Wildhorse Lake Campground

For us Idahoans, the true gems of our state are often found off the beaten path, requiring a bit of an adventure to reach. Wildhorse Lake Campground, located deep within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests near Elk City, ID, is precisely one of those places. It's not your average roadside campground; it's a destination for those who crave remote beauty, unspoiled nature, and a genuine wilderness experience that only Idaho can offer.

Reviewers often describe the journey to Wildhorse Lake as "exhilarating" or even "terrifying" due to the bumpy mountain road, but they universally agree that "once you get there it is worth it." This speaks volumes about the breathtaking beauty and peaceful solitude that await. Imagine setting up camp by a pristine lake, surrounded by tall timber, with direct access to a vast wilderness. It's a fun, unspoiled place to play, whether you're casting a line in the lake, exploring nearby trails, or simply soaking in the quiet grandeur of the Idaho backcountry. For locals, Wildhorse Lake Campground represents the kind of authentic, challenging, and deeply rewarding outdoor adventure that defines our connection to this incredible state.

Wildhorse Lake Campground is situated near Elk City, ID 83525, USA, within the expansive Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. This places it in a rugged, heavily forested part of north-central Idaho, giving it a remote and wild character.

Accessing Wildhorse Lake Campground is an adventure in itself, typically involving a primitive mountain road. From State Highway 14, you turn south onto Crooked River Road #233. You'll then proceed through the old Orogrande townsite, past the junction with Big Creek Meadows Road #311, and continue to Orogrande Summit and the junction with Road #233I. You then turn right onto Road #233I and continue for approximately 2.5 miles until you reach the campground. The total journey from Highway 14 to the campground is about 25 miles southwest of Elk City. Reviewers consistently mention the "bumpy drive up to Wildhorse Campground" and advise that "no trailers are recommended" due to the primitive mountain road conditions. A high-clearance vehicle is highly advisable, and some might even recommend 4x4, especially if conditions are wet or there has been recent weather. This challenging access contributes to the campground's remote feel and light usage, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. As a first-come, first-served site, planning your arrival, particularly during weekdays, might increase your chances of securing one of the few available spots.

• Limited Campsites: Wildhorse Lake Campground offers a small number of designated campsites, often listed as having around six or a few more, providing an intimate setting.
• Fire Grates/Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with tables and fire grates or fire rings, allowing for campfires (when conditions permit) and outdoor cooking.
• Vault Toilet: A vault toilet (outhouse-style) is available for restroom facilities, maintaining basic sanitation in this primitive setting.
• No Potable Water: Crucially, there is no potable water available at the campground. Campers must bring all their own drinking water, or be prepared to filter and treat water from natural sources.
• No Fees: Many sources indicate Wildhorse Lake Campground operates as a free campground, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for primitive camping.
• No Reservations: Campsites are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: As a primitive site, campers are expected to adhere to Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all garbage and leaving the site cleaner than they found it.

• Remote and Beautiful Setting: The primary highlight is its stunning, remote location by Wildhorse Lake, offering a truly wild and picturesque camping experience.
• Access to Gospel Hump Wilderness: The campground is located at one of the principal access points to the vast Gospel Hump Wilderness. This provides unparalleled opportunities for extensive backcountry hiking, hunting, and exploration. A trail from the campground leads into the wilderness to Tenmile Meadows, and another trailhead further south leads deep into the wilderness towards Sugarloaf Butte.
• Unspoiled Nature: Visitors can expect a largely untouched and serene environment, perfect for escaping the noise and crowds of more popular areas. It's described as an "unspoilt place to play."
• Fishing Opportunities: Wildhorse Lake itself likely offers opportunities for fishing, providing a quiet recreational activity right at the campground.
• Scenic Drive (with Caution): While the road is challenging, the "exhilarating" drive up to the lake is part of the adventure, offering glimpses of the rugged Idaho terrain.
• Light Usage: Due to its challenging access, the campground typically experiences light usage, ensuring a higher degree of solitude for campers.
• Wildlife Viewing: Being in a remote wilderness area, there are ample opportunities for observing local wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Primitive Charm: For those who appreciate "roughing it" with basic amenities, the primitive nature of the campground enhances the wilderness experience.

Address: Elk City, ID 83525, USA

Please note: As a primitive campground managed by the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, Wildhorse Lake Campground does not have a direct, dedicated phone number. For the most current and accurate information regarding its status, road conditions, and any specific regulations, it is best to contact the managing ranger district.

Red River Ranger District (Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests):

Phone: (208) 842-2245

Alternatively, you can contact the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests Supervisor's Office for general inquiries:

Phone: (208) 935-2513

Website: Visit the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests official website and search for "Wildhorse Lake Campground" or "Gospel Hump Wilderness" for the most current information, including any road advisories or closures.

For us Idahoans, Wildhorse Lake Campground is the epitome of the remote, unspoiled wilderness experience that defines our state. We understand that getting to these true gems often involves a bit of a rugged journey, and the "bumpy drive" to Wildhorse Lake is precisely the kind of adventure we embrace. The reward, as our fellow locals attest, is unequivocally worth it: a serene, beautiful, and largely untouched place to play and explore.

This campground is ideally suited for Idahoans who truly want to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The light usage, due to its challenging access, ensures a level of solitude that is increasingly rare in more popular outdoor destinations. Whether you're an avid hiker eager to explore the depths of the Gospel Hump Wilderness, a fishing enthusiast seeking a quiet lake, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, Wildhorse Lake offers an unparalleled opportunity. We appreciate the primitive nature of the site – the basic amenities like fire grates and vault toilets are all we need when surrounded by such breathtaking natural beauty.

Wildhorse Lake Campground is a testament to Idaho's wild heart. It's a place where the effort to arrive is part of the adventure, and the memories created in its untouched landscape will last a lifetime. For those of us who yearn for genuine wilderness, quiet nights under a canopy of stars, and the thrill of an "unspoilt place," this remote haven near Elk City is an absolute must-visit, reaffirming why we choose to live in this incredible outdoor paradise.

Wildhorse Lake Campground

Elk City, ID 83525, USA