Idaho’s Hells Canyon National Recreational Area hugs the borders of northeastern Oregon and western Idaho. Known as a national showcase, Hells Canyon holds over 650,000 acres of land offering a combination of beauty and adventure. The wild landscape draws the interest of countless travelers every year because of the natural pull of the landscape and all that it offers. One unique aspect of Hells Canyon is the presence of North America’s deepest gorge. It’s the perfect place for RVers to take their motorhome class C in Idaho. Finding a likely RV campsite is the first step and then the options are endless as recreational opportunities and scenic drives/hikes abound.

Featured RV Campground: Hells Canyon

Location: Wallowa-Whitman National Forest
2535 Riverside Drive, Clarkston, WA 99403. (For general information call 509-758-0616). The section of the mighty Snake River which stretches from Hells Canyon Dam northward for 75 miles to the border of Washington and Oregon. It is largely inaccessible except by river craft. 31.5 miles of the river from Hells Canyon Dam to Upper Pittsburgh Landing were designated “wild” as a result of the Wild and Scenic River Act passed by Congress in 1975. It is designated “scenic” for 36 miles below Pittsburgh Landing.

Activities: Horseback riding, fishing, hunting, hiking, driving, etc.

Attractions: Hells Canyon is accessible by jet boat or raft. Visitors can see the deepest river gorge in North America. The area is known for its rugged wilderness and many recreational vehicle travelers find themselves intrigued by the ancient tribal carvings in the rocks, the deserted ranches and the closed-up gold mines. Hells Canyon is a remnant of the last ice age, and was formed by the flowing waters of the 1,000-mile long Snake River.

Nearby RV Campsites: Hells Canyon RV Resort (509-758-6963) or Granite Lake Premiere RV Resort (509-751-1635).

Helpful Information: Permits and reservations may be required. Contact for information on Float Permits (509-758-1957) or Powerboat Permits (509-758-0270).

RVers who enjoy white-water rafting, hiking, camping or any number of other outdoor adventures should consider adding Hells Canyon to their lists of “places to see once in a lifetime.” Some will remember the ruggedly beautiful landscape for lazy afternoons wandering on the white sand beach others will never forget their chance to help deliver mail to remote ranches and still others will always remember the fishing. Hells Canyon isn’t described as breathtaking because it’s an easy way to summarize the various, unique qualities of the park and the enclosed landscape, but because it can actually take your breath away.