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Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
A campground, river access, and backcountry trails along the deepest river canyon in North America.
Hells Canyon National Recreation Area spans the remote border country between Oregon and Idaho, centered on one of North America's deepest river gorges. The area draws visitors seeking wilderness adventure, river access, and backcountry exploration in a dramatic landscape carved by the Snake River.
The recreation area offers a campground, river access, and trailheads across its terrain. Options include Pittsburg Campground for a developed base, Dug Bar Trailhead and Boat Launch for water and foot access into the canyon, and Hells Canyon on the Snake River for boating and fishing.
No permit is required to visit or camp in the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, making it accessible for spontaneous trips. The area's rugged setting and elevation span multiple ecosystems, from river bottoms to high ridges, and conditions change seasonally—plan accordingly for the environment you'll encounter.
Experiences
Rivers
Explore 1 rivers location in Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.
Experiences
Camping
Explore 1 camping location in Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.
Experiences
Other
Explore 1 other location in Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.
Common Questions
What visitors most often want to know about Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.
Do I need a permit to visit Hells Canyon National Recreation Area?
No permit is required to visit Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. You can access the area freely for recreation.
What camping is available in Hells Canyon National Recreation Area?
Pittsburg Campground is a developed campsite within the recreation area. Open Canyon can alert you to availability changes at this location.
Where can I launch a boat in Hells Canyon National Recreation Area?
Dug Bar Trailhead and Boat Launch provides river access for boating on Hells Canyon on the Snake River. This is a key recreation site for water-based activities in the area.
What river recreation is available in Hells Canyon National Recreation Area?
Hells Canyon on the Snake River is a major recreation feature of the area, accessible via the Dug Bar Trailhead and Boat Launch. The recreation area straddles both the Oregon and Idaho sides of the Snake River.