Buckhorn

We decided to check out some remote NFS campgrounds off of NF46, 45 miles northeast of Joseph. Buckhorn CG is just a half mile to the west of Buckhorn Overlook which sports a stupendous view of the Hell's Canyon National Recreation Area. We had intended to stay at this NFS campground but it's in the deep dark overgrown woods, and the buggy, wet and rutted road and ancient outhouse were disappointing. Granted this is the first week of June so maybe the Forest Service hasn't gotten to this neck of the woods yet.

Instead, we opted to boondock at the unmanned Buckhorn Lookout / Overlook instead, which had a clean vault toilet and stunning views in all directions. Only 5 cars showed up in over 48 hours, and each one only stopped by for a few minutes!

There are lots of great hikes nearby, both on and off trails. Don't miss Indian Village Grove off of FR880, about 5 miles shy of this campground. The Nez Perce National Historic Trail also runs right through this area. Roads are good out here---surprising for gravel. Be prepared for the dust though---30 miles of gravel leaves a helluva coating!

There's no cell phone reception at the campground but you'll find 3 bars of Verizon LTE at the Buckhorn Overlook /lookout.

There are also dozens of great just-off-the-road dispersed sites and hunting camps (look for the meat poles) that would all be better choices than this campground. One caveat: it could be that the NFS employees haven't gotten this far north yet on their rounds to open this campground properly. We were there the first week of June, 2016.