Camping
All campgrounds are located near streams or rivers with fishing, hunting, and other nearby outdoor opportunities. Outside of developed areas you may camp or picnic anywhere in the Forest unless otherwise posted. Numerous attractive roadside campsites are available. Campfire permits are not required in the Clearwater National Forest.
Fishing
The Forest is noted for its exceptionally clean and fast-running streams and rivers. There are also a number of high mountain lakes accessible only by trail. Most of thel akes, streams, and rivers have native or stocked fish. Westslope cutthroat trout, brook trout, dolly varden, rainbow trout, and whitefish make up the resident fishery. The more popular major fishing rivers includethe North Fork of the Clearwater, Kelly Creek, Weitas Creek, Cayuse Creek, White Sand Creek, and the Lochsa River.
Paddling
The Lochsa River and Middle Fork of the Clearwater, along with the Selway River on the Bitterroot and Nez Perce National Forests, are part of the National Wild and Scenic River system. This designation is to help preserve the rivers and their surroundings in a natural condition. The Lochsa River is popular with rafters and kayakers. During spring runoff (usually May through June) the river offers whitewater boating opportunities.
Winter Sports
From December through March, much of the forest is under a blanket of snow, creating many opportunities for the winter sports enthusiast. Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are the most popular pursuits. Snow-covered roads throughout the Forest provide a place to cross-country ski and snowmobile. There are marked and groomed trails in the Palouse Divide Area north of Moscow and at Lolo Pass Winter Sports Area on U.S. 12. Because conditions can change rapidly in the winter, it is wise to check with a local Ranger Station before going into backcountry areas. At times there may be a danger of avalanches.
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