USFS · Campground · Fee






Overview Kelly Forks cabin is located in a small clearing within an active forest service work center. It was originally built at the confluence of Moose and Kelly Creeks during the mid-1930’s to be used as a stopover between the upper North Fork and the Bungalow Ranger stations. It was then dismantled, floated down Kelly Creek, and reassembled at its current location during the mid-1900s. Fully remodeled around 2002 with modern comforts, the cabin maintains a high demand throughout the rental season. Although accessible by car, the gravel roads on the district can be quite rough and partially blocked with debris. Visitors are strongly advised to consult a map as well as the forest website prior to reserving or traveling to the cabin. There is a maximum consecutive stay of 6 nights per user and a maximum total stay of 6 nights per year per user. Users may only hold two reservations for this cabin at any one time. Failure to abide by these rules may result in cancelled reservations without refund of reservation or cancellation fees. Recreation There are several fishing “holes” and hiking trails located within easy walking distance of the cabin with many more a short drive in any direction. The North Fork Ranger District prides itself on the diversity of world class recreational opportunities ranging from bird/wildlife watching, big game hunting, whitewater rafting, leisurely floats, secluded backpacking/equestrian trails into the high mountain backcountry, to motorized OHV trail systems providing unique experiences that draw visitors from around the world and all walks of life. Be sure to check the regulations and rules to educate yourself before you recreate by visiting https://idfg.idaho.gov/ and https://www.fs.usda.gov/news/nezperceclearwater/news-events for up to date information. Facilities The 3-room cabin can accommodate up to six people and is furnished with electricity, lights, running water, “on demand” propane hot water, and individual electric radiant heaters for each room. The bedroom contains 1 twin and 1 full size mattress and a dresser w/mirror. The spacious bathroom is equipped with a shower stall, flush toilet, sink and mirror. The kitchen is equipped with an electric range w/oven, microwave, refrigerator/ freezer, sink, drip coffee pot, toaster and an odd assortment of pots, pans, plates, bowls, utensils, cups, and glasses. The vaulted living area provides 2 full sized futons, and dining table with 4 chairs. The cabin also has a large covered porch with camp chairs and a picnic area that has a table and fire ring (guests provide their own firewood). The cabin can be reserved for a single night or up to 6 consecutive nights by the same individual or group. Guests are required to bring their own bedding, pick up after their pets, and clean the cabin before they check out with the provided cleaning supplies under the “leave it cleaner than when you arrived” policy. Natural Features The cabin is situated in a small semi secluded clearing surrounded by evergreens, cottonwood, and alder mixed with huckleberries at the confluence of Kelly Creek and the North Fork of the Clearwater River. The area is known worldwide as a blue-ribbon fishery for West Slope Cutthroat Trout, and the beautiful crystal-clear waters are just a stone's throw from the cabin. A wide variety of wildlife including elk, white-tailed and mule deer, black bear, wolf, cougar, bobcat, mountain goat, moose, eagle, otter, marten, fisher, osprey, raven, king fisher, dippers and many more call the steep, densely vegetated river valleys home. Seasonal changes can be particularly enjoyable from the swift moving whitewater in the spring to the extraordinary fall colors pursued by the crisp white snow line. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (208) 476-4541.
From the USFS.Official page
No. KELLY FORKS CABIN charges a fee. It is managed by the USFS. Sites are reservable through recreation.gov.
From Lewiston, Idaho: Travel 45 miles east on U.S. Highway 12 to the bridge at Orofino, Idaho. Cross the bridge - don't deviate; you will travel on Michigan Avenue and then Grangemont Road, aka State Highway 7- and continue 30 miles north to the former Jaype Mill site. Turn right and continue 6 miles to the town of Pierce, Idaho. Drive through Pierce (approximately 3/4 mile) and turn left on French Mountain Road, also known as Forest Service Road (FSR) 250. Remain on FSR 250 for 48 miles until you reach the Kelly Forks Work Center. From Superior, Montana: Travel 25 miles west on FSR 250, also known as the Trout Creek Road. You will cross Hoodoo Pass at the Idaho-Montana state line. Continue south on FSR 250 for approximately 29 more miles until you reach the Kelly Forks Work Center. *NOTE: Hoodoo Pass rises to 6,000-ft elevation and is typically impassable from November until early July due to snow. This pass is not plowed and alternative access may be necessary until the snowpack melts through.
SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 19, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.