After spending the winter of 1805-06 on the Oregon Coast, Lewis and Clark were eager to return home. Having left their horses in the care of the Nez Perce they had met the previous fall, the expedition was compelled to return to Nez Perce country. Their enthusiasm to return home was dampened by snow in the Bitterroot Mountains. With their route home blocked, they spent four weeks (May 14 - June 10) living among the Nez Perce near present day Kamiah. Getting to Long CampA historical marker with information about Long Camp is located on U.S. Highway 12, approximately one mile east of Kamiah, Idaho. Location
Driving to Long CampFrom Kamiah, Idaho, turn right onto U.S. Highway 12 E/3rd St (signs for Kooskia/Missoula). Continue to follow U.S. Highway 12 E for 1.3 miles. The highway pullout will be on the right. Things to Do at Long CampExplore the SiteThe actual Long Camp site is approximately 2 miles downstream. The site is now privately owned and is not accessible to the public. On the highway pullout off of U.S. Highway 12, there are several interpretive signs that explain Lewis and Clark's stay at Long Camp. Nearby AmenitiesThe Long Camp Highway Pullout is located approximately 58 miles southwest of the Nez Perce National Historical Park's visitor center where further information is available. Long Camp History
Site where the Corps of Discovery spent several months among the Nez Perce. |
Last updated: December 30, 2022