Summary
The park commemorates the story of the Nez Perce people, who lived in the area for centuries. There are several points of interest in the park, including the Canoe Camp Site, where the Nez Perce people camped during their journey to escape the U.S. Army in 1877. Visitors can also explore the traditional Nez Perce village, see exhibits and artifacts in the visitor center, and hike on several trails in the park.
One interesting fact about the park is that it is home to one of the largest collections of Nez Perce artifacts, including clothing, weapons, and household items. The best time to visit the park is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the park is open for hiking and camping.
Overall, Nez Perce National Historic Park - Canoe Camp Site is a great destination for those interested in Native American history, and offers a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the culture of the Nez Perce people.
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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 |
|---|---|---|
Pink House Recreation Site
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Damascus Group Camp
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Cold Springs Group Camp
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