Kelly Forks Cabin

Overview

Kelly Forks cabin is located in a small clearing within an active forest service work center. It was originaly built at the confluence of Moose and Kelly Creek during the mid 1930’s to be used as a stopover between the upper North Fork and the Bungalow ranger station. It was then dismantled to be floated down Kelly Cr and reassembled at its current location during the mid 1900s. Fully remodeled around 2002 with modern comforts, the cabin mantains a high demand throughout the rental season. Although assessable 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.

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/ ATV/OHV trail systems, providing unique experiences that draws visitors from around the world of 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, individual electric radiant heaters for each room. The bedroom contains 1 twin and 1 full size mattresses, and a dresser w/mirror. The spacious bathroom is equiped 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 with an odd assortment of pots, pans, plates, bowls, utensils, silverware, cups, glasses and the vaulted living area provides 2 full sized futons, and 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 fire wood). 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, 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.