Residents of Camas Prairie revel in their proximity to a plethora of recreational opportunities, with hunting and fishing standing out as beloved pastimes. Soldiers Meadows, Winchester Lake, the Salmon River, and Dworshak Reservoir are among the favored fishing spots, drawing anglers seeking various fish species like steelhead, rainbow trout, and salmon. For hunters, the area offers exceptional big game and game bird hunting opportunities, with elk, deer, bear, and game birds.

Beyond outdoor pursuits, local attractions such as Cottonwood Butte Ski Hill and Snowhaven Ski Hill cater to skiing, snowboarding, and sledding enthusiasts. The Pine Bar Campground and Boat Launch offer additional options for those seeking relaxation amidst nature.

The Clearwater River, meandering through the region, is renowned for its outstanding fishing opportunities, while the surrounding mountains and hills boast an extensive network of hiking and backpacking trails. These trails cater to hikers and backpackers of all skill levels, providing access to remote wilderness areas and stunning vistas.

The Salmon River serves as a premier destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking, attracting thrill-seekers year-round. Wildlife enthusiasts can indulge in observing the diverse array of fauna that Lewis County hosts, including eagles, ospreys, moose, elk, and deer, providing ample opportunities for photography and observation.

As winter blankets the landscape, the nearby mountains transform into playgrounds for winter sports enthusiasts, offering skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing opportunities.

Agriculture

The Camas Prairie region in north-central Idaho, is an agricultural area known for its rich history of farming, ranching, and natural beauty. The Camas Prairie is a broad, flat expanse of land situated in Idaho County and Lewis County. It is characterized by gently rolling hills and expansive farmlands. The Camas Prairie supports a range of crops, including grains like wheat, barley, and oats. These cool-season crops thrive in the climate and provide staple food sources for both local consumption and broader markets. Hay production is a significant agricultural activity in the area. Farmers grow alfalfa, timothy, and other forage crops to feed livestock during the winter months. Hay is a crucial part of the local livestock industry. Livestock production is a prominent agricultural pursuit. The Camas Prairie’s vast pastures offer ample grazing opportunities. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainable agriculture and land conservation in the Camas Prairie. Farmers and ranchers often employ conservation practices to protect the region’s natural resources, including water quality and soil health.

Region & Climate

Camas Prairie, situated in north-central Idaho, USA, spans across parts of Idaho and Lewis counties, gracing the landscape at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet above sea levela notable high-elevation plateau.

Camas Prairie experiences warm summers and cold winters. Annually, the region receives an average of 24 inches of precipitation, predominantly as snowfall during the winter season.

Grasslands dominate the vegetation of Camas Prairie, with pockets of forested terrain dotting the higher elevations. Among its notable flora is the camas flower, a member of the lily family, revered by the Nez Perce Tribe for its cultural and historical significance.

Teeming with diverse wildlife, Camas Prairie is home to elk, deer, black bears, coyotes, and mountain lions, among others. The prairie serves as a vital habitat for various bird species, enriching the region’s ecological diversity.

History

Camas Prairie has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area has been inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Nez Perce, who have lived in the region for over 10,000 years.

The camas flower, which is a significant plant species in the region, was a crucial food source for the Nez Perce Tribe. The camas bulbs were harvested by the Nez Perce women and were used as a staple food source during the spring and early summer months.

In the early 1800s, European-American fur trappers and traders began to explore and settle in the region, leading to conflicts with the Native American tribes. The most notable of these conflicts was the Nez Perce War of 1877, which resulted in the removal of the Nez Perce Tribe to reservations in Idaho, Washington, and Oregon.

During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Camas Prairie became a center for agriculture, with farmers cultivating wheat, barley, and other crops in the fertile soil of the region. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s helped to further develop the region’s economy, with towns such as Grangeville, Cottonwood, and Kamiah becoming important centers for trade and commerce.

Today, Camas Prairie remains an important agricultural region, with farmers continuing to grow a variety of crops. The area is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping. The camas flower is still an essential part of the region’s cultural heritage, and annual camas festivals and celebrations are held in various towns throughout the area.

Location

Cottonwood is a small city located in north-central Idaho, in the United States. The town is situated in Idaho County and is surrounded by picturesque forests, rolling hills, and scenic countryside.

The nearest major airport to Cottonwood is the Lewiston-Nez Perce County Airport (LWS), which is located approximately 50 miles southwest of the city. The airport offers both domestic and regional flights, including connections to major US cities like Seattle, Salt Lake City, and Boise.

Another option for air travel is the Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport (PUW), which is located approximately 75 miles to the north of Cottonwood, near the cities of Pullman, Washington and Moscow, Idaho. The airport offers flights to Seattle, Portland, and Salt Lake City.

For amenities, Cottonwood has a few options for dining and shopping, including two grocery stores, gas stations, a handful of restaurants, a couple coffee shops, a hospital and clinic.