O'Hara Bar Campground

For us Idahoans, the quest for the perfect camping spot often balances serene natural beauty with practical considerations like accessibility and the ability to plan ahead. O'Hara Bar Campground, nestled along the breathtaking Selway River near Kooskia, ID, strikes this balance beautifully. This isn't just another riverside spot; it's an "outstanding USFS campground" that offers the coveted advantage of being one of the "only campgrounds in the area that you can reserve ahead of time." This feature alone is a game-changer for those of us who prefer to secure our wilderness escape, eliminating the anxiety of a first-come, first-served gamble.

O'Hara Bar Campground is truly a gem within the vast Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. Imagine pitching your tent or parking your RV in a "secluded campsite in a lush forest among old growth conifers," with the pristine Selway River just steps away. Some sites offer direct river frontage, while others are set back, providing a mix of open and shaded environments. It's a place where the natural ambiance reigns supreme, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Idaho's wild heart. One visitor even marveled at the complete absence of "mosquitos or biting flies in late June 2019," a testament to the ideal conditions this area can offer.

Beyond its picturesque setting, O'Hara Bar Campground is celebrated for its thoughtful layout and amenities. With mostly level sites and paved roads, it caters to a variety of camping setups, from tents to RVs, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. While some site lengths might be "a little short or skinny" for larger tow vehicles, campers note that a wheel off the asphalt isn't an issue, showcasing the flexibility. This combination of reservable sites, a stunning natural environment, and well-maintained facilities makes O'Hara Bar Campground an incredibly suitable and sought-after destination for Idahoans seeking a memorable outdoor adventure without sacrificing peace of mind.

O'Hara Bar Campground is ideally situated at O'Hara Creek Rd, Kooskia, ID 83539, USA, placing it directly on the banks of the Selway River within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. This location in north central Idaho, specifically in the Selway Wild and Scenic River Corridor, is renowned for its rugged natural beauty, dense forests, and pristine waters.

Access to O'Hara Bar Campground is relatively straightforward compared to some other remote sites in the region. The campground is located about 7 miles off U.S. Highway 12 at Lowell, Idaho, via Selway River Road 223. From Kooskia, you would follow Highway 12 east for approximately 21.6 miles to the junction with Selway Road. Turn onto Selway Road (Forest Road 223) and drive approximately 6.8 miles southeast to O'Hara Road. Then, turn right onto O'Hara Road, cross the bridge over O'Hara Creek, and the campground will be on your left.

The Selway River Road (Forest Road 223) is paved from Lowell up to the O'Hara Creek Bridge, making the initial approach quite smooth. Beyond the bridge, the road narrows and may transition to a gravel or dirt surface, with potential "washboard conditions," though the campground itself often features paved roads within its loops. A notable feature of the access is the bridge into camp. One reviewer jokingly mentioned it's "super fun if you like your family screaming and crying," implying it might be a narrow or somewhat rustic bridge that adds a touch of adventure to the arrival.

The campground offers "mostly level sites" and "paved parking spurs" that range in size, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs up to 50 feet in length. While some sites might feel "a little short or skinny" for very large tow vehicles, slight adjustments are usually manageable. It's important to note that cell service is generally unavailable in this area, so campers should prepare for a disconnected experience and bring physical maps or pre-downloaded directions. This ensures a true escape into the Idaho wilderness, making the journey part of the overall adventure.

• Reservable Campsites: O'Hara Bar Campground offers 31 designated campsites that are reservable, a significant advantage in this popular area. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov.
• Diverse Site Types: The campground accommodates various setups, including single-family sites for tents and RVs (up to 50 feet). It also features an accessible group site (Loop A) that can hold 26 campsites, plus sites in Loop B and Loop C with a mix of reservable options. Loop D is specifically for equestrian camping.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with an attached grill, providing essential amenities for cooking and gathering.
• Potable Water Taps: Abundant potable water taps are available throughout the campground, providing convenient access to drinking water. *Note: As of a 2024 notice, water systems may be under maintenance, so always verify current availability or bring backup water. A dump station is usually available at Cedar Flats, 1.5 miles away on Selway Road if O'Hara's is closed.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets (outhouses). While reviewers note they "do not have running water or flush toilets," they are generally described as "clean and well stocked" and accessible.
• Bear-Resistant Dumpsters: Bear-resistant dumpsters are provided for trash collection, encouraging responsible waste disposal and helping to keep the area safe from wildlife.
• Paved Parking Spurs: Sites feature paved parking spurs, contributing to a clean and organized feel.
• Camp Host on Site: A camp host is often on-site, providing assistance and ensuring the campground runs smoothly.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is typically available for purchase from the camp host, offering a convenient source for campfires.

• Reservable Sites: A major highlight is the ability to reserve campsites in advance, providing peace of mind and guaranteeing a spot in this popular Selway River corridor campground.
• Selway River Access: The campground sits directly on the pristine Selway River, offering excellent opportunities for fishing (cutthroat and rainbow trout), whitewater rafting, kayaking, floating, and swimming in natural pools created by river rocks.
• Lush Forest Setting: Sites are nestled in a "lush forest among old growth conifers," providing abundant shade and a serene, secluded atmosphere.
• Paved Roads and Level Sites: The internal paved roads and mostly level sites make for easy navigation and setup for both tents and RVs.
• Absence of Biting Insects (sometimes): A remarkable highlight noted by one reviewer was the complete absence of "mosquitos or biting flies in late June 2019," indicating potentially ideal conditions during certain periods.
• Wildlife Viewing: The Selway Wild and Scenic River Corridor is known for its diverse wildlife, including deer, elk, moose, bears (proper food storage essential), and various bird species.
• Proximity to Selway Falls: An 11-mile scenic drive from Lowell leads to the picturesque Selway Falls, offering another beautiful natural attraction nearby.
• Access to Trails: Several trailheads for hiking, biking, and horseback riding can be accessed from Selway River Road, leading into the vast Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness area.
• Historic Nearby Ranger Station: The Fenn Ranger Station, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is just a few miles downstream, adding a cultural and historical point of interest.
• Dark Skies for Stargazing: Away from significant light pollution, the campground offers excellent opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.

O'Hara Bar Campground is part of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests and is managed by the Powell Ranger District, which oversees the Selway River corridor.

Address: O Hara Creek Rd, Kooskia, ID 83539, USA (This is the general location; for official correspondence, the managing district is preferred).

For reservations, which are highly recommended due to the campground's popularity, you can visit Recreation.gov or call their toll-free reservation line.

For specific inquiries about O'Hara Bar Campground, including current conditions, water availability, road status, fire restrictions, or any other local information, it is best to contact the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests or the associated ranger district.

Phone: (208) 926-4258 (This number is associated with the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests and is often listed for campground inquiries in the Selway River area).

Mobile Phone: +1 208-926-4258 (This is an alternative direct contact for the Forest Service in the area).

It is always advisable for Idahoans planning a trip to O'Hara Bar Campground to check for alerts and current conditions before departing. This is particularly important for water availability (as it has been noted for maintenance in previous seasons) and fire restrictions, which are common in Idaho during dry periods. Contacting the Forest Service ensures you have the most up-to-date information for a safe and enjoyable camping experience on the beautiful Selway River.

For us Idahoans, O'Hara Bar Campground perfectly embodies the ideal balance of pristine wilderness and convenient accessibility that we often seek in our outdoor adventures. We cherish the raw beauty of our state's rivers and forests, and O'Hara Bar delivers this in spades with its location directly on the magnificent Selway River, surrounded by old-growth conifers and offering those sought-after "secluded campsites."

What truly makes O'Hara Bar stand out for locals is the ability to reserve a campsite in advance. In a state where many prime spots are first-come, first-served, the option to plan our getaways with certainty is a significant advantage. This means less stress on travel days and more time to anticipate the joy of being immersed in nature. We appreciate the well-maintained, mostly level sites and paved roads within the campground, which ensure a comfortable setup whether we're in a tent or an RV, showcasing a thoughtful approach to visitor experience.

Beyond the practicalities, O'Hara Bar offers the quintessential Idaho experience. It's a prime spot for fishing the renowned Selway River, a passion for many of us. The surrounding area provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing, allowing us to connect with the natural world that defines our home. The possibility of encountering wildlife, from deer to bears, adds to the authentic wilderness feel, reminding us of the unique environment we are privileged to explore.

Even small details, like the "super fun" bridge into camp, contribute to the memorable journey, building excitement for the natural beauty that awaits. The presence of potable water taps and clean vault toilets, even without running water, demonstrates a commitment to essential comforts in a wild setting. O'Hara Bar Campground isn't just a place to stay; it's a gateway to experiencing the Selway Wild and Scenic River Corridor, a gem within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests that truly captures the adventurous, nature-loving spirit of Idahoans. It's a place where memories are made, year after year.

O'Hara Bar Campground

O Hara Creek Rd, Kooskia, ID 83539, USA