Summary
The forest covers an area of about 1.8 million acres and is home to several unique species of flora and fauna.
One of the main attractions of the Clearwater National Forest is its hiking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the forest and surrounding mountains. Some of the popular hiking trails include the Lolo Trail, Kelly Creek, and Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness.
The forest is also known for its fishing opportunities, with several rivers and streams that are home to trout, steelhead, and salmon. The Selway River, in particular, is a popular spot for fly-fishing.
There are several points of interest to see in the Clearwater National Forest, including the Dworshak Dam, the Nez Perce National Historic Trail, and the Lochsa Historical Ranger Station.
Interesting facts about the area include that it is home to the largest wilderness area in the lower 48 states, the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, and the forest is also home to several endangered species, such as the grizzly bear and the Canadian lynx.
The best time of year to visit the Clearwater National Forest is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and the hiking trails are accessible. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and should always bring warm clothing and rain gear.
Overall, the Clearwater National Forest offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Idaho's natural landscapes and wildlife.
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 |
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Wild Goose
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Wild Goose Campground
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Johnson Bar
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Johnson Bar Campground & Group Site
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Lolo Creek Campground
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