Elk John (FR 3805) in ID -- Free Camping & Overnight Parking in Idaho
Elk John (FR 3805) in ID
A 4.1-mile stretch of gravel National Forest road in Clearwater County, ID. The road serves Elk Butte. The road is open seasonally, June 15 to September 30.
Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest, Palouse Ranger District allows dispersed camping here -- 14-day limit.
All 4.1 miles in are maintained only for high-clearance vehicles. Gravel the whole way in (4.1 miles). Climbs 1,400 ft over 4.1 miles -- sustained grades near 12%, with pitches to 17%. Stretches run along a shelf with a drop of up to ~120 ft on the downhill side. Little level ground alongside -- few of the stretches measured have a flat spot to pull onto. Winds through 12 switchbacks.
Elk Butte stands 2,431 ft above the site, 2.7 miles east. Private here -- the nearest through road is 0.8 miles off. Morris Creek runs 0.4 mi off. The nearest town, Orofino, is 25 mi off.
September normals 45–71°F, 1.5″ rain. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.
Set by Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest, Palouse Ranger District. Stage 1 and 2 orders change within days -- check the current order before you build a fire.
fs.usda.gov