Hells Canyon Wilderness
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Get the latest Parks, Parks, and Recreation for Hells Canyon Wilderness in Arizona. Agua Fria, Arizona Parks and Recreation
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Hells Canyon Wilderness is actually located in the states of Oregon and Idaho, not Arizona. Here is a summary about Hells Canyon Wilderness:
Hells Canyon Wilderness is a remote and rugged area located in the Snake River Canyon between Oregon and Idaho. It is the deepest river gorge in North America, with the Snake River plunging 7,900 feet from its highest point to its lowest point. There are many good reasons to visit this wilderness, including its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, fishing, and rafting.
Some specific points of interest to see in Hells Canyon Wilderness include the Devil's Kettle, a mysterious waterfall that disappears into a hole; the Seven Devils Mountains, a range of peaks that offer panoramic views of the canyon; and the Hells Canyon Dam, which provides hydroelectric power and forms the deepest point in the canyon. Visitors can also enjoy exploring the wilderness on foot, horseback, or by boat.
Interesting facts about the Hells Canyon Wilderness include that it is home to a variety of wildlife such as black bears, bighorn sheep, and golden eagles. It is also an important area for Native American history and culture, with several tribes having lived in the area for thousands of years. The wilderness is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and is designated as a protected wilderness area.
The best time of year to visit Hells Canyon Wilderness depends on the activities you want to do. Summer is the most popular time for hiking, rafting, and fishing, but it can be hot and crowded. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, but some trails and campsites may be closed. Winter can be harsh and unpredictable, but it offers a unique opportunity for winter sports such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Pleasant
|
||
Coyote Camp
|
||
Javelina Camp
|
||
Raccoon Camp
|
||
Host
|
||
Desert Tortoise Campground
|