Little Boulder Campground

Hello, fellow Idaho outdoor enthusiasts! If you're searching for a charming, well-maintained, and wonderfully peaceful campground that feels both secluded and conveniently close to local hubs, then Little Boulder Campground near Deary, Idaho, is a hidden gem you absolutely need to explore. This delightful US Forest Service campground offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and essential comforts, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing weekend getaway or a memorable family camping trip.

Little Boulder Campground is celebrated for its serene atmosphere and thoughtful design. Unlike some sprawling campgrounds, it maintains a cozy, intimate feel with "well-spaced sites tucked among trees, providing a sense of privacy." Imagine waking up to the sounds of nature, enjoying your coffee at a clean picnic table, and perhaps taking a short stroll to a "perfect little beach" by the water. This is the kind of peaceful outdoor experience that defines a true Idaho escape.

As Idahoans, we appreciate easy access to our stunning natural landscapes without sacrificing too much convenience. Little Boulder Campground strikes this balance perfectly. It's close enough to amenities in nearby towns like Deary and Moscow, yet far enough removed to offer a genuine sense of escape and tranquility. The positive feedback from fellow campers, particularly those with young children who enjoyed the safe beach access, highlights its family-friendly appeal and welcoming environment.

In this article, we’ll dive into all the essential details about Little Boulder Campground. We'll cover its precise location and accessibility, outline the convenient services it offers, highlight its standout features, provide crucial contact information, and ultimately explain why this particular campground is so well-suited for locals looking to enjoy the best of Idaho's outdoors. Get ready to discover your next favorite camping spot in the Gem State!

Little Boulder Campground is conveniently located on Park Rd, Deary, ID 83536, USA. This places it approximately 28.5 to 41 minutes east of Moscow, Idaho, making it an easily accessible destination for residents of the Palouse region and beyond. It rests next to the Potlatch River, nestled in a heavily forested and richly vegetated area.

Access to the campground is generally straightforward, with roads leading in being paved. This is a significant advantage for campers with RVs or trailers, as it ensures a smooth journey to their site. The campground itself features "paved parking areas that are level," which makes setting up camp particularly easy for all types of vehicles.

Despite its relatively easy access, Little Boulder maintains a secluded feel, being "off the beaten track down of forest development road." This balance of accessibility and remoteness allows campers to feel immersed in nature without enduring overly challenging drives. The surrounding area is part of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, offering a rich environment for exploration and outdoor activities.

While the campground offers a sense of escape, it's also within a half-hour's drive of other "great destinations," including the popular Elk Creek Falls hiking area. For essential supplies or a quick trip into town, Deary, ID, is just a few miles away, and Helmer has the closest store for essentials and ice. This strategic location provides the perfect blend of wilderness retreat and practical convenience for Idaho locals.

Little Boulder Campground is a well-maintained US Forest Service facility that provides essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, focusing on cleanliness and functionality rather than extensive modern amenities.

• Campsites: The campground features 17 developed sites, accommodating both RVs (up to 30 feet in length) and tents. There is also a group RV site. Each campsite is well-spaced, offering "substantial privacy" and a sense of seclusion.
• Paved Parking Areas: All spots have "paved parking areas that are level," making it easy to back in and set up trailers or park vehicles comfortably. There is also an extra overflow parking lot for convenience.
• Fire Rings with Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring that includes a grill, perfect for cooking over an open flame or enjoying a campfire (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Picnic Tables: Every site has a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for dining, games, or simply relaxing.
• Vault Toilets: The campground has multiple vault toilets (6 in total) that are "very well maintained" and noted for their cleanliness, a consistent positive point in customer reviews. Two of the camping sites and restrooms are handicap accessible.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is available through two hand pumps. While water is provided, some users recommend bringing your own drinking water due to a potentially metallic taste.
• Camp Hosts: A campground host is on site, often available to provide assistance, information, and sell firewood, enhancing the overall camping experience.
• No Hookups: Importantly, there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available at the campsites, reinforcing the rustic and unplugged nature of the campground.
• "Pack It In, Pack It Out": Garbage services are not available, requiring campers to pack out all their trash to preserve the cleanliness of the site.

Little Boulder Campground is celebrated for several key features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for campers, particularly those seeking peace, cleanliness, and a family-friendly environment.

• Secluded and Private Sites: A standout feature is the excellent spacing and natural foliage between campsites, providing a "secluded" and "private" atmosphere. This allows for genuine relaxation away from the noise of neighboring campers.
• Well-Maintained and Clean Facilities: Campers consistently praise the campground's cleanliness, especially the "very well maintained" and "cleanest" vault toilets in the area. This attention to upkeep significantly enhances the camping experience.
• Paved and Level Sites: The "paved parking areas that are level" are a major convenience, making it easy to set up tents or park RVs and trailers without hassle.
• Direct River Access / Beach Area: The presence of a "perfect little beach next to the parking lot" by the Potlatch River is a significant draw, especially for families with young children. It offers a safe and convenient spot for outdoor playtime by the water.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The "safe" beach, coupled with the peaceful environment, makes it ideal for "moms and some two yr olds needing some outdoor time during the hot summer days" and for "newly potty trained kids." Its proximity to Moscow (only 41 min away) also contributes to its family appeal for convenient day trips.
• Proximity to Elk Creek Falls: The campground is located "within a half hour of Elk Creek Falls hiking area," providing easy access to one of Idaho's beautiful natural attractions for day trips and hiking.
• Hiking Trails: There is a "short hiking trail connecting the sites" within the campground, and "a good hiking trail" across the road, offering immediate opportunities for strolls and exploration.
• Fly Fishing Opportunities: The Potlatch River and Boulder Creek are known for trout fishing, offering a relaxing pastime for anglers.
• Unplugged Experience: With limited to no cell phone reception, Little Boulder offers a true opportunity to disconnect from digital distractions and immerse oneself fully in nature.

For inquiries regarding Little Boulder Campground in Deary, Idaho, including current operating status, fees, or specific site information, the most reliable contact is the managing U.S. Forest Service office. Little Boulder Campground is operated by the US Forest Service within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests.

Address: Park Rd, Deary, ID 83536, USA

Phone: (208) 875-1131 (Palouse Ranger District, Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-875-1131 (Palouse Ranger District, Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests)

This phone number connects directly to the Palouse Ranger District, which oversees Little Boulder Campground. It is highly advisable to call them for the most up-to-date information on seasonal openings (typically May 20 - October 30), current conditions, or any potential restrictions. While campsites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, checking with the Ranger District can prevent any surprises. The fee is $12.00 a night, with an extra $2 for each additional vehicle.

For Idahoans, Little Boulder Campground near Deary is a prime example of why our state is such a treasure for outdoor recreation. Its suitability for locals stems from its unique combination of serene seclusion, family-friendly amenities, and convenient accessibility, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of camping preferences.

Firstly, the campground’s ability to offer a "secluded" and "private" experience, with "well-spaced sites tucked among trees," directly appeals to the Idahoan desire for peace and quiet in nature. This isn't a bustling, crowded park; it's a place where you can truly relax and feel a sense of tranquility, whether you're enjoying a morning coffee or a campfire under the stars. The consistently praised cleanliness of the "very well maintained" vault toilets further enhances the comfort for a rustic yet pleasant stay.

Secondly, its family-friendly features are a significant draw for local parents. The "perfect little beach next to the parking lot" by the Potlatch River is a rare and highly valued amenity, providing a safe and accessible spot for children to play by the water. The easy access and paved, level sites make it manageable even for those with toddlers or newly potty-trained kids, fostering a love for the outdoors from a young age. Being just "41 min from Moscow" means a convenient drive for a weekend trip without feeling like a major expedition.

Lastly, Little Boulder Campground encourages an authentic "unplugged" experience. With limited cell service, it offers the perfect opportunity to disconnect from digital distractions and truly immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. This focus on being present, coupled with opportunities for fishing, light hiking, and proximity to attractions like Elk Creek Falls, aligns perfectly with the outdoor-centric lifestyle many Idahoans embrace.

In essence, Little Boulder Campground is a "great little hidden gem" that provides a quintessential Idaho camping experience. It’s a place where you can relax, reconnect with nature, and create cherished memories, all within a convenient distance from home, making it an ideal choice for any local looking for a peaceful and enjoyable outdoor escape.

Little Boulder Campground

Park Rd, Deary, ID 83536, USA