The best camping in Hells Gate State Park, ID

·

Camper favorites near Hells Gate State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Top-rated campgrounds

Overnight at the Oasis

95%
(71)
25mi from Hells Gate State Park · 9 sites · RVs, Lodging · Anatone, WA
Boggan's Oasis is in the SE corner of Washington state, right on the breathtaking Grande Ronde River. Visitors can arrive by driving to the bottom of Rattlesnake Grade (WA-129), or the bottom of Buford Grade (OR-3). These two curvacious roads are extremely popular rides for motorcyclists and bicyclists nationally. Visitors may also arrive by water (rafts, driftboats, jetboats, kayaks, etc) coming downriver from Oregon, or upriver from the Snake River (WA/ID). Many other unpaved roads will lead guests to our canyon, which creates great opportunities for off-road vehicle adventures! The Grande Ronde River, which drains much of northeast Oregon's Union and Wallowa counties, is fed by snowpack in the Elkhorn Mountains. The Wallowa River, a major tributary to the Grande Ronde, headwaters in the Wallowa Mountains, mostly within the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Twenty-two miles from Boggan's Oasis, the Grande Ronde River flows into the mighty Snake River. The river is surrounded by steep, rugged canyon walls that rise 3000 to 4000 feet above the river level. Dense conifer forests blend into grassy slopes set off by scattered conifer "stringers." Called "The Land of Winding Waters" by Native Americans, the river is home to rainbow trout, dolly varden, whitefish, squawfish, suckers, bass, and steelhead. Rocky Mountain elk, mule deer, whitetail deer, bighorn sheep, bear, bald eagles, and a variety of smaller animals and birds can be seen daily. And yes, there are rattlesnakes! Fishing, hunting, hiking, all kinds of boating/floating, offroad vehicle riding, and animal/bird watching are beyond expectations in this area. Seasonally, guests can also successfully gather a variety of mushrooms and berries while on one of the many nearby hiking trails. Many of these short walks also lead to incredible, far-reaching views of the Blue Mountains, Wenaha wildlife sanctuary, Hells Canyon, and the tri-state area. In the hotter summer months, the swimming hole below the Boggan's Bridge is a popular way to cool off. Boggan's Oasis also offers fishing trips, float trips, shuttles, and a FULL restaurant! Check our website for more info.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

McGovern Residence

100%
(122)
30mi from Hells Gate State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Pomeroy, WA
The McGovern Residence is a magical little world we've created at the base of the Blue Mountains. We're about an hour South of Palouse Falls, an hour East of Walla Walla wine country, and about an hour West of Lewiston/Clarkston. The property consists of 28 acres on the Tucannon River with mature Ponderosa Pines, wildflowers, curated gardens, hiking trails, incredible valley views, and direct access to 1.4 million acres of public land. Multiple stocked lakes are accessible for fishing just a few miles up the road. Close to the river, The Flat can accommodate up to 2 tents and 4 people. The main campsite includes a hammock, picnic table, fire ring with benches, and parking for up to 2 cars. Immediately off the parking area is a secondary site with another picnic table and fire ring for those camping directly out of their vehicle. Campers have a faucet for fresh potable water and an outhouse for 24/7 bathroom needs. A short path from either campsite leads to a small river clearing for cooling off and lazy afternoons by the water. The Flat is the only site that we offer and we keep the group size low to ensure a peaceful and relaxing experience for everyone. We allow tents, cars, and smaller camper vans, but unfortunately cannot accommodate trailers or RV's. The main property is a pocket of green with mature cottonwood, ponderosa pines, choke cherry and elder scrub. Our property borders the Wooten Wildlife area which leads into the Umatilla National Forest - so that's 1.4 million acres of public lands directly to our South. Just down the road are some really great hiking trails and access points to the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness, or if you prefer to stay close, our property gains 1000' from river to property line. An afternoon trek to the top is challenging but provides a spectacular panoramic view of the Tucannon River valley. Pack some beer and some snacks and hang out for a wicked sunset. We're working hard on our hiking trail - currently it's 3/4 mile (1.5 mile round trip), and growing in length by the week. During your stay you'll probably see some wild turkey, quail, and some white tailed or mule deer. The area is known to have cougars (we run into them occasionally) bighorn sheep, rattlesnake, black bears, bobcats, and even the occasional moose! There's no shortage of wildlife in the area, and we enjoy when they visit us. Be on the lookout at dusk for the nightly bat show! We also have a flock of chickens that free-range during the day, so don't be surprised to get a visitor or two poking around for scraps. Our property is rural, but not isolated. Depending on where you stake your tent you might see some neighbors, but we can direct you to the right spot if you want to avoid it. The towns of Dayton and Pomeroy are both about 20 minutes away. Both have their own charm and offer a grocery store, a couple bars, gas, and supplies. There's an RV park and general store about a mile up the road if you need some quick essentials or a few gallons of gas. At the center of the property is a log cabin we're slowly renovating. We live here full time so when we're home we're out and about working on projects or clearing brush. You'll see us wandering, so interact with us as much as you want or just do your thing. This is our home and we like to host, but it's not necessary. On that note, this is not a 'campground'. We have a beautiful property with a campsite and like to share it! We hope you enjoy yourself while also respecting our home :)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

Triple H Mini Ranch

100%
(11)
6.2mi from Hells Gate State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Lewiston, ID
Park like setting, in town mini ranch on 3 acres, with pastures, trees, and gardens. We have horses, chickens, goats and ducks to keep you company while you explore the grounds, with several benches to sit and relax. Our property is fenced and gated, therefore private and secure. We are close to the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, with world class steel head fishing. Within 30 minutes you can be exploring the Waha or Blues Mountains. We are 40 minutes from Moscow ID and Pullman WA. We have room for you to park your campers and/or boats. If you’re here for the rodeo, you can board your horse here along with you. Small groups are welcome. We have a large covered area for group eating and gatherings. Glamping groups are welcome too! We are on the southeast corner of the Lewiston Orchards area, just up from the Rodeo grounds.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

Wheat and Beans

100%
(37)
28mi from Hells Gate State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Moscow, ID
Welcome to Wheat & Beans, a charming farmhouse property constructed in 1900. Situated close to town yet nestled in a tranquil setting, this property offers a serene getaway for your vacation. As you explore the surroundings, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking views of Moscow Mountain to the East and stunning sunsets to the West. The property is enveloped by picturesque farmland, featuring lush fields of Wheat, Canola and Garbanzo Beans, creating a scenic backdrop that truly embodies the essence of rural living. We offer two RV spaces. To ensure your comfort and convenience during your stay, we provide essential amenities such as water, 30 amp at Grain Bin WEST, 50 amp service at Grain Bin RV, water and a dump station located at each parking area. Whether you're seeking a serene retreat or an opportunity to experience rural farm life, our RV parking offers a delightful blend of comfort, natural beauty, and a touch of farmyard enchantment. Come and create lasting memories in this idyllic setting!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

Other options near Hells Gate State Park

The best camping in Hells Gate State Park, ID guide

Overview

About

Buckle up, 'cause you're on the highway to Hell...'s Gate, that is. Despite the menacing name, this place couldn't be anymore sweet or serene. Check out the frolicking otters in the waters, or listen to the echoes along the deep and looming canyons. Campers will enjoy the grassy campsites along Snake River's shores, where jet boat trips will only be a stone's throw away. Whether you're angling for smallmouth bass or swimming in the gentle waters, you'll be hard pressed to run out of activities soon. Nearby opportunities to hang glide, golf, or even take a hot air ballon tour will make this trip one for the books. Bring a guitar to pick around the fire, and we think AC/DC would approve.

Notable campgrounds

  • Aspen Loop - Offers a serene camping experience with sites nestled among lush trees.
  • Birch Loop - Ideal for families, this loop provides spacious sites with easy access to park amenities.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, as sites at Hells Gate State Park fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
  • Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations to snag a last-minute spot at this popular destination.
  • Explore nearby camping options if Hells Gate is fully booked, ensuring you don't miss out on the area's beauty.

When to go

The best time to visit Hells Gate State Park is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm temperatures perfect for water activities, while winter can be quite cold, with some facilities closed for the season.

Know before you go

  • Check for any park updates or closures before your visit, especially during off-season months.
  • Day-use locations are open from 7am to 10pm, but hours may vary based on park manager discretion.
  • Remember to pack essentials for hot weather, as the park is known for its warm climate.
  • Water activities are a highlight, so bring your gear or rent it at the park for an unforgettable experience.
  • For history buffs, don't miss the Nez Perce National Historic Park and the Jack O'Connor Hunting Heritage and Education Center nearby.
100%
2 ratings · 0 reviews