Camping at Devils Elbow Campground

Location and Access

Devils Elbow Campground is nestled in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, a scenic and diverse region filled with lakes, mountains, and dense forests. The campground is located:

• In Northern Idaho, near the town of Priest River.
• Along the Pend Oreille Scenic Byway, which follows the northern shore of the Pend Oreille River.

To access the campground, refer to the Forest Service’s website or local maps for the most current and detailed driving instructions.

Camping Facilities and Information

Capacity and Reservations:

• The campground generally has multiple sites available for tent and RV camping.
• Some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while others can be reserved in advance through a reservation system such as Recreation.gov.

Amenities:

• Campsites typically include amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to vault toilets.
• Drinking water is usually available in the campground but always check the current status before going.
• There is usually no electric hook-up available for RVs.

Activities and Recreation

Water Recreation:

• Because the campground is located near the Pend Oreille River, it is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming.

Hiking and Nature Observation:

• Nature trails for hiking and bird watching are prevalent within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests.
• Wildlife in the area includes deer, moose, and various bird species providing excellent opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.

Other Recreation:

• Nearby attractions may include scenic drives, historical sites, and other forested areas ideal for exploration.
• Biking and picnicking are additional activities campers can enjoy.

Rules and Regulations

Fire Policy:

• Campers need to comply with current fire regulations which may change due to conditions.
• This typically means ensuring campfires are kept within the provided fire rings and completely extinguished before leaving.

Pets:

• Pets are usually allowed but must be kept on leashes and under control at all times.
• Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.

Garbage and Waste:

• Campers must pack out what they pack in as trash disposal may be limited.
• Proper disposal of human waste in vault toilets or by following Leave No Trace principles is essential.

Special Considerations:

• Always be aware of local wildlife and practice safe food storage to protect both you and the animals.
• Check for any campground-specific rules or alerts prior to arriving.

Weather and Seasonal Information

Climate:

• The area typically has warm summers and cold winters, with potential for significant snowfall.
• Always check the weather forecast prior to your trip and prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions.

Seasonal Access:

• The camper's season usually runs from late spring to early fall.
• Outside this period, access and services may be limited due to snow and cold temperatures.

Contact Information and Resources

• For Reservations: Visit Recreation.gov or call their hotline.
• For Current Conditions: Contact the local Ranger District office for up-to-date information on weather, fire hazards, and any restrictions in place.
• Emergency Services: Always have the contact information for local emergency services and the nearest hospital.

Before setting out for Devils Elbow Campground, it's a good practice to check the current conditions and regulations with the Idaho Panhandle National Forests' official sources, as situations can change due to weather or other environmental factors.