Bear Creek Pass Campground

Within Nezperce National Forest, Bear Creek Pass Campground functions as semi-official dispersed camping positioned between two trailheads at Bear Creek Pass. The US Forest Service manages this basic overnight area that accommodates RVs up to 32 feet, though facilities remain minimal with just a vault toilet and scattered fire rings.

The site consists mainly of pullouts and turnarounds along the road, with one established campsite featuring a fire ring located between the parking areas. Open pine forest surrounds the area with nearby meadows, and a stream flows close to the camping zone. Horse facilities including hitching posts and a loading ramp exist but show limited recent use. Campers can find places to camp around Darby for additional options in the region.

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Location

Public Campground

Bear Creek Pass Campground is located in Montana

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Darby travel 7 miles north on Highway 93. Turn west (left) on Lost Horse Road/FS 429 and travel approximately 19 miles. The road will dead end at the trailhead. Forest Service Road #429 can be extremely rough due to many potholes and rocks. Recommend high clearance vehicles.

Coordinates

46.11624901 N
114.49372228 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time


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Reviewed Aug. 9, 2020

Semi-official dispersed camping at Bear Creek Pass

Bear Creek Pass Campground is semi-official dispersed camping at Bear Creek Pass, the location of two trail heads. I surveyed the site during a hike but did not stay over night. 

There are two trail heads, about 1/2 mile apart. Between is a turn off for the“campground” which is little more than a pull out and a turn around. I didn’t see tent sites off the road. A little further on is a large parking area with vault toilet. A little beyond that a small parking area near the second trail head. Between these two is the one place that did look like a camp site. There was one fire ring and vegetation had been pressed down. 

There are facilities for horses: several hitching posts and a loading ramp. These don’t look like they have been used for a while. We did see signs that horses were up here recently but the area is little impacted by horse use. 

The area is in open pine forest with meadows. There is a stream flowing near by. 

I would certainly sleep in my vehicle over night here or set up a tent. You can overnight here before starting on a hike from one of the trail heads. However, this site has little to recommend itself as a destination for an extended stay or overflow if nearby Schumaker is full.

Month of VisitJuly

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Bear Creek Campground?

Bear Creek Pass Campground offers very minimal amenities as it's primarily a dispersed camping area. There are no developed facilities such as running water, electricity, or restrooms. The campground essentially consists of primitive camping spots located between two trailheads. Campers should come fully prepared with all necessary supplies including water, food, and waste disposal options. This is a true rustic camping experience that requires self-sufficiency and proper preparation.

Where is Bear Creek Campground located in Montana?

Bear Creek Pass Campground is located at Bear Creek Pass in Montana. The campground sits at the junction of two trailheads that are approximately half a mile apart from each other. It's a semi-official dispersed camping area situated in a mountain pass setting, making it a convenient base for hiking the surrounding trails. The location provides access to the natural beauty of the Bear Creek area and serves as a starting point for outdoor recreation activities in this part of Montana.

Can you drive to Bear Creek Campground via Bear Creek Pass?

Yes, you can drive to Bear Creek Pass Campground via Bear Creek Pass. The campground is accessible by vehicle and is situated right off the main road at the pass. Between the two trailheads at the pass, there's a turnoff that leads to the camping area. The campground's location makes it convenient for hikers who want to stay near the trailheads. For current road conditions, especially during adverse weather, it's advisable to check with local forest service offices before your trip.