Swiftwater RV Park is located near White Bird, Idaho, which is found on the banks the of Salmon River. The RV park has a total of 23 units available throughout the summer, though that number drops to about 5 during the winter season. Regardless of which site a person stays at, a variety of amenities are available, such as a small laundromat, a library, WiFi, a gazebo with a firepit, and a pavilion with picnic tables. The owners would like their patrons to feel peaceful at the RV park, and they make an effort to interact with visitors. Pets are allowed to join guests at the RV park, but they must remain on a leash and be under constant supervision. There is much historical significance in the area, including a history of gold mining, Indian tribes, and a battle known as The Battle of White Bird.
Swiftwater RV Park offers a total of 23 sites, with 20 typically available in the summertime, 3 of which are spacious double-wide sites suitable for larger rigs. Additionally, there are various other sites for tent camping, though they are not designated. The park provides several amenities for its guests, such as a community fire pit and gazebo, a pavilion with picnic tables and a propane barbeque, a dump station, a laundry room with two washers and dryers, a library stocked with DVDs and books, and two private bathrooms with showers which the owners mention are "very clean and organized". Guests also have access to free WiFi during their stay as well, which the owners say works very well.
Most of the RV sites come with a grassy area in front of them, and the owner says that efforts are ongoing to improve grassy areas for all sites, especially the center pull-through sites. The park offers some riverfront sites (sites 9 through 18), allowing visitors to enjoy scenic views of the river. Shade trees are found throughout the establishment, contributing to the atmosphere. Each RV space at Swiftwater RV Park includes access to water and electricity.
In terms of on-site activities, guests can fish in the nearby river, as the park is situated on a riverfront property. The park covers one acre of land, and there is additional parking available on leased BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land for overflow parking. That area also features a sandy beach along the riverfront, which the owners mention is very quiet.
For dining options, the owners recommend local restaurants in White Bird and can give a list of some of their favorites. The owners can also provide information about nearby places of potential interest, including gift shops and general stores, with the aim of enhancing the overall guest experience. The owners provide a guest card to each visitor that has information about local stores, dining options, and areas of interest for them to visit.
The park's location is a midway point for travelers between Spokane and Boise, which could be considered useful for those seeking a break during their journey. Swiftwater RV Park's website has a variety of information about local resources and activities to assist visitors with planning an itinerary. The owners are also available to provide insights into the area's events and attractions.
Occupants may have a chance to have personal interaction with the owners, as they live on-site. Whether it's welcoming guests upon arrival, helping them get settled, or simply being available to answer questions, the owners and camp hosts are "committed to providing quality service."
The park hosts two unofficial "Sisters on the Fly" events, catering to a nationwide women's outdoor organization that supports women camping. Additionally, the park attracts visitors for family reunions, the White Bird Rodeo in May, and jetboat races in Grangeville, creating an atmosphere with opportunities for guests to engage in local events and activities. Hell's Canyon is an attraction located 17 miles from the property that also attracts those coming to the area for rafting, fishing, and hunting trips.
A few of the patrons have left reviews of their experiences at Swiftwater RV Park. One person wrote, “The park and our site were next to the Salmon River. There is a path to a nice beach where you can bring a chair or lounge and cool off in the river. The owners and camp hosts are all amazing.” The park is open year-round, with a limited number of sites available during the winter months. However, the owners mention that the best season for the park is from May through October when the majority of visitors come to enjoy the milder weather and participate in various events and outdoor activities. This is also when the maximum number of units are available. The demographic of visitors varies widely, with retirees making up a significant portion. However, Swiftwater RV Park welcomes guests of all ages, including families and younger individuals.
Swiftwater RV Park has an extensive history, spanning back to its origins as part of the Nez Perce Indian tribe's land. The property holds historical significance due to its proximity to the Battle of White Bird, a documented event of the area's past. Visitors interested in history can explore various locations nearby to learn more about this battle. Additionally, traces of gold mining history are still visible on or near the land adjacent to the property. These remnants, including tailings, are a testament to the mining activities that once took place in the area, particularly by Chinese miners.
The business itself was established by a local family from the White Bird area in the 1970s. In 2020, the current owners acquired the property, which had been owned by the previous owner for 15 years. According to the current owner, the business changed hands among community members before she acquired it.
The decision to enter the lodging industry was influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. The owners originally stored their camper at the RV park during the winter, as the area experiences milder weather conditions compared to surrounding regions. However, the pandemic prompted them to reconsider their living situation, ultimately leading to the purchase of the RV park in an effort to provide a safe and stable living environment.
During their tenure, the owners have made several improvements to the property, including upgrading the WiFi system, putting in new hookup pedestals and water spigots, and renovating structures such as stairways and apartments. They have also focused on improving the irrigation system and maintenance of the establishment.
Looking ahead, the owners have explored the possibility of hosting a jet ski race event on the river that flows by the business, reviving a historical tradition in the area. These plans demonstrate their commitment to both preserving the property's history and enhancing its future potential.
3154 Salmon River Ct
White Bird, Idaho 83554
United States
Campground
