochsa River, with the campground tucked into a large bend in the river that provides a degree of privacy and hides the beach from the highway.

Accessibility to Glade Creek is quite straightforward, as it's directly off US-12, a well-maintained highway. This makes it a relatively easy drive for groups, even with multiple vehicles. The individual campsites within the group area typically feature paved driveways, which are suitable for a variety of vehicle types, though campers with RVs larger than 24 feet should be aware that the spurs might be short. The surrounding vegetation, comprised of mixed-age conifers and low-growing shrubs, provides ample shade and a sense of seclusion for each of the group's four sites. For those coming from towns like Kooskia, gas, groceries, and other essential services are readily available before you reach the campground, ensuring you're well-prepared for your wilderness stay.

Glade Creek Group Campground is specifically designed to accommodate groups, offering a set of services that cater to collective enjoyment of the outdoors:

Group Reservation Only: This campground is exclusively available as a group site and must be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov. This ensures privacy and dedicated space for your gathering.
Four Integrated Campsites: The group area consists of four individual camping spots within a single reservable unit, designed to accommodate up to 35 people in total.
Picnic Tables: Each of the four campsites comes equipped with a ten-foot picnic table, and Site 2 has an extra table, providing ample space for group meals and activities.
Fire Rings: Accessible fire rings are available at all four sites, allowing for communal campfires (check local fire restrictions) and outdoor cooking. There's also a designated group fire ring with benches located adjacent to the river, perfect for evening gatherings.
Level Tent Pads: Campsites offer level tent pads and graveled parking areas, making setup easier for both tent and smaller RV campers.
Vault Toilet: The campground has one unisex vault toilet, maintained for cleanliness.
No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to note that drinking water is NOT provided at Glade Creek Group Campground. Campers must bring their own sufficient supply of drinking water.
No Hookups or Dumpsters: There are no water, sewer, or power hookups available at any of the sites. Additionally, there are no garbage cans or dumpster services directly at this site. Campers must adhere to a strict "Pack it in, Pack it out" policy for all trash. A dumpster for waste disposal is available at Apgar Campground, located one mile west on Highway 12.

Glade Creek Group Campground offers a host of features and highlights that make it a superb choice for a group outdoor adventure in Idaho:

Exclusive Group Site: The fact that it's a dedicated group site ensures your party has privacy and space, making it ideal for family gatherings, youth groups, or friends seeking a shared wilderness experience.
Lochsa River Access and Private Beach: Situated right on a large bend of the Wild and Scenic Lochsa River, the campground boasts private beach access. This makes it incredibly popular for swimming, fishing (especially for cutthroat and rainbow trout, steelhead, and salmon), and general river enjoyment.
Whitewater Opportunities: For thrill-seekers, the Lochsa River is renowned for its exciting whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience.
Hiking and Biking Trails Nearby: Within two miles of the campground, there are several hiking and biking trails, including Trail 142 (Deadman Ridge Trail) and Trail 16 (Van Camp Trail). These offer varied terrain and opportunities for exploration, with some trails also open to motorcycles from June to September.
Shade and Cool Reprieve: The surrounding stand of mixed-age conifers and low-growing shrubs provides excellent shade, offering a cool respite during the summer months.
Beautiful Scenery: Located in the mountains of north-central Idaho, the forested site provides beautiful scenery and a true immersion in the natural beauty of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests.
Wildlife Viewing: The area is rich in wildlife, offering opportunities to spot various animal species in their natural habitat. Proper food and trash storage are essential.
Close to Lowell, ID: Being just seven miles east of Lowell, Idaho, offers convenient access to this small community if any immediate needs arise or for a quick stop.
Combination Code Entry: A unique feature is the combination code needed for entry, which is provided upon reservation confirmation, adding a layer of security and exclusivity for your group.

For inquiries and reservations concerning Glade Creek Group Campground, the managing authority is the U.S. Forest Service.

Address: US-12, Kooskia, ID 83539, USA

Phone: (208) 926-4274 (This number connects directly to the Lochsa-Powell Ranger District, which manages the campground.)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-926-4274 (Same as above, for mobile users.)

Reservations for Glade Creek Group Campground must be made through Recreation.gov. You can visit their website (Recreation.gov) or call their toll-free number at 1-877-444-6777 (from 10:00 AM - Midnight EST). It is highly recommended to contact the Lochsa-Powell Ranger District directly for the most current information regarding campground conditions, fire restrictions, water availability (as it's not provided onsite), and any other local regulations before your visit. The Lolo Pass Visitor Center (208-942-3113) can also be a valuable resource for general area information.

For Idaho locals, Glade Creek Group Campground presents an ideal opportunity to experience the state's natural splendor as a collective. Its designation as a group site, combined with its reservability, makes it a hassle-free option for planning family gatherings, outdoor club events, or any occasion that calls for a shared adventure. The prime location on the Wild and Scenic Lochsa River offers fantastic recreational possibilities, from exhilarating whitewater activities to peaceful fishing and swimming. The abundance of nearby trails caters to various levels of hikers and bikers, ensuring everyone in the group finds something to enjoy. While it requires campers to be self-sufficient regarding drinking water and trash disposal, this aspect aligns perfectly with the Leave No Trace principles cherished by Idahoans who value their pristine wilderness. Glade Creek Group Campground truly allows locals to embrace the spirit of Idaho's outdoors together, fostering community and creating unforgettable memories in a truly beautiful and secluded setting.