The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Presenting a natural combination of deep canyons, exotic plant life, and the Owyhee River System, North Fork Owyhee River is a popular destination for those looking to connect deeply with nature. The environment is managed by the Bureau of Land Management, a government agency that is dedicated to preserving and maintaining America’s natural environments. The scenic grounds deliver a near-endless supply of outdoor activities to discover, supplying you with various free camping opportunities for full immersion into the wilderness.
Along with fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, and rock-climbing activities, North Fork is situated next to a number of nearby recreational spots. The Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area allows you to experience stunning eagles, hawks, owls and falcons in their native habitat. The environment and learning experiences at Sawtooth National Forest give you an in-depth opportunity to learn about the various aspects of the northwestern wilderness. You can learn more about the surrounding environment by searching "BLM camping near me."
This roundtrip trail is a rigorous, 3.5 mile pathway that allows hikers to enjoy the sights and sounds of the river system. However, you’ll have plenty of chances to rest along the way as you view the various junipers, fauna, flora, and species of raptor in the area.
Length: 3.5 miles
Intensity: Moderately difficult
This 2.4-mile roundtrip trail lies just a few minutes east of the immediate North Fork grounds. While short, this hike is deceptively challenging, requiring sojourners to navigate steep and rocky terrain.
Length: 2.4 miles
Intensity: Difficult
The waters that flow into the North Fork of the Owyhee present some great opportunities for fishing and boating alike. The deep canyon that the river creates cuts directly through the forest and empties out into a gorge. People wishing to boat, kayak, or raft along in the North Fork should be very experienced or have experienced guides. The river is popular for fishermen of all kinds who can enjoy smallmouth bass, catfish, crappie, redband, and brown trout that dwell there. Anglers should be aware of the river flow and how it affects the fish in the North Fork. The summer and early fall experience low flows, making it an optimal time to seek out large populations.
There are a number of opportunities for rock climbing in the surroundings of North Fork. Just 60 miles north rests the Owyhee Mountains, with several summits present on public lands.
The North Fork grounds host a large variety of different species in the area. Many BLM-sensitive species dwell in the area, including prairie falcons, ferruginous hawks, bald eagles, Columbia spotted frogs, and many others. It is considered a preliminary priority habitat for the greater sage-rouse, so visitors are expected to pay special attention to respecting the habitat. A number of predatory species also call the North Fork home, including coyotes, badgers, cougars, and bobcats.
You’ll have no shortage of picnicking opportunities when you make your stay at North Fork. The majority of surrounding campgrounds offer numerous picnic tables, fire rings, and grills for visitor use.
The landscape surrounding the Owyhee is considered a dream to many enthusiastic hunters. There is a large population of big-game species in the area, including pronghorn, mule deer, elk, and Californian bighorn sheep. Small-game animals such as rabbits, raccoons, and various bird species are also plentiful. The terrain provides a welcome challenge to any hunter looking to fine-tune their skills, but you must take care to refrain from hunting in any protected sites.
If you’d like to take a break from free-range, outdoor camping, the river benefits from a number of nearby options for RV camping. The closest location to the river is the North Fork Campground. Like many other Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, this location requires no reservations and offers seven free campsites that can accommodate both small and large RVs. All of the available sites feature a fire ring, grill, and various cooking tables throughout. There are various vault toilets on the premises, but you’ll need to bring your own supply of water.
If you’re interested in RV parks that deliver a number of modern amenities, venturing an hour east can help you locate a number of luxurious sites that surround Boise. Ambassador RV Resort is flush with a variety of top-of-line accommodations, including tiled private showers and bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and on-site fitness, laundry, and recreation facilities. You’ll even have the opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled time at the location’s pool, spa, or sauna.
No matter what you’re looking for, the nearby campgrounds at North Fork can accommodate it. BLM RV camping sites are here to help you get the most out of your adventures into nature.
There are plenty of dispersed camping ventures that surround the entirety of the Owyhee River. Over 14 different primitive campsites lie just a few minutes west of the main North Fork location. While some locations only allow for tent camping, there are plenty of locations that also support RVs. Also, be aware that the use of motorized vehicles and equipment is strictly forbidden in wilderness areas. Make sure that you find proper parking as you get closer to the wilderness.
As you plan your trip to explore the North Fork and surrounding areas, it is important that you know what you should bring with you. Many of the Bureau of Land Management free camping areas do not have potable water, so you should keep an ample supply with you just to be sure. There are many activities for first-time adventurists to enjoy, but many others require experience and knowledge to undertake. Kayaking, boating, and hiking routes should be researched before you plan to engage in these activities.
Respect for the local wildlife is imperative to maintaining balance and ensuring the safety of visitors and native species alike. Do not instigate any direct contact with the local animals, and be mindful of the various predatory species that live in the North Fork. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
BLM requires that travelers respect the natural environments they are visiting. All organic waste must be buried at least 200 feet away from the Owyhee or any other body of water on the North Fork grounds. It is important that you leave the surroundings as you found them, so cutting trees and collecting surrounding plants is off-limits. All of your trash and belongings must go with you when you depart, so make sure to bring an ample supply of trash bags to store your garbage.
The North Fork Owyhee River grounds are located 80 miles southwest of Boise. Before you embark on your travels, you should be mindful that high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are the best option for navigating the somewhat strenuous road conditions on your trip. Coming out of Boise, take the US-78 southeast until you reach the I-95. Once you reach Mud Flat Road, follow the BLM signs that will help you reach your destination at the North Fork.
Address: Bruneau Field Office. 3948 Development Avenue, Boise, ID 83705
Ready to visit North Fork Owyhee River? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night, where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
