The heart and soul of Idaho are its small towns. From the panhandle to southern Idaho, small towns play an important role in the charm of our great state. One such town, Kamiah, is tucked away in the mountains and along the banks of the beautiful Clearwater River. It is one charming small town in Idaho where you can relax, disconnect, and just enjoy the treasures of our great state.

Nestled on the west side of the Bitterroot Mountains and along the banks of the Clearwater River is the charming town of Kamiah. Many Idahoans don’t even know this town exists, but it is home to approximately 1,300 residents.
Kamiah Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
The area of Kamiah has been home to the Nez Perce Tribe for centuries. In fact, Kamiah is a Nez Perce word meaning “many rope litters.”
Kamiah Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
This name is fitting as the Nez Perce actually manufactured red rope litters in the area to help fish for steelhead in the river.
As you drive around Kamiah, it is exactly what you’d picture for a small Idaho town — full of charm, beautiful architecture, and the quaintest shops around.
Kamiah Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
During your visit, stop into the Hearthstone Restaurant and Bakery, which is located in the renovated 1912 pharmacy in town.
Robert Heun/Google
Hearthstone Restaurant & Bakery/Google
Not only is the inside of this Kamiah bakery absolutely stunning, but the food is beautifully presented and quite tasty. Enjoy a fresh donut, cupcake, sandwich, or filling breakfast entrée.

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You can spend the day at Kamiah Riverfront Park. Here, you can enjoy a picnic along the river, relax on the grass, and just enjoy some fresh air.
Kamiah Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Kamiah is a true gem. You'll want to spend some time near or on the Clearwater River. The views here are remarkable …
Kamiah Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
… and the fishing is incredible. Fish from this river and you might just catch a steelhead trout or a chinook salmon.
Kamiah Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
This small town is also next to the beautiful Clearwater National Forest. This area is filled with camping, hiking, and hunting opportunities galore. This is also an excellent area for huckleberry picking if you are willing to go out and explore.
Kamiah Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
And even with all there is to do outside of town, in Kamiah, there are always fantastic events taking place. One of the most popular is Free BBQ Days.
Kamiah Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
This event takes place every Labor Day weekend and first began in 1936 when some merchants in the community offered a free barbecue dinner to the town as a way to say thank you. The tradition has carried on over the years and now features a weekend filled with activities including car shows, breakfasts, a parade, and more.
Kamiah, Idaho is the perfect place to relax, spend some time in nature, and get away from life's daily demands. It’s one small town in Idaho that you need to check out for yourself.
Kamiah Chamber of Commerce/Facebook

Have you been to the small town of Kamiah? If so, what are some of your favorite things to do in this town? Let us know in the comments!

Kamiah is one town in Idaho that many out-of-state visitors can’t seem to pronounce quite right. However, it’s not the only word in Idaho that has this reputation. Here are nine Idaho words that only locals seem to say correctly.

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Courtnie Erickson | March 10, 2023

What are some other small towns I should visit in Idaho?

While Kamiah, Idaho is certainly one small town in Idaho that deserves a visit, it isn’t the only one. The Gem State is full of charming small towns that are perfect for day trips, family vacations, or just some time alone. While we could make a long list of towns we recommend visiting, some of our favorites include the following:

 

What are some of the best scenic overlooks in Idaho?

While many of Idaho’s small towns boast natural beauty that will take your breath away, they aren’t the only locations in the state that offer incredible views. There are incredible overlooks all around the state where you will always want to have your camera ready. Some of these include:

 

What are some hidden gems in Idaho worth checking out?

Many of Idaho’s small towns are considered hidden gems. Often, individuals drive by these areas — not taking the time to discover all of the gems hidden inside. The following are several other hidden gems in Idaho that you need to visit at least once.

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Kamiah, ID 83536, USA