About JOHNSON BAR GROUP SITE
Overview Johnson Bar Group Site is situated in a large, open field along the Selway River. The site is perfect for gatherings of up to 100 people, with room for tents and RVs. The site offers access to many recreational activities and sightseeing opportunities.Recreation The Selway River is a destination fly fishing experience for cutthroat and rainbow trout and is also well-known for whitewater rafting. Several trailheads for hiking and biking are accessible from Selway River Road and lead into the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness area. Johnson Bar offers beach and boating access.Facilities The accessible group site can accommodate a maximum of 100 people. It is equipped with a campfire circle, two smaller campfire rings, picnic tables and drinking water. Vault toilets are adjacent to the site, and groups of 25 or more are required to rent 1-3 portable toilets. Individual campsites are located on either side of the group site on a first-come, first served basis.Natural Features In the heart of north central Idaho, rugged peaks, deep canyons, dense forests and remote wilderness comprise the Nez Perce National Forest. Due in large part to dramatic elevational differences, the forest supports a wide variety of vegetation, from cedar groves to desert ecosystems. Johnson Bar is located in the Selway Wild and Scenic River Corridor, an area known for its rugged natural beauty and wildlife. Nearby Attractions An 11-mile sightseeing drive from Lowell to Selway Falls offers visitors opportunities to appreciate the pristine beauty of the Selway Wild and Scenic River and picturesque Selway Falls. Johnson Bar is near the Fenn Ranger Station, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.
How to Get There
Johnson Bar Group Site is located 4.5 miles east of Lowell, ID on Forest Road 223 (Selway River Road). The group site is between the paved road and the river.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to JOHNSON BAR GROUP SITE
Heading to JOHNSON BAR GROUP SITE? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for JOHNSON BAR GROUP SITE?
No central reservation system listed for JOHNSON BAR GROUP SITE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234440) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to JOHNSON BAR GROUP SITE?
Johnson Bar Group Site is located 4.5 miles east of Lowell, ID on Forest Road 223 (Selway River Road). The group site is between the paved road and the river.
How do I contact JOHNSON BAR GROUP SITE?
You can reach the park at phone: 208-926-4258.
References & Official Resources
