- Region
- Idaho
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- fishing
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Overnight camping fees for individual site…
- Managed by
- Bureau of Land Management
Plan with verified data
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How to get there
The Pink House Recreation Site is located approximately 5 miles west of Orofino, Idaho.
- Pink House Recreation Site
This site provides immediate access to the Clearwater River via a concrete boat ramp, suitable for year-round use. It also serves as a base for camping, fishing, and tubing. Ample parking is available for day-use and those with trailers.
Sources: blm.gov · Wikipedia · Wikivoyage. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
Idaho · United States · Season: Late fall through early spring
- Fishing
- Mountaineering
- Winter Camping
- Skiing
- Desert Hiking
- Canyoneering
- Sea Kayaking
- Beachcombing
Overview
Idaho's Clearwater River, particularly its Middle and South Forks, offers a truly unique inland steelhead experience. Renowned for its large, powerful A-run and B-run (larger, later-migrating) steelhead, the Clearwater provides a stark contrast to the coastal rivers, flowing through arid canyons and pine forests. The main stem is fishable, but the true gems are the forks, offering more solitude and a wilder feel. The prime season for these summer-run fish is typically October through March, with winter bringing some of the largest fish. Access to the main stem is good, with numerous boat launches and public access points around Orofino and Lenore. The Middle Fork and South Fork require more effort, often involving jet boat trips or dedicated hiking. This river system can accommodate various skill levels, but a guide is highly recommended for newcomers, especially on the forks. Expect diverse fishing conditions, from swinging flies in faster runs to nymphing deeper pools. While not as remote as some BC rivers, the Idaho wilderness still provides a rugged backdrop. An Idaho fishing license with a steelhead permit is required. The Clearwater is a powerhouse river, delivering hard-fighting fish and a distinct high-desert-to-mountain-forest experience, making it a compelling destination for those seeking powerful inland steelhead.
Why it stands out
Known for exceptionally large and powerful A-run and B-run steelhead.
Diverse fishing opportunities (swinging, nymphing) across different sections.
Long season, from fall into late winter/early spring.
Stunning canyon and mountain forest scenery.
Opportunities for both boat and wade fishing.
Know before you go
Can be very cold during peak winter season.
High water flows can make wading difficult and dangerous.
Main stem can experience significant angler pressure.
Access to the Middle and South Forks can be challenging without a jet boat.
Limited services in remote sections of the forks.
Planning notes
Where: Idaho, United States Best season: Late fall through early spring Good for: Fishing Featured on: Top 10 Steelhead Rivers in the Pacific Northwest (#7) Access point: Clearwater River, Idaho, USA
Check current permits, closures and fire restrictions with the managing agency before you commit to dates.
Field notes
- Known for exceptionally large and powerful A-run and B-run steelhead.
- Diverse fishing opportunities (swinging, nymphing) across different sections.
- Long season, from fall into late winter/early spring.
- Stunning canyon and mountain forest scenery.
- Opportunities for both boat and wade fishing.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Clearwater River, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 46.3320, -116.4466
- Latitude (DMS)
- 46° 19′ 55.2″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 116° 26′ 47.9″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Clearwater River, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
Idaho's Clearwater River, particularly its Middle and South Forks, offers a truly unique inland steelhead experience.
Key takeaways
- Region: Idaho
- Country: United States
- Best season: Late fall through early spring
- Good for: fishing
- Coordinates: 46.332, -116.447
Intended uses
fishing
Climate suitability
Late fall through early spring
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Clearwater River
- Fishing
Resident gamefish, seasons, and the water that holds them.
- Mountaineering
Glacier and high-route objectives with real consequence.
- Winter Camping
Cold-season travel and camp craft; layering matters more than mileage.
- Skiing
Ski-touring access when the road closes for the season.
- Desert Hiking
Water carries and heat management drive the plan.
- Canyoneering
Narrows, downclimbs, and flash-flood timing.
Animals around Clearwater River
Clearwater River Overview
The Clearwater River, a major waterway in north central Idaho, flows westward from the Bitterroot Mountains to join the Snake River at Lewiston. It is the largest tributary of the Snake River by average discharge. The river earned its name from the Niimiipuutímt language term Koos-Koos-Kia, meaning "clear water." Historically significant, the Lewis and Clark Expedition descended this river in dugout canoes in 1805, putting in five miles downstream from present-day Orofino on their journey to the Pacific Ocean. The drainage basin of the Clearwater River spans 9,645 square miles, supporting a diverse ecosystem and recreational opportunities. The river's mild rapids and accessibility make it suitable for various water activities, attracting visitors for its natural beauty and recreational appeal.
Pink House Recreation Site
The Pink House Recreation Site is a developed area situated approximately 5 miles west of Orofino, Idaho, at an elevation of 980 feet. It offers scenic views of semi-arid hillsides and is adjacent to the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. The site provides various facilities for both RV and tent campers, including 15 RV sites with full hook-ups (water, electricity, sewer), and three tent campsites, all featuring BBQ grills, picnic tables, and fire rings. Many sites offer views of the Clearwater River. A concrete boat ramp provides year-round access to the river, making it a popular hub for boaters and anglers. Day-use visitors can find ample parking for vehicles and trailers. The site is open year-round with a full-time Campground Host on-site.
Recreational Opportunities
The Clearwater River and the Pink House Recreation Site offer a wide range of outdoor activities. World-class fishing for salmon and steelhead attracts anglers from across the globe. Boating is popular, with immediate access to the river provided by the site's boat ramp. Tubing is a favored activity on the section upstream of Orofino, known for its mellow rapids and numerous access points along the river for put-in and take-out. Visitors also enjoy swimming and picnicking. The area is excellent for wildlife viewing; river otters and soaring eagles are common sights. The site features a large sandy beach, accessible year-round for users, though vehicle access is restricted during summer months to ensure safety.
Local Attractions and Services
Beyond the immediate recreation site, the Clearwater River region is rich in history and natural attractions. The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail follows the river from Greer to its confluence with the Snake River. The Northwest Discovery Water Trail, a 40-mile stretch of the Clearwater, also originates near here. Nearby Orofino, located 5 miles away, offers basic services and shopping. Historical and educational sites include the Nez Perce National Historical Park (Canoe Camp), just 1 mile distant, the Dworshak Hatchery 9 miles away, and the Dworshak Dam and Visitor Center 12 miles away. Lewiston, Idaho's only port city and the furthest inland port in the western United States, is also downstream.
Route options
- Clearwater River Float
Tubing is a popular activity on the Clearwater River, particularly upstream of Orofino, due to its mellow rapids. Multiple access sites (over 10) along the river allow for customized float durations, from put-in to take-out.
- Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail
This historic trail follows the Clearwater River from Greer, Idaho, to the confluence with the Snake River at Lewiston. The trail offers a historical perspective on the region.
- Northwest Discovery Water Trail
This water trail covers the first 40-mile reach of the Clearwater River, extending from Canoe Camp to its confluence with the Snake River in Lewiston.
Sample itineraries
- River Camping and Recreation · 2 days
Spend two days at the Pink House Recreation Site. On day one, set up camp and enjoy fishing for salmon or steelhead from the riverbank or by boat. In the afternoon, take a relaxing float on the river by tube. Day two could involve exploring the nearby Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail or visiting the Nez Perce National Historical Park, followed by an evening picnic at a reservable pavilion by the river.
- Historic and Scenic Exploration · 3 days
Dedicate three days to discovering the area. Day one: arrive at Pink House, set up camp, and enjoy wildlife viewing and photography along the river. Day two: drive to Orofino for basic services, then explore the Nez Perce National Historical Park (Canoe Camp) and Dworshak Hatchery. Day three: experience the Northwest Discovery Water Trail by boat, or visit the Dworshak Dam and Visitor Center for scenic views and regional information before departure.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
The site is open year-round. This season can offer good fishing opportunities as the river transitions. Vehicle use on the sandy beach is permitted until June 1.
Summer
June 1 to September 30
Vehicle use on the sandy beach is closed to enhance the safety of beach users. Tubing and swimming are popular activities. Expect potentially warmer conditions suitable for water recreation.
Fall
The site is open year-round. Fishing remains a popular activity. The scenery along the river and hillsides can be vibrant with changing foliage.
Winter
The site is open year-round. Fishing for steelhead is popular. Conditions will be colder, but the area remains accessible for recreation.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | The site is open year-round. This season can offer good fishing opportunities as the river transitions. Vehicle use on the sandy beach is permitted until June 1. | |
| Summer | June 1 to September 30 | Vehicle use on the sandy beach is closed to enhance the safety of beach users. Tubing and swimming are popular activities. Expect potentially warmer conditions suitable for water recreation. |
| Fall | The site is open year-round. Fishing remains a popular activity. The scenery along the river and hillsides can be vibrant with changing foliage. | |
| Winter | The site is open year-round. Fishing for steelhead is popular. Conditions will be colder, but the area remains accessible for recreation. |
Permits, fees & closures
Overnight camping fees for individual sites at Pink House Recreation Site can be paid using the Recreation.gov mobile app via the ‘scan and pay’ option. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are not reservable in advance. Group pavilions are reservable through Recreation.gov.
Fees: Small group pavilion: $25 per day. Large group pavilion: $50 per day. A small service fee applies for online reservations.
Reservations: Campsites are first-come, first-served. Group pavilions are reservable in advance through Recreation.gov.
Official source: Pink House Recreation Site - Idaho · Verified August 29, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- River currents, particularly if tubing or swimming.
- Changing weather conditions common in semi-arid environments.
- Wildlife encounters, including river otters and eagles.
What to pack for Clearwater River
- Tent or RV
- Sleeping bag
- Cooking equipment
- Firewood
- First aid kit
- Fishing gear
- Boating equipment
- Swimsuit
- Sun protection
- Personal flotation device (PFD)
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Layered clothing
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Map of the area
Clearwater River FAQ
- Are campsites reservable at Pink House Recreation Site?
- No, selecting a camping site at Pink House Recreation Site remains first-come, first-served. They cannot be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov.
- How do I pay for camping at Pink House Recreation Site?
- Overnight camping fees can be paid at the site using the free and easy-to-use Recreation.gov mobile app via the ‘scan and pay’ option.
- Can I reserve group pavilions?
- Yes, two accessible group pavilions are available for day-use only and can be reserved through Recreation.gov.
- What facilities are available at Pink House Recreation Site?
- The site offers RV sites with full hook-ups, tent campsites, a concrete boat ramp, ample parking, potable water hydrants, flush and vault toilets, and dumpsters.
- Is the sandy beach open to vehicles?
- The large sandy beach is open for year-round use but is closed to vehicle use from June 1 to September 30 to enhance the safety of beach users during the summer months.
- What kind of fishing is available on the Clearwater River?
- The Clearwater River is home to world-renowned salmon and steelhead fisheries, attracting anglers from around the world.