In 1930, Bob McAllister established this area as a mining claim and home site. There is evidence of a dam which was designed to collect water for his house and orchard. Some fruit trees he planted are still there. The Forest Service acquired the land in 1968 and created the McAllister Recreation Site in 1969. A 2-1/4 mile Interpretive Trail is available across the road from the picnic area. It climbs in a switchback style formation into the Earthquake Basin for awesome views of the picturesque South Fork Clearwater River Valley.
Directions
From the east end of Grangeville, turn south on the Grangeville Salmon Road and turn left at the drive-in theater toward the small town Mt. Idaho. Continue on the Mt. Idaho Grade, and junction with State Highway 14 headed toward Elk City. McAllister picnic area is 12 miles east of Grangeville on State Highway 14.
GPS Coordinates
Latitude 45° 51′ 32.3640″ N
Longitude 116° 1′ 24.0600″ W